What is an AED? AED stands for “automated external defibrillator”. This is a machine that can be used on a victim of cardiac arrest to provide a shock and hopefully restore a normal heart rhythm. AED use within the first 3-5 minutes of a sudden cardiac arrest have been shown to increase cardiac arrest survival rates from approximately 5% to 74%!

Automated means that once it is turned on and attached to the victim, the machine knows what to do and will guide you through use. External means that the pads are placed on the victim’s skin. Defibrillator/defibrillation is something that can stop fibrillation (quivering/twitching of the heart muscle, which is often a cause of sudden cardiac arrest).

These are powerful machines with very few downsides to use. Since the machine determines whether or not a victim requires a shock, it is virtually impossible to misuse or provide an inappropriate shock to a victim, so long as it is turned on and placed properly.

As more people and businesses are becoming aware of the benefits of having these machines, it is a great idea to familiarize yourself with how to use one. They are very user-friendly and can be operated by people with various levels of training. All Vive CPR and BLS classes cover the use of AEDs and allow students to train with a realistic AED trainer to build the skills and confidence needed to safely use an AED and help a victim in need.

Learn More About AEDs

To learn more about AEDs and to practice using them, consider taking one of our CPR classes.  For more information about AEDs, see our AED FAQs. Or if you’re interested in purchasing an AED, you can learn about the AEDs we sell, our AED management program, and send us an inquiry here.  

About Vive CPR

Vive CPR offers training and certification in CPR/AED, First Aid, BLS, ACLS, Bloodborne Pathogens, and Pediatric First Aid CPR, as well as infant CPR classes for parents, safety training, and personalized EMT/NREMT tutoring. Visit www.vivecpr.com to learn more.