An AED saved someone's life near you recently — you just might not know it. These devices are now found in shopping centres, airports, gyms, offices and schools across Australia. Here's what they do, how to use one, and why knowing this matters.
What Does AED Stand For?
AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. It is a lightweight, portable device that analyses a person's heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock (defibrillation) if it detects a shockable rhythm — specifically ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT), the two most common causes of sudden cardiac arrest.
Do I Need Medical Training to Use One?
No. AEDs are designed to be used by members of the public with no medical background. The device guides you through every step with clear voice prompts and visual instructions. It will only deliver a shock if the heart rhythm analysis indicates one is needed — you cannot accidentally harm someone by using an AED.
How to Use an AED
Turn it on
Open the case — most AEDs power on automatically when opened. If not, press the power button. The device will immediately begin providing voice and visual instructions.
Attach the pads
Remove the casualty's clothing from their chest. Peel the backing from the adhesive pads and place them as shown in the diagram on the pads: one pad on the upper right chest (below the collarbone) and one on the lower left side of the chest.
Let it analyse
The AED will analyse the heart rhythm. Do not touch the casualty during analysis. Follow the voice prompts.
Clear and shock if advised
If a shock is advised, make sure no one is touching the casualty and press the shock button when prompted. If no shock is advised, or after the shock, resume CPR immediately.
Continue CPR and follow prompts
The AED will continue to guide you. Continue CPR between analyses. Keep the AED attached until emergency services take over.
AEDs Work Best With CPR
Early CPR and early defibrillation together dramatically improve survival rates. For every minute without defibrillation, a cardiac arrest victim's chance of survival decreases by roughly 10%. The combination of CPR to circulate oxygenated blood and an AED to restore heart rhythm gives the best outcome.
While the AED is being retrieved or set up, keep doing CPR. Don't stop compressions to wait for the AED.
Where to Find AEDs in Canberra
AEDs are located in many public places including Westfield Woden, Canberra Centre, Canberra Airport, ACT government buildings, many gyms and sports facilities, and most ACT schools and universities. The Defib Finder app can help you locate the nearest AED to your current location.
Practise With an AED Trainer
All our CPR and First Aid courses include AED trainer practice. Book a session at our Phillip venue — 1.5 hours for CPR, certificate same day.
Book CPR Course — $45