What device is used to deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm in a medical emergency?

What device is used to deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm in a medical emergency?

• A. A pulse oximeter
• B. A stethoscope
• C. A tourniquet
• D. An Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Answer: (D)

The essential idea is using a defibrillator to reset the heart’s electrical activity during life-threatening cardiac arrest. An Automated External Defibrillator is the device built for emergencies to deliver an electrical shock when the heart is in a rhythm that cannot sustain a viable heartbeat. It analyzes the heart rhythm and, if a shock is indicated, prompts or delivers a controlled shock to restore a normal rhythm. This is different from other common medical tools: a pulse oximeter simply measures oxygen saturation, a stethoscope is used to listen to heart and lung sounds, and a tourniquet controls bleeding. AEDs are designed for quick use by bystanders, with guidance and safety checks (such as ensuring no one is touching the person when the shock is delivered) to help restore circulation as part of CPR.

The essential idea is using a defibrillator to reset the heart’s electrical activity during life-threatening cardiac arrest. An Automated External Defibrillator is the device built for emergencies to deliver an electrical shock when the heart is in a rhythm that cannot sustain a viable heartbeat. It analyzes the heart rhythm and, if a shock is indicated, prompts or delivers a controlled shock to restore a normal rhythm. This is different from other common medical tools: a pulse oximeter simply measures oxygen saturation, a stethoscope is used to listen to heart and lung sounds, and a tourniquet controls bleeding. AEDs are designed for quick use by bystanders, with guidance and safety checks (such as ensuring no one is touching the person when the shock is delivered) to help restore circulation as part of CPR.