One of the most common concerns people express about defibrillators is that they wouldn’t know how to use one in an emergency. The good news is that modern AED defibrillators are specifically designed to be used by anyone, regardless of medical training. If you can follow simple spoken instructions, you can use an AED and potentially save a life.

When Should You Use a Defibrillator?

A defibrillator should be used when someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally. This typically indicates that the person is in cardiac arrest and their heart has either stopped or is beating in an ineffective, chaotic rhythm. Time is absolutely critical in these situations — brain damage can begin within just four to six minutes without blood flow, and every minute without defibrillation reduces the chance of survival by around 10%.

Step-by-Step: How to Use an AED

Step 1: Check for Danger and Call 999/112

Before approaching the casualty, ensure the area is safe. Call emergency services immediately or ask someone nearby to do so. Tell the operator that someone is in cardiac arrest so they can dispatch help with the right equipment and expertise.

Step 2: Begin CPR

If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin chest compressions immediately. Place the heel of your hand on the centre of their chest, place your other hand on top, and push hard and fast at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute. CPR keeps blood flowing to the brain and vital organs until the AED is ready.

Step 3: Power On the AED

Turn on the AED as soon as it arrives. Most models — including the Primedic myPAD Core and the ZOLL AED 3 — begin giving clear voice instructions the moment they are switched on. Some models activate automatically when you open the lid.

Step 4: Attach the Electrode Pads

Remove or cut away clothing from the person’s chest. Remove the adhesive pads from their packaging and attach them to the person’s bare skin as shown in the diagrams on the pads. One pad goes on the upper right chest, below the collarbone. The other goes on the lower left side of the chest, below the armpit. Ensure the pads are firmly pressed down with no air bubbles.

Step 5: Let the AED Analyse

The AED will automatically analyse the person’s heart rhythm. During this analysis, ensure no one is touching the person. The device will determine whether a shock is needed.

Step 6: Deliver the Shock (If Advised)

If the AED determines a shock is necessary, it will instruct you to press the shock button. Ensure everyone stands clear of the person before pressing the button. If no shock is advised, the AED will instruct you to continue CPR.

Step 7: Continue CPR

After the shock is delivered (or if no shock is advised), immediately resume CPR. The AED will continue to monitor the heart rhythm and will advise you if another shock is needed. Continue this cycle of CPR and AED analysis until emergency services arrive or the person begins to show signs of life.

Can You Harm Someone with a Defibrillator?

No. Modern AEDs are designed with safety at their core. The device analyses the heart rhythm before any shock can be delivered, and it will only advise a shock if it detects a rhythm that can be treated with defibrillation. You cannot accidentally shock someone who does not need it. The greatest risk in a cardiac arrest scenario is doing nothing.

The Importance of Training

While AEDs are designed for use by untrained bystanders, attending a certified first aid and AED training course builds confidence and competence. Heartsafety Solutions offers accredited training courses that cover CPR technique, AED operation, and how to manage a cardiac emergency from start to finish. Trained individuals respond faster and more effectively, and this can make all the difference.

Ready to make your home, workplace, or community safer? Browse our full range of AED defibrillators or get in touch with our team for expert guidance on which model is right for you.