When should you use an AED on a collapsed person?

When should you use an AED on a collapsed person?

• A. Only if the person has a pulse.
• B. If the person is conscious.
• C. As soon as available; follow device prompts and deliver shocks if advised.
• D. After performing CPR for 2 minutes.

Answer: (C)

Defibrillation as soon as possible during a collapse improves survival when the heart rhythm is one that can be shocked. Use the AED right away, or as soon as it’s available, and let it guide you through the steps. Turn it on, apply the pads, and follow the prompts. The device will analyze the heart rhythm and tell you if a shock is advised; if so, deliver it and immediately resume CPR. If the device says not to shock, continue CPR until help arrives or the person recovers. This approach avoids delaying a potentially life-saving shock and aligns with how the AED is designed to be used in suspected cardiac arrest.

Defibrillation as soon as possible during a collapse improves survival when the heart rhythm is one that can be shocked. Use the AED right away, or as soon as it’s available, and let it guide you through the steps. Turn it on, apply the pads, and follow the prompts. The device will analyze the heart rhythm and tell you if a shock is advised; if so, deliver it and immediately resume CPR. If the device says not to shock, continue CPR until help arrives or the person recovers. This approach avoids delaying a potentially life-saving shock and aligns with how the AED is designed to be used in suspected cardiac arrest.