The rescuer operating the AED should clear the victim any time the device is analyzing or delivering a shock so that no one is touching the person.

Direct answer

You must clear the victim at two key moments:

  1. During rhythm analysis
    • When the AED says something like “Analyzing heart rhythm, do not touch the patient,” everyone must step back and avoid touching the victim so the device can accurately read the heart rhythm and decide whether a shock is needed.
  1. Right before a shock is delivered
    • When the AED says “Stay clear,” “Stand clear,” or “Clear the victim,” you loudly say “CLEAR!”, look to make sure no one is touching the patient, then press the shock button (if required by that model) while no one has contact with the victim.

After the shock, rescuers should immediately resume CPR when instructed, which means you only stay clear during analysis and shock, not in between.

Mini step-by-step overview

  1. Turn on the AED and follow voice prompts.
  1. Attach pads to the bare chest as shown on the pads.
  1. When the AED says it is analyzing, say “Clear!” and make sure no one touches the victim.
  1. If the AED advises a shock and says “Stay clear” or “Clear the victim,” step back, say “Clear!”, visually confirm no contact, then press the shock button (on models that require it).
  1. As soon as the shock is delivered (or if no shock is advised), resume CPR when prompted.

Why clearing the victim matters

  • Safety: Prevents accidental shock to rescuers or bystanders who might be touching the victim.
  • Accurate analysis: Movement and contact can interfere with the AED’s ability to correctly read the heart rhythm.
  • Effective shock: Ensures the electrical energy goes where it should—through the victim’s heart, not partly through another person.

Key phrase to remember

When you hear the AED say “Analyzing” or “Stay clear/Clear the victim” ,
→ everyone off, nobody touches the patient until the device tells you to resume CPR.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.