The rescuer operating the AED should clear the victim at these key moments:
- Before the AED analyzes the heart rhythm: The rescuer must ensure no one is touching the victim to prevent interference with the AED’s ability to accurately assess the heart’s rhythm.
- Before delivering a shock: When the AED detects a shockable rhythm and instructs to deliver a shock, the rescuer must loudly announce "Clear!" and visually confirm that no one is touching the victim. This step prevents accidental electrical shocks to rescuers or bystanders.
- After delivering a shock: The rescuer should clear the victim again briefly to allow the AED to reassess the heart rhythm and decide if additional shocks are needed.
These steps ensure the safety of everyone involved and help the AED perform effectively. The rescuer should only clear the victim when the AED prompts with commands such as “Clear,” “Stand clear,” or “Stay clear” before rhythm analysis and shock delivery. Immediately after clearing, the rescuer should confirm no physical contact before proceeding with the shock or continuing CPR as guided by the AED. In summary: clear the victim before rhythm analysis , before delivering a shock , and after delivering a shock following the AED’s voice prompts to maintain safety and effectiveness during resuscitation.
