Early Defibrillation Saves Critical Time
AED Training
Learn how an Automated External Defibrillator fits into a cardiac-arrest response, how to operate the device safely, how to follow voice and visual prompts, and how to coordinate AED use with CPR and emergency medical services.
Turn an AED From “Equipment on the Wall” Into a Usable Emergency Tool
AEDs are designed to guide rescuers through the process of analyzing a person’s heart rhythm and, when appropriate, delivering a shock. Training helps participants become familiar with the device so they can act rather than hesitate during a real emergency.
AED training is most effective when paired with CPR skills. Participants learn to recognize cardiac arrest, call for help, begin CPR, retrieve and operate the AED, clear the person safely during analysis or shock, and resume CPR promptly after the device gives instructions.
Recommended For
- Workplace emergency response teams
- Schools and educational programs
- Fitness and recreation facilities
- Community and faith organizations
- Security and front-line staff
- Healthcare and direct-care environments
- Organizations with public-access AEDs
What Participants Learn
Participants practice integrating the AED into a complete emergency response rather than learning the device in isolation.
- Recognizing possible cardiac arrest
- Activating emergency medical services
- Starting CPR while the AED is retrieved
- Turning on and preparing the AED
- Pad placement concepts
- Following device prompts
- Clearing safely for rhythm analysis
- Clearing safely before shock delivery
- Resuming CPR immediately when directed
- Communicating with other responders
AED Safety & Readiness
Simple Prompts
AEDs use voice, visual, or screen prompts to guide responders. Training familiarizes participants with the flow so the prompts make sense under pressure.
Safe Clearing
Responders practice making sure no one is touching the person during rhythm analysis and when a shock is being delivered.
Pad Placement
Instruction reviews general pad-placement principles and the importance of following the diagrams and manufacturer directions supplied with the device.
Ongoing CPR
AED use does not replace CPR. Training emphasizes minimizing pauses and returning to chest compressions when instructed.
Training Is One Part of Preparedness
Placement
Staff should know where AEDs are located and how quickly they can be retrieved from common work areas.
Maintenance
Organizations should follow manufacturer instructions for routine status checks, battery readiness, electrode-pad expiration dates, and replacement supplies.
Response Plan
A clear plan should define who calls 911, who retrieves the AED, who starts CPR, who directs arriving EMS, and how incidents are documented.
Make the Response Familiar Before It Is Needed
Organizations with an AED can benefit from team drills that mirror the actual layout of the workplace. Training can reinforce how responders move from recognition to CPR, how the AED is retrieved, how bystanders are managed, and how care is transferred to EMS. Site policies, manufacturer guidance, and applicable local requirements should be incorporated into the organization’s broader AED program.
Help Your Team Use Your AED With Confidence
Request AED and CPR-focused training for your workplace, school, healthcare team, or community organization.
AED operation should follow the device manufacturer’s instructions and the curriculum used during training. Organizations are responsible for meeting applicable equipment, medical-direction, maintenance, documentation, and regulatory requirements in their jurisdiction.
SAFER TOMORROWS
AED Training
Practical, people-centered training designed to strengthen confidence, communication, preparedness, and safety.