What does the acronym AED stand for?

The acronym AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. This is a vital piece of medical equipment designed to analyze the heart rhythm of a person experiencing a cardiac arrest and provide an electric shock, if necessary, to restore a normal rhythm. The term "automated" indicates that the device can assess heart rhythms and direct the user on when to deliver a shock, thereby making it safe for use by laypersons with minimal training. "External" emphasizes that the device is used externally on the patient's chest, as opposed to implantable defibrillators, which are placed inside the body. Understanding the role of an AED is essential in emergency situations, particularly when rapid response can greatly increase the chances of survival for a person in cardiac arrest.