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The Life-Saving Difference Between CPR and Defibrillation
The Life-Saving Difference Between CPR and Defibrillation
When someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), every second counts. In those critical early minutes, understanding the difference between CPR and defibrillation can mean the difference between life and death. Although they work together in a rescue situation, they serve very different purposes. In this article, we’ll explain what each one does and why both are vital in an emergency.
What Is CPR?
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a manual technique that helps to pump blood around the body when the heart stops beating. CPR keeps oxygen flowing to the brain and vital organs, buying precious time until professional help or a defibrillator arrives.
It involves two main actions:
- Chest compressions – pushing down hard and fast in the centre of the chest (at least 100-120 times per minute)
- Rescue breaths (optional for trained individuals) – giving breaths mouth-to-mouth to supply oxygen
CPR alone cannot restart a heart that’s in a fatal rhythm like ventricular fibrillation – that’s where defibrillation comes in.
What Does a Defibrillator Do?
A defibrillator, or AED (Automated External Defibrillator), delivers an electric shock to the heart. The aim is to restore a normal rhythm in the event of a cardiac arrest. Most public AEDs are fully automated and easy to use, giving verbal instructions as soon as the device is activated.
Here’s what an AED does:
- Analyses the casualty’s heart rhythm
- Advises whether a shock is needed
- Charges and delivers the shock automatically or on button press
Defibrillation is the only treatment that can restore a shockable heart rhythm. CPR cannot do this on its own – it only sustains life temporarily.
CPR vs AED – What’s the Difference?
| CPR | Defibrillation (AED) |
|---|---|
| Manual chest compressions and rescue breaths | Electric shock delivered to the heart |
| Maintains oxygen circulation | Attempts to restart the heart or correct rhythm |
| Can be performed immediately with no equipment | Requires an AED, often found in public places |
| Essential to start straight away | Should be used as soon as available |
Both CPR and defibrillation are needed for the best chance of survival.
When Should You Use an AED?
You should use a defibrillator as soon as you suspect someone is in cardiac arrest:
- The person is unresponsive
- They are not breathing normally (or not at all)
Once 999 has been called, send someone to fetch the nearest AED while CPR is being carried out. The earlier a shock is delivered, the greater the chance of survival – ideally within the first 3–5 minutes.
CPR and AED Training Saves Lives
Every year in the UK, over 30,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital. Immediate CPR and defibrillation can double or even triple survival rates.
At ProTrainings Europe Ltd, we provide CPR and AED training for individuals, businesses, and organisations across the UK. Our AED training course teaches how to safely and confidently use a defibrillator in line with Resuscitation Council UK guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between CPR and defibrillation can empower you to take life-saving action when it matters most. While CPR keeps the body alive, only an AED can reset the heart during a shockable arrest. That’s why every workplace, school, and public building should have an accessible defibrillator and trained staff.
Be ready to act – book your CPR and AED training today.
