What is an AED used for?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a crucial medical device used in emergencies to treat individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest due to certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, specifically ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. When activated, the AED analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. This action can significantly increase the chances of survival when a person suffers from cardiac arrest.

The other choices do not accurately describe the primary function of an AED. Assessing heart rate and monitoring blood pressure are routine assessments that may be performed in clinical settings but are not functions of an AED. Mild trauma treatment pertains to managing minor injuries, which is outside the scope of what an AED is designed to handle. Therefore, understanding that an AED is specifically intended for emergency cardiac situations highlights its critical role in lifesaving interventions.