You’ve decided to buy an AED, but you’re unsure what features you want.
AEDs are designed for easy use by a bystander – like you – to save a person in sudden cardiac arrest. Still, there are many AEDs on the market to choose from, each offering a variety of features and options.
Which one best suits your needs?
Let’s simplify our mission and focus on five key AED features you should consider as you make your purchase decision. Deciding what’s important to you – and what fits your budget – will help you feel comfortable and confident in your choice.
- Fully automatic or semi-automatic
AEDs fall into one of two categories: fully automatic and semi-automatic.
All AEDs automatically analyze a cardiac arrest victim’s heart rhythm to determine whether an electric shock could help jolt the heart back into a normal rhythm. When a shock is warranted, a fully automatic AED will deliver one on its own, while a semi-automatic AED requires you to press a button to administer a shock. The device will instruct you when to press the button.
The type you select is a matter of preference. You might want to be completely hands-free of the device once it’s in action, or you might want to press a button that delivers that shock. There’s no incorrect choice.
Adult vs. pediatric pads; child mode
Some AEDs include two sets of electrode pads: one sized for adults and a smaller set for children.
If an AED only has adult pads, it’s okay to use them on youngsters as long as the pads are placed properly: one pad is placed on the chest, and the other on the back. With an adult, one pad is placed on the chest, and the other on the side of the torso.
Some AEDs offer a child mode, like the Zoll 3 AED, which delivers a shock intensity appropriate for a child. A button on the front of the AED allows you to conveniently switch between adult and child mode.
- Real-time feedback
Some AEDs provide real-time audio and visual feedback on the quality of CPR being provided in tandem with use of the AED.
A calm, computerized voice tells you if you’re delivering chest compressions at the right rate and depth, or if you need to push harder or faster. The real-time feedback is important because delivering high-quality CPR helps to keep enough oxygen-rich blood circulating through the person’s body, reaching vital organs – especially the brain, heart and lungs.
- Digital display screen
Different AEDs offer a range of digital display screens. Some provide text, images and icons rich in color, while others are simpler, offering black-and-white text with basic instructions.
Some AEDs have a touchscreen display, which you might find helpful when exploring and navigating feature and settings.
- Battery life
AEDs run on battery power, and batteries degrade over time – even when the device they power is idle. Keeping the AED’s batteries operating at peak performance is key to ensuring your AED is ready to go in an emergency.
Most AEDs battery packs last 2-5 years when the device is operating in standby mode. Some devices may offer batteries that last longer, reducing the frequency of replacements.
The bottom line
There’s a lot to consider when purchasing an AED. Finding one that’s right for your needs – and fits best within your budget – requires some research. You’re making a big decision, so take your time and do your homework to ensure you get the AED that’s right for you.
Remember this: Any properly functioning AED is better than no AED. You’ll have a powerful, life-saving tool just steps away. You’ll be equipped to quickly respond in an emergency and potentially save a life!
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.
