General QuestionsWhat does AED mean?AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator (or Automated External Defibrillation).What is an AED?An AED is a device used to deliver an electric shock through the wall thoracic to the heart. . Built-in computers assess the patient's heart rate, determine whether defibrillation is necessary, then administer the shock. Audible and/or visual prompts guide the user through the process. How does an AED work? A microprocessor inside the defibrillator interprets (analyzes) the victim's heart rhythm using adhesive electrodes (some AED models require you to press an ANALYZE button). The computer analyzes the heart rhythm and tells the operator if a shock is necessary. AEDs advise shock only in cases of ventricular fibrillation and rapid ventricular tachycardia. The electric current is delivered through the victim's chest wall using adhesive electrodes. Why are AEDs important? AEDs are important because they strengthen the chain of survival. They can restore a normal heart rhythm in victims of sudden cardiac arrest. New portable AEDs allow more people to respond to a medical emergency requiring defibrillation. When a person experiences sudden cardiac arrest, their chance of survival decreases by 7 to 10 percent for every minute that passes without defibrillation. AEDs save lives!Who can use an AED?Most AEDs are designed for use by non-medical personnel such as police, firefighters, flight attendants, security guards and other lay rescuers properly trained. Having more people in the community able to respond to a medical emergency by providing defibrillation will significantly increase survival rates in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. Why does someone having a heart attack need an AED? When a heart attack progresses to full cardiac arrest, the heart most often enters into uncoordinated electrical activity called fibrillation. The heart trembles ineffectively and cannot pump blood. The AED delivers an electrical current to the heart muscle, momentarily stunning the heart and stopping all activity. This gives the heart the opportunity to resume beating effectively. Will an AED always revive a person in cardiac arrest? The AED only treats a heart in ventricular fibrillation (VF), an irregular heart rhythm. In cardiac arrest without VF, the heart does not respond to electrical currents but needs medication. The victim requires respiratory assistance. AEDs are less effective when the victim has been in cardiac arrest for more than a few minutes, especially if no CPR has been performed. Using the AED Is using an AED safe? An AED can be used safely by anyone trained in its use..