When should the rescuer operating the AED clear the victim?

When should the rescuer operating the AED clear the victim?

• A. After shock delivery
• B. During Analysis and before shock delivery
• C. Never clear, keep hands on chest
• D. Only if advised by bystanders

Answer: (B)

Clearing the area around the patient is essential whenever the AED is about to analyze the heart rhythm or deliver a shock. The device needs to read the heart’s electrical activity without interference, and any person touching the chest can cause readings to be distorted. By stepping away and ensuring no one is in contact during analysis, you help the AED determine correctly whether a shock is needed. Just before the shock is delivered, you must clear again to make sure the energy will go into the heart and not injure bystanders. After the shock, resume CPR as indicated. This safety and accuracy step isn’t optional—it’s required every time the AED analyzes or delivers a shock.

Clearing the area around the patient is essential whenever the AED is about to analyze the heart rhythm or deliver a shock. The device needs to read the heart’s electrical activity without interference, and any person touching the chest can cause readings to be distorted. By stepping away and ensuring no one is in contact during analysis, you help the AED determine correctly whether a shock is needed. Just before the shock is delivered, you must clear again to make sure the energy will go into the heart and not injure bystanders. After the shock, resume CPR as indicated. This safety and accuracy step isn’t optional—it’s required every time the AED analyzes or delivers a shock.