If you’re in the market for an AED, you might feel overwhelmed by the many options available. There are several AED manufacturers, and all typically sell multiple models – each with different features, functions, and price.
ZOLL, a leading AED manufacturer, offers multiple models too, with the ZOLL AED Plus® and the ZOLL AED 3® among their most popular. Both are terrific pieces of easy-to-use, life-saving technology for responding to a person in cardiac arrest. We’ll explore the key features of both devices, plus other factors, to help you decide which option best suits your needs.
ZOLL AED Plus
The ZOLL AED Plus is a compact, lightweight device that’s convenient to store and easy to carry in an emergency. It’s also a less expensive alternative to the newer ZOLL AED 3.
Digital display screen
The display screen provides you with real-time instruction and feedback. Simple black text is displayed against a light background and delivers clear, in-the-moment instructions for using the device on a person in cardiac arrest. The text is accompanied by audio instructions delivered by a calm voice. For CRP, the text and voice instruct you to “push harder” or confirm when you are doing “good compressions.”
Color illustrations encircle the display screen, indicating the different steps of response to someone in cardiac arrest.
Electrode pads
CPR Stat Padz or CPR-D Padz® can be used for this defibrillator. CPR-D Padz® are provided and feature a one-piece design ensuring easy and accurate placement on the patient’s body. Pedi-padz®, designed for children (up to age 8 or less than 55 pounds), can be purchased separately. All pads that have been used to provide emergency care must be replaced.
Battery
Off-the-shelf lithium batteries (Duracell 123a) carry 5 years of life from time in installation.
Warranty
A 5-year warranty (7-year warranty with online registration) is included with a new device. A refurbished device typically carries a shorter warranty and is not recommended.
ZOLL AED 3
The ZOLL AED 3 is the latest generation of AED from Zoll that is geared to the general public. It provides the same basic functionality as the ZOLL AED Plus, with additional features that employ newer technologies.
Enhanced Real CPR Help
The full-color display includes rescue images, plus CPR cycle times and a bar gauge that shows your CPR compression depth. Like the ZOLL AED Plus, a voice prompts you to “Push Harder” or confirms “Good Compressions.” The voice will instruct you to pause while the AED completes a heart analysis, will alert you if a shock is needed, and if you should resume CPR.
Touch screen display
The high-resolution LCD touchscreen display delivers vivid full-color rescue images, text, and real-time CPR feedback, plus intuitive touch screen capabilities. The touch screen provides visual guidance and allows you to quickly access AED information.
RapidShock™
This ZOLL technology enables the AED to analyze a heart and deliver a shock in as little as 5 seconds. ZOLL states it’s the shortest heart rhythm analysis in the industry. A shorter time means there’s more time for CPR, to benefit the patient.
Child mode
The front of the ZOLL AED 3 includes a “child button.” When pressed, the button places the AED in a mode that decreases the intensity of the shock provided.
Electrode pads
The ZOLL AED 3 uses CPR Uni-padz™. The single set of pads can be used on adults and children and carries a 5-year shelf life. All pads that have been used to provide emergency care must be replaced.
WiFi
The AED uses cloud connectivity to enable automatic reporting of device status. The WiFi also provides the ability to quickly access and transmit cardiac arrest event data to medical professionals. You have the option of switching off the WiFi feature, which prolongs battery life.
Battery
The battery pack uses a disposable lithium manganese dioxide battery and has an installed life of up to five years.
Warranty
6-year warranty (8-year warranty with online registration).
Making the right choice – for you
Making the right AED selection depends on numerous factors, including the capabilities you want and the price that fits your budget. Both the ZOLL AED Plus and ZOLL AED 3 are marvels of technology, allowing a layperson, perhaps you, to become a life-saving hero. You’re not making a wrong choice by selecting one over the other.
At Starting Hearts, we can provide you with new AEDs, plus accessories and defibrillator maintenance services. Check us out too for specific training that can make a life-saving difference.
Contact us for more information: info@startinghearts.org.
Patrick Golden is a healthcare writer based in Massachusetts.
