What is the portable device that analyzes heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock during cardiac arrest?

• A. Pacemaker
• B. Automatic External Defibrillator
• C. Electrocardiograph
• D. Heart-Lung Machine

Answer: (B)

An Automatic External Defibrillator is a portable device designed for emergencies when someone has cardiac arrest. It analyzes the person’s heart rhythm and, if a shock is needed, delivers a controlled electrical defibrillation to help restore a normal rhythm. It’s built for lay responders, with simple pads placed on the chest and often voice prompts to guide you through each step, including when to perform CPR in between shocks. This distinguishes it from a pacemaker, which is implanted to pace the heart; an electrocardiograph, which records electrical activity but doesn’t deliver therapy; and a heart-lung machine, which is used during surgery to take over heart and lung function.