Can Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) save the life of a child who has a sudden cardiac arrest as a result of congenital heart disease or other pre-existing cardiac causes?
Yes, if these children develop sudden cardiac arrest with a “shockable” abnormal rhythm (such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia). Children or adults who develop cardiac arrest caused by a slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia) or cardiac standstill (asystole) cannot be treated with an AED. These rhythms do not respond to electric shocks, so the AED will not allow a shock to be activated and standard CPR measures should be performed.
Related Questions
- Can Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) save the life of a child who has a sudden cardiac arrest as a result of congenital heart disease or other pre-existing cardiac causes?
- Are Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) More Effective Than CPR in Saving Lives?
- Are Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) mandatory?
