What is the primary purpose of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?

The primary purpose of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is to deliver a controlled electrical shock to the heart in order to restore a normal rhythm. This intervention is critical during cardiac arrest, particularly in cases of ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, where the heart is either quivering or beating too quickly to pump blood effectively. The AED analyzes the heart's electrical activity and determines if a shock is necessary, providing instructions to the rescuer on how to proceed.

Using an AED can significantly increase the chance of survival in an emergency, especially when used promptly along with Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). While offering oxygen, monitoring vital signs, and preventing choking are important aspects of emergency care, they do not define the main function of the AED, which is focused on correcting life-threatening arrhythmias.