Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Practice 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Master Your CPR Skills!

Using an AED during a cardiac arrest situation should occur as soon as it is available. The primary goal in a cardiac arrest scenario is to restore a viable heart rhythm and revive the individual as quickly as possible. An automated external defibrillator (AED) is designed to assess the heart's rhythm and provide a shock if necessary.

Immediate use of an AED can significantly improve the chances of survival, particularly within the first few minutes after cardiac arrest occurs. Delaying its use, such as waiting for trained personnel or after performing CPR for several minutes, may diminish the likelihood of a successful outcome. Quick access to and application of the AED, combined with high-quality CPR, maximizes the chances of restoring a normal heart rhythm and sustaining life.

In contrast, using an AED on a conscious patient is inappropriate, as the device is specifically designed for situations where the heart is not effectively pumping blood. Hence, the emphasis is on early application of the AED as part of the emergency response protocol in cardiac emergencies.