Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

The purpose of this procedure is to communicate Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use, maintenance, and training for NKY Health staff.  

AEDs are located in all NKY Health facilities and mobile units and all staff are made aware of these locations.

Staff are also aware of the indications for use of the AED in a medical emergency. Staff will receive training on AED use along with CPR training. Additionally, assigned staff at each NKY Health facility will perform required checks and maintenance to ensure unit is in working order.

1.  AED use is indicated when an individual:

• Is Unconscious (unresponsive to any stimuli) AND

• Does not have a pulse

• May be gasping, wheezing, panting, or have no signs of breathing

2. When AED use is indicated:

• one staff member will stay with the individual – preparing the victim for the AED, in addition to beginning CPR (see step-by-step CPR instructions below)

• one staff member will retrieve the AED unit – confirming the unit is functioning as intended by pressing the “ON” button on the face of the unit to initiate the self-test

• one staff member will call 9-1-1 – the dispatcher will be informed of all that is known about the individual including the signs in which AED use and CPR are indicated

3.  As soon as the unit performs the self-test, the staff member operating the AED will follow the AED prompts and attach the defibrillator pads to the patient. When the individual is less than 8 years of age or weighs less than 55 lbs., pediatric electrodes should be used. However, do not delay care to determine age or weight.

4.  As soon as the pads are attached to the patient the AED will analyze the need for a shock or CPR. The staff member operating the AED will follow the system prompts for CPR or a need to shock.

5.  Assessment, CPR, and AED use will continue until emergency responders arrive.

6.  Please see Incident Management section of the Safety Manual for further guidance after use of the AED.

1. Tap and Shout

2. Shout for help. Phone or send someone to phone 9-1-1 and get an AED.

3. Look for no breathing or only gasping.

4. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100 - 120 compressions per minute. Give 30 compressions.

5. Open the airway and give 2 breaths. 

6. Repeat sets of 30 compressions and 2 breaths. 

7. When the AED arrives, use it immediately. Turn it on and follow the prompts. 

Staff will be trained on the use of the AED as part of CPR training scheduled by NKY Health.

1.    Once the AED unit has been used, assigned staff will clean the unit per manufacturer’s instructions and all supplies replenished before being returned to service.

2. Assigned staff will inspect the unit monthly utilizing the AED maintenance checklist located in the cabinet with the unit. Electrodes and or batteries nearing their expiration date will be replaced.

3.   If error indications are found on the monthly check, assigned staff will utilize the Zoll AED Plus Administrator’s Guide for corrective action.

4.   If the unit is still not working properly, assigned staff will manage service or

replacement of the unit.   

6/20/23

• Added Revision Log

11/30/23

• Updated content to better reflect staff actions and responsibilities.