A cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, anytime. Defibrillators are life-saving devices that play a crucial role in emergency medical situations, particularly during sudden cardiac arrests. Despite their importance, many misconceptions surround their use and effectiveness. Here are some of the harmful, yet common, defibrillator myths which can potentially prevent people from taking action in an emergency.
The Common Myths we Hear
Myth 1: Only medical professionals can use defibrillators.
One of the most prevalent myths is that defibrillators are exclusively for medical professionals. In reality, modern Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are designed for use by the general public. These devices provide clear, step-by-step voice instructions and are equipped with sensors that analyse the patient’s heart rhythm. They only deliver a shock if necessary, ensuring they can be safely used by anyone, even without medical training.
Myth 2: Defibrillators can harm healthy individuals.
A common concern is that defibrillators might cause harm to people with normal heart rhythms. This is a myth. Defibrillators are designed to analyse the heart rhythm before administering a shock. If the device detects a normal rhythm, it will advise that no shock is required. The device will only deliver a shock if it detects a shockable rhythm.
Myth 3: Defibrillators always restart a stopped heart.
Sadly, this is not always the case. Defibrillators do not restart a heart that has completely stopped. Instead, they are used to correct abnormal heart rhythms. Defibrillators work by delivering an electric shock to reset the heart’s electrical activity, allowing a normal rhythm to resume. If the heart has completely stopped, CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is essential alongside defibrillation efforts. A Defibrillator is a vital part of the chain of survival (early call for help, early CPR, early defibrillation, post-resuscitation care) and significantly increases the chances of survival.
Myth 4: You can be sued for using a defibrillator.
There is a misconception that using a defibrillator on a stranger could lead to legal action. This is a myth. No one in the UK has ever been successfully sued for carrying out CPR or using a defibrillator. The Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism (SARAH) Act of 2015 provides legal protection for individuals acting in good faith to help others in emergencies. Your willingness to act could save a life.
Myth 5: You shouldn’t use a defibrillator on children.
Defibrillators can be used on both adults and children. Most modern defibrillators come with paediatric pads or a switch that adjusts the energy level for children. If paediatric pads aren’t available, adult pads can be used, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
Myth 6: You can’t use a defibrillator on someone with a pacemaker.
This is another myth. AEDs can be used on individuals with pacemakers. When applying the AED pads, they should be placed at least an inch away from the pacemaker device to avoid interference. Defibrillators are designed to adjust their operation based on the patient’s condition, making them safe to use even in such situations.
Myth 7: Defibrillators are complicated to use.
Modern defibrillators are designed to be user-friendly. They come with simple, step-by-step voice prompts that guide you through the entire process, from placing the pads to delivering the shock (if one is needed). Think of it as following a recipe – the defibrillator tells you exactly what to do and when.
Myth 8: Defibrillators are only found in hospitals.
Defibrillators are becoming increasingly common in public places across the UK. You will find them in shopping centres, train stations, airports, sports centres, and even local pubs. The UK government is actively working to increase their availability, and initiatives like The Circuit – the national defibrillator network – are mapping their locations.
Myth 9: Using a defibrillator can cause burns or tissue damage.
Some people worry that defibrillators can cause burns or tissue damage. While it is true that a shock from a defibrillator can generate heat, modern defibrillators are equipped with features to minimise the risk of burns or tissue damage. These devices deliver a controlled amount of energy to the heart, ensuring that the shock is effective without causing harm to surrounding tissues.
Myth 10: You don’t need to perform CPR if you’re using a defibrillator.
This is a dangerous myth. It is essential to perform effective CPR alongside using the defibrillator. CPR circulates blood to the heart and brain. Without quality CPR, it is highly unlikely the casualty will survive. The combination of CPR and defibrillation provides the best chance of survival in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.
Defibrillators are life-saving devices that are simple to use and accessible to everyone. Don’t let these defibrillator myths and misconceptions prevent you from acting in an emergency. Learning the facts about defibrillators could help you save a life.
Remember:
- Call 999 immediately if you suspect someone is in cardiac arrest.
- Start CPR.
- Find the nearest defibrillator – use The Circuit app to locate one.
- Follow the defibrillator’s instructions.
Using a defibrillator may seem intimidating, and now that you know more about the common defibrillator myths that are often floated around, you can feel more prepared. We also offer AED Defibrillator Training that will equip you with the skills to respond when faced with an emergency. Get in touch to learn more and download our training schedule for 2025 at the top of this page. By understanding the facts and dismissing the myths, we can create a nation of lifesavers.
