AED Defibrillators at the University of Wrocław

AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator (Polish: Automatyczny Defibrylator Zewnętrzny).

This is a device that analyses the heart rhythm of a casualty, for example after a road traffic accident, and determines whether defibrillation is necessary. If required, the device delivers an electric shock via electrodes to help restore a normal heart rhythm. The purpose of an AED is to stop ventricular fibrillation. In the event of sudden cardiac arrest, when combined with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), it is the only effective way to save a person’s life.

An AED is designed to be used by individuals without medical training – in other words, by ordinary members of the public. Increasing the availability of these devices in public spaces is a good practice that enables anyone present at the scene to take essential, life-saving action.

A nationwide map of publicly accessible defibrillators is available HERE.