when operating an aed, what are the correct steps to follow?

The correct steps to operate an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) are:

1. Check the scene for safety and check the person for responsiveness and normal breathing.
2. Call emergency services (911) immediately if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
3. Start CPR (chest compressions) if needed while someone retrieves the AED.
4. Turn on the AED and follow the voice and visual prompts.
5. Remove all clothing from the person's chest and ensure the chest is dry.
6. Attach the AED electrode pads on the person's bare chest as shown in the AED instructions (usually one pad on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side).
7. Make sure no one touches the person while the AED analyzes the heart rhythm.
8. If a shock is advised, ensure no one touches the person and deliver the shock by pressing the button (semi-automatic AED) or allowing the AED to deliver it automatically (fully automatic AED).
9. After the shock, immediately resume CPR for about two minutes, then let the AED reanalyze.
10. Continue following AED prompts until emergency medical personnel arrive.

These steps apply for adults, with slight variations for children, such as using pediatric pads if available and different pad placement (front and back) for younger children.