National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

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

To monitor heart rate
To reestablish proper heart rhythm
To deliver medication
To provide respiratory support

The correct answer is: To reestablish proper heart rhythm

The primary function of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is to reestablish proper heart rhythm. In cases of sudden cardiac arrest or life-threatening arrhythmias, the heart may not effectively pump blood due to chaotic electrical activity. An AED analyzes the heart's rhythm and delivers an electric shock, known as defibrillation, to reset the electrical activity of the heart, allowing it to return to a normal rhythm and restore effective blood circulation. Monitoring heart rate, delivering medication, and providing respiratory support are functions that do not align with the stated primary purpose of an AED. While monitoring heart rate might be part of other medical devices, it is not a feature of AEDs. Similarly, AEDs do not deliver medications; they focus solely on electrical intervention for rhythm disturbance. Providing respiratory support typically falls under the realm of advanced life support, which is beyond the capabilities and intended use of an AED.