Which team member is responsible for managing the AED during a resuscitation?

In a resuscitation scenario, the member designated as the AED Operator holds the critical responsibility of managing the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). This role entails not only retrieving the AED promptly but also effectively operating it according to the instructions it provides. The AED is designed to analyze the cardiac rhythm of the patient and, if necessary, deliver a shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.

The AED Operator must be aware of when to attach the pads and be vigilant in following the prompts given by the AED, such as ensuring that everyone is clear of the patient before delivering a shock. This role is paramount during resuscitation efforts, as timely deployment of the AED can significantly increase the chances of survival in cases of cardiac arrest.

Understanding the distribution of roles during a resuscitation is crucial; other team members, such as the Airway Manager, Compressor, and Ventilator, focus on maintaining airway patency, providing compressions, and administering breaths respectively, but they do not operate the AED. Hence, identifying the AED Operator role ensures clarity in responsibilities and efficiency in the resuscitation process.