SELF/Perioperative Nursing/Defibrillation with AED/Psychomotor Skills Practice Instructions

This page provides a psychomotor skills practice guide for using an automated external defibrillator (AED), developed for perioperative nursing training under ECSACONM (East, Central and Southern Africa College of Nursing). It is intended as a self-directed developer worksheet, outlining the sequential steps, associated learning objectives ("good skills"), common errors, and practical guidance for safe AED operation.

This practice develops the psychomotor skills required to use an AED safely and correctly. The focus is on preparing the patient's chest, identifying anatomical landmarks, assessing pad-placement hazards, applying AED pads correctly, following AED prompts, performing safety checks before rhythm analysis and shock delivery, and coordinating AED use with ongoing CPR.

Treat every simulated AED prompt as though it represents a real patient. Verbally perform all safety checks, including ensuring that no one is touching the patient before rhythm analysis or simulated shock delivery, and follow the complete AED sequence exactly as you would during patient care. Although no electrical shock is delivered, handle the AED trainer and simulated pads as though they are clinical equipment. Maintain clear communication throughout the exercise, follow the AED prompts without unnecessary delay, and immediately resume simulated CPR whenever indicated. Repeated practice using the correct sequence will help develop safe, efficient, and consistent AED operation.

NB: This practice uses a reusable torso simulator and simulated AED training pads, which teach correct pad placement, safe workflow, and coordination of AED use; the simulator does not simulate cardiac rhythms, deliver electrical shocks, or assess CPR technique. At least one assistant should participate to simulate ongoing chest compressions, respond to instructions, and support realistic team communication. All CPR should be simulated unless a CPR training manikin is being used as part of an integrated training exercise. A virtual AED trainer for tablets and phones is available for practice at eu.nihonkohden.com/products/resuscitation/tablet-AED.

To guide nursing students and practitioners through a systematic, step-by-step process for operating an automated external defibrillator safely, ensuring correct pad placement, rigorous safety checks before rhythm analysis and shock delivery, appropriate response to AED prompts, and effective coordination of AED use with ongoing CPR.