What is the function of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is specifically designed to restore a normal heart rhythm in individuals experiencing a cardiac arrest, typically due to a malfunction in the heart's electrical system that causes it to stop beating effectively. This device does this by delivering an electric shock, known as defibrillation, which can reset the heart's rhythm to a normal pattern, allowing it to resume effective pumping of blood.

The function of the AED is crucial during emergencies where time is of the essence. It is equipped with sensors that assess the heart's rhythm and determine if a shock is necessary. This capability directly addresses the immediate life-threatening condition of cardiac arrest, emphasizing the importance of rapid intervention in such situations.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with the primary function of an AED. Measuring vital signs and analyzing blood glucose levels relate to patient assessment and monitoring, while electrical stimulation of the heart, although part of some cardiac therapies, can occur in different contexts and does not accurately describe the targeted function of an AED in cardiac arrest scenarios.