AED Advanced Flashcards

During a two-rescuer response, what is the ideal role coordination when the AED arrives?

Answer: One rescuer continues compressions while the other applies the pads

Continuing compressions while pads are applied minimizes interruptions in blood flow.

An AED gives a shock for ventricular fibrillation. What does defibrillation actually do to the heart?

Answer: It depolarizes the heart to allow a normal rhythm to resume

Defibrillation momentarily stops chaotic activity so the heart's natural pacemaker can re-establish an organized rhythm.

Which rhythm will an AED NOT advise a shock for?

Answer: Asystole (flatline)

Asystole is non-shockable; the AED will advise CPR rather than a shock.

A pregnant woman goes into cardiac arrest. How should an AED be used?

Answer: Use the AED normally as you would for any adult

AED use is safe and indicated in pregnancy; standard adult protocol applies.

What should you do if the AED pads accidentally touch each other on a small adult's chest?

Answer: Reposition one pad to the anterior-posterior (front-back) placement

Touching pads can arc and bypass the heart, so use front-back placement when space is limited.

After successful resuscitation with return of a pulse, what should you do with the AED pads?

Answer: Leave the pads on in case the patient re-arrests

Keep the pads attached and the AED on so it can deliver another shock if the patient deteriorates again.

What information does an AED commonly record that is valuable to EMS and physicians?

Answer: The patient's heart rhythm and shock delivery data

AEDs store the cardiac rhythm and timing of shocks, which helps guide ongoing care.