Common Fears Around Defibrillators
Would you know how to use a defibrillator?
Most clients in my First Aid classes admit they wouldn’t touch it with a barge pole — and their reasons are usually the same:
- “What if I do it wrong?”
- “What if I kill them?”
- “I’ll get sued.”
- “I’m not trained.”
All legitimate objections to a machine that can deliver up to 1000 volts depending on what the heart is doing at the time.
But here’s the reality:
- They’re already in cardiac arrest, so it can’t get any worse.
- You’re highly unlikely to get sued.
- The chances are you’ll do a good job just by following the defibrillator’s simple instructions.
- Most people aren’t trained — and that’s OK.
If a defibrillator was too complex to use, they wouldn’t be dotted around communities for public use.
Defibrillators Are All Around You
What’s the chance that where you live or work, there’s one mounted on a wall? They’re usually bright green or yellow, easy to spot.
Next time you see one — go take a look. Can you read the:
“TO OPEN IN AN EMERGENCY”
It says:
- Call 999
- Keep calm & follow instructions
- Tell the operator where you are (location code on the black box)
- Tell the operator the unlock code
- Get back quickly to where CPR is being performed
Think you could manage that? Easy to say here, I know — but if you stay focused on your actions, not your fear, you’re already doing something heroic.
Built to Be Simple
The use of a defibrillator is now a mandatory part of the syllabus for First Aid training courses.
When I teach defibrillation, everyone can see how simple it is to switch it on — it’s common sense.
Then it’s just about following the instructions. Learners consistently do well with the key steps:
- ✅ Correct pad placement — follow the machine’s diagrams (often lit up) so it can accurately analyse the heart rhythm.
- ⚡ Stand clear when instructed — if anyone is touching the casualty during analysis or shock, the defib can detect multiple heartbeats.
Defibrillators are expert at heart analysis. When the heart goes into ventricular fibrillation (sudden cardiac arrest), it can kill — but a defib can shock it back into a normal rhythm. It also knows when there’s no rhythm at all, which is why it’s called a de-fibrillator.
Teamwork: First Aider + Defib
On courses, I always highlight the importance of people working together with the machine:
- The defib can analyse rhythms and shock the heart.
- The First Aider can check breathing, perform CPR if the shock doesn’t work, and provide support the machine can’t.
Together, they give the casualty the best chance of survival.
They All Work the Same Way
There are many models of defibrillators, but they all:
- Use slow, clear instructions
- Repeat commands until you’ve completed the step
- Are designed for untrained people to operate safely
Learners almost always finish the session saying they wouldn’t hesitate to use one — once they realise how simple it is.
Learn Life-Saving Skills
Our First Aid courses teach more than theory — they teach real, practical life-saving skills.
If face-to-face courses don’t sound appealing because of COVID, our e-learning First Aid option is a convenient alternative.
- Complete theory modules online
- Arrange practical elements face-to-face with our tutors (approx. 90 minutes)
Explore our First Aid courses here.
Final Thoughts
I don’t know about you, but if I saved a life…
it’s straight to the pub to celebrate how great I am. 🍻
Using a defibrillator isn’t complicated.
It’s designed for you to use it.
And if it means saving a life — every second counts.