Using an AED
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For an unresponsive person who is not breathing normally, call emergency services and begin CPR. Turn on the AED as soon as it arrives and follow its voice and picture prompts. Do not touch the person during rhythm analysis or a shock.
Take it with you. Verify locally.
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In immediate danger, contact local emergency services. Current instructions for your location take priority.
Do now.
- 01
Turn it on
Continue CPR while another helper prepares the AED if possible.
- 02
Expose the chest
Dry a wet chest and place pads according to the AED diagrams.
- 03
Stand clear
Make sure no one touches the person during analysis or shock delivery.
- 04
Resume CPR
Immediately follow the device instructions to continue compressions.
Next steps.
Keep the AED connected until responders take over. Learn the location of nearby devices and obtain training.
Watch for.
For a child or infant, use the appropriate pediatric pads or setting when available and follow the device and dispatcher instructions.
Sources & context.
Original Osprey Zero summary of the references below. U.S.-based guidance unless noted; check authorities where you are. This page is not a live alert.
Updated 2026-10-02. First-aid summaries support immediate response and training; they have not received independent clinical review.