Picking the Best Automated External Defibrillators for Home, Public & Office.

Today, AEDs are not only handy in public areas, offices, institutions, and airports but also in homes and cars too.

With the constantly advancing technology, this essential medical tool is transforming to an easy-to-use and safe gadget for any would-be lifesaver.

An AED is an equipment designed to quickly remedy sudden cardiac arrest victims by shocking their erratic heart rhythm back to usual state.

Anyone with AED knowledge, even bystanders can utilize this tool in case of sudden cardiac arrest (SDA).

Statistically, cardiac arrest is among the highest contributors of deaths worldwide. It’s more prevalent in the elderly, people with heart defects, and sometimes, healthy-looking individuals.

Other most susceptible groups are individuals from a family with history of heart- linked ailments or arrhythmias.

SDA can occur anytime and anywhere, however, most of them happen at home. Which is why households need the best automated external defibrillators, especially those with elderly or heart-related issues.

Waiting for help from EMS risks the life of the victim, it’s best to apply CPR and a portable defibrillator to save them.

Now, how can one tell the best automated external defibrillators to use in the workplace, home or user training? And what are the best storage methods?

Purchase Checklist for Households & Workplace AEDs

Whether you’re purchasing a new AED or replacing an old one, it’s crucial to always pick the best AEDs in the market.

However, the market has an array of AEDs and picking the right one can be a bit overwhelming.

Some of the considerations to keep in mind when purchasing and replacing AEDs are;

Simple to use

An effective AED is the one that you can utilize without any difficulties, a feature which most buyers ignore.

Different defibrillator models differ in operation modes, flexibility, and simplicity in using them. It is best to pick a tool you’ll use without struggling.

Consumables

Price for consumables of various effective portable defibrillators may vary. AEDs with expensive consumables may increase maintenance expenses. Examples of these consumable include pads and batteries.

Some defibrillators are seemingly cheap until users incur expensive maintenance costs.

Brand

High-quality AEDs are costly; it will be very draining to purchase a faulty tool at a sky-high price.

Always procure portable defibrillators from licensed manufacturers. Such manufacturers guarantee high-end products and issue a warrant.

Accompaniments

Items included in the defibrillators package matters a lot. Check well if the inclusions matter to you and compare against other models in the market. Some AED packages lack some units which you must buy separately.

The best automated external defibrillators include accompaniments like carriage options, protective gears, pads set, storage cabinets, or extra pads set.

Price

Depending on the quality and the cost of its consumables, an AED can be expensive or cheap. In the past, AEDs were expensive, closely to 10 000 USD, however, currently you can find cheap AEDs at even 2 000 USD.

The price range for different standard AEDs fall between 2 000-36 000 USD. Choose a tool that’s within your budget and carries the features you’re looking for.

Physical characteristics

Designs and physical appearance of AEDs vary with brands, use, or compactness of the defibrillator.

You need to select the one with features and flexibility suiting your needs and environment. Some of the factors to consider during this stage are size, protection capabilities, weight, or installation requirements.

6 Best Automated Defibrillators Available in The Market.

Selecting the best portable defibrillators requires close scrutiny of the available features, ease of installation and cost. Below are six robust AEDs you can obtain for your household, office, and other places.

  1. Philips HeartStart Household Defibrillator.

This AED is a product of Philips brand and among the finest defibrillator at its price. It has the following exclusive features;

  • It has easy and understandable voice prompts for effective and stress-free use.
  • It is also handy in infant and kid CPR
  • It has smart sensors to help you personalize shocks for various patients.
  • It has a warranty period of eight years.
  • Comes with CPR manual to help buyer use it easily.
  • It has training DVDs
  • Quick and simple to convert it to a defibrillation trainer after fixing the pads.

It works like the usual OnSite AED (still a product of Philips) found in most public places like learning institutions and airports.

The most exciting feature about this AED is its exclusive training mode which comprises eight emergency situations.

Its training mode allows you to practice how to utilize the tool for different set of scenarios.

It also supports systematic self-checks to ensure the battery doesn’t die during usage. HeartStart AEDs comes in conspicuous color (red) for easy tracing when you urgently need it.

Disadvantages of Philips HeartStart AEDs

  • Thy are expensive
  • Some users complain that the battery die faster than the indicated time
  • It once had quality control problems

Even though it once had quality control problems, and goes for a high price, this defibrillator is one of effective portable defibrillators to use at households.

  1. Philips HeartStart OnSite AED.

Among all AEDs, Philips OnSite AED is the most recommendable for public use and households.

It flaunts the following features;

  • Voice prompts to lead you through both adult and kid resuscitation
  • Automatically tests itself and alerts you in case of any issue
  • It doesn’t go straight to shocking. First, it confirms if the shock is necessary before you click the button.
  • It has a warranty period of 5 years
  • You purchase cartridge pads for infants and kids separately you can only procure it if you have a prescription).
  • Weighs only 1.5kgs
  • Its battery can operate for four consecutive years
  • Allows more than 200 shocks

OnSite AED package accompaniments include;

Advantages of Philips OnSite AEDs

  • Doesn’t need prescription. However, AEDs requiring prescription are available in authorized providers or inclusive with the device.
  • Not heavy
  • They aren’t expensive
  • Effective portability features like waterproof cases with handles.

Disadvantages

  • Doesn’t give feedback on the quality of CPR you give.

Business persons looking for an affordable and effective AED can try the Philips HeartStart Defibrillator.

It comes as a package inclusive of a complete installation kit. HeartStart business AED kit includes cabinets with alarms, one Onsite device, a three dimensional wall sign, carrying case, manual for users, response kit for CPRs and AED, CPR masks, one decal sticker, a warranty of five years, prescription, reference card, and a an AED inspection label.

In most cases, AED prices are high and ever fluctuating. Purchasing the case and installation kit separately can be expensive.

Including these items in the kit eases users the struggle of searching when the need arises.

  1. Physio-Control Lifepak CR-Plus.

This is one of the best AEDs in the market for workplaces. It was meant for the establishment of effective portable defibrillation programs thanks to its simple operations and maintenance, and affordability.

It essential features comprise;

  • It’s fully automatic and operates using a two-step process. That is, switching on the device and applying the electrode pads to the patient. Such a short process eases the operation mode incredibly.
  • It automatically administers shocks without you pushing any button.
  • Conducts self-tests after a week and a month, it also has an indicator to show you whether it’s not dangerous and ready for action.
  • Works easily with most certified medic technologies thus easing the transfer of victims to ambulances and EMTs.
  • Capable of storing ECG info for two patients

These Lifepak AED features are unique and efficient, making it the most effective AED for a business.

A Lifepak AED can deliver shock to up to 360J. AEDs initially deliver a shock of 200J, which can sometimes be insufficient and ineffective.

Lifepak’s defibrillators steadly increase the shock to 300-360J if the first shocking doesn’t reinstate the heartbeat.

External chargers and electrodes for this type of AEDS can last for two years. Some of its features have warranty but for different periods that is, 8 years for the internal battery, 12 months for adapters and chargers, and 3 months for the repair parts.

Another important feature making it one of the best automated external defibrillators is the presence of medical prescriptions to help users during emergencies.

Advantages of Lifepak CR-plus AED

Some of the benefits you’ll enjoy for utilizing AEDs form this brand include;

  • Extended warranty period, 8 years.
  • Long lifespan battery
  • Extra essential inclusions
  • Have extra electrodes set
  • Operates using simple instructions and procedures.
  • It’s a popular and certified brand that most medical institutions use

Disadvantages

  • Its costly
  • Some of its inclusions aren’t necessary for households, making it uneconomical to procure it for home use.

 

  1. Cardiac Life’s Rescue Ready Pack.

This is the most affordable defibrillator you can get for its performance and cost. Rescue Ready Pack doesn’t only target AED emergencies but more CPR-related issues.

Cardiac Life’s Rescue Ready Pack is of the best automated external defibrillators. It comprise all the fundamental equipment to prepare lifesavers well for both defibrillation and resuscitation scenarios.

These equipment include; defibrillator, grownups pad-pak, gloves and razor.

If the user doesn’t know how to use it, the defibrillator can guide appropriately on the required steps to take, for example, it can tell you if the victim’s rhythm needs shocking or not.

Other than shocking, it can also direct you on how to perform traditional CPR procedures or defibrillation.  You can also use the included training DVD to understand its mechanism well.

It utilizes disposable pads and can serve in both grownup and kid emergencies. The lifespan for its Pad-pak is close to 4 years.

Buyers must procure a separate pediatric set if they intend to use it for individuals weighing not more than 55lb, or children under 8 years.

Advantages of Ready Rescue Pack

  • Its price is manageable
  • Its compact and not heavy
  • Has many essential inclusions
  • It utilizes disposable cartridges which are stress-free to maintain
  • Extend battery lifespan

Disadvantages

  • You incur extra cost buying separate pediatric pads
  • Using disposable cartridges and batteries ends to be costly.

 

  1. Zoll AED Plus.

Zoll is well-known and trusted brand producing medical equipment for the ICU, ER and more.

Its FDA-certified products are efficient in hospitals, publics and homes. Some of the desirable features of the Zoll AED Plus include;

  • It has audio-visual prompts that guides users in every step when rescuing victims.
  • Designed for both defibrillation and CPR.
  • It has a metronome to guide users to push in a suitable rate.
  • Conduct self-tests weekly and inform the user in case of a problem. You can adjust the testing days according to your preference so long it’s between 1-7 days.
  • It can automatically administer shocks if use one that its automation is optimal.
  • Offers different warranty periods for different inclusions, that is, 7 years for defibrillator and five years for grownups pads and battery.

Specifications

  • It weighs 3.1kgs
  • Battery lifespan of 5 years when on standby
  • Delivers more than 225 shocks
  • It can monitor victims for 13 hours

Advantages of Zoll AED Plus

  • long battery and pads lifespan
  • provides response on the level of CPR and defibrillation you administer
  • includes spare batteries
  • it has flexible pads which have the same size but can still fit well
  • it have inbuilt and sturdy handles for easy carrying.

Disadvantages

  • It’s a bit expensive
  • It doesn’t include a lot of extras like most of the above AEDs
  • This tool is little heavier compared to other models.

 

  1. Cardiac Science G5 and G3 AEDs.

Cardiac science deliver the best portable and low-maintenance AEDs with its Power Heart G3 and G5 defibrillators.

The difference between G3 and G5 is the price and features; G5 has more features and costlier. These AEDs have the following features

  • Audio training guides to use when administering CPR to grownups and kids.
  • Conducts self-tests after a week, month, or a day and informs in case of any issues.
  • It can automatically deliver shocks if you procure the on with optimal automation options.
  • The G3 model has a warranty period of 7 years while the G5’s 8 years.
  • G3 (3.1kgs) is heavier than G5 (2.6kgs)
  • A standby battery lifespan of 4 years.
  • Includes a prescription

A set of this model comes with the following items; a battery with a lifespan of 4 years, grownup pads with a lifespan if 24 months, defibrillator and defibrillation manual, training DVD, sequential communication cable, and rescue and MD links.

These items sometimes differ depending on manufacture.

Advantages of this AED;

  • The best automated external defibrillators have switchable pads
  • Frequent self-tests helps to simply maintenance effoerts.
  • If the battery spoils within the first four years, you’re sure of a replacement.
  • It has many essential inclusions than Zoll AED Plus.
  • Support CPR training.
  • High-end portability level suitable for even rough tasks and weather.

Disadvantages

  • Models with optimal automation costs more than those with semi-automation.
  • Buying pediatric pads incurs you extra costs
  • Its instructions and training are only available in one language, English.
  • Weightier than most models.

The G3 has a specific model for business places. This model comprise a wall cabinet, carrying case,  a installable 3D sign, and robust CPR equipment kit containing a gauze, valve mask for mouth to mouth resuscitation, and trauma scissors.

Potable Defibrillator Mounting & Installation Options or Cabinets.

One of the most crucial thing to keep in mind when procuring AEDs is its installation options and ease, especially for office and households AEDs.

AED manufactures design their defibrillators with different mounting options and methods. Below are various kinds of cabinets you can use to install your AED;

Different ways to mount AED cabinets

Portable defibrillation cabinets have various designs, sizes, and shapes. Examples of these designs are;

The right storage for your best automated external defibrillators depend on many factors like preference, accessibility etc.

Sunken/recessed cabinets

These are cabinets that are completely fixed inside a wall.  Advantages of this kind of cabinets using a small space while its disadvantage is you can easily damage its internal electrical wiring system.

Surface cabinets

Surface cabinets are installed on the outer surface of a wall without altering with the surface. They take a lot of space. Big AED cabinets of this kind must be complaint with ADA regulations.

Semi-sunken cabinets

Such cabinets are partly inside the wall and partly outside.

Most people prefer this kind of AEDs storage because of the combined pros of surface and sunken cabinets, that is, visibility and its compliance with ADA regulations.

Many AED cabinet designers include a loud alarm to alert people around that vicinity of the emergency and prevent thieves from stealing it. The alarm activates immediately someone opens the cabinet door.

Some of the aspects to consider when procuring alarmed cabinets is the availability of light indicators. The type of sound, and how long the alarm lasts are also important factors.

It’s best to pick those with light indicators for easy tracing. Long-lasting alarms can also increase emergency response and awareness.

Things to Consider When Looking for a Suitable AED Location Station.

Installing AEDs at wrong locations is a waste of funds and may further risk lives of the individuals meant to benefit from it.

That explains why you must be shrewd when deciding where to mount your kit. Some of the factors to remember include;

High-risk Zones

AEDs must be installed in SDA-prone areas, especially in public places. Such places include areas that many people assemble or do physical exercises, lobbies, lifts, or gyms.

Quick access

When someone suffers from SDA, their chances of survival begins falling after the third minute.

It is crucial to place AEDs and CPR gears in zones where the rescuer can have access within the first 1½ minute to ensure timely action.

Conspicuousness

Every John, Jane and Jerry should be able to see an AED station from all directions. During wall mounting, ensure that you don’t place higher than 4-4.5ft from the ground.

You can increase the visibility level by buying AEDs with clear signs and bright colors.

Important tips to effectively an AED;

When using portable defibrillator, it is advisable to remember the following things;

  • If you are utilizing an AED in an expectant woman and you want to save the baby’s life, saving the mother should be your first step.
  • You can’t use a portable defibrillator on yourself
  • In emergency cases where the SDA victim is a kid, but the only available pads are for grownups, rescuers don’t have an option but to use them regardless; let the defibrillator choose whether to shock the victim or not.
  • People dispatching rescue teams in a scene or rescuers asking for AED equipment should be specific about the exact person they want to provide the device or offer support. Using grouping language can risk lives while one of them tries to figure out if you actually pointed them.
  • Anyone who tries to save SDA victims and plunges into problems shouldn’t be held responsible
  • You can lift the victim’s legs when administering CPR. Research shows that doing his increases blood circulation hence increasing the survival probability.

Lastly, it’s better to have an individual with CPR training rescue SDA victims than those without any knowledge in CPR and defibrillation.

Conclusion

AEDs incredibly fundamental device in the medical field. Since the emergence of this crucial tool, the percentage of survival rates and individuals rescuing SDA patients has been steadily going up.

However, it’s important to have the necessary knowledge of the best automated external defibrillators and the available mounting options to procure an effective and suitable defibrillator.

Maintenance is key. Replace faulty parts, check for problems after every self-test, and store well for an extended use and efficiency.

With the above AEDs example, AEDs s, and tips, you can purchase the best automated external defibrillators for your workplace or home.