Definition

1. Noun:
   • A medical device used to treat life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias: A defibrillator is an electronic device designed to deliver a controlled electric shock to the heart. This shock is intended to stop an irregular, chaotic heartbeat (such as ventricular fibrillation) and allow the heart to re-establish an effective rhythm.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The paramedics used a defibrillator to restart the patient's heart.
  • Many public buildings are now equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED) for use in emergencies.
  • After his heart attack, the doctor recommended he get an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).

Advanced Usage

• "To administer a shock with a defibrillator": This phrase describes the specific action of using the device.
  • The emergency protocol states to clear the patient before you administer a shock with a defibrillator.

Variants and Related Words

• Defibrillate (verb): The act of using a defibrillator to deliver an electric shock.
  • The medical team worked quickly to defibrillate the patient.
• Defibrillation (noun): The treatment or process of using a defibrillator.
  • Early defibrillation is critical for survival after cardiac arrest.

Synonyms

• Cardioversion device: A more general term for a device that delivers an electrical shock to the heart to correct an arrhythmia. (Note: Defibrillation is a specific type of cardioversion used for more severe arrhythmias.)

Related Phrases

• Automated External Defibrillator (AED): A portable type of defibrillator designed for use by the public or first responders, which provides voice instructions.
• Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD): A small device implanted in a patient's chest to continuously monitor heart rhythm and deliver shocks if needed.

Noun

1. an electronic device that administers an electric shock of preset voltage to the heart through the chest wall in an attempt to restore the normal rhythm of the heart during ventricular fibrillation