A defibrillator is a device that performs defibrillation on the chambers of the heart. The device may be implanted in the user of the device. If so, it is known as an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator or(much less frequently) an internal cardiac defibrillator (ICD).

External defibrillators are available in all hospitals and are commonly available in ambulances. The use of external defibrillators is taught in advanced cardiac life support.

In recent years, automated external defibrillators have been made available for use by the general public. These devices are commonly found in large gathering places, such as airports, casinos, and sports stadiums.

See also

CPR, advanced cardiac life support, cardioversion, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, defibrillation, automated external defibrillator