A system includes a processor coupled to a memory, the processor and memory configured to determine a proficiency level of a user of a rescue application based on stored data indicative of the user's proficiency level, and based on the user's proficiency level, select a level of operation for the rescue application. The rescue application is executed on a mobile device and configured to control operation of an AED. Each of multiple levels of operation for the rescue application allows the user a different degree of control over the operation of the AED. The processor and memory are configured to present, to the user, a set of instructions associated with the selected level of operation; and to enable control of the AED according to the selected levels of operation. A different set of instructions is associated with each of the multiple levels.