Automated External Defibrillator: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

A portable piece of medical equipment called an automated external defibrillator, or AED, is utilised in the treatment of sudden cardiac arrest. It is meant to detect irregular cardiac rhythms and then provide an electric shock to the heart via the chest wall, which, if successful, will help restore a normal rhythm in the heart.

• Manual AEDs: These are the most common type of AEDs, and they require a user to manually turn on the device and follow the instructions provided by the device.
• Semi-Automatic AEDs: These types of AEDs are similar to manual AEDs, but they do not require a user to manually turn on the device. Instead, these devices will automatically activate when the electrodes are attached to the patient's chest.
• Fully Automatic AEDs: These types of AEDs are completely automated and do not require any user input or intervention at all. They will automatically detect an abnormal heart rhythm and deliver an electric shock as needed without any user input.

AEDs are designed to be easy to use and can provide potentially life-saving assistance in emergency situations.

• Quick Response: An AED provides a quick response in the event of sudden cardiac arrest, allowing for rapid treatment and increasing the chances of survival. This is of the utmost significance since the probability of life drops by 7–10% for every minute that passes without defibrillation being administered.
• Easy to Use: AEDs are designed for use by laypeople with minimal training, making them easy to use in an emergency situation. Most models feature simple instructions that guide users through the process of using an AED on a patient, reducing the risk of mistakes or delays in providing treatment.
• Cost Effective: Compared to other emergency treatments such as CPR or ambulance transport, using an AED is much more cost effective, making it an accessible option for many communities and organisations.
• Portable: AEDs are small and lightweight, making them easy to store and transport in cases of emergencies, allowing them to be available wherever they may be needed most quickly.

• An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a device used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. It is designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart in order to restore a normal rhythm.
• AEDs are used by emergency responders, medical professionals, and laypeople alike in order to quickly restore a patient's heartbeat and improve their chances of survival.

The use of automated external defibrillators, sometimes known as AEDs, to treat sudden cardiac arrest is a treatment that can save a patient's life. However, just like any other type of medical equipment, the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) comes with a number of possible hazards and problems.

The most common risks associated with AED use include-

• Electrical shock: Electricity is delivered through the electrodes of the AED in order to restore a regular heart rhythm. This electrical shock can cause burns or other injuries if not used properly.
• Delayed treatment: If an AED is not applied quickly enough, it may not be effective in restoring a regular heart rhythm and could potentially cause further harm to the patient.
• False alarms: AEDs are designed to detect irregular heart rhythms, however they can sometimes give false alarms if they are not properly maintained or calibrated correctly. This can lead to unnecessary shocks being administered when they are not needed or delay treatment when it is needed urgently.
• Injury from pads: The electrodes that attach to the patient’s chest may cause skin irritation or burns if left on for too long or placed incorrectly on the chest wall area. Improper placement of these pads can also reduce the effectiveness of an AED’s shock delivery system and prevent successful defibrillation from occurring due to poor conduction between pads and skin surface area contact points.
• Inappropriate Use: Improper use of an AED can result in ineffective treatment, which may lead to permanent damage or death for a patient suffering from cardiac arrest due to delayed resuscitation efforts caused by incorrect instructions provided by an untrained user who does not understand how to operate an AED safely and effectively.

• Become familiar with the AED and its operation. Read the instruction manual and watch instructional videos on how to use the device.
• Check that your AED is in working order by testing it regularly and replacing any expired batteries or pads as needed.
• Ensure that all staff members who may be required to use an AED are trained in its proper use, including how to administer CPR if needed.
• Have basic medical supplies available such as disposable gloves, masks, and a face shield, which can help protect you from bodily fluids while performing CPR or using the AED.
• Make sure that everyone who is trained in using an AED is comfortable with their role in an emergency situation and understands all potential risks associated with using an AED on a patient in cardiac arrest.
• Consider having a first aid kit nearby when using an AED for added protection for both you and the patient receiving treatment from your device.

• An AED works by applying an electric shock to the victim's heart. It is used in emergency situations, when someone has stopped breathing or has no pulse, and can be used by laypeople with very little training.
• When an AED is applied to a patient in cardiac arrest, the device will analyse the patient’s heart rhythm and determine if it is safe to administer electrical therapy.
• If it is deemed safe, the AED will then deliver an electrical shock, which can potentially restart the heart’s normal rhythm.
• However, if the AED does not detect a shockable rhythm, it will not deliver any shocks and medical personnel must intervene immediately.
• The shock delivered by an AED may feel like a kick or jolt to the patient and can be uncomfortable but not painful.
• After administering one shock, most AEDs will evaluate the patient's heart rate again before delivering another shock if needed.
• Once connected to the patient via pads placed on their chest or back (depending on their size), some AEDs may also provide audible and visual prompts for how to proceed with CPR as well as how many chest compressions should be performed per minute for optimal results.

• Make sure the area is safe and clear of any debris or medical waste.
• Make sure the patient is lying down flat on a surface that is both sturdy and level.
• Check for a medical identification bracelet or card indicating any pre-existing conditions or allergies.
• Put on gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any bodily fluids that may be present during the procedure.
• Attach the AED device to the patient’s chest using adhesive pads that are included with the device.
• Turn on the AED and follow verbal and/or visual instructions for use as prompted by the device, including when to provide rescue breaths or chest compressions if needed prior to shocking the patient with electricity from the AED device itself.
• Monitor pulse, respiration, and other vital signs while administering shocks in order to assess effectiveness of treatment and adjust as necessary until a normal heart rhythm has been
• reestablished in accordance with American Heart Association guidelines for CPR/AED use in adults, children, and infants respectively.

• Put on gloves.
• Clean the patient's chest.
• Start the automated external defibrillator and listen to the instructions.
• Position the pads so that they are touching the patient's naked chest.
• Stand back and allow the AED to analyse heart rhythm.
• If a shock is advised, press the Shock button.

• It is imperative that the post-operation instructions be adhered to once the automated external defibrillator (AED) procedure has been finished.
• Depending on the patient, this may include monitoring vital signs, providing oxygen therapy and providing patient comfort measures.
• It's also important to provide follow-up care and support to the patient. This could include arranging for transport to a hospital or other medical facility as well as providing emotional support and reassurance.
• It is also important to assess the device used in the procedure and ensure it is properly stored and maintained in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.

The cost of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) varies depending on the make and model, but generally ranges from around 10,000 Rs to 50,000 Rs.

The cost of AEDs can also vary depending on if they are purchased as a single unit or in a package with additional accessories. Some organisations may be eligible for grants or discounts when purchasing an AED.

• After an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) shock, it is important to eat a balanced, nutritious diet to help the body recover and heal.
• Eating a well-rounded meal that includes lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables is key.
• Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids such as water or electrolyte-rich sports drinks can help replace lost electrolytes and fluids.
• If you are unsure what to eat after an AED shock, it is recommended that you speak with your doctor or nutritionist for personalised advice.

• Yes, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are safe to use.
• They have been developed with user safety in mind and come with a number of different safety measures that are intended to shield the user from harm.
• As long as the user follows the instructions given on the device and ensures they have received proper training on how to properly use an AED, they can be sure that it is safe to use.

• No, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are not painful.
• Two electrodes are put on the chest, and then an electric shock is given to the heart through those electrodes.
• A patient who is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest will get this shock in the hopes that it would return their heartbeat to a normal rhythm.
• It is possible that it will be uncomfortable, but it is not believed to be painful.

In general, the amount of time needed to recuperate might be anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

It is possible that the individual's health and any preexisting medical concerns may determine how long the recuperation process will take, which could be anything from a few days to several weeks.

• The use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is generally safe, and side effects are rare. However, there is a small potential risk of skin irritation or burns due to the electrical shock delivered by the device.
• Other potential side effects include fainting, dizziness, and shortness of breath. In rare cases, complications such as cardiac arrest can occur if an AED is used inappropriately.
• Patients should be monitored by medical personnel after using an AED, even if they don’t experience any adverse reactions.

Aftercare includes providing CPR if necessary, seeking emergency medical assistance, and properly caring for the AED.

• Provide CPR if Necessary: If the person remains unresponsive after receiving a shock from the AED, begin CPR immediately and continue until help arrives or until the person regains consciousness.
• Seek Emergency Medical Assistance: It is imperative to contact emergency medical services as soon as possible after using an automated external defibrillator (AED) on a person who is experiencing cardiac arrest. Call your local emergency services number for help and provide them with information about the incident including location, type of emergency, any treatments administered so far, etc.
• Properly Care for the AED: It is important to properly care for your AED in order to ensure that it works correctly when needed again. After using an AED on someone in cardiac arrest, turn off the device and inspect it for any signs of damage or malfunctioning parts before packing it away safely according to its manufacturer’s instructions. Replace any used batteries or pads immediately and contact your local medical supply company if you need additional supplies or maintenance services for your device.

The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a lifesaving device that can be used to quickly and easily save the life of someone suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. It is designed to be easy to use and requires minimal training, making it an invaluable tool for saving lives in emergency situations.

AEDs are becoming more common in public places, making them more accessible to those who need them most. With proper training and maintenance, AEDs can help save countless lives each year.