Automated External
Defibrillator (AED): |
On this page: |
What is an automated
external defibrillator - When is it
used - How does it work - What
will it accomplish - What are the
risks - When should it not be used
- Recently approved AEDs - Search
all AEDs - Links |
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What
is an automated external defibrillator? |
An automated external defibrillator
(AED) is a portable automatic device used to restore normal
heart rhythm to patients in cardiac arrest.
An AED is applied outside the body. It automatically analyzes
the patient’s heart rhythm and advises the rescuer whether
or not a shock is needed to restore a normal heart beat. If
the patient’s heart resumes beating normally, the heart
has been defibrillated. |
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When
is
it used? |
An AED is used to treat cardiac
arrest. It is a life-saving device because cardiac arrest is
a sudden condition that is fatal if not treated within a few
minutes.
Heart attacks and other conditions can cause ventricular
fibrillation. In ventricular fibrillation, the electrical
signals in the lower part of the heart are uncoordinated and
ineffective. Very little blood is pumped from the heart to
the body or the lungs. If ventricular fibrillation is not
treated, it will result in Cardiac Arrest.
You can find AEDs in public places, such as airports and
office buildings (public access AEDs). Doctors sometimes
recommend home defibrillators for patients with heart disease.
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How
does
it work? |
An AED consists of a small
computer (microprocessor), electrodes, and electrical circuitry.
The electrodes collect information about the heart’s
rhythm. The microprocessor interprets the rhythm.
If the heart is in ventricular fibrillation, the microprocessor
recommends a defibrillating shock. The shock is delivered
by adhesive electrode pads, through the victim’s chest
wall, and into the heart.
There are special low-power electrode pads for use on children. |
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What
will it accomplish? |
The AED delivers an electric shock
that stuns the heart momentarily; stopping all activity. This
gives the heart a chance to restart normal electrical activity
and resume beating effectively. |
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What
are
the risks? |
Most trained users can operate
AEDs safely. There is some risk of electric shock to the operator
and others if the operator has not been trained to avoid touching
the patient. Other risks include skin burns from the electrodes,
abnormal heart rhythms, and blood clots. |
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When
should
it not be used? |
The device should not be used
in a patient who has a pulse. It should also be avoided under
conditions where the patient cannot be isolated from other
people (for example, in the standing water of a rowboat that
is filled with passengers who are either touching the patient
or the water). |
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Recently
approved AEDs: |
Find
information about specific automated external defibrillators
from FDA's Recently Approved Devices listings. |
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Search
all cardiac ablation devices: |
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Links:
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