AED device or Automated External Defibrillator is lightweight, portable equipment used by emergency medical services and first responders to help victims of sudden cardiac arrest. It’s an easy to use medical device that can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock, or defibrillation, to restore a normal heart rhythm. However, since AED only works on certain types of cardiac arrest, you should know what steps to take if it indicates that an electrical shock isn’t required, but the person remains unresponsive. Even though it is designed not to deliver a shock unless the victim is in a shockable rhythm, it could cause harm if not used properly.
If your organization has decided to purchase and set up an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in your environment, you’re joining the ranks of well-prepared public settings everywhere. From schools to airports to shopping malls and workplaces, AEDs are becoming the norm in well-equipped, safe public environments worldwide. Having an AED at your fingertips in the case of a cardiac arrest emergency will make your organization one of the leaders in proactive health care, and adding this type of equipment to your setting is a great asset to have.
What are AEDs used for?
AEDs treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) by delivering an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm. The AHA states that using an AED within 3 minutes can increase survival rates by 70% or more.
When is an Automated External Defibrillator needed?
AED devices are needed when you revive someone from sudden cardiac arrest. It can be used at home and in schools and is also found in many public places, including office buildings, malls, gyms and sports arenas, and airplanes to deliver electric shocks to a person’s heart if necessary. However, since many cardiac arrests occur at home, having AED equipment at home can save time in reviving a person with cardiac emergencies. For example, if someone has irregular heart rhythm like ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, a bystander in a public place or a family member can use AED to shock the heart back to a normal rhythm and possibly save a life.
CPR or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation after cardiac arrest can keep the blood flowing for a time. But often, only AED can restore the heart’s normal rhythm. Therefore, CPR and AED can improve the chances of survival until emergency services arrive. Delayed treatment of cardiac emergencies like ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia can lead to irreversible brain damage and death.
What are five key factors to consider before purchasing a defibrillator?
When choosing an AED, consider these five essential factors:
- Ease of Use & User Guidance: AEDs with step-by-step voice and visual instructions improve successful deployment by non-medical personnel. Models with automatic shock delivery remove the need for manual shock administration, reducing hesitation in emergencies.
- Battery Life & Maintenance: AED batteries typically last 2–7 years, depending on the brand. Maintenance-free models, such as the HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P, use a combined battery and pad cartridge for easy replacement.
- Cost & Ongoing Expenses: AEDs range from $1,250 to $3,000 upfront. Replacement pads ($50–$200) and batteries ($150–$300) contribute to long-term costs.
- Shock Delivery & CPR Feedback: Research in Circulation Journal suggests AEDs with real-time CPR coaching (e.g., ZOLL AED Plus) significantly improve chest compression quality. Biphasic waveform technology, used in most modern AEDs, delivers more effective shocks with lower energy, reducing heart tissue damage.
- Durability & Environmental Suitability. For harsh environments (e.g., construction sites), choose rugged AEDs like Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 (IP55 water/dust resistance). Public access AEDs should have high visibility and clear signage for quick identification.
1. Ease of Use & User Guidance
An AED should be easy to operate, especially for individuals without medical training. Devices with step-by-step voice and visual instructions guide rescuers through pad placement, shock administration, and CPR support. Some models, like the Philips OnSite AED, offer pre-recorded voice prompts and adaptive coaching to adjust to the responder’s pace. Additionally, fully automatic AEDs deliver shocks without requiring manual intervention, reducing hesitation and increasing the likelihood of a successful resuscitation.
2. Battery Life & Maintenance
AED battery lifespan varies by brand, typically lasting between 2 to 7 years. Regularly checking the battery and replacing it before expiration is essential. Some models, like the HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P, simplify maintenance by integrating the battery and electrode pads into a single Pad-Pak cartridge, ensuring both are replaced simultaneously. Selecting a low-maintenance AED with self-testing features (e.g., ZOLL AED 3) ensures the device remains ready for use without frequent manual checks.
3. Cost & Ongoing Expenses
While the initial price of an AED typically ranges from $1,250 to $3,000, additional costs should be factored into the budget. Replacement pads cost between $50 and $200, while replacement batteries can range from $150 to $300 depending on the model. Some AEDs, like the Defibtech Lifeline AED, offer cost-effective, long-life batteries to minimize long-term expenses. Buyers should also consider warranty length and potential servicing fees when evaluating affordability.
4. Shock Delivery & CPR Feedback
The effectiveness of an AED depends on its ability to deliver optimal shock therapy and CPR guidance. Studies published in the Circulation Journal suggest that AEDs with real-time CPR coaching (such as the ZOLL AED Plus) significantly improve chest compression quality, leading to better survival outcomes. Additionally, modern AEDs use biphasic waveform technology, which adjusts shock intensity based on the patient’s resistance, delivering more effective shocks with lower energy to minimize heart tissue damage.
5. Durability & Environmental Suitability
AEDs should be durable enough to function reliably in their intended environment. For harsh workplaces (e.g., construction sites or outdoor settings), models like the Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 are built with IP55-rated water and dust resistance for added protection. In public spaces, AEDs should be highly visible, with wall-mounted storage and clear signage for easy access during emergencies. Some units, like the Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2, feature Wi-Fi connectivity to alert administrators if maintenance is needed, ensuring long-term readiness.
What equipment should be kept with an AED?
To ensure an AED is ready for emergencies, it should be stored with the following essential accessories:
- Spare electrode pads – Pads have expiration dates and should be replaced as needed.
- Fully charged battery – A backup battery ensures the AED has power when needed.
- CPR mask or face shield – Protects rescuers while providing rescue breaths.
- Razor – Removes chest hair to improve electrode pad adhesion.
- Scissors – Allows for quick removal of clothing.
- Gloves – Provides hygiene and protection for the rescuer.
- Towel or gauze pads – Used to dry the chest before applying pads.
- First aid kit – Helps treat minor injuries in addition to cardiac emergencies.
Keeping these items in an AED carrying case ensures quick and efficient use during an emergency.
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