Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
• Encourage the victim to rest in a comfortable position, but do not force to lie down as
it may be more difficult to breath while lying down.
• Loosen clothing around victim's neck, chest, and waist. Keep victim warm and inact-
ive.
• Continue to monitor ABCs, and stay with victim until medical personnel arrive.
• If CPR is required, and you are in or near a public building (school, library, govern-
ment building, sports facility, etc.) that may have an automatic external defibrillator
(AED), send someone else to look for and retrieve the AED while you continue with
CPR.
Using an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)
An AED is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses certain potentially life-
threatening cardiac arrhythmias and then automatically treats them through defibrillation, the
application of electrical therapy (regulated shocks) that stops the arrhythmia, allowing the heart
to reestablish an effective rhythm. It is preferable that someone has training in the use of an
AED, but if not, don't be afraid to use the AED since they are designed for simple use by the
layman and they come with clear graphical instructions. Most states protect untrained AED
users from liability via “good Samaritan” laws. The use of an AED could be a lifesaver! Once
attached and activated, it will instruct the user as to which action to perform next (continue
with CPR, apply shock, discontinue CPR, etc). The approximate procedure is as follows:
1. Switch the AED on, then attach the two pads to the victim's chest per
Figure 5-6
.
One pad goes
under the victim's right collar bone and the other along his left ribcage. The AED should have a
clear picture denoting these locations.
2. Have everyone stand clear while the AED analyzes the victim's heartbeat.
3. The AED will advise if a shock is necessary. Everyone must stay clear, and not touch victim while
AED is both analyzing and when it is applying cardiac shocks. If advised to shock the victim,
push the “shock” button on the AED and stand clear (some AEDs apply shocks automatically
without pushing the button). Most AEDs advise users via audible commands, but some supple-
ment these audible commands with visible directions detailed on a display panel.
4. Continue to follow the AED's directions. It will probably direct you to apply CPR for another
couple of minutes before reanalyzing the victim's heartbeat.
5.Ifvictim resumes breathing, discontinue useofAEDandkeepvictim calm andinactive until EMS
arrives.
