What is an AED and what is its purpose?

An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a crucial emergency device designed specifically to treat individuals experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest. The primary function of this device is to analyze the heartbeat and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock aimed at resetting the heart's rhythm. This intervention can restore a normal heart rhythm, significantly increasing the chances of survival in these critical situations.

The second option accurately highlights this purpose, emphasizing that the AED is intended to restart a stopped heart. Understanding the significance of rapid response with an AED in emergencies is essential for ensuring safety, especially in environments like swimming pools where cardiac incidents may occur unexpectedly.

In contrast, the other options misrepresent the function of an AED or confuse it with other devices. For example, suggesting that an AED helps a swimmer breathe, monitors swimmer safety, or maintains pool cleanliness does not accurately define its life-saving role in addressing cardiac emergencies.