Mistakes to Avoid when Using an AED

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There is a lot of information on using an AED in case of a cardiac arrest. The information includes the obvious mistakes to avoid such as touching a victim during the analysis or when the shock is delivered. However, there are other mistakes that should be avoided in order to attain the major goal of the process. The following are some of the situations in which the use of this device can lead to more harm or make it ineffective. For anyone planning to use the different types of AEDs in the market, these mistakes should be avoided.

Using an AED on a child less than a year

This device should not be applied to any kid who is one year or less, regardless of whether the child is equipped with pediatric pads. These pads are designed to be used on children who are more than one year old. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR for children should be done while the child awaits the arrival of an ambulance.

 Use of mobile phones during analysis

The technology of using an AED is a incredibly advanced, but other technologies such as mobile phones or radio waves can cause interruption in the analysis performed. Therefore, it is a great mistake to use a mobile phone while within six feet of the victim. The interruption caused may make the process ineffective leading to the death of the victim. Other mistakes to avoid include defibrillating a victim near a gasoline, other highly flammable substances or near a moving vehicle.

 Avoid defibrillating a victim while in contact with water

The device should not be used on cardiac arrest victims who are in contact with water. The victim should be removed from any contact with water before defibrillation is conducted.

It should not be used when a victim is still wearing a nitroglycerin or any other kind of patch on the chest. The patches or nitroglycerin worn by persons with cardiac compromise should only be removed using a glove. This is mostly important in case of a nitroglycerin that is absorbed through the skin.

Times that AED may not be used

 Using an AED on a victim who has lost large amount of blood many not be of great help. Another instance when you may waste a lot of time using the device and gain no benefit is when it is used on a victim suffering from hypothermia.

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