Each year, more then 350,000 people in the U.S. experience sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), making it one of the leading causes of death. In these situations, a purchased defibrillator, or automated external defibrillator (AED), can be used to analyze the heart and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock to restore it to regular rhythm.
AEDs are easy to use, even for those without a medical background. However, there are some things you should know about a purchased defibrillator to ensure you get a reliable product.
Here’s a closer look at five factors you need to consider when purchasing a defibrillator:
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The Set Up Process.
Is your AED ready to perform at all times?
Using a small, lightweight defibrillator that is easy to set up remains essential; otherwise, you may have trouble performing CPR quickly and efficiently in an emergency.
A top-of-the-line AED features integrated SMART Pads that can be placed on a victim’s bare skin and sense and adapt to the victim’s skin accordingly. Furthermore, this defibrillator will include proven technologies for heart rhythm assessment and defibrillation energy delivery, ensuring the device will perform consistently.
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Long Battery Life.
Life expectancy for AED batteries can vary to a large degree. Fortunately, longer-life batteries will minimize your total cost of AED ownership and keep your device ready for use.
Numerous AEDs feature two- and five-year batteries that provide exceptional value. And in many cases, emergency responders and others who anticipate higher rates of use often leverage AEDs with rechargeable batteries.
And don’t forget, AEDs typically feature the battery’s expiration date on the battery itself as well. That way, you’ll know exactly when to replace your AED.
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Voice Instructions.
What good is an AED if you don’t understand how to use it?
Try to find an AED that offers clear voice instructions that guide you through each step of defibrillation. By doing so, you can follow the instructions every step of the way to deliver effective CPR every time.
A high-quality AED also should provide CPR coaching. This coaching can help you remain calm, cool and collected when you perform CPR in a high-pressure situation.
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Full Warranty.
An AED may be used in a variety of emergencies, and as a result, could encounter minor bumps, scratches and dents along the way. But with a full warranty, you can replace this device if necessary.
To protect your investment, make sure your AED comes with at least a five-year warranty. And remember, if the company lists an AED with a shorter warranty, it may be a used device.
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AED Training.
How do you use an AED? Leveraging a successful AED training program is crucial, as this program will ensure you understand how to utilize the device properly.
Once you have the defibrillator, you can easily learn how to use it by taking a CPR and AED class from SureFire CPR. The SureFire CPR team features experienced CPR and AED professionals who teach life-saving skills to students of all ages and skill levels.
SureFire CPR offers a CPR and AED class that covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Adult, child and infant CPR
- How to assist conscious and unconscious choking victims of all ages
- AED use
With AEDs popping up at airports, gyms, restaurants and other locations across the globe, knowing when and how to use these devices will make you a valuable asset in any emergency. And with SureFire CPR, you can receive professional, affordable and convenient CPR and AED instruction at any time.
To learn more about SureFire CPR’s course offerings, please visit our website or contact us at (888) 277-3143.
