Common Questions about Defibrillators / AEDs

A defibrillator could help save someone’s life during a cardiac arrest - but would you know what one does, or what to do if you needed to use one?

What is a defibrillator?

A defibrillator, also known as an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), is a device designed to analyse the heart rhythm of someone in cardiac arrest and deliver an electrical shock when one is needed. The aim is to restore a normal heart rhythm. [1][2]

AEDs are designed to be used by members of the public, so you don't need to be medically trained to use one. Once switched on, the device provides clear spoken and/or visual instructions to guide you through the process. [1]

Where can I find one?

Hopefully you have seen defibrillators around, in fact here at Anglia CPR we are the proud sponsors of the community defibrillator at our local Rugby Club.

Public access defibrillators can be found in places such as community centres, sports clubs, schools, workplaces, shopping centres and transport hubs. They are often housed in clearly marked cabinets.

Many public access defibrillators are registered on The Circuit, the UK's national defibrillator network. If someone is suffering a cardiac arrest, call 999 first. The ambulance call handler can direct you to the nearest accessible defibrillator and, where necessary, provide the access code for a locked cabinet. [1][3]

Do you need to be trained to use a defibrillator?
Myth debunking time… You do not need to be trained to use an AED. Public access defibrillators can be used by anyone.
They have both visual and voice prompts to support bystanders to utilise them during a cardiac arrest, with additional support being provided by 999 call handler.

How do you use a defibrillator?

If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 999, start CPR and ask someone to get an AED if one is available. [2]

There are three simple steps:

1. Switch it on
Open the AED or press the power button and follow its spoken and visual instructions. [1][2]

2. Attach the pads
Expose the person's chest and attach the adhesive pads as shown on the pads or by the AED's instructions. The device will analyse the person's heart rhythm. Do not touch them while it is analysing. [2]

3. Follow the instructions
The AED will tell you whether a shock is needed. If a shock is advised, make sure nobody is touching the person and follow the AED's instructions. After the shock – or if no shock is advised – continue CPR when instructed. [1][2]

Click here for a short video on how to use a defibrillator.

What if I've never used one before?

Don't panic. AEDs are specifically designed to guide members of the public through their use, and the device will only deliver or advise a shock when it detects a rhythm requiring defibrillation. [1]

The most important thing is to act quickly: call 999, start CPR and use the AED as soon as it is available.

I’m worried about using a defibrillator on a woman

Pad placement around bras and breasts are a concern for some people.

What we know:

- Women are less likely to receive CPR in public places.

- When using a defibrillator, the pads need to be placed on the person's bare chest

- You only need to remove the bra if normal pad placement cannot be achieved.

There is no evidence that underwire bras inhibit the effectiveness of the shock being given, or that doing this will result in burning or scorching of the skin.

Our National, European and International guidelines for CPR and First Aid, are based on evidence. This is the fundamental basis of all our training.

As we always say, you are always better to do something than nothing and if you would like training to help you feel more confident when faced with an emergency situation then please do reach out to us and we will be more than happy to help.

References

[1] Resuscitation Council UK. Guidance: Defibrillators. Available from: Resuscitation Council UK. Read the guidance

[2] ZOLL Medical. How to Use an AED. Available from: ZOLL. Read the ZOLL guide

[3] Resuscitation Council UK. A consensus statement on AED cabinets. Reviewed and updated August 2024. Read the AED cabinet guidance