What is the main purpose of an AED?

The main purpose of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is to analyze heart rhythms and deliver an electric shock if a life-threatening arrhythmia, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, is detected. The device is designed to quickly assess the heart's electrical activity and, if necessary, provide a shock that can restore a normal rhythm. This intervention is critical in cases of cardiac arrest, where the heart stops pumping effectively, and immediate action can significantly increase the chances of survival.

While providing oxygen is essential in medical emergencies, it is not a function of the AED itself. Monitoring blood pressure is relevant in assessing a patient’s condition but falls outside the capabilities of an AED. Likewise, stabilizing broken bones is a vital part of emergency care, but again, this is not something that an AED addresses. Thus, the focus of an AED is specifically on determining heart rhythm and delivering defibrillation when indicated, making it a life-saving device in emergency situations.