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AED: Understanding Automated External Defibrillators | First Aid

AED = Automated External Defibrillator. A portable device that analyzes heart rhythm and delivers a shock to restore normal rhythm in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

How It Works

  1. Pads placed on bare chest.
  2. Device analyzes rhythm (shockable: VF/pulseless VT).
  3. If shock advised, AED charges and prompts user to press button (or auto-shocks).
  4. Shock depolarizes myocardium, allowing SA node to re-establish organized rhythm.

    5. Key Features

    • Voice/visual prompts guide untrained users.
    • Will NOT shock non-shockable rhythms (asystole, PEA, normal sinus).
    • Safe—only delivers shock if algorithm detects VF/VT.

    Where Found

    Airports, malls, schools, gyms, offices, airports, public venues. Look for the universal AED sign (heart with lightning bolt).

    Chain of Survival

    1. Recognize arrest → Call 911
    2. Start CPR (push hard/fast)
    3. Use AED ASAP
    4. EMS advanced care
    5. Post-cardiac care

    Early defibrillation (within 3–5 min) increases survival from <10% to >50%. Anyone can use an AED—no training required, but CPR/AED courses build confidence.

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