If you’ve ever seen an AED in a shopping mall, airport, or workplace, you may have asked yourself: Can CPR be used with a defibrillator? The answer is yes, and combining them is the best way to give someone a chance at survival. CPR buys time, while the defibrillator delivers the shock that can restart the heart.
Why Combine CPR and Defibrillation?
In a cardiac arrest emergency, survival depends on acting quickly. This is known as the “chain of survival”, which includes:
- Early recognition and calling for help
- Immediate CPR
- Rapid defibrillation with an AED
- Advanced medical care
Studies show that combining CPR with defibrillation dramatically improves the chances of restoring a normal heart rhythm. CPR keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and vital organs, while defibrillation delivers an electrical shock that can reset the heart into a sustainable rhythm
When to Use a Defibrillator During CPR
Not every cardiac arrest rhythm is treated with a shock. Defibrillators only work for shockable rhythms. If the heart rhythm is not shockable, CPR remains the priority.
Shockable Rhythms (VF, VT)
- Ventricular Fibrillation (VF): the heart quivers chaotically.
- Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): the heart beats too fast to pump effectively.
In both cases, the AED will advise a shock. Deliver it immediately, then resume CPR without delay.
Non-Shockable Rhythms (Asystole, PEA)
- Asystole: “flatline” — no electrical activity in the heart.
- Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA): electrical signals are present, but no effective heartbeat.
In these cases, shocks are not effective. The AED will advise “no shock,” and CPR should continue until advanced care arrives.
Step-by-Step CPR + AED Process
Here’s the recommended sequence in an emergency:
- Call 000 (Australia) or 112 – alert emergency services.
- Start CPR immediately – 30 compressions, 2 breaths if trained.
- Attach the AED – follow the voice prompts.
- Deliver a shock if advised – stand clear, press the button.
- Resume CPR immediately – continue until the AED re-analyses or help arrives.
Best Practices and Common Mistakes
- Maintain a compression depth of ~5 cm at a rate of 100–120/minute.
- Minimise interruptions and resume compressions right after a shock.
- Place AED pads correctly: one on the upper right chest, one on the lower left side.
- Do not pause to check pulse unless instructed by the AED.
- Avoid touching the patient during shock delivery.
Common mistakes include stopping CPR too long during AED setup or misplacing pads, both of which reduce survival chances.
First Aid Courses at CPR First Aid
The best way to be confident in using CPR and an AED is through hands-on training. At CPR First Aid, you can learn AED skills in various nationally recognised courses:
- CPR Course (HLTAID009) – Learn CPR with AED in our CPR course.
- First Aid Course (HLTAID011) – Comprehensive first aid module covering AED use.
- Childcare First Aid Course (HLTAID012) – AED training tailored to childcare and education settings.
With practice and knowledge, you can act quickly, confidently, and potentially save a life.