When a person experiences a cardiac arrest, quick action is required. Alongside calling 999 and performing CPR, using a defibrillator within the first few minutes can be the difference between life and death. For many people, the idea of using a defibrillator may seem daunting. However, modern devices have been designed to be easy to use – without the need for any medical training. In this article, you can learn more about defibrillators and familiarise yourself with how to use one, so that you are ready to provide vital help in an emergency.

What is a cardiac arrest?

A cardiac arrest is a sudden and often fatal condition which occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing it to stop pumping blood around the body effectively.

According to the British Heart Foundation, a person is in cardiac arrest if all of the following apply:

  • They are unconscious
  • They are unresponsive
  • They are not breathing, or not breathing normally

At this point, it’s time to take swift action. Performing CPR can help to keep the person’s blood flowing. Meanwhile, using a defibrillator can help to restore their heart’s normal rhythm.

First steps in an emergency

If you are the only person on the scene when someone collapses, then the priority is calling 999 and starting CPR. If someone else is there with you and performing CPR, then finding a defibrillator is your next priority.

You may already know the location of one, if you are in a public place such as a community centre, shopping centre or train station. Otherwise, the Ambulance Service – via your 999 call – will be able to tell you if there is a defibrillator nearby.

How to use a defibrillator

Modern defibrillators are simple to use – turn on the device and follow the verbal instructions. Some also offer visual prompts to help you.

The defibrillator itself will check the person’s heart rhythm and will only instruct you to give them a shock if one is needed. It is worth noting that you cannot shock yourself or someone else accidentally.

The British Heart Foundation offers the following step-by-step guide to using a defibrillator:

  • Step 1: Press the green button to switch on the defibrillator and follow the instructions.
  • Step 2: Remove the person’s clothing above the waist. (This might feel odd or embarrassing but do not let that stop you. Remember, this is a life-or-death situation.)
  • Step 3: Peel off the sticky pads and attach them to the person’s bare skin. Put one pad on each side of the chest as shown in the picture on the defibrillator.
  • Step 4: Once you have attached the pads, stop CPR and do not touch the person. The defibrillator will then check the person’s heart rhythm.
  • Step 5: The defibrillator will decide whether a shock is needed. If so, it will tell you to press the ‘shock’ button. An automatic defibrillator will shock the person without you needing to do anything. Do not touch the person while they’re being shocked.
  • Step 6: The defibrillator will tell you when the shock has been given and whether you need to continue CPR.
  • Step 7: If the defibrillator tells you to continue to do CPR, continue with chest compressions until the person shows signs of life, or the defibrillator tells you to stop so it can analyse the heartbeat again.

Watch this short video for everything you need to know about how to respond when someone goes into cardiac arrest: