If you ever are required to use and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) in an emergency, don’t panic. Its very easy. You don’t need training:
- The most important thing is to perform CPR if someone is unresponsive. You can find the British Heart Foundation’s CPR training videos here: https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/how-to-save-a-life/how-to-do-cpr/cpr-training-videos.
- If you’re on your own, don’t interrupt the CPR to go and get a defibrillator. If it’s possible, send someone else to find one. When you call 999, the operator can tell you if there’s a public access defibrillator nearby.
- You do not need training to use a defibrillator. Although they can vary, they all function in broadly the same way.
- The device gives clear, spoken instructions and will not deliver a shock unless it is needed.
- If you would like to have a look at how to use a device, the British Heart Foundation’s have a video available on their website: https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/how-to-save-a-life/defibrillators/how-to-use-a-defibrillator.
(Courtesy https://www.thecircuit.uk/)