An Automated External Defibrillator. A portable, battery-powered device that analyses the heart’s rhythm and, if a shockable rhythm (such as ventricular fibrillation) is detected, delivers an electric shock to attempt to restore a normal heartbeat. AEDs are designed for use by non-medical bystanders — they give clear spoken and visual instructions and will only allow a shock to be delivered if the rhythm requires it. AEDs are located in many public places including railway stations, airports, shopping centres, sports facilities, and workplaces. Their locations can be found via the Circuit — the national defibrillator network. Using an AED as early as possible dramatically improves survival from cardiac arrest.
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