What are Defibrillators?

About Defibrillators:

• Defibrillators are devices that send an electric pulse or shock to the heart to restore a normal heartbeat.
• They are used to prevent or correct an arrhythmia, an uneven heartbeat that is too slow or too fast. 
• If the heart suddenly stops, defibrillators can also help it beat again. 
• There are three types of defibrillators: AEDs, ICDs, and WCDs.
  • Automated External Defibrillators (AED):
    • An AED is a lightweight, battery-operated, portable device that checks the heart’s rhythm and sends a shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm.
    • The device is used to help people having cardiac arrest.
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs):
  • ICDs are placed through surgery in the chest or stomach area, where the device can check for arrhythmias.
  • Arrhythmias can interrupt the flow of blood from your heart to the rest of your body or cause your heart to stop.
  • The ICD sends a shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.
• Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillators (WCDs):
  • WCDs have sensors that attach to the skin.
  • They are connected by wires to a unit that checks your heart’s rhythm and delivers shocks when needed.
  • Like an ICD, the WCD can deliver low- and high-energy shocks. The device has a belt attached to a vest that is worn under your clothes.
  • Your provider fits the device to your size. It is programmed to detect a specific heart rhythm.