What does "AED" stand for?

The term "AED" stands for Automated External Defibrillator. This device is crucial in emergency medical situations, particularly during cases of sudden cardiac arrest. It is designed to analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock (defibrillation) to help reestablish an effective rhythm.

Automated External Defibrillators are user-friendly and can be operated by bystanders with minimal training, making them vital in public locations where immediate medical response may be delayed. The use of an AED significantly increases a person's chance of survival after cardiac arrest.

The other options do not accurately define the device. An "Automated External Device" and "Automated Emergency Defibrillator" do not capture the specific function and common nomenclature of the device, while "Advanced Emergency Device" lacks the specific reference to defibrillation crucial for understanding its purpose.