Medtronic Lawsuit Attorneys , Williams Kherkher

AED Defibrillator

An automated external defibrillator, or AED, is a device that sends an electric shock to the heart of victims of sudden cardiac arrest. The portable device is designed in such a way that people with minimal training can use it without risk of causing further injury to a cardiac arrest victim.

How they work

An AED uses audio and visual prompts to instruct a rescuer on exactly how to use the device. Rescuers attach adhesive electrode pads to the victim's chest. The AED uses the electrodes to analyze the electrical activity of the victim's heart to determine whether or not a shockable rhythm is present. The device is practically foolproof in that it will not send a shock if there is any detectable heart beat. In other words, there is no risk of accidentally shocking a person when it is not necessary and potentially dangerous.

Voice commands and illustrations help guide the rescuer through the resuscitation process. If the AED determines the victim needs a shock, it advises the rescuer to stand back.

Saving Lives

The American Red Cross has constructed a Cardiac Arrest Chain of Survival. The first step is early access to care, meaning calling 911 or another emergency number. The next step involves early cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR. AED's are involved in step three: early defibrillation. This is recognized as the most critical step in the chain. The final step is early advanced cardiac life support, if needed.

If you or someone you know has been fitted with a Medtronic internal defibrillator with defective Sprint Fidelis leads, contact the Medtronic lawsuit attorneys of Williams Kherkher at 866.950.9000 to discuss your legal options and to schedule a free initial consultation.