When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can deliver an electrical shock to help restore a normal heart rhythm. The moments immediately following this shock are important for the person’s outcome. Understanding the next steps can significantly influence the effectiveness of the intervention and bridge the time until professional medical assistance arrives.
Immediate Actions After Delivering a Shock
Immediately after the AED delivers a shock, it is important to resume chest compressions without delay. This means beginning cycles of 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths, aiming for a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Minimizing interruptions in chest compressions is important for maintaining blood flow to the brain and other organs.
The AED will continue to provide voice prompts, guiding the rescuer through subsequent actions. These prompts will instruct the rescuer to continue cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for approximately two minutes. After this two-minute period, the AED will advise the rescuer to stand clear so it can re-analyze the heart’s rhythm. If the AED determines that another shock is needed, it will prompt the rescuer, and the process of delivering a shock and resuming CPR will repeat.
Throughout this process, the rescuer should observe the person for any signs of life, such as normal breathing or purposeful movement. However, CPR should not be interrupted to check for a pulse or signs of life unless the AED specifically instructs to do so, or if the person shows clear signs of recovery. The AED is designed to detect changes in heart rhythm and will advise if further intervention is required.
Ongoing Care Until Professional Help Arrives
After the initial post-shock actions, continuous assessment of the person’s condition is necessary while awaiting the arrival of emergency medical services (EMS). The AED will continue to provide guidance, prompting two-minute cycles of CPR followed by rhythm analysis. The rescuer should continue to follow these instructions diligently, as the AED’s algorithms are designed to maximize the chances of a successful outcome.
If the person regains consciousness, begins breathing normally, or shows other clear signs of life, the rescuer can then consider placing them in a recovery position. This position, typically on their side, helps maintain an open airway and prevents aspiration if vomiting occurs. However, if there is any suspicion of a spinal injury, moving the person should be avoided unless absolutely necessary to protect their airway.
Regardless of the person’s status, the AED pads should remain attached, and the device should stay on. Maintaining a safe and clear environment around the person is important, ensuring space for arriving EMS personnel to work efficiently.
Transfer of Care to Emergency Medical Services
Upon the arrival of emergency medical services (EMS), the rescuer’s role shifts to providing a concise and accurate summary of events. This handover should include details such as when the cardiac arrest occurred, the initial status of the person, how many shocks were delivered by the AED, and the person’s current condition. Any relevant medical history known to the rescuer can also be helpful.
EMS personnel will then assume responsibility for the person’s care, often bringing more advanced medical equipment and expertise. The rescuer should allow the professionals to take over, offering assistance only if requested. This seamless transfer of care ensures continuity of treatment and allows EMS to implement advanced life support measures.
Following the event, it is common for rescuers to experience a range of emotions due to the stressful nature of the situation. Support resources, such as debriefing sessions or access to counseling, can be helpful for processing these experiences. While formal documentation is handled by EMS, the rescuer may be asked to provide details for their records.