If you’re confused about the difference between CPR and AED, you’re not alone. If you’re considering taking a CPR or First Aid course, you’re likely seeing both CPR and AED come up a lot in the course descriptions and are probably wondering what they each are and which one you need to know.
With CPR and AED training, you will be able to save the life of a heart attack victim by providing timely assistance while waiting for emergency medical services. Make sure that you learn about the essential lifesaving skills as it will increase the chances of saving the life of a person who suffers from a heart attack. This article will discuss everything you need to know about the difference between CPR and AED.
What is CPR?
CPR stands for “Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation,” a lifesaving method used when a person’s heart has stopped. CPR requires the rhythmic compressing of a person’s chest. Chest compressions will physically keep the blood flowing through the body to keep the organs alive. When functioning normally, the heart pumps oxygenated blood to the vital organs. However, when the heart stops, it leads to severe organ failure, brain damage, and even death in less than 10 minutes. CPR manually keeps the blood flowing so it continue to deliver oxygen to the organs and is performed while waiting for help to arrive on the scene.
What is AED?
AED refers to an “Automated External Defibrillator,” a lifesaving machine that will restart the heart when it stops. AEDs are automated, and the machine itself will walk a person through how to use them in medical emergencies. AEDs are available in most public areas for anyone to use during a cardiac arrest. Another situation in which AED is used is when a person suffers from ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
What’s the Difference Between CPR and AED Training?
If you are in a situation where you see someone experiencing cardiac arrest, performing CPR and using an AED makes the difference between life and death—and knowing when to use each of them is vital.
CPR and AED training are two different steps in saving the life of someone suffering from cardiac arrest. CPR is a procedure to keep the blood pumping when the heart stops, while an AED is a machine that will get the heart started again after it stops. The American Heart Association has stated that the survival rate of the victims nearly doubles when AED is administered along with CPR. In addition, while CPR help maintains blood flow, AED ensures proper heart rhythm. Both are important and increase the odds that a person survives a heart attack.
CPR and AED: Which One Should You be trained In?
The answer is both. CPR/AED training and certification go hand in hand because CPR and defibrillation are needed to save lives during medical emergencies. Both CPR and AED training are designed to complement each other. Effective emergency response requires:
- CPR: To keep blood flowing and maintain oxygenation until further treatment.
- AED: To address and correct the heart's rhythm with electrical shocks.
You perform basic CPR by pumping the chest with your hands, but further training is required to provide the most effective care possible. An AED’s audio automation will verbally tell you what to do to operate the machine, but more knowledge will benefit anyone who needs to use one. When used together, performing CPR and using an AED provide the best chances of saving a person’s life. At CPR Semect, CPR training programs integrate both CPR and AED instruction to ensure that individuals are prepared to provide a full range of life-saving interventions in cardiac emergencies.
Are CPR and AED equally necessary for all healthcare roles?
No, CPR and AED training are not equally necessary for all healthcare roles. While basic CPR and AED skills are essential for many healthcare professionals, the level of necessity varies by role. For instance, first responders, emergency room staff, and critical care professionals require advanced CPR and AED skills due to their frequent exposure to cardiac emergencies. Conversely, roles with less frequent direct patient care, like administrative staff, does not need the same level of training. Nevertheless, many healthcare facilities mandate basic CPR and AED certification for all staff to ensure readiness in emergencies.
Can improper use of an AED cause harm?
Yes, improper use of an AED cause harm. Using an AED incorrectly, such as placing the pads incorrectly or using the device on a patient with a pulse, potentially lead to complications or ineffective treatment. However, modern AEDs are designed with safety features and clear instructions to minimize these risks. Studies have shown that proper training and following AED protocols significantly reduce the risk of harm and improve the device's effectiveness.
Are there legal protections for AED users?
Yes, there are legal protections for AED users. Many jurisdictions have Good Samaritan laws that protect individuals from legal liability when they use an AED in good faith to assist someone in cardiac arrest. These laws are designed to encourage bystanders to act in emergencies without fear of legal repercussions, provided their actions are reasonable and in line with established protocols. Certification programs, such as those from CPR Select, include training on legal aspects and proper use to ensure users are aware of their rights and responsibilities.
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