A defibrillator is a device developed to combat cardiac arrest or heart attack brought on by a fibrillation or irregular heart rhythm. This irregularity causes the heart to stop receiving enough blood and can result in sudden death if not treated properly. The defibrillator delivers small electronic shocks to the heart designed to stimulate a return to a more manageable rate and rhythm. Specifically, an electric current is channel through the body into the heart via electrodes or paddles placed on the chest. The current causes the heart muscle to spasm or jolt, and hopefully ends any fibrillation threatening blow flow. These automated, portable defibrillators take much of the risk associated with their use by regular people. Most importantly, they come with the ability to assess whether or not the patient in question even needs an electric current, and if he or she does, it pre-determines the wattage or power level. A person cannot override the determination of the computer, so the potential for misuse is minimal. In addition, the light weight and portable nature of the last defibrillators makes them perfect for storage and use at any number of public venues including schools, gate communities, airports and sporting events.]]>