A BLS-AED (Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation) intervention is a vital link in the chain of survival in the event of cardiac arrest. However, even with the best will in the world, certain technical or coordination errors can compromise its effectiveness. Understanding these failures not only helps to improve the quality of interventions, but also boosts the confidence of those involved, whether professionals or trained citizens. On this page, we explore the most common errors observed in the field, from cardiac massage to the use of AED, not forgetting the organisational, ethical and legal aspects. These mistakes are both simple to correct and crucial to avoid. To fully grasp the importance and benefits of such an intervention, discover the usefulness of BLS-AED in the management of cardiac arrest.
Common errors in BLS-AED intervention: understanding for better action
During a BLS-AED intervention, every gesture counts and every mistake can have a direct impact on the victim’s chances of survival. Cardiac massage (or CPR) is the first critical step. A common mistake is delaying the start of compressions, when every second without circulation reduces organ oxygenation. Interruptions that are too frequent or prolonged – to check the pulse or move the victim – also impair the overall effectiveness of resuscitation.
The position of the hands is often poorly controlled: placed too high or too low, they can cause fractures or generate ineffective compressions. It is also common to observe an inappropriate depth (less than 5 cm or more than 6 cm in adults), an inappropriate compression rhythm (ideally between 100 and 120/min) or a lack of relay from the masseur, which leads to a drop in quality due to fatigue.
With regard to the use of the AED defibrillator, numerous technical errors have been identified: electrodes incorrectly positioned, stuck on clothing or wet skin, not listening to voice instructions, or resuming massage too late after an electric shock. The use of electrodes unsuitable for the victim’s age is also a recurring problem.
In addition to these technical errors, there are organisational failings: forgotten or incomplete alerts, poor coordination between responders, or hesitation to act for fear of doing the wrong thing. It should be remembered that not intervening is often the worst mistake. Finally, ethical and legal concerns sometimes hold first aiders back: yet in Switzerland, the law protects acts of good faith in emergency situations.
Understanding these errors, anticipating them and correcting them through rigorous BLS-AED training is essential to boosting the effectiveness of first aid.
Mistakes to avoid when using an AED
The use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) can save lives, but only if certain classic mistakes are avoided. Failing to switch on the device as soon as it arrives or placing the electrodes incorrectly are common mistakes. It is crucial to position the patches correctly on dry, hair-free skin, and to follow the voice instructions scrupulously. To find out more about these technical gestures, explore mistakes to avoid when using an AED.
Why is interrupting chest compressions critical?
A recurring mistake in BLS-AED is to interrupt chest compressions for too long, particularly when changing the responder or during analysis of the rhythm by the AED. Each pause reduces circulatory efficiency and compromises cerebral oxygenation. To understand the importance of maintaining a regular rhythm, find out why interrupting chest compressions is critical.
What to do if the AED does not detect a shockable rhythm?
Sometimes, the AED indicates that no shock is advisable, which can destabilise an unsuspecting rescuer. In this case, the protocol states that compressions should be continued without delay. The absence of a shockable rhythm does not mean that resuscitation is useless. To find out how to react in these situations, learn what to do if the AED does not detect a shockable rhythm.
To go further in mastering BLS-AED
Error prevention also involves a better understanding of the gestures and the benefits of training. Here are some additional resources to reinforce your skills:
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What concrete skills do you learn during BLS-AED training?
This page shows you all the skills developed during the training, from recognising cardiac arrest to the effective use of a defibrillator. Valuable reading for measuring the impact of quality training. -
What actions should be taken in the event of cardiac arrest before help arrives?
You will discover the first actions to take in the very first minutes: alert, cardiac massage, setting up the AED… These simple gestures make all the difference while waiting for professional help. -
How can BLS-AED training save lives in the home or public environment?
This page highlights the practical usefulness of training in everyday situations. It shows how trained citizens can make a difference in their immediate surroundings, whether at home, at work or in the street.
