What device is specifically designed to detect treatable life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias?

The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is specifically designed to detect treatable life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, particularly ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia. This device analyzes a patient's heart rhythm and determines if a shock is necessary to restore a normal rhythm. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the AED instructs the user on when to deliver a shock, making it a critical tool for non-medical personnel as well as EMTs in emergency situations.

While a defibrillator in general can also deliver electric shocks to the heart, the AED is specifically tailored for public access and is equipped with a user-friendly interface that guides laypersons through the process of delivering care. A cardiac monitor provides real-time information about heart rhythms and other vital signs but requires trained personnel to interpret the data and does not typically deliver shocks directly. A sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure and is not related to cardiac rhythm detection. Thus, the AED stands out as the device uniquely focused on identifying and treating specific cardiac arrhythmias that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.