Why is that AED so special?

The automated external defibrillator (AED) is one of the most essential pieces of equipment to have around in a cardiac emergency. AEDs are portable devices that will deliver a shock to a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. The victim has a small window of only about 10 minutes to be resuscitated. Using an AED (as soon as possible) along with CPR can almost triple a person’s chances of survival after sudden cardiac arrest.

Our hearts work two ways: mechanically and electrically. We do CPR to help the mechanical portion (pump/circulate blood) but we need the AED for the electrical portion. The heart’s rhythm is controlled by electrical currents that unfortunately can malfunction sometimes. This malfunction is called an arrhythmia. The AED is used to restore the heart’s normal rhythm, saving the victim’s life.

Places such as schools, fire stations, and hospitals are mandated to carry an AED. However, you never know when a cardiac emergency may occur so it’s best to know the location of a working AED at all times, no matter the type of facility, it may someday save a life!