|
AED PROGRAM :: WHAT IS AN AED (AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR)?
 Historically, defibrillators were only accessible
by medical professionals in the hospital and in ambulance service.
However, today's new Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) use
embedded computer chips to analyze heart rhythms instantly and
accurately, making it possible for non-medical professionals to
administer the same vital service without risking an accidental shock.
The answer to the problem of how to get timely,
lifesaving defibrillation to cardiac arrest victims as soon as possible
lies with the AED. As the name implies, the AED is an automatic device
capable of recognizing a heart rhythm that requires a shock. It can
charge itself and prompt the rescuer to deliver a shock to the victim by
pressing a button. AEDs are simple to operate and extremely reliable
when used properly. AEDs analyze the victim’s heart rhythm several times
before identifying it as a rhythm that requires defibrillation. If the
rhythm analyzed does not meet the requirements, then the AED will not
charge and will not advise to shock. Because of the need to administer
the AED quickly, AEDs should be made available in locations where people
may suffer sudden cardiac arrest.
Arlington Fire Department AED Presentation
[ back ] |
