Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can shock the heart back into a regular rhythm when it stops pumping due to an irregular heartbeat. AEDs analyze the heart rhythm and advise if a shock is needed, making them easy for the public to use. Chances of survival from a heart attack decrease 10% each minute, so AEDs are important to have in workplaces and public areas. Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators can also automatically detect and treat life-threatening heart rhythms with shocks.

1. DefibrillatorsMichelle Randall

2. 2CALLClear& . . . . SHOCKThe heart stops pumping because all the muscle fibres in the heart contract individuallyA controlled electric shock can jolt the heart back to a regular rhythm.

3. 3PresentAutomated External Defibrillators (AED)s are for the public and are easy to use.Chances of surviving a heat attack fall about 10% every minute.AEDs analyze the heart rhythm by computer and advises the operator whether a shock is needed.AEDs can be used in the workplace and at public events

4. 4History1947 - Dr. Claude Beck first attempted to defribillate a human heart. After six tries, the seventh patient lived.1954 - Drs. Kowenhoven and Milnor defibrillated a dog through a closed chest.

5. 5AdvancementsImplantable Cardioverter Defibrillators(ICD)Automatically sense life-threatening rhythmsDelivers lifesaving shock directly to the heart.

6. 6Additional InformationAmerican Heart Associationwww.americanheart.orgAmerican Red Crosswww.redcross.orgNational Safety Councilwww.nsc.orgOccupational Safety & Health Administrationwww.osha.org