AED Defibrillators General FAQs

What is AED?
AEDs or Automatic External Defibrillators or Automated External Defibrillators or AED Defibrillators, are small, lightweight devices that look at a person's heart rhythm (through special pads placed on the torso) and can recognize ventricular fibrillation (VF), also known as "sudden cardiac arrest" or SCA. If SCA is present, an AED will advise, and will talk the responder through some very simple steps to defibrillate. AEDs are designed to be used by lay rescuers or "first responders".
Who Can Use an AED?
Anyone, even children 11 years of age and up can be trained to use an AED.
Are All AEDs the Same?
While all AEDs are designed to defibrillate, they vary in the capabilities of their waveform technology (i.e. the "therapy" itself), rhythm recognition, ease of use, safety, weight, and manufacturer's support. It is important to consider these issues as well as the quality of research that has gone into any particular AED when evaluating them.
Are There Limits Regarding Who the AED Can Be Used On?
AED defibrillation therapy is appropriate for infants and children, as well as adults, as long as the appropriate pads are used. Typically, children over 55 lbs (25 kg) or 8 years of age are defibrillated as adults.
Are There Any Warning Signs of SCA?
No, and sadly enough the first sign of heart problems in most men is sudden cardiac arrest. SCA claims more than 350,000 lives each year, primarily because lifesaving treatment, that is, early defibrillation, does not reach the victims within the first critical minutes.
Does the AED Take the Place of CPR?
No. The AED is part of CPR. For maximum benefits (that is, best chance of survival) you must use the two tools together!
Can I Hurt Someone with an AED?
No! There are two things to remember here:
- A victim of SCA is essentially dead. Early defibrillation represents that person's only chance for survival. - AEDs will not shock someone who does not need to be shocked. It's that simple.
What About Using an AED on Metal or Wet Surfaces?
Always check with the manufacturer, but most AEDs because they are self grounded, can be safely used in wet environments and on metal surfaces with no risk to the victim or rescuer.