'Lansley must listen to nurses on the front line' 
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Should nurses use an automated external defibrillator without training? What do you think?
EXPERT COMMENT
AEDs are straightforward to use.
One study of their use at the three Chicago Airports showed that the best results were achieved when the machine was operated by someone who had no prior training.
Safe operation of an AED require people to use their common sense and follow the instructions.
Although procedures should be in place to ensure that nurses receive AED training, in the event of no prior training, nurses should be encouraged to use the AED if necessary.
Phil Jevon is Resuscitation Officer/Clinical Skills Lead, Manor Hospital, Walsall.
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Readers' comments (1)
Ashley Needham | 14-Nov-2011 3:01 pm
Before becoming a student nurse I was a community first responder and carried an AED which I was trained to use and had to keep updated regularly and I can vouch for the fact they are very simple to use as from the moment you open it up the machine shouts out its instructions for you to follow. They are fairly idiot proof and designed to be use by anyone in an emergency.
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