Automatic AEDs come in two varieties: fully automatic and semi-automatic. While the fully automated AED is easier to use, it still requires some fundamental knowledge be-fore you can employ it.

Automated AED Usage

There are very few steps associated with the use of a fully automated AED. Here is a general overview:

· Turn the AED on using the marked power button (if present, as some AEDs will automatically power on when you open the lid)

· Remove the victim’s shirt, exposing their bare chest

· Ensure nobody is in direct contact with the victim, and no conductors are touching them, including long metal wires or similar objects

· Plug in the connector cable and attach the AED pads onto the affected person, if needed (varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and some AEDs are have pre-connected pads)

· Allow the AED to deliver a shock without further action on your part 

It is wise to begin CPR after delivering the shock. Keep performing it till there are any visible signs of life, after which CPR must be discontinued, and the patient may breathe on their own. 

 

Automated AED Tips

Here are some tips you can take into account when administering an electric shock from an automatic AED, be it fully automated or semi-automated:

1. According to the Good Samaritan laws of the United States, anyone can admin-ister an electric shock using an automatic AED to any other person experienc-ing a cardiac arrest, or similar problem. The two people need not have any connection or relation, except that one saw the other suffering and rushed forward to help. If the victim loses their life, or a malfunction occurs, the AED administrator will not be held accountable, nor will there be any police-related investigation against them. So, if you ever see someone experiencing a cardiac arrest, feel free to rush to their aid without worrying about liabilities from the law.

2. When using a fully automatic AED, do not worry about initiating the shock. The device is already programmed to take care of this for you. AEDs are found in public spaces where an untrained bystander can reach for them. As the AED will most likely be used by someone who is not a certified medical professional, the device is designed to activate itself without further assistance from the adminis-trator. It will release a shock, or more, as needed, and will stop on its own. 

When using a semi-automatic AED, the device will prompt the user to push a button to deliver an electric shock. After that, the AED will do its job, and the following process is free from your actions.

3. Make sure nobody is in contact with the victim when the AED’s gel pads are placed upon them. Anyone in direct contact with the victim would also receive an electric shock, which would downplay the effect of the shock delivered to the victim.

AEDs should be purchased from a well-reputed source given their importance. Mindray is a good option when looking for emergency medical equipment, including AEDs and manual external defibrillators. Their equipment is designed to meet the high re-quirements of healthcare and emergency resuscitation, and bears a negligible chance of failure. If you want an AED that will be robust and reliable, the Mindray collection has both fully and semi-automatic AEDs available.

References:

[1] AED Steps | redcross.org. (2020). Available at: 

https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/aed/using-an-aed/aed-steps  (Accessed: 24 February 2020)