AED Topic of the Week - April 17-23, 2023

April 17, 2023

Semi-automated AEDs Vs. Fully-automated AEDs

As the years pass, AEDs have become smaller, smarter, and easy for anyone to use. The device at your site is no different. Every device we sell, lease, or manage provides voice prompts to direct the user on using the AED effectively. Your device may be semi-automated or fully automated. Let's discuss the difference.

Most AEDs are semi-automated, requiring the user to physically press a shock button when needed. The process is simple, after placing the pads on the victim's chest, wait for the AED voice prompts for directions. If your AED detects a shockable rhythm, it will power up to shock. Look for a flashing shock button, wait for the voice prompt's directions, make sure no one is touching the victim, shout out "clear", and press the flashing shock button. The user is required to continue pressing the shock button as needed, Your AED will continue to analyze the victim's heart rhythm every two minutes.

Newer AED models have the option to be fully-automated. Fully-automated AEDs do not require the user to press a shock button, the AED will shock the victim automatically, reducing the steps for the user. After placing the pads on the victim, just listen for the voice prompts on what to do next. If a shock is required, the AED will simply direct everyone to stand clear while it counts down from three to one and will provide a shock automatically. The ZOLL AED 3 (pictured above), Lifepak CR2, and the Powerheart G3 and G5 have fully-automated options.

If you are interested in purchasing a fully-automated AED, we have Lifepak CR2s, and the Powerheart G5 available for immediate sale. If you are interested in upgrading your current device, contact us for information on our trade-in program.