What is a key function of an AED?

A key function of an AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is to deliver an electrical shock to the heart in cases of certain types of cardiac arrest, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. This shock aims to restore a normal rhythm to the heart, which may be erratic or absent due to these life-threatening conditions. The AED analyzes the heart's rhythm and determines whether a shock is necessary, making it an essential tool in emergency situations. Its ability to provide clear instructions to laypersons enhances its usability in critical moments, ensuring that individuals who may have little medical training can assist effectively during a cardiac emergency.

Other options, while relevant to the broader context of emergency response and patient care, do not accurately describe the specific function of an AED. Administering CPR is a critical emergency skill, but it is not a function of the AED itself. Similarly, measuring heart rate and providing oxygen are important in patient management; however, they fall outside the scope of what an AED is designed to do.