If a patient is experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest, which device should be used?

In the event of a sudden cardiac arrest, the appropriate device to use is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The primary purpose of an AED is to deliver an electrical shock to the heart in order to restore a normal heart rhythm. Sudden cardiac arrest often results from a life-threatening arrhythmia such as ventricular fibrillation, where the heart beats chaotically and is unable to pump blood effectively.

The AED is designed for use by laypeople and healthcare professionals alike, and it provides step-by-step voice prompts that guide the user through the process of delivering a shock if it detects a shockable rhythm. Using an AED can significantly increase the chances of survival, especially when access is timely.

In contrast, other devices such as a cardiac monitor are used to observe the heart’s electrical activity but do not provide treatment. A pacemaker is used to manage specific types of arrhythmias by delivering regular electrical impulses to the heart but is not effective in the immediate emergency of cardiac arrest. A stethoscope is primarily for auscultation and does not play a direct role in treatment during a cardiac arrest scenario. Therefore, the AED is the critical tool needed in this life-threatening emergency, making it the correct choice.