What is the purpose of an AED and when is it used?

• A. To deliver a shock if indicated in a sudden cardiac arrest, following device prompts.
• B. To monitor heart rate and provide breathing assistance.
• C. To alert medical personnel in flight automatically.
• D. To call the captain for medical guidance.

Answer: (A)

An AED is designed to restore a normal heart rhythm in someone having sudden cardiac arrest by delivering a defibrillation shock when the rhythm is one that can be shocked. It analyzes the heart and, if the rhythm is shockable, guides you to deliver the shock after you ensure no one is touching the patient. It’s used for an unresponsive person who isn’t breathing normally or who has no pulse, and CPR should be started or resumed around the device’s prompts.

The device does not monitor heart rate or provide breathing support, nor does it automatically alert medical personnel or the captain. Those actions are handled separately through standard emergency procedures. In flight, using the AED promptly and following its prompts is the critical step to improve chances of survival.