Automated External Defibrillators
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are portable medical analytical kits that can applied to a patients that are in physical distress from apparent cardiac arrhythmia, ventricular fibrillation, or ventricular tachycardia. These conditions can be precursors to the onset of a cardiac arrest. The AEDs systems perform multiple functions, in that they can detect the nature of the problem (which condition exists, if any) and can stabilize and regulate the heart's actions through defibrillation by electric pulse stimulus.
These remarkable AEDs devices are designed to be used by anyone, not just medical personnel although some brief training is recommended. AEDs are primarily intended for use by first aid providers, primary responders, and other early paramedical persons.
AEDs are produced in several versions and models, some of which are semi-automatic and some fully automatic. Medically skilled personnel may prefer the semi-automatic version, as it provides ECG readings, although the semi-automatic version requires the user to perform actions beyond what the system does. The fully automated versions actually provide voice prompts to the operator, who performs only simple tasks. The automated version even commences the defibrillation procedure without operator action required.
Some AEDs also have screen directions so that operators who have hearing problems can perform any actions the analytic device indicates is required. AEDs are effective for analyzing and treating arrhythmia problems, but are not effective in cases in which the patient's hear has already stopped.
AEDs are of a new generation of medical treatment systems that have the potential to substantially increase survivability in persons experiencing acute life-threatening illness. Their ease of use and affordable cost make AEDs a keystone of first aid and emergency medical care.