An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is an effective and user-friendly device that serves the purpose of restoring a heartbeat on those who have suffered from a cardiac arrest through the administration of defibrillation (shock). In a utopian society, these devices would be located in every public location; while this is not the case, AEDs can be found in many communal areas, such as schools (depending on your state) and shopping centers.

Unfortunately, it is safe to assume that most bystanders of a sudden cardiac arrest will hold no previous training experience regarding the matter, and may even be overwhelmed by the thought of operating such a device on another person. While we highly recommend everyone to be AED certified, there should be instructions included with the AED that allows people to operate it if followed accordingly. These devices are designed to be easy enough to use that even children can operate them without holding any previous knowledge in the matter.

When two people are present, it is important that one person is constantly performing chest compressions while the other gets the AED ready to operate. It is only when the AED is ready to deliver the shock that everyone should steer clear of the victim. Additionally, some AED packages include razors in the case that the victim is extremely hairy in the chest area and should be shaved before the electrodes are placed. Obviously, if pressed on time or if you do not have access to a razor, look to see if there is a second set of pads in the package. If so, attach the first set to the person and rip them out to remove the hair. You should then change into the second set of pads and stick them in the now smooth area to deliver the shock.