An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, delivers an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.
How an AED Works
An AED analyzes the heart's electrical activity and determines if it is in a life-threatening rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (VFib) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT).
If the AED detects a shockable rhythm, it delivers a controlled electrical shock to the heart.
This shock depolarizes a large portion of the heart muscle cells, allowing the heart's natural pacemaker to resume control of the rhythm.
Effects of the AED on the Body
The electrical shock from an AED is a brief, intense burst of energy.
It causes the heart muscle to contract forcefully, interrupting the chaotic electrical activity that is causing the cardiac arrest.
The shock itself does not cause any lasting damage to the body.
However, the shock can be painful and may cause temporary muscle contractions or a brief loss of consciousness.
Importance of AEDs
AEDs are essential for saving lives during sudden cardiac arrest.
They are designed to be easy to use, even by people with no medical training.
The use of AEDs has significantly increased survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest.
Conclusion
An AED is a vital tool for responding to sudden cardiac arrest, restoring a normal heart rhythm and increasing the chances of survival. It delivers a controlled electrical shock to the heart, disrupting chaotic electrical activity and allowing the heart to resume a regular beat. While the shock can be painful, it does not cause lasting damage to the body.
