What does an AED stand for?

An AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. This device is designed to treat individuals experiencing life-threatening cardiac rhythm problems, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. The “automated” aspect refers to the machine's ability to analyze the heart's rhythm and determine whether a shock is necessary, which ensures that the device is user-friendly and can be operated by non-medical personnel. “External” indicates that it is applied externally to the chest, unlike implantable devices. The term "defibrillator" signifies its primary function of delivering an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. This makes it a critical piece of emergency equipment that can significantly increase the chances of survival in cardiac emergencies. Understanding the full term is important for ensuring proper usage during emergencies where immediate action can save lives.