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In the critical moments following a cardiac arrest, the actions taken can mean the difference between life and death. Defibrillators, particularly Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), have become invaluable tools in this fight, capable of restoring a person’s heart rhythm to normal and significantly boosting survival rates. With us, learn all about defibrillators, their types, usage, and the crucial role they play in emergency situations, as well as the importance of AED training through courses like those offered by First Aid Pro.
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A defibrillator is a medical device designed to deliver an electric shock to a person’s chest, particularly the heart, to help restore the heart’s normal rhythm during a cardiac arrest. When the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, it often enters a state known as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, conditions characterised by a dangerously fast heartbeat. The electric shock from a defibrillator can halt these irregular rhythms, allowing the heart to re-establish a normal heartbeat.
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Using an AED involves several key steps, starting with turning on the device and following its voice prompts. After exposing the person’s chest, apply the AED pads as directed. The device will then analyse the person’s heart rhythm and instruct the rescuer to press the shock button if necessary. It’s crucial to ensure no one is touching the person during the delivery of the electric shock. A first aid responder should continue (CPR) cardiopulmonary resuscitation while waiting for a defibrillator to be ready to use or until emergency services arrive.
They will attach two defibrillator pads or adhesive patches (linked to the defibrillator) to the chest. One pad or patch is placed beneath the right shoulder, and the other just below the left nipple. Conductive material is pre-applied to the pads to avoid burns, but if using paddles, you must apply a conductive substance to the chest first.
For adhesive pads, a shock is administered by pressing a button on the device. For manual paddles, the operator presses a button on each paddle simultaneously. Defibrillation momentarily halts the heart’s muscular contractions, allowing the heart to generate an electrical signal that initiates a normal rhythm. Essentially, defibrillation acts to reboot the heart.
Defibrillators aren’t one-size-fits-all. From compact public-access AEDs to wearable vests and fully implantable devices, each type is engineered for a specific setting—but their mission is identical: stop a chaotic heart rhythm so a normal beat can restart.
These portable devices are designed for use in public places and are engineered to be user-friendly, often providing voice prompts to guide the rescuer through the process.
These are wearable devices designed for individuals at high risk of sudden cardiac arrest, providing constant monitoring and the ability to administer a shock if needed.
CDs are surgically implanted devices that continuously monitor the heart's rhythm and deliver shocks when necessary to correct irregular heartbeats.
A defibrillator should be used as soon as it’s available if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, indicating a possible cardiac arrest. Time is of the essence, for every minute without an AED, the survival from witnessed ventricular fibrillation (VF) cardiac arrest decreases by 7–10%, according to research from the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Training in the use of AEDs is an integral part of first aid training courses. Programs like those offered by First Aid Pro include hands-on experience with AED devices, teaching participants how to effectively respond to sudden cardiac emergencies. This training also covers the DRSABCD action plan, emphasising the steps to take when using a defibrillator in conjunction with CPR.
Our nationally recognised HLTAID009 CPR program blends concise theory with hands-on practice, so you leave the classroom ready to act—whether at work, on the sideline, or at home. Guided by experienced trainers, you’ll master the DRSABCD action plan, perfect chest-compression technique, and learn how to integrate an AED seamlessly into your response. Flexible delivery options, same-day certificates, and friendly support make it easy to keep your lifesaving skills current
First Aid Pro’s CPR courses are meticulously designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to save lives in emergency situations. The courses cover the DRSABCD (Danger, Response, Send for Help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation) action plan in depth, ensuring that participants are well-versed and can effectively employ both CPR and an AED. These courses are essential for anyone looking to become a competent first responder, whether in the workplace, public spaces, or at home.
Want to learn more about how to use the DRSABCD action plan? Read First Aid Pro’s comprehensive article right here.
Defibrillators are a cornerstone in the emergency response to sudden cardiac arrest, offering a beacon of hope in situations where every second counts. The development of AEDs has democratised the ability to save lives, ensuring that life-saving technology is within reach in many public spaces. Through comprehensive training programs like those offered by First Aid Pro, individuals can learn how to use these devices effectively, enhancing the chances of survival. By familiarising ourselves with how to use an AED and taking action when needed, we can all be part of a life-saving solution, ready to respond when emergencies arise.
Learn how to perform quality CPR and the effective use of a defibrillator by enrolling in a nationally accredited course at First Aid Pro today.
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CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a life-saving technique that combines chest compressions and artificial ventilation (rescue breaths) to maintain circulatory flow and oxygenation during cardiac arrest. Defibrillation is the process of delivering an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal heartbeat in the event of certain types of cardiac arrest.
Defibrillation should be used in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. It is especially effective when the heart is in ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT) without a pulse, as these conditions respond well to electric shocks.
The procedure involves placing defibrillator pads on the patient’s chest, with the device analysing the heart’s rhythm to determine if a shock is needed. If so, the defibrillator will advise the rescuer to deliver a shock to restore normal heart rhythm.
The cost of a defibrillator in Australia can vary widely, typically ranging from AUD 1,500 to over AUD 2,500, depending on the model and features.
If you are looking to buy an AED, we recommend you check out the Zoll AED Plus. It is recognised for its intuitive interface that guides users through the resuscitation process with clear visual and audio prompts. It also features real-time CPR feedback technology, ensuring the effectiveness of chest compressions during CPR by providing instant feedback on the quality, enhancing the chances of successful resuscitation.
A defibrillator works by analysing the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, delivering an electric shock to the heart to stop an irregular rhythm, allowing it to potentially restart with a normal rhythm.
CPR is a manual emergency procedure involving chest compressions and breaths to support circulation and breathing in cardiac arrest victims. An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a device that delivers an electric shock to the heart to treat life-threatening arrhythmias.
A defibrillator is a general term for any device that can deliver an electric shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm. An AED is a type of defibrillator specifically designed for use by laypeople and professionals, providing automated heart rhythm analysis and shock delivery instructions.
While anyone can use an AED with little to no training due to its automated instructions, formal training is recommended to improve confidence and effectiveness in an emergency situation.
During CPR, if an AED is available, it should be used as soon as possible after recognising cardiac arrest. CPR should be continued until the AED is set up and ready to analyse the heart’s rhythm, only pausing to deliver shocks as advised by the AED, then immediately resuming CPR until emergency services arrive or the person shows signs of recovery.
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