What function does an AED provide when used on a patient?

• A. Only Monitors Heart Rhythm
• B. Diagnoses Arrhythmias and Defibrillates
• C. Delivers Oxygen
• D. Records Vital Signs

Answer: (B)

An AED’s job is to rapidly assess the heart’s rhythm and, if it’s a shockable rhythm (like ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia), deliver a controlled electric shock to reset the heart’s electrical activity. It’s not just a monitor; it provides therapy by defibrillating when indicated. It does not deliver oxygen and, while some devices may log rhythm data, that isn’t its primary function.