20/05/2025
After 13 years of delivering First Aid training, one topic consistently generates the most curiosity: the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Here are some frequently asked questions answered:
❓ What is an AED?
An AED is a life-saving device that delivers an electric shock to a person experiencing cardiac arrest, helping restore a normal heart rhythm.
📍 Where can you find one?
Visit https://www.defibfinder.uk to locate your nearest registered AED. You’ll find them in various places, including:
- Schools
- Train Stations
- Gyms
- Dental Surgeries
- Old Phoneboxes
- Fire Stations
- Retail locations like Tesco and Sainsbury’s
👥 Who can use an AED?
Anyone! Training can range from informal short sessions to comprehensive Level 2 CPR & AED courses tailored for workplaces.
🙋 Who can they be used on?
An AED can be used on any unconscious and non-breathing individual, including children, pregnant casualties, and those with pacemakers.
⚠️ Can using an AED make things worse?
No. An AED will not deliver a shock to a casualty that is breathing.
🔧 How do you use an AED?
Simply turn it on and follow the clear verbal instructions provided by the device.
✔️ Do they really work?
Yes! The use of an AED can increase a casualty’s chance of survival from 2–4% (with CPR alone) to an impressive 70% when used quickly.
⏳ Can I wait for an ambulance?
Time is critical. For every minute you delay in using an AED, a person’s chance of survival decreases by 10%.
If you have any more questions about AEDs or First Aid in general, feel free to reach out!