Final answer:
Once the AED is turned on, pads should be applied to the patient's chest to allow the device to analyze heart rhythm and determine if a shock is necessary, which it will then deliver if indicated.
Step-by-step explanation:
Once you have turned on the automated external defibrillator (AED), you should apply the pads to allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm. Automated external defibrillators are designed to be used by anyone, including those without medical training. They provide verbal instructions that guide the user through the process. After the pads are in place, the AED will analyze the patient's heart rhythm and determine if a shock is necessary. If so, it will either deliver the shock automatically, or instruct the user to press a button to administer it. Importantly, AED devices are equipped with technology to diagnose the patient's condition and only deliver a shock if it is needed, to correct conditions such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.
It is important to note that CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) should be administered if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, and should be continued until the AED is ready to analyze the heart rhythm or until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel take over.