What is a Defibrillator? (Article)
A defibrillator is a device that gives a high-energy shock to the heart. This shock can stop the heart from beating in an abnormal way and allow it to return to a normal rhythm. A defibrillator is used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. When the heart stops beating, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. A defibrillator is used to shock the heart and restore its normal rhythm. The defibrillator sends an electric shock to the heart through the chest wall and paddles that are placed on the patient's chest. The shock stops the heart from beating in an abnormal way and allows it to return to a normal rhythm.
There are 4 types of defibrillators, AED's, ICD's, WCD's and Manual Defibrillators, each is used differently but ultimately serve the same purpose, to shock the heart to reset the rhythm.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a small device placed under the skin on the chest. Wires from the ICD go to the heart. The ICD monitors the heart rhythm. If the ICD detects a problem, it can deliver a shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm.
A wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) is a battery-operated device that is worn like a vest. The WCD has sensors that monitor the heart rhythm. If the WCD detects a problem, it can deliver a shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a medical emergency. SCA happens when the heart suddenly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. SCA is a leading cause of death.
AEDs, ICDs, and WCDs are all types of defibrillators. AEDs are portable devices that can be used to treat SCA. ICDs are small devices that are placed under the skin on the chest. WCDs are battery-operated devices that are worn like a vest.
Cardiac arrest is a sudden, unexpected loss of heart function. When this happens, the heart is unable to pump blood to the brain, and the person loses consciousness. If not treated immediately, cardiac arrest can lead to death. AEDs are designed to be used by laypeople with little or no medical training. They are easy to use and can be found in many public places, such as airports, office buildings, and schools.
When someone has a cardiac arrest, every second counts. The sooner an AED is used, the better the chances of survival. Using an AED is simple. First, the person administering the AED will need to turn it on and follow the instructions. Then, they will need to apply the pads to the person’s bare chest. Once the pads are in place, the AED will analyze the person’s heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver a shock. After the AED has been used, it is important to call 911 and get the person to a hospital as soon as possible. AEDs are an important tool in the fight against cardiac arrest. When used promptly, they can save lives.
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