In a 6-person high-performance BLS team, who is responsible for bringing and operating the AED?

In a high-performance Basic Life Support (BLS) team, the individual designated as the Monitor/Defibrillator/CPR Coach is specifically responsible for bringing and operating the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). This role is crucial because the AED is a vital piece of equipment used for delivering electrical shocks to restore a regular heart rhythm in cases of cardiac arrest.

The Monitor/Defibrillator/CPR Coach oversees monitoring the patient’s condition, assessing the heart rhythm, and determining when it is appropriate to use the AED. This person ensures that all necessary steps are taken quickly and effectively during a resuscitation effort, facilitating communication among team members and maintaining adherence to best practices.

By concentrating on operating the AED, this team member can focus on the technical aspects of defibrillation, allowing the team leader and other responders to manage their respective roles, such as providing high-quality chest compressions or airway management, effectively contributing to the overall response effort.