Question

You are performing CPR on an adult victim. The second rescuer has arrived with the AED and turned it on. What is their next step?

a. Place the pads over the victim's clothes
b. Place the pads on the victim's bare chest
c. Shock the victim
d. Wait for advanced care to arrive before continuing use of the AED

Answer 1

The second rescuer should place the AED pads on the victim's bare chest immediately after turning on the device. They must ensure the chest area is exposed to allow for proper adhesion and function of the pads. These actions are critical in the chain of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac emergency.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a second rescuer arrives with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), their next step after turning it on is to place the pads on the victim's bare chest. The AED pads must be in direct contact with the skin to properly analyze the heart rhythm and deliver an effective shock if necessary. This means the rescuer should quickly remove or cut through any clothing that covers the chest area. Here are the steps they should follow:

1. Turn on the AED.
2. Quickly remove the victim's clothing to expose the bare chest.
3. Attach the AED pads as indicated by the diagrams on the pad packaging or AED instructions.
4. Ensure that no one is touching the victim while the AED analyzes the heart rhythm.
5. Follow the AED's verbal and/or visual prompts for further actions, which may include administering a shock.

It's crucial for the rescuer to act quickly, as CPR and the use of an AED are critical steps in the chain of survival during a cardiac emergency. These actions can greatly increase the chances of survival until advanced care arrives.