An (AED) automated external defibrillator is a device that sends an electric shock to the heart that will restore the natural heart rhythm to the victim during a cardiac arrest.

When the AED electrodes are applied to the victim's chest, it automatically analyzes the heart rhythm and the rescuer is then advised whether a shock is needed to regain a normal heart beat. The heart has been defibrillated when the victim's heart resumes normal beating.

When is a defibrillator used?

An automated defibrillator is used to treat ventricular defibrillation or sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The AED machines make it possible for anyone to offer immediate help to a victim suffering from a cardiac arrest. A heart attack or other medical condition is when electrical signals in the lower chambers of the heart become uncoordinated, ineffective and the heart pumps little or no blood throughout the body.

Ventricular defibrillation can lead to cardiac arrest and the heart could stop beating altogether. Once in cardiac arrest, every minute that passes without defibrillation the survival rate decreases about 7 to 10 percent and then dropping to less than 50 percent.

Why can't we just call 9-1-1?

Emergency medical services may not be able to respond fast enough during a victim's cardiac arrest. They might have to deal with crowded urban areas, multiple story buildings, rural areas or large complexes. In fact the average response time nationally is between 10 to 12 minutes, so the best EMS responders may not arrive there in time.

The survival rate is only 5 in 100 SCA victims if defibrillation is not done early enough. More lives can be saved because of the very practical design of the AED's and the fact that most people are capable of using them. The more portable defibrillators that are put into public and private places, the better the chances for survival in SCA victims.What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?

How can I buy an AED?

A physician’s prescription is needed in order to purchase most AEDs. This means that the medical director of a facility or a physician used by such facility must prescribe and oversee the AED program at any workplace or other facility that houses an AED. Some AEDs can be purchased over the counter without a prescription.

How much does an AED cost?

The cost of an AED varies by manufacturer and model. Currently, the price for a single AED unit is between $1,500 to $2,500. op

How does an AED work?

An AED is easy to operate. It uses voice prompts to instruct the rescuer. Once the machine is turned on, the rescuer will be prompted to apply two electrodes provided with the AED to the victim's chest. Once applied, the AED will begin to monitor the victim's heart rhythm. If a "shockable" rhythm is detected, the machine will charge itself and instruct the rescuer to stand clear of the victim and to press the shock button.