Final answer:
Clinicians use a defibrillator to correct abnormal heart rhythm, such as cardiac or ventricular fibrillation. Defibrillators deliver a large shock to terminate the arrhythmia and allow the heart's natural pacemaker to resume normal patterns. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are designed to be user-friendly and can be found in public places.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main reason why clinicians use a defibrillator is to correct abnormal heart rhythm, specifically cardiac or ventricular fibrillation. These conditions result in fast, irregular beating of the heart, which can be life-threatening. By delivering a large shock of electrical energy to the chest, a defibrillator can terminate the arrhythmia and allow the heart's natural pacemaker to resume normal patterns.
Defibrillators are commonly found in ambulances and public places like schools and airports. Some defibrillators, known as automated external defibrillators (AEDs), are designed to be used by laypersons. These devices analyze the patient's heart condition automatically and apply the shock with appropriate energy and waveform.
It's important to note that CPR is usually recommended before using an AED in many cases.