Question

When the AED arrives, what is the first step for using it?

1) Turn on the AED
2) Attach the AED pads to the victim's chest
3) Press the shock button on the AED
4) Continue performing compressions until instructed by the AED

Answer 1

The first step when using an AED is to turn it on. The AED will then provide verbal instructions for attaching pads and delivering a shock if necessary, and CPR should be performed beforehand if possible. The correct option is 1.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an AED arrives, the first step for using it is to turn on the AED. This is crucial as the AED provides verbal instructions for the subsequent steps. After turning on the device, you should follow its prompts, which will guide you to attach the AED pads to the victim's chest, evaluate if a shock is necessary, and instruct you to continue compressions if needed before administering a shock.

It is vital to remember that CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is recommended in many cases before using a defibrillator, as it can maintain blood flow to the heart and brain until the AED is ready to be used. Hence, 1 is the correct option.