What action should be taken first when using an AED on a patient?

• A. Shock the patient immediately
• B. Turn on the AED
• C. Check for breathing
• D. Call for additional help

Answer: (B)

The first action that should be taken when using an AED on a patient is to turn on the AED. This step is crucial because activating the device allows it to conduct a self-check and provide auditory and visual prompts that guide rescuers through the subsequent actions. The AED is designed to analyze the patient’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is needed; this can only happen after the device is powered on.

After turning it on, the AED will instruct you on the necessary steps to take next, which may include checking for breathing and applying pads to the patient’s chest. Prioritizing the power-on step ensures that the automated external defibrillator is ready to analyze the heart rhythm as soon as possible, increasing the chances of a successful intervention in the event of a cardiac emergency.