What is Defibrillation?
Many people worldwide are concerned about their heart health. There is good reason for this: heart attacks claim thousands of lives per year. However, there are also numerous people that survive a heart attack thanks to the actions of others. Performing CPR on someone who has suffered a heart attack is the most common way this is achieved. However, there are instances where CPR may not be enough to resuscitate someone. In such an instance, defibrillator may be the only chance for survival.
But, what exactly is a defibrillator and what exactly does it do when someone suffers cardiac arrest? Defibrillation refers to a process where an electronic device delivers a targeted shock to the heart. The result of this shock is dramatic. Namely, it leads to the reestablishment of the necessary normal contraction rhythms the heart. When a person is experiencing a heart attack, these rhythms are completely abnormal. As such, the ability to restore the heart’s rhythms to normal is possible through the use of a defibrillator.
In the past, defibrillation devices existed only in hospitals or ambulances. This is because the size of these devices precluded their sale on the home market, However, in recent years many strides have been made regarding the development of smaller devices that can be used in the home. These devices are known as
automated external defibrillators. Or, more commonly, the name is shortened to “AED”.
These AEDs are small enough to be stored in the home. Additionally, they are also light in weight. This is an important point because if someone were to need the defibrillator in a hurry, they would not have to struggle carrying a heavy piece of equipment to where it is needed. Again, with cardiac arrest situations, speed is of the essence. This ease of transport can further ease the minds of those who suffer from heart problems since they do not have to leave their potentially life saving equipment at home.
Needless to say, if you suffer from a serious heart ailment, access to a defibrillator is a must. Thankfully, they are easier to acquire and operate now more than ever before.
Best of all, these devices are designed to be portable. That means no matter where you travel you can bring the device with you. AEd devices generally come with a portable carrying case that reduce the potential for any damage to the device. The cases can be easily carried thanks to the handles affixed to them.
