Post-CPR and AED Procedure

What Happens After CPR and AED Use

Understanding the steps following CPR and AED use for effective patient recovery.

Checking for Pulse and Heartbeat

After administering CPR and using the AED:

• If the AED indicates "No shock advised", check for a carotid pulse.
• The carotid pulse typically returns first, indicating circulation restoration.
• Normal heart rate ranges from 60 to 80 beats per minute.
• Confirm the presence of a strong heartbeat, often visible initially.

Assessing Breathing and Oxygen Saturation

Next, assess the patient's breathing:

• Normal breathing rate is 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
• Observe the rise and fall of the chest to confirm breathing.
• Apply a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen saturation, which should improve with restored breathing.

Postural Drainage and Equipment Adjustment

Adjustments and observations:

• Raise the stretcher slightly to facilitate postural drainage of regurgitated fluids.
• Replace the bag and mask setup with a non-rebreather mask once the patient is breathing independently.
• Continue with positive pressure ventilation if necessary until breathing stabilises.

Monitoring with AED and Defibrillator

Continued monitoring and readiness:

• Leave defibrillator pads in place and keep the AED running.
• AED continues to analyse rhythm every two minutes.
• If a shockable rhythm reoccurs, follow AED prompts to administer shocks and resume CPR.

Response to Shockable Rhythm

If the AED advises a shock:

• Revert to bag and mask ventilation.
• Administer defibrillation to restore normal sinus rhythm.

Ensure readiness for immediate action based on AED analysis and patient response.