What is the primary function of an AED?

The primary function of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is to assess the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver a shock to restore a normal heart rhythm. During a cardiac arrest, where the heart may be experiencing ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, the AED analyzes the heart's electrical activity and determines whether a shock is indicated. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the AED provides clear instructions to the user to deliver the shock, which can effectively interrupt the abnormal heart activity and allow the heart to resume its normal rhythm.

Other options do not accurately represent the primary purpose of an AED. While an AED may contribute to overall emergency care, it does not specifically restore normal breathing or provide oxygen directly. Continuous heart monitoring is not a function of AEDs; instead, they are designed primarily for episodic assessment and intervention during emergencies.