The Differences Between an AED and Manual Defibrillator

November 2, 2021

When someone suffers sudden cardiac arrest, an AED and a manual defibrillator both serve the same purpose. They are used to shock the heart back to a normal rhythm. Although these machines are very similar, they do have some differences.
 
An Automated External Defibrillator is found in public access settings. It is meant to be used by non-medical personnel. When someone suffers sudden cardiac arrest, the chances are highest if a bystander is able to provide CPR and use an AED before the ambulance arrives. An AED will give the user step-by-step directions when turned on and only deliver a shock if it is needed. The person using the AED just needs to follow the step-by-step instructions and the AED will do the rest.
 
An AED is just one type of defibrillator. Another type is a Manual Defibrillator. Manual defibrillators have capabilities that AEDs do not have. They are designed for medical professionals like EMTs, paramedics, doctors, and more to use. A manual defibrillator gives the user the capability to determine the problem with the heart and treat it appropriately. Sometimes when an AED is used by a bystander, when EMTs arrive they will use their manual defibrillator to continue treating the person.
 
Ultimately, the key to someone surviving sudden cardiac arrest is to be shocked with an AED or a Manual Defibrillator as soon as possible.
 
To learn more about Defibtech and to join us on our quest to save lives from sudden cardiac arrest, visit www.Defibtech.com.
 
Sources:
 
https://onebeatmedical.com/blogs/blog/difference-aed-defibrillator