Defibrillator
A defibrillator delivers an electric shock to restart the heart during sudden cardiac arrest.
A defibrillator is another name for an Automated External Defibrillator, or AED. Please see the entry for AED for more information.
A defibrillator is a medical device used in emergencies to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)—a condition where the heart stops beating effectively. It works by delivering a controlled electric shock to the heart to help restore a normal rhythm. Immediate use of a defibrillator, alongside CPR, greatly improves survival chances.
In public and workplace settings, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are commonly available and are designed for use by untrained or minimally trained individuals. AEDs give clear, step-by-step voice instructions and will only deliver a shock if the device detects a shockable rhythm. They are safe, reliable, and essential in early intervention for cardiac arrest.
Defibrillators are suitable for use on adults and children over 8 years. For children aged 1–8, paediatric pads should be used if available, and placed according to the device's instructions. For infants under 1 year, use of an AED is generally only advised under professional guidance unless paediatric pads and settings are available.
In a first aid setting, time is critical. A defibrillator should be applied as soon as possible after calling emergency services (000) and starting CPR. Many AEDs are now installed in public areas such as shopping centres, airports, schools, gyms, and sporting venues.
Every minute without defibrillation reduces a person's chance of survival by 10%, making quick access and confident use of an AED crucial in saving lives.
A defibrillator is a life-saving device that delivers an electric shock to restart or correct an irregular heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are designed for use by the general public.