Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

The primary function of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is to deliver an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm. When a person experiences a cardiac arrest, their heart may enter a chaotic rhythm known as ventricular fibrillation, which prevents it from pumping blood effectively. The AED is designed to analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, provide a shock that can help reset the heart's electrical activity, allowing it to return to a normal rhythm.

This intervention is critical because timely defibrillation can significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery for a patient in cardiac arrest. AEDs are user-friendly devices meant to be used by individuals with minimal training, often with audible and visual instructions guiding the user through the process.

While monitoring vital signs, providing supplemental oxygen, or assisting in CPR administration are important aspects of emergency care, they are not the primary functions of an AED. The sole purpose of the AED is to address life-threatening arrhythmias through the application of electrical therapy.