3 Facts about Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)

Automated external defibrillators are crucial in saving a person from cardiac arrest. These lightweight and easily portable devices deliver an electric shock through the chest to the heart. The shock delivered can potentially stop an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) to allow a restored natural rhythm to take over. 

​However, the stigma with these devices among people who do not know how to use them, is that they are complex and difficult to peruse. This is fake news, and the spread of it can lead to major consequences. If you were to take the time to learn CPR training and using AEDS (preferably with one of our classes; the best of Chicago), you will learn that all these things are misconceptions. 

Nonetheless, if you have not taken any classes, do not worry! This article will present to you three things that you should know about automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to finally rid of many unknowns and misconceptions about the device! ​

1. AEDs are so easy that even a 10-year old can utilize one.

Yes, you heard that right. They are not at all complicated to use, as most people think. They can be literally used by children. There was a study that found out that when third graders were presented with AEDs and were asked to use them, they were able to do so efficiently and correctly, because, unknown to most people, an AED will actually talk you through the process with each step carefully detailed. The AED will analyze the heart and determine whether or not a shock is needed to be administered. It is actually easy to utilize. ​To know more about children's CPR, go to this LINK.

2. There are two types of abnormal heart rhythms and an AED will administer a shock for these two. ​

The two types of abnormal heart rhythms are ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. Both of these are fatal arrhythmias. They have a high likelihood of being corrected by an AED, however, they can come back, and that is why it is essential to leave an AED on, whilst administering CPR, until emergency medical services personnel (EMS) arrive. ​

3. Alongside with CPR, AEDs are safe to utilize.

In performing CPR, it is very unlikely that you will further injure someone; unless you are incorrectly doing the procedure. CPR is so crucial in the first minutes of someone in cardiac arrest. You should be quick to administer CPR even if you are not sure about the patient's situation. An AED will also come in handy by an extreme lot, so always be also quick to ask to find an available AED nearby. ​

In conclusion, hopefully, the article clears up the major misconceptions about AEDs and some misconceptions about CPR. Being always informed on the latest and genuine information will make a big difference in the real world! Such as with subjects like this, it is highly vital not to be ill-informed as it concerns the life or death of a person! ​

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