Medically reviewed by Dr. Anjan S. Batra, pediatric cardiology at Rady Children’s Health (Rady Children’s)
Understanding AEDs: What parents should know during Heart Month
Every February, Heart Month reminds us how important it is to protect the heart health of the people we love most, including our kids. While cardiac emergencies in children are rare, being prepared can make a lifesaving difference. One simple tool all parents should know about is the automated external defibrillator (AED).
What is an AED?
An AED is a medical device used to treat cardiac arrest. In cardiac arrest, changes in the heart’s normal electrical activity make it suddenly stop beating.
What is an AED used for?
When a person is in cardiac arrest, an AED checks their heart’s electrical activity and tells the AED user whether to give the person an electric shock. The shock can sometimes get the heart back into a normal rhythm.
Are AEDs safe to use on children?
Yes. Many AEDs include pediatric pads or a child mode that adjusts the energy level for younger children. If pediatric pads aren’t available, it’s still safer to use standard pads than to do nothing.
Where are AEDs?
AEDs are kept in many public places, including schools and sports facilities. They are made to be easy for bystanders to use because quick medical care makes a person more likely to survive cardiac arrest.
Does using an AED replace CPR?
No. CPR should be started immediately and continued until the AED is ready and between shocks, if advised. CPR keeps blood flowing to the brain and organs until the heart can be restarted.
Do I need medical training to use an AED?
No. AEDs are designed for everyday people. They give clear voice instructions that guide you step‑by‑step through what to do. Training is recommended but not required.
When should I call 911 during an emergency?
Call 911 as soon as someone collapses and is unresponsive, or have another person call while you begin CPR and prepare the AED.
What else should I know?
Consider getting trained to use an AED. Older kids and teens can learn this too. Many AED classes also include CPR training because people in cardiac arrest often need CPR too. By being ready, you may save someone’s life.
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Learn more about CHOC’s Heart Institute
CHOC and UCLA Health together have been ranked among the top children’s hospitals in the nation for Cardiology & Heart Surgery by U.S. News & World Report.