how does an automated external defibrillator (AED) work?
it sends an electric shock to the heart
it stimulates the heartbeat through the chest compressions
it alters irregular heartbeats with vibrations
it takes the vitals of a person for the paramedics
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that is used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. It works by analyzing the heart rhythm of a person in cardiac arrest and delivering an electric shock if needed to restore normal heart rhythm.
Here is how an AED works:
1. Turn on the AED: Most AEDs have an on/off switch that needs to be turned on to start the device.
2. Attach the electrode pads: The AED comes with adhesive electrode pads that have connectors to attach to the AED. These pads are usually placed on the bare chest of the person in cardiac arrest. One pad is placed on the upper right side of the chest while the other is placed on the lower left side of the chest.
3. Analyze the heart rhythm: The AED will start analyzing the heart rhythm of the person through the attached electrode pads. It detects whether the person is in a shockable rhythm, such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, which can be treated with an electric shock. These abnormal rhythms prevent the heart from pumping blood effectively.
4. Deliver a shock if needed: If the AED detects a shockable rhythm, it will either automatically deliver a shock or prompt the user to press a button to deliver the shock. The shock itself momentarily stops the heart's electrical activity, allowing the natural pacemaker of the heart to resume regular rhythm and regularize the heartbeat.
5. Perform CPR: After delivering the shock, the AED will prompt the user to resume CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) by providing chest compressions. CPR helps to circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body until professional medical help arrives.
It is important to note that AEDs do not measure vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, or oxygen saturation. Their main purpose is to assess and treat irregular heart rhythms that can be seen in sudden cardiac arrest.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) works by sending an electric shock to the heart. Here is a step-by-step explanation of how an AED functions:
1. Turn on the AED: The device is turned on by pressing the power button, which activates the AED and prepares it for use.
2. Place the adhesive pads: The AED comes with adhesive pads or electrodes that need to be securely placed on the chest of the person experiencing cardiac arrest. The pads are typically labeled with symbols or pictures indicating their correct placement.
3. Analyze the heart rhythm: Once the pads are attached, the AED automatically analyzes the person's heart rhythm. The device uses built-in algorithms to determine if a shock is needed or if other treatment options should be utilized.
4. Clear the patient: Before delivering a shock, it is essential to ensure that nobody is in contact with the person or any surfaces they may be touching. This step is crucial to prevent anyone from getting unintentionally shocked.
5. Deliver a shock: If the AED determines that a shock is necessary, it will instruct the operator to press the shock button. The shock delivered by the AED is a carefully calculated amount of electricity that can help restore the heart's normal rhythm.
6. Perform CPR: After a shock is administered, the AED will prompt the operator to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). CPR involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to help circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body until professional medical help arrives.
7. Repeat steps as necessary: If the AED advises that additional shocks are required, the process may be repeated. The AED will continue to monitor the person's heart rhythm and provide instructions accordingly.
It's important to note that while AEDs can significantly increase the chances of survival during cardiac arrest, they should always be used in conjunction with appropriate CPR techniques and by trained individuals whenever possible.
how does an automated external defibrillator (AED) work?
a. it sends an electric shock to the heart
b. it stimulates the heartbeat through the chest compressions
c. it alters irregular heartbeats with vibrations
d. it takes the vitals of a person for the paramedics
a. it sends an electric shock to the heart
An automated external defibrillator (AED) works by delivering an electric shock to the heart in order to restore normal rhythm in a person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Here's a step-by-step explanation of how AEDs work:
1. Turn on the AED: The first step is to turn on the AED, which is typically done by pressing a power button or opening the device.
2. Attach the electrode pads: The AED comes with adhesive electrode pads that have sensors attached to them. These pads need to be placed on the person's bare chest, following the instructions provided by the AED. Typically, one pad is placed on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side of the chest.
3. Analyze the heart rhythm: Once the electrode pads are in place, the AED automatically analyzes the person's heart rhythm. This is done by sending a small amount of electric current through the chest, and the sensors detect the electrical activity of the heart.
4. Deliver a shock if necessary: If the AED determines that the person's heart rhythm is a specific type of life-threatening irregularity, such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, it will advise the person using voice prompts or visual indicators to stand clear and not touch the person. The AED then delivers a controlled electric shock through the electrode pads to the person's chest. This shock is intended to reset the heart's electrical activity and allow it to return to a normal rhythm.
5. Perform CPR: After the shock is delivered, the AED prompts the rescuer to resume cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by providing chest compressions. Chest compressions help circulate blood to vital organs and support the person's chances of survival until medical professionals arrive.
6. Continue as instructed: The AED provides voice prompts or visual indicators to guide the rescuer throughout the process. It may analyze the heart rhythm again after a few minutes and provide further shock instructions if needed.
It's important to note that AEDs are designed to be user-friendly and provide clear instructions to those using them. This allows even individuals without medical training to potentially save lives in emergency situations.