What an Automated External Defibrillator Is and How It Works
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device used to provide an electric shock to a patient whose heart is not beating at a normal rhythm. This device has electrodes that need to be attached to the patient's chest for the electric shock to be delivered.
The AED is built to have a voice interface to accompany the instructions for you to easily follow what's to be done for the device to be effectively used. It also has a shock button which is located on the front to shock the patient.
This device is usually equipped with a display screen that shows the patient's bodily vital signs upon activation. Usually, the AED is built to be portable to be easily carried and transported, especially in times of emergency.
What Is the Main Purpose of an AED?
The heart is the most important part of the body that carries your other organs around to help them function properly and do their tasks. That is why is it crucial to take care of your heart and make sure that it's in the best shape.
When a person suddenly experiences a cardiac arrest, the heart stops beating or beats abnormally. Other organs, such as the brain, will lose their supply of oxygen and nutrients, and the cells will start to die.
The AED device helps the heart beat normally by providing an electric shock to the heart through its electrodes. Through the electric shock, it can begin sending oxygenated blood to all parts of the body.
Why Are AEDs Important?
AED is used to save those having a heart attack before emergency response arrives. It is an effective yet safe device to use because it is non-invasive and can be used by almost everyone. You can even safely use this to save people who are unconscious and unresponsive.
How Does an AED Work?
The AED usually has three electrode pads and a belt which is used for the patient to wear. The electrodes are attached to the patient's chest, and the belt is wrapped around the patient's waist.
The electrodes are connected to the AED device through the wires, and the device is plugged into the wall socket to provide electricity. The patient's heart has to be in ventricular fibrillation (abnormal heart rhythm), and the AED has to be used within eight minutes and 59 seconds. Beyond that, chances of surviving will be lower.
Once the electrodes are connected to the patient, the AED will instruct you on what to do next to be able to save the person. You just have to follow its voice instruction and push the shock button for it to be activated.
Where Should AEDs Be Placed?
The AED device should be in each place with significant foot traffic, such as in airports, trains, malls, and even in public places, to facilitate easy access to the device. This is because the first few minutes after a heart attack are critical to saving a life. If possible, this device should also be used by first responders in the emergency room.
Who Can Use AEDs?
AED is suited for use by anyone who is trained to use it. These can be parents, teachers, students, office workers, police and fire rescuers, as well as doctors. It is easy to use, and anyone can follow what's to be done to use it.
Conclusion
It is vital to have an automated external defibrillator in every home and in high-traffic areas. This device will help save lives immediately in case someone suddenly experiences a cardiac arrest.
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