AEDs: Understanding Their Purpose and Life-Saving Function

Automated external defibrillators help save lives by restarting the heart after a cardiac arrest. In the past, this electronic technology was available only in hospitals and ambulances. Now, less expensive and easier-to-use defibrillators are installed in many different areas.

Function

• AEDs are electronic devices designed to evaluate the rhythm of the heart after a cardiac arrest and deliver a shock if needed. AEDs are designed to be used with minimal training, making them easy to use by ordinary citizens.

Need

• Nearly a quarter of a million Americans die every year because of sudden cardiac arrest. In many cases, cardiac deaths can be prevented if an AED is available and used properly by first responders.

Link

• AEDs are recognized as being critical to cardiac survival. Access to an AED provides a link between the beginning of an emergency and the time when medical professionals arrive on scene.

Effectiveness

• In cases of cardiac arrest where AEDs are available, survival rates are close to 75 percent. When an AED is not available, similar emergencies have survival rates of only 5 percent.

Access

• AEDs cannot be effective if they cannot be reached during an emergency. Installing AEDs in high-traffic areas helps ensure responders can access the device when needed, and save a life.