🫀How to Use an AED (Anyone Can Do It)
AEDs are designed for use by untrained bystanders. The device automatically analyzes heart rhythm and provides voice-guided instructions. Under Taiwan's Emergency Medical Services Act (Article 14-2), Good Samaritan protections apply to AED use.
1
Check Responsiveness
Tap the person's shoulders firmly and shout. Look for normal chest movement. If unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 119 (Taiwan emergency) and send someone to get the AED.
2
Start CPR
Place hands on center of chest, push hard and fast at 100-120 compressions per minute (5-6 cm deep). Continue without interruption until the AED arrives.
3
Turn On the AED
Power on the AED and follow voice prompts. Place the two electrode pads on the bare chest: one below the right collarbone, one under the left armpit.
4
Deliver Shock if Advised
The AED analyzes the heart rhythm automatically. If a shock is needed, ensure no one is touching the patient and press the shock button. Resume CPR immediately after.
💡AED Knowledge & Facts
Understanding cardiac arrest and AED use can help save lives. Taiwan has approximately 20,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually. Timely CPR and AED use dramatically improves survival rates.
⏱️ The Golden Window
Brain damage begins 4-6 minutes after cardiac arrest. Average ambulance response time in Taiwan is 6-8 minutes, making bystander intervention critical. Every minute without defibrillation reduces survival by 7-10%.
⚖️ Legal Protection
Taiwan's Emergency Medical Services Act (Article 14-2) provides Good Samaritan protection. Non-medical personnel using AEDs in good faith are exempt from criminal liability, even if the procedure isn't perfect.
👶 Can It Be Used on Children?
For children aged 1-8, use pediatric pads if available. If not, adult pads can be used. For infants under 1, AED use is generally not recommended but can be attempted if no other option exists.
💧 Use in Wet Conditions?
Move the patient to a dry surface and dry the chest before applying pads. AED delivers directed current between the pads — it's safe to use as long as pads are properly placed and there's no standing water.
🔋 Does an AED Need Charging?
AEDs have built-in batteries and perform regular self-checks. Facility managers are responsible for periodic battery and pad expiry checks. Registered AEDs on this site are maintained per government regulations.
🏃 Who Can Use an AED?
Anyone can use an AED. The device automatically determines whether a shock is needed and will not deliver a shock to someone who doesn't need one. Just follow the voice instructions — no training required.
📚Data Sources
AED location data is sourced from Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare open dataset, updated daily.
- Ministry of Health and Welfare — AED Location Open Data. data.gov.tw
- MOHW — National AED Emergency Information Portal. tw-aed.mohw.gov.tw
- Emergency Medical Services Act, Article 14-2 — Good Samaritan Protection. law.moj.gov.tw
- American Heart Association — 2020 CPR & ECC Guidelines. heart.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about AEDs, cardiac arrest response, and using this site.
What is an AED?
An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable medical device that can analyze a person's heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat during sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs are specifically designed for use by untrained bystanders — once turned on, the device provides step-by-step voice instructions for the entire process.
Do I need training to use an AED?
No. AEDs are designed so that anyone can use them, even without prior training. The device gives clear voice prompts guiding you through pad placement, CPR timing, and shock delivery. While CPR+AED training courses (offered by fire departments and Red Cross, ~4 hours) are recommended, you should not hesitate to use an AED in an emergency even without training.
Can an AED accidentally shock someone who doesn't need it?
No. AEDs have sophisticated heart rhythm analysis algorithms. If the device determines a shock is not needed (e.g., the heart is beating normally), it will not deliver a shock. Using an AED on someone who doesn't need defibrillation will not cause harm.
Where are AEDs required by law in Taiwan?
By MOHW regulation, AEDs must be placed at: (1) Transportation hubs: international airports, major train stations, MRT stations, HSR stations above certain passenger thresholds; (2) Long-distance transport: international flights, HSR trains; (3) Tourist areas: national parks, scenic area visitor centers; (4) Schools: high school and above; (5) Large venues: stadiums, shopping malls, cinemas; (6) Other: hotels, large corporate offices.
How often is the data updated?
AED location data comes from the Ministry of Health and Welfare's open dataset, which is updated daily. This site syncs with the MOHW data every 6 hours to ensure AED location information stays current. If you find incorrect data, you can report it through the MOHW AED portal.
Why are some AEDs not available 24/7?
Some AEDs are located inside facilities that don't operate 24 hours (such as schools, office buildings, or shopping centers) and are only accessible during business hours. This site displays availability hours for each AED. In an emergency outside operating hours, call 119 or contact the facility's emergency phone number listed in the AED details.
What number should I call in an emergency in Taiwan?
Call 119 for emergency medical services. Tell them: (1) your location (address or nearby landmark); (2) the patient's condition (unresponsive, not breathing); (3) that you've started CPR or have an AED. The dispatcher will guide you through emergency procedures. Do not hang up.