What Is an AED? How Does It Work? | HealthForce Corporate

A coworker collapses near the break room. You call 911. If you are asking what is an AED, the answer could save a life. An AED (automated external defibrillator) is a portable medical device that analyzes a person’s heart rhythm and, if needed, delivers an electric shock to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). In this guide, HealthForce Corporate explains how an AED works, when to use it, and how to choose the right model for your workplace.

HealthForce Corporate is headquartered in New Jersey and provides nationwide AED sales, accessories, and AED + Training Packages.

What Is an AED? (AED Explained)

If you are searching what is an AED, think of it as a step by step helper during cardiac emergencies. An AED guides you with clear voice and visual prompts. Two adhesive pads placed on the chest allow the device to read the heart’s electrical activity. If the AED detects a shockable rhythm, it will advise a shock on semi automatic models or deliver one after warnings on fully automatic models to help restore a normal heartbeat.

Why AEDs are essential

• User friendly: Designed for lay responders and professionals.

• Everyday locations: Offices, schools, gyms, dental practices, warehouses, and public venues.

• Medical grade: Devices are FDA cleared and widely used in workplace safety programs.

• Part of PAD programs: A core element of Public Access Defibrillation initiatives.

  
  

How Does an AED Work? (Step by Step)

1. Power on the device and follow the prompts.

2. Expose the chest and place pads as illustrated, upper right chest and lower left side.

3. The AED analyzes the rhythm automatically.

4. If a shock is advised, make sure no one is touching the person and press the shock button or the device shocks automatically.

5. Resume CPR immediately until the AED re analyzes or emergency medical services arrive.

   
   

Why this matters: Early defibrillation with high quality CPR is associated with improved survival, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). The CDC and OSHA also emphasize workplace readiness and training for cardiac emergencies.

When Should You Use an AED?

Use an AED as soon as possible when someone:

• Collapses suddenly and is unresponsive

• Is not breathing normally or only gasping

• Has no pulse detected by trained personnel

Call 911 immediately, begin CPR, and use the AED as soon as it is available. AEDs are built to avoid delivering a shock if one is not indicated, so prompt use is safe and encouraged.

Key Features to Compare Before You Buy

Choosing the right device is easier when you focus on the features that matter most to your team and environment.

Top must haves

• Pediatric capability: Child key or pediatric pads that adjust energy for infants and children.

• CPR feedback: Metronome and coaching for compression rate and depth.

• Total cost of ownership: Consider device price plus pads, batteries, cabinet, signage, and training.

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Other considerations

• Operation: Semi automatic or fully automatic

• Durability: IP rating for dust and water resistance in industrial or outdoor sites

• Connectivity: Wi Fi or Bluetooth for readiness checks and program management

• Warranty and support: Coverage length and post event data access

Common Workplace Use Cases (At a Glance)

• Offices and Corporate: Clear prompts, CPR coaching. Place in central corridors, reachable within about three minutes of all areas.

• Schools and Childcare: Pediatric pads or key. Consider multiple units near the gym, nurse’s office, and main entry.

• Gyms and Fitness: Rugged design and quick shock readiness. Position near cardio equipment and the front desk.

• Dental and Clinics: Fast self tests and easy data download. Mount the cabinet near operatories.

• Warehouses and Outdoor: Higher IP rating, alarmed cabinet, bold signage. Consider temperature controlled cabinets.

  
  

Ownership Basics: Pads, Batteries, and Maintenance

Understanding how an AED works is only half the job. Owning one responsibly requires simple upkeep.

• Pads: Typically expire in 2 to 4 years. Check the label for your brand.

• Batteries: Often last 3 to 7 years depending on model and usage.

• Monthly check: Confirm the status indicator is ready, pads and battery are in date, cabinet and alarm work, and no visible damage.

• Recordkeeping: Maintain a quick inspection log and set reminders for expirations.

• Visibility: Mount in a clearly marked, easily accessible location with signage. Avoid locked rooms.

  
  

How to Choose the Right AED (Fast Buyer Checklist)

• Environment: Office, school, gym, clinic, vehicle, or outdoor area

• Users: Favor intuitive prompts and CPR feedback for non clinical teams

• Pediatric needs: Confirm child capable accessories

• Budget: Plan for device, pads, batteries, cabinet, training

• Compliance: Look for documentation, event data, and maintenance tools

AED + Training Packages: Turn Equipment into a Plan

Training turns a device into a confident response. Our AED + Training Packages make it easy to deploy and maintain a compliant program.

What is typically included

• AED device with manufacturer warranty

• Adult pads, pediatric option where applicable

• Battery

• Wall cabinet and high visibility signage

• Onsite or blended CPR and AED training aligned to AHA guidelines

• Maintenance reminders and support

Safety, Legal, and Program Notes

• Good Samaritan protections: Many states offer liability protection for lay rescuer AED use.

• State AED laws vary: Requirements for placement, maintenance, medical oversight, and reporting differ by state.

• Program management: Assign a coordinator, schedule checks, conduct drills, and document activities.

  
  

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For compliance questions, consult your legal counsel and state resources

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) What is an AED used for? An AED treats sudden cardiac arrest by analyzing the heart’s rhythm and delivering a shock if a shockable rhythm is detected.

2) Do I need training to use an AED? An AED is designed for public use, but training improves confidence and outcomes. See AED + Training Packages.

3) How does an automated external defibrillator decide to shock? The device uses built in algorithms through the pads to detect shockable rhythms, then advises or delivers a shock.

4) How much does an AED cost to own? Consider device price plus periodic pads and

batteries.

5) Where should I place an AED in the workplace? Choose a visible, central location reachable within about three minutes from anywhere onsite. Add clear signage and an alarmed cabinet.

Key Takeaways

• If you are asking what is an AED, it is a portable device that analyzes heart rhythm and can deliver a life saving shock during SCA.

• How an AED works: Power on, place pads, analyze, shock if advised, resume CPR.

• Ownership matters: Keep pads and batteries in date, perform monthly checks, and train your team.

• Why HealthForce Corporate: NJ HQ, nationwide shipping, and simple solutions. We offer AEDs, accessories, and AED + Training Packages to keep your workplace ready and compliant.

  
  

Get Ready With HealthForce Corporate

Confident response starts with the right plan. Choose an AED that fits your environment, add training for your team, and set simple maintenance reminders. Shop AEDs, bundle AED + Training, request a quote. HealthForce Corporate, based in New Jersey with nationwide support, is ready to help you select, deploy, and maintain your program. Call us at (866) 277-9593