What is an AED and why is it necessary in cases of sudden cardiac arrest?
AED stands for automated external defibrillator, a computerized medical device that analyzes a heart rhythm to detect cardiac arrest and delivers an electric shock to the heart (defibrillation) if necessary. If the AED determines defibrillation is needed, the device prepares to shock and prompts the rescuer to activate a shock, or depending on the device, administers the shock automatically. Audible and/or visual prompts guide the user through the process, making the device very easy to use. A shock from an AED is the most effective treatment for sudden cardiac arrest.
