How to Use a Defibrillator (AED)

When someone suffers cardiac arrest, you have to act fast

When someone suffers cardiac arrest, you have to act fast. An AED, automatic external defibrillator, is an essential lifesaving tool to restore the heart's rhythm. If you can restart the heart, you can save a life.

Steps

1: Locate the AED and appoint someone to call 911 immediately.

2: Check the person for breathing.

3: Apply defibrillator as illustrated on the actual pads. You may have to move the person's garments, such as a bra.

4: Turn on the device. Listen to instructions. The device will check for a pulse.

5: Deliver the charge.

How to Safely Make Lifestyle Changes With Type 2 Diabetes

Gain control of your disease while still protecting your heart

If you're overweight or obese and have type 2 diabetes, a new study reveals how to make lifestyle changes that will help you safely gain control of your disease and still protect your heart.

Researchers published a study in Diabetes Care that took a second — and more in-depth — look at data from the NIH's Look AHEAD study. They found that for 85% of people in that study, lifestyle interventions that triggered weight loss and increased physical activity reduced potential cardiovascular problems. Such lifestyle interventions also help reduce the risks for diabetes, dementia and some cancers and strengthen the immune system.

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