An automated external defibrillator, commonly called an AED, is a portable medical device designed to help a person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It analyzes the heart’s electrical rhythm and, when appropriate, delivers a controlled electrical shock intended to help restore an effective rhythm.
A key point is that the AED—not the rescuer—determines whether a shock is appropriate. A rescuer does not look at the patient and decide whether electricity should be delivered. Once the pads are attached, the AED analyzes the rhythm and provides instructions.
What occurs during sudden cardiac arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops pumping blood effectively. The person is typically unresponsive and not breathing normally. This is different from a heart attack, although a heart attack can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest.
In an emergency, call 911, begin CPR, and retrieve an AED as quickly as possible. Once the AED arrives, turn it on and follow its prompts. The device will tell the rescuer how to place the electrode pads, when to stand clear for rhythm analysis, whether a shock is advised, and when to continue CPR.
Can an AED accidentally shock someone who does not need it?
Modern AEDs are designed to analyze the patient’s heart rhythm before allowing a therapeutic shock. If the device does not detect a shockable rhythm, it will not advise or deliver a shock. This built-in analysis is one reason AEDs can be used by people with different levels of medical experience.
Which AED features are worth comparing?
AEDs share the same core purpose, but the user experience can be very different. Buyers should evaluate CPR coaching, electrode life, battery life, pediatric capability, language options, durability, connectivity, display type, warranty, and long-term cost of ownership.
ZOLL AED 3
The ZOLL AED 3 is an example of a modern AED designed to provide extensive rescuer guidance. Its CPR feedback technology helps the rescuer understand the quality of chest compressions, while its touchscreen and integrated pediatric capability may simplify operation in environments serving both adults and children. Its long-life consumables can also help organizations plan maintenance over a longer cycle.
Philips HeartStart OnSite
The Philips HeartStart OnSite is another widely recognized public-access AED. Its straightforward voice-guided operation and familiar design make it suitable for many workplaces, community locations and organizations looking for an easy-to-understand AED platform.
Buying the AED is the start of the program
An AED may sit unused for years before it is needed. During that time, electrode pads and batteries age, devices move, staff change and inspection records can be missed. That is why an AED program should include ongoing management rather than treating the device as a one-time purchase.
The AEDShop supports customers with TrackMyAED, an AED management platform that helps organize device locations, pad and battery expiry information, readiness checks, trained personnel information, documents and reporting. The objective is straightforward: know where your AEDs are and help keep them rescue-ready.
Quick answer
An AED is a portable device that analyzes a person’s heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest and guides the rescuer through defibrillation and CPR when required.
Frequently asked questions
Will an AED tell me what to do?
Yes. AEDs provide step-by-step prompts, although the exact combination of voice, text, graphics and CPR feedback varies by model.
Should I perform CPR while someone gets the AED?
Yes. In a suspected cardiac arrest, activate emergency medical services and begin CPR while an AED is being retrieved whenever possible.
Where can I buy an AED in Canada?
The AEDShop supplies AEDs and program-management solutions to organizations across Canada and can help compare devices based on the environment, users and long-term maintenance requirements.
How The AEDShop supports your AED program
The AEDShop can help you compare AED models, understand long-term consumable requirements, select cabinets and signage, plan deployment and manage the program through TrackMyAED. The aim is not merely to place an AED on a wall—it is to build a program that remains ready for the day it may be needed.