What Is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable
medical device that:
- Detects
dangerous heart rhythms
- Analyzes
the heart’s electrical activity
- Delivers
an electric shock if needed
The shock helps restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of
sudden cardiac arrest caused by abnormal rhythms such as ventricular
fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
AEDs are classified as medical devices and are commonly
placed in:
- Hospitals
and clinics
- Airports
and railway stations
- Schools
and colleges
- Offices
and factories
- Gyms,
malls, and public buildings
They are specifically designed to be simple, safe, and
usable by anyone.
Why AEDs Are So Important in Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Sudden cardiac arrest:
- Can
occur without warning
- Causes
loss of consciousness within seconds
- Leads
to death within minutes if untreated
For every minute without defibrillation:
- Survival
chances drop by 7-10%
CPR keeps blood flowing, but defibrillation is what can
restart a normal rhythm. AEDs make early defibrillation possible even before an
ambulance arrives.
Uses of an Automated External Defibrillator
AEDs are used in emergency situations where a person:
- Has
collapsed suddenly
- Is
unresponsive
- Is
not breathing normally
Common Uses
- Sudden
cardiac arrest in adults
- Sudden
cardiac arrest in children (with pediatric mode/pads)
- Cardiac
emergencies in public places
- Emergency
response in workplaces and institutions
AEDs are not meant for conscious individuals or those with a
normal pulse.
How Does an AED Work? (Step-by-Step Explanation)
AEDs are designed to guide the user through every step using
voice prompts, visual indicators, and diagrams.
Step 1: Power On the AED
- Open
the lid or press the power button
- The
device immediately begins giving instructions
Step 2: Attach the Electrode Pads
- Pads
are placed on the person’s bare chest
- Correct
placement diagrams are shown on the pads
Step 3: Heart Rhythm Analysis
- AED
automatically analyzes the heart rhythm
- It
decides whether a shock is needed
Step 4: Deliver the Shock (If Advised)
- AED
instructs the user to stand clear
- A
shock button is pressed (or delivered automatically in some models)
Step 5: Resume CPR
- AED
guides the user to continue CPR
- Re-analysis
occurs every few minutes
This automation removes guesswork and reduces fear of doing
something wrong.
Types of Automated External Defibrillators
AEDs come in different types based on usage environment and
features.
1. Fully Automatic AED
Key Features
- Delivers
shock automatically after analysis
- No
shock button to press
Best For
- Public
places
- Offices
and malls
Advantage
- Minimizes
hesitation and user error
2. Semi-Automatic AED
Key Features
- Analyses
rhythm automatically
- User
presses a button to deliver the shock
Best For
- Trained
responders
- Hospitals
and ambulances
3. Public Access AED (PAD)
Key Features
- Designed
for non-medical users
- Clear
voice instructions
- Simple
interface
Best For
- Airports,
schools, gyms, residential societies
4. Paediatric AED / AED with Paediatric Mode
Key Features
- Lower
energy shock suitable for children
- Paediatric
pads or child mode
Best For
- Schools
- Paediatric
clinics
- Homes
with children at risk
5. Professional or Advanced AED
Key Features
- ECG
display
- Manual
override options
- Advanced
monitoring
Best For
- Hospitals
- Emergency
medical services
Key Components of an AED
- Main
defibrillator unit
- Electrode
pads (adult and paediatric)
- Battery
(long shelf life)
- Voice
and visual guidance system
Each component is designed for reliability and ease of use.
AED Price Range (India - Approximate)
AED prices vary based on features, brand, and intended use.
Typical AED Price Range
- Basic
public-access AED: ₹65,000 - ₹90,000
- Mid-range
AED with paediatric mode: ₹90,000 - ₹1,30,000
- Advanced/professional
AED: ₹1,30,000 - ₹2,50,000+
Additional costs may include:
- Replacement
pads
- Battery
replacement
- Wall
cabinets and signage
Prices may vary by brand and service support.
Top AED Manufacturers (Globally and in India)
Some well-known AED manufacturers include:
- Philips
- Zoll
- Stryker
- Mindray
- Schiller
- Nihon
Kohden
- Mediana
- BPL
Medical Technologies
Choosing a trusted manufacturer ensures reliability, service
support, and compliance with safety standards.
Benefits of Using an AED
1. Saves Lives
Early defibrillation dramatically increases survival
chances.
2. Easy for Anyone to Use
No medical training required voice prompts guide every step.
3. Safe and Intelligent
AEDs deliver shocks only when necessary.
4. Portable and Accessible
Lightweight and suitable for public placement.
5. Supports CPR
Guides compression rate and timing.
6. Builds Safer Communities
Public AED availability creates a faster emergency response
network.
Who Should Have an AED?
- Offices
and factories
- Residential
societies
- Gyms
and sports facilities
- Schools
and colleges
- Airports,
stations, and malls
- Clinics
and nursing homes
Any place where people gather should ideally have an AED.
Maintenance and Care of AEDs
- Regularly
check battery status
- Ensure
pads are within expiry date
- Keep
the device clean and accessible
- Train
staff or residents periodically
AEDs require minimal maintenance but regular checks are
essential.
Conclusion
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is not just a
medical device it is a life-saving tool that empowers ordinary people to act in
extraordinary moments. When sudden cardiac arrest strikes, early CPR combined
with rapid defibrillation can save a life that would otherwise be lost within
minutes.
Understanding AED uses, working principles, types, prices,
manufacturers, and benefits helps individuals, organizations, and communities
make informed decisions and prepare for emergencies.
At Aarogyaa Bharat, we believe preparedness saves lives.
Installing an AED and spreading awareness today could give someone a second
chance at life tomorrow.
