What is the function of a defibrillator?

A defibrillator's primary function is to restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of cardiac arrest. When a person experiences a cardiac emergency like ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, the heart is unable to effectively pump blood throughout the body. A defibrillator delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart, which can help depolarize the heart muscle and allow the normal electrical conduction system to regain control. This shock can terminate the chaotic electrical activity, enabling the heart to resume a normal rhythm and effectively pump blood.

Understanding the defibrillator's role emphasizes its significance in emergency medical situations, particularly in cases where immediate intervention can save a life by restoring effective cardiac function.