What does an automated external defibrillator (AED) do?

What does an automated external defibrillator (AED) do?

• A. Delivers a shock to a victim in sudden cardiac arrest to restore normal heart rhythm.
• B. Monitors blood pressure and heart rate.
• C. Administers antibiotics to the patient.
• D. Delivers oxygen to the lungs.

Answer: (A)

An automated external defibrillator is used in sudden cardiac arrest to restore a normal rhythm by delivering a controlled electric shock when the heart rhythm is suitable for defibrillation. The device analyzes the heart’s electrical activity and, if it detects a shockable rhythm such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, it prompts or delivers a shock to reset the heart’s electrical system. This rapid intervention, guided by the AED’s prompts, can significantly improve survival. The AED does not monitor blood pressure or continuous heart rate, does not administer antibiotics, and does not deliver oxygen to the lungs; those functions are handled by other equipment or treatments.

An automated external defibrillator is used in sudden cardiac arrest to restore a normal rhythm by delivering a controlled electric shock when the heart rhythm is suitable for defibrillation. The device analyzes the heart’s electrical activity and, if it detects a shockable rhythm such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, it prompts or delivers a shock to reset the heart’s electrical system. This rapid intervention, guided by the AED’s prompts, can significantly improve survival. The AED does not monitor blood pressure or continuous heart rate, does not administer antibiotics, and does not deliver oxygen to the lungs; those functions are handled by other equipment or treatments.