When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, every minute counts. First aiders who use and AED with CPR can dramatically improve a person’s chances of survival by helping restore a normal heart rhythm while maintaining blood flow to the brain and vital organs. Knowing how to use an AED with CPR is one of the most valuable first aid skills any member of the public can learn, and it can make the difference between life and death while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Each year, thousands of Australians suffer cardiac arrest outside of hospital settings. These emergencies can occur anywhere — at home, in workplaces, sporting facilities, shopping centres, schools, or public spaces. While many people recognise the importance of CPR, fewer understand how critical an AED can be during a cardiac emergency.
Fortunately, modern AEDs are designed to be used by ordinary people with little or no medical experience. Combined with effective CPR, they form a powerful response that gives the casualty the best possible chance of survival.
Key Takeaways
- Use and AED with CPR to provide the best immediate response to sudden cardiac arrest.
- CPR keeps blood circulating, while an AED can restore a normal heart rhythm.
- AEDs are designed for public use and provide clear voice instructions.
- Follow DRSABCD and apply the AED as soon as it becomes available.
- Nationally recognised CPR and First Aid training builds confidence and preparedness for real emergencies.
Understanding Cardiac Arrest
Before discussing how AEDs and CPR work together, it helps to understand what happens during cardiac arrest.
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively around the body. The person becomes unresponsive, stops breathing normally, and rapidly loses consciousness. Without immediate intervention, irreversible brain damage can begin within minutes.
Many people confuse cardiac arrest with a heart attack. While a heart attack involves a blockage affecting blood supply to the heart muscle, cardiac arrest is an electrical malfunction that prevents the heart from pumping blood effectively. A heart attack can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest, but the two conditions are not the same.
When cardiac arrest occurs, immediate action is essential. This is where CPR and AED use become critically important.
What Is an AED?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device designed to analyse a person’s heart rhythm and determine whether a shock is required.
If the AED detects a shockable rhythm, it delivers or advises a controlled electrical shock intended to restore a normal heartbeat.
Modern AEDs provide clear voice prompts that guide rescuers through every step of the process. They are specifically designed for use by members of the public as well as trained first aiders.
AEDs are now commonly found in:
- Shopping centres
- Airports
- Sporting facilities
- Schools
- Community centres
- Workplaces
- Government buildings
- Public transport hubs
The increasing availability of public-access defibrillators means more Australians may find themselves in a position to assist during a cardiac emergency.
Why CPR Alone May Not Be Enough
CPR plays a vital role during cardiac arrest because it manually circulates oxygenated blood throughout the body when the heart is unable to do so.
Chest compressions help maintain blood flow to:
- The brain
- The heart
- Other vital organs
However, CPR does not restart the heart.
In many cardiac arrest cases, the heart is experiencing an abnormal electrical rhythm such as ventricular fibrillation. These rhythms often require defibrillation to restore effective heart function.
An AED delivers the shock needed to correct these rhythms while CPR keeps blood moving until defibrillation can occur.
Think of CPR as buying time. The AED provides the opportunity to restore a normal rhythm. Together, they form the most effective immediate response to sudden cardiac arrest.
The Chain of Survival
Medical professionals often refer to the “Chain of Survival” when discussing cardiac arrest outcomes.
The links include:
- Early recognition and call for help
- Early CPR
- Early defibrillation
- Advanced medical care
- Post-resuscitation care
A weakness in any link reduces the person’s chances of survival.
The public plays a crucial role in strengthening the first three links by recognising cardiac arrest, commencing CPR, and using an AED as quickly as possible.
When Should an AED Be Used?
An AED should be used whenever a person is:
- Unresponsive
- Not breathing normally
- Showing signs of cardiac arrest
Agonal gasps or occasional irregular breaths should not be mistaken for normal breathing. If a person is unconscious and not breathing normally, follow DRSABCD and send someone to retrieve an AED immediately.
The sooner an AED is attached, the sooner it can assess the heart rhythm and determine whether defibrillation is required.
Following DRSABCD During a Cardiac Emergency
The Australian first aid action plan is summarised by DRSABCD. Each step helps guide a calm, structured response when someone may be in cardiac arrest.
Danger
Check for dangers to yourself, the casualty, and others before approaching.
Response
Check whether the person is responsive.
Send for Help
Call Triple Zero (000) and request an ambulance.
Airway
Open and clear the airway if required.
Breathing
Check for normal breathing.
CPR
Commence CPR immediately if the person is not breathing normally.
Defibrillation
Apply an AED as soon as it becomes available.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use an AED with CPR
The thought of using a defibrillator during an emergency can feel intimidating. However, AEDs are designed to simplify the process and guide rescuers through each step.
Call Triple Zero (000)
As soon as cardiac arrest is recognised, call emergency services or direct someone else to do so.
If other people are nearby, ask someone to locate the nearest AED immediately.
Begin CPR
Start chest compressions without delay.
- Perform 30 chest compressions.
- Give 2 rescue breaths if able.
- Continue at approximately 100–120 compressions per minute.
If rescue breaths cannot be given, compression-only CPR is still better than doing nothing.
Turn On the AED
When the AED arrives, switch it on immediately.
The device will begin providing voice instructions. Listen carefully and follow each prompt.
Expose the Chest
Remove clothing from the casualty's chest.
Ensure the chest is dry before applying electrode pads.
If excessive chest hair prevents proper pad contact, follow the AED's instructions if a razor is available.
Attach the AED Pads
Place the pads exactly as shown on the diagrams.
- One pad is placed on the upper right chest.
- One pad is placed on the lower left side of the chest.
The AED will then begin analysing the heart rhythm.
Stand Clear During Analysis
Ensure nobody touches the casualty while the AED analyses the rhythm.
Movement can interfere with the assessment. The AED will instruct rescuers when it is safe to continue.
Deliver a Shock if Advised
If a shock is recommended, act carefully and clearly.
- Ensure everyone stands clear.
- Visually check that nobody is touching the casualty.
- Press the shock button if instructed.
Some AEDs deliver the shock automatically.
Resume CPR Immediately
Following a shock, recommence CPR immediately unless the casualty shows obvious signs of recovery.
Do not pause unnecessarily. Continue CPR and follow the AED prompts until emergency services arrive, the person begins breathing normally, or you become physically unable to continue.
What If the AED Says "No Shock Advised"?
Many people assume every cardiac arrest requires a shock – This is not the case. The AED analyses the heart’s electrical activity and will only recommend a shock when appropriate.
If the device states “No Shock Advised,” continue CPR immediately. The casualty still requires urgent medical assistance and ongoing resuscitation efforts.
Trust the AED. It is specifically programmed to identify shockable rhythms accurately.
Can Anyone Use an AED?
Yes. AEDs are designed to be used by members of the public, including people without healthcare backgrounds.
The voice prompts guide users through every stage of the process.
In Australia, legal protections generally support people who provide emergency assistance in good faith.
While anyone can use an AED, accredited first aid training provides valuable confidence and practical experience. During nationally recognised CPR and first aid courses, participants learn how to recognise cardiac arrest, perform effective CPR, and safely operate an AED under realistic conditions.
Common Concerns About Using an AED
Many people hesitate because they worry about causing harm. In reality, AEDs are extremely safe and will only deliver a shock when a shockable heart rhythm is detected.
“What if I shock someone who doesn't need it?”
You can't. An AED analyses the person's heart rhythm and will only advise or deliver a shock if one is medically required.
“What if I make a mistake?”
The device provides clear, step-by-step voice instructions throughout the entire process, making it easy to follow even under pressure.
“Should I wait for trained personnel?”
No. Early CPR and early defibrillation save lives. Acting immediately gives the casualty the best possible chance of survival.
“What if the casualty has a pacemaker?”
AEDs can still be used safely. Simply avoid placing the electrode pad directly over the implanted pacemaker or defibrillator.
Learn CPR and AED Skills with First Aid Pro Adelaide
Knowing how to use an AED alongside CPR is one of the most important life-saving skills you can develop. While AEDs are designed to be accessible to everyone, practical training provides the confidence to act quickly and effectively during a real emergency.
First Aid Pro Adelaide delivers nationally recognised CPR and First Aid training that includes hands-on practice with AEDs, realistic emergency scenarios, and guidance from experienced trainers. Whether you need certification for work, want to improve your emergency response skills, or simply wish to be prepared for the unexpected, quality training can make all the difference.
The skills you learn today could help save the life of a family member, colleague, friend, or stranger tomorrow.
Related Reading
- Heart Foundation Australia – Defibrillators (AEDs) and Cardiac Arrest Information
https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/heart-of-the-nation/aeds Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) – Guideline 8: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Australian Resuscitation Council – Guideline 7 – Automated External Defibrillation in Basic Life Support
FAQs
Do I need training to use an AED?
No. AEDs are designed for use by the general public. However, training provides valuable confidence and practical experience.
Should CPR stop while the AED is being used?
CPR should continue until the AED is ready to analyse the heart rhythm. Resume CPR immediately after any shock or instruction from the device.
Can an AED be used on children?
Many AEDs have paediatric settings or pads. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and emergency service guidance.
What happens if the AED advises no shock?
Continue CPR immediately and follow the AED prompts. Not all cardiac arrest rhythms are shockable.
How often should CPR certification be renewed?
Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines recommend CPR skills be refreshed every 12 months to maintain competence and confidence.
