What Is a Defibrillator and How Does It Work?

A defibrillator is a medical device used to restore a normal heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating, and without immediate intervention, it can be fatal. Defibrillators are designed to deliver a controlled electric shock to the heart to reset its electrical activity and allow it to start beating regularly again. The shock delivered by a defibrillator helps to stop the erratic rhythm, known as arrhythmia, and allows the heart to regain a normal rhythm.

Defibrillators are essential life-saving tools that are used in emergency situations. They are found in hospitals, ambulances, and increasingly in public spaces such as offices, schools, and gyms to help save lives before emergency medical services (EMS) can arrive.

How Does a Defibrillator Work?

A defibrillator works by analyzing the heart’s rhythm and determining whether a shock is needed to restore a normal heartbeat. Here’s how it functions:

1. Detection of Irregular Heartbeat: The defibrillator is equipped with sensors (electrodes or pads) that are placed on the chest of the person in need of assistance. These sensors monitor the heart’s rhythm.
2. Shock Delivery: If the defibrillator detects a life-threatening arrhythmia, such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT), it will recommend a shock to reset the heart’s electrical activity.
3. Electrical Shock: The device then delivers a controlled electric shock through the chest, which can stop the abnormal rhythm. This allows the heart’s natural pacemaker to take over and restore normal rhythm.
4. Post-Shock Monitoring: After the shock, the defibrillator continues to monitor the heart. If necessary, it will deliver another shock. If the heart returns to a regular rhythm, the defibrillator will stop monitoring.

Types of Defibrillators

There are several types of defibrillators, each with varying levels of complexity and use cases:

1. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs):
   • These are the most common type of defibrillator found in public spaces.
   • They are user-friendly, designed to be used by anyone, even with no medical training.
   • AEDs automatically analyze the heart’s rhythm and provide clear instructions to guide the user through the process of applying the shock.
   • Portable and easy to store, they are used in emergencies where time is critical.
2. Manual Defibrillators:
   • Manual defibrillators are often used by healthcare professionals.
   • These require the operator to manually analyze the heart rhythm and decide the appropriate level of shock.
   • They offer more control and are used in hospitals and ambulances.
3. Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs):
   • These devices are surgically implanted in patients who are at high risk for sudden cardiac arrest.
   • The ICD continuously monitors the heart’s rhythm and can deliver shocks automatically if an irregular rhythm is detected.

Why Are Defibrillators Important?

Defibrillators are critical in saving lives during sudden cardiac arrest. When someone goes into cardiac arrest, their heart is no longer pumping blood effectively, which means vital organs, including the brain, are not receiving oxygen. Brain damage and death can occur within minutes if defibrillation does not take place.

The first few minutes of sudden cardiac arrest are crucial, and using a defibrillator quickly can significantly improve the chances of survival. Immediate use of an AED can save lives, and with the growing number of AEDs being placed in public spaces, more people are having access to life-saving devices when needed most.

Where Can You Find a Defibrillator?

Defibrillators are becoming more common in places where people gather, including:

• Offices and corporate environments
• Schools, colleges, and universities
• Gyms and fitness centers
• Public buildings like shopping malls, airports, and community centers
• Medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics

Having access to a defibrillator in public places ensures that even people without medical training can assist in an emergency.

How to Use a Defibrillator

Using an AED is simple, and most models come with voice prompts to guide you through the process. Here’s a general overview of how to use one:

1. Turn on the Defibrillator: Open the device and turn it on by pressing the power button.
2. Place the Electrodes: Attach the adhesive electrode pads to the chest of the person in need. The placement instructions are usually shown on the pads.
3. Analyze the Heart Rhythm: The device will automatically analyze the heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed.
4. Deliver the Shock: If a shock is required, the defibrillator will prompt you to press a button to deliver the shock.
5. Continue Following Instructions: After the shock is delivered, follow the device’s prompts. It will continue to assess the heart’s rhythm.

Remember, AEDs are designed to be easy to use, and they will not deliver a shock unless necessary.

Conclusion: Why Choose a Defibrillator for Your Workplace or Public Space

Defibrillators are essential for saving lives during a sudden cardiac arrest event. Having one on hand in your office, school, or gym could be the difference between life and death. With Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), anyone can help deliver life-saving care with minimal training.

At Office Trading Group, we offer a range of defibrillators to suit workplaces, schools, and public spaces. Our devices are simple to use and comply with all safety standards, helping you ensure that you are prepared in case of an emergency.

If you’re interested in purchasing or learning more about defibrillators for your organization, our team is here to help guide you in making the right choice.

Click Here for the list of our Defibrillators.