EARLY DEFIBRILLATION IS THE KEY TO SURVIVAL
An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable and easy-to-operate medical device that has a built-in computer that analyses an unconscious victim’s heart rhythm and automatically delivers a shock, if it determines that one is required.
Once turned on, the AED will use voice commands and screen messages to guide an operator through the defibrillation process. The AED will monitor the heart rhythm, advise the operator if a problem is detected as well as automatically delivering a shock to the patient.
Where are AEDs Located?Gardens Point (PDF, 2.25MB) (link to map)
- A Block, A100 – Level 1 Foyer opposite Student Services
- P Block, P302 – Level 3 Security Office
- V Block, V300 – Level 3 Foyer opposite Loans Desk
- X Block, X400 – Level 4 Foyer outside the Medical Centre
Kelvin Grove (PDF, 505KB) (link to map)
- A Block, A119 – Level 1 Security Office
- F Block, F608 – Student Centre, past the counters on the left
- Y1 Block, Y100 – Level 1 Facilities Management Middle Hallway
- O Block, B Wing, OB600 – Level 6 - Reception Foyer
- U Block (44 Musk Avenue), 0.02 – Ground Floor – QUT Optometry Reception Foyer
- Q Block, Q400 – Level 4 Reception Foyer (IHBI)
- Z1 Block, Z109A – Level 1 LaBoite Theatre Reception (Box Office)
J Block, J103 – Level 1 Student Administration Centre
MERF, 201 – Level 2 Foyer (next to lift)
What to do if Someone Collapses
If someone becomes unconscious and stops breathing, you should immediately commence the Chain of Survival as follows:
Call or have somebody else call 000 to request an ambulance and QUT Security on 3138 8888 for officers to attend and assist with first aid and to meet and guide the ambulance to your location.
Early CPRStart CPR immediately with 30 compressions on the victim's chest followed by two breaths into victim's mouth.
Get someone to bring an AED from a known location.
● Turn the AED on by opening the lid and pushing it back until it locks, then follow the voice and screen prompts.
● Ensure the defibrillation is performed on a non-conductive surface (not in water or on a metal surface).
● Expose the persons chest. This may include cutting clothes or removing a bra or singlet.
● Shave the person’s chest (if hairy) with the razor provided in the AED carry case.
● Wipe dry the person’s chest with the towel provided in the AED carry case before placing the pads on their chest.
● Open the pouch containing the pads and peel off their liners.
● Place the AED pads on the person’s bare chest as shown on the back of the pads.
● Avoid placing the pads on a loose metal necklace or any metal piercings.
● Ensure that CPR stops and everyone stands clear if the AED announces that a shock is to be automatically delivered to the person.
● Respect the victim’s dignity and privacy – Keep the crowd back and don’t let anyone take videos or photos.
Early Advanced Care
Keep the AED connected to the patient until the ambulance arrives and advanced care is available even if no shock is advised by the AED or the patient regains consciousness.
After the Event
If an AED has been used, the operator must notify QUT Security on 3138 5585 to ensure that the AED is cleaned and refurbished so that it is quickly ready for its next use. The operator must also fill out a Safety Problem Report and Investigation form and forward it to Health and Safety Advisory Services.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. The victim suddenly becomes unconscious and stops breathing.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attacks
A Sudden Cardiac Arrest is not the same thing as a heart attack, although a person suffering a heart attack is more likely to develop abnormal heart rhythms and sudden cardiac arrest. Here’s how they are different:
Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Sudden Cardiac Arrest is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm.
A heart attack is caused by blocked flow to the heart muscle so the muscle begins to die.
There is rarely a warning before Sudden Cardiac Arrest
A heart attack is often preceded by chest, arm, upper abdomen, or jaw pain. Nausea and sweating are common.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest victims always lose consciousness.
Heart attack patients usually remain conscious.
Who is at Risk?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest is unpredictable and can happen to anyone, anywhere. Risk increases with age.
Although pre-existing heart disease is a common cause of cardiac arrest, many victims have never had any heart problems.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Usually, the first sign of Sudden Cardiac Arrest is when a person collapses and loss of consciousness (fainting), the person stops breathing and no heartbeat can be felt.
What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?
An AED is a portable and easy-to-use medical device that has a built-in computer that analyses an unconscious victim’s heart rhythm and determines if it requires a shock.
Can I Accidently Hurt Someone with an AED?
No, you cannot. AEDs are programmed to deliver an electric shock when an abnormal rhythm is detected in a victim. You can not deliver a shock if the AED decides not to. This prevents giving a shock to someone who may have fainted but isn’t having a Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
Can I Remove the Electrode Pads if the Patient Becomes Conscious and Starts Breathing?
No, don’t remove the electrode pads until the ambulance arrives and paramedics take over the care of the patient. This prevents the occurrence of re-arrest and ensures the patient is continuously being monitored until advance care is available.
Am I Legally Protected if I Provided Assistance to a Sudden Cardiac Arrest Victim, Including Using an AED?
Yes, staff at QUT are indemnified by the University against civil liability resulting from the use of an AED. QUT accepts full and sole responsibility for all claims including the cost of defending or settlement in cases where, in the reasonable opinion of the QUT Council, the officer concerned has diligently and conscientiously endeavoured to carry out his or her duties and has complied with QUT policies and procedures. Refer to MOPP: http://www.mopp.qut.edu.au/A/A_07_01.jsp
I am not Trained. What Should I Do?
Using an AED is easy. Just turn it on by opening the lid and pushing it back until it
locks, then follow the voice and screen prompts. Watch the video.
Anything you do to help, even just a phone call to 000 and 3138 8888 will increase someone’s chance of survival.