An Automated External Defibrillator or AED is a kind of portable medical device. AEDs have the power to detect abnormal heart rhythms and deliver an electric shock to the heart to change it back to normal. They are generally used in situations involving sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and are designed for use by the average person. Like other emergency equipment, AEDs can commonly be found and accessed in public areas including workplaces, schools, airports, hospitals, etc.

The main purpose of automated external defibrillators is to provide immediate medical attention to individuals who go into sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). 

When in cardiac arrest, the human heart stops beating properly due to an electrical malfunction. If left untreated, it can be fatal within a few minutes. In fact, every minute that a normal heartbeat isn’t restored, a person’s chance of survival drops by 7-10%. An AED machine can be used to send a quick shock of electricity through the body, which often helps the heart return to normal functionality. In this way, AEDs serve as a form of life-saving emergency medical equipment.

Sudden cardiac arrest is generally an unexpected emergency. Because of this, AEDs are designed so that even untrained individuals can use them and administer life-preserving medical attention. But how exactly do they work? And how can an unknowing person use them? 

Steps for AED Use: 

• Step 1: Turn on the AED and follow the audio – Automated external defibrillators use voice prompts and instructions to direct the rescuer through the process. 
• Step 2: Remove all clothing covering the chest – In order for the AED to be most effective, clothing on the injured person must be stripped away and set aside.
• Step 3: Ensure that the chest is dry – In most cases, the person’s chest will already be dry. However, if it isn’t, wipe it before continuing.
• Step 4: Peel the backing on the pads and apply pads to the person’s bare chest – Depending on the kit, some AEDs come with two sets of pads – one for a child (7yrs or younger) and one for an adult (8yrs+). Administer the correct pad type and then follow the instructions from there.

Once pads (electrodes) have been applied to the person’s chest, the AED is able to analyze the heart’s rhythm and detect what is needed. The machine will communicate and potentially deliver an electric shock to the wearer’s body, with the intention of resetting the heart’s electrical activity.

While different brands might slightly vary what is included with an automated external defibrillator, the package is pretty standardized. 

A portable AED kit typically includes:

• AED device 
• Set of electrodes/pads (for adults and sometimes children as well)
• Battery
• Carrying case

Sometimes there are additional items such as a first aid kit, CPR mask, scissors, gloves, warranty information, general use instructions, or even signs. All items included are meant to aid in treating someone with sudden cardiac arrest. 

The concept of using electric shocks to revive the heart has been around since the late 19th century. However, it wasn’t until 1947 that a defibrillator was used to successfully revive a human heart. This initial defibrillator was designed by Claude Beck. His success led to the invention of portable defibrillators by Frank Pantridge in 1965. The first defibrillators were large and clunky, but their design evolved over time. In the 1990s, AEDs that were compact and user-friendly became much more widespread. Since then, AEDs have continued to become more publicly accessible, automated, and easily portable. These changes over time have made AEDs a staple form of medical equipment and allowed for wider use of them in emergency situations.

Automated External Defibrillators are designed for easy and effective use by both trained professionals and the general public.

Often, medical personnel, firefighters, flight attendants and police are trained in how to use AEDs. However, these devices are meant to be usable for the average person, in case there were an emergency situation without any trained personnel present. 

While anyone can use an AED, it is generally best for someone with training, a medical background, or CPR knowledge to use them. Those individuals should be deferred to if possible.

Automated External Defibrillators are a key form of medical equipment used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. They can be crucial for saving life during emergencies, and therefore are valuable to be familiar with. Thankfully, these medical devices are designed to be user-friendly. AEDs come in packages with other safety equipment and produce audio instructions to help guide users through the application process. Knowing about AEDs, what they are for, and how they are used can make a difference in times of need.

AEDs are very useful in emergency situations, as long as they are in good condition and functioning properly. Here are some resources that can help with AED maintenance and care. Along with that, schedule a demo with one of our team members to learn about our software solution and how it can help with safety equipment upkeep.

• AED Inspections – How to Inspect and Maintain an AED
• 5 Benefits of AED Inspection Software
• Why You Need Automated Inspection Software
• InspectNTrack Software Frequently Asked Questions
• How Inspection Software Improves AED Maintenance & Compliance