Can You Do CPR While Using an AED?

The question often arises in emergency situations: can you perform CPR while using an AED? The answer is yes, but it's important to understand how to do it safely and effectively. Let's explore the roles of CPR and AED in emergency response.

What is an AED and How Does It Work?

An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a device that analyzes the heart's rhythm and can deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat. This is crucial in cases of sudden cardiac arrest where the heart stops effectively pumping blood.

When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, CPR is performed to help maintain blood flow. The AED is used to analyze the heart's rhythm and deliver a shock if needed to restore a normal heartbeat. In a typical emergency response, CPR is performed while the AED is being prepared.

When to Use an AED and CPR Together

In a common scenario, CPR is done while the AED is getting prepared. Once the AED is available, it should be used immediately. As the AED analyzes the heart's rhythm, it may deliver a shock. The AED needs about 30 seconds to re-analyze the heart's condition after a shock, and this process is repeated as needed.

During this process, CPR continues as directed by the AED. This means that while the AED is analyzing and treating the heart, the rescuer continues to perform chest compressions. The AED will provide prompts and instructions to the rescuer on how to proceed.

Performing CPR During AED Use

When the AED is in use, you will be instructed to do CPR until it senses that the patient has a self-sustaining heartbeat. At that point, the AED may tell you to stop CPR and continue monitoring. However, do CPR right up to the point that the AED machine tells you to stop. You will typically need to keep performing CPR, except to stop briefly while the machine gives a shock. The AED will then check for a stable rhythm. If no stable rhythm is found, it will instruct you to resume CPR while it prepares to deliver further shocks.

It's important to note you do not need to take the pads off while doing CPR. You may need to continue performing CPR for an extended period until professional medical help arrives or the patient's heart resumes a stable rhythm.

Understanding the Roles of CPR and AED

Technically, CPR refers to the process of chest compressions with or without rescue breaths as part of resuscitation efforts. An AED is another tool used in this process, working to restore a normal heartbeat.

An AED is primarily used to monitor the patient's condition and stop any irregular heart rhythm in the hopes that restarting the heart stops the irregularity. On the other hand, CPR is used when the heart has stopped completely. Shocking a stopped heart would be pointless.

Conclusion

Emergency situations can be chaotic, but understanding the roles of CPR and AED can make a significant difference. Performing CPR while the AED is in use is essential for maximizing the chances of survival in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.