Question

1. When should you initially ensure that the scene is safe?

a. After I activate the emergency response system.
b. After an AED attached to the victim delivers a response.
c. As emergency medical services arrive on the scene.
d. When I first see a potential victim.

Answer 1

Initially ensure that the scene is safe when you first see a potential victim. This step is essential before administering any form of aid, including the use of an AED. Always check for safety to protect yourself, the victim, and bystanders.

Step-by-step explanation:

You should initially ensure that the scene is safe when you first see a potential victim. This is a critical step in emergency situations, as providing help safely is paramount. Assessing the safety of the environment ensures that you, the victim, and other bystanders are not put in any danger while administrating aid. For example, if a person requires the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), it is important to ensure the scene is clear of water, flammable materials, or other hazards before using the device.

AEDs are designed to be used by anyone, often providing verbal instructions. They are crucial in delivering timely assistance during a cardiac arrest, by diagnosing the patient's heart rhythm and administering a controlled electric shock through the chest wall to the heart. This shock can help the patient's heart regain its normal rhythm, potentially saving their life. Remember that in certain cases, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) should be performed before the AED is used.