Picking the Right Defibrillator: What You Need to Know
Learn essential tips for buying the right defibrillator, including types, features, and prices, to make an informed choice.
Buying a defibrillator is a significant decision, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. There are different types of defibrillators available, and picking the right one can be crucial during an emergency. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential information in simple terms so you can make the best choice.
To find out more about what is a defibrillator read here
Why Defibrillators Matter
Defibrillators are lifesavers. They’re the machines that can shock a heart back into action during a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Every second counts when someone’s heart stops, and the right defibrillator can be the difference between life and death.
What to Think About When Choosing a Defibrillator
How Much It Costs
Price matters, but it depends on what you’re using it for. If you’re part of a first response team or providing first aid at events, you might have to replace parts like pads and batteries more often. So, the cost of those parts could be more important than the initial price of the machine. Prices may change, but here at Defib Supplies, we daily monitor competition prices to always make sure to be price competitive without our clients have to compromise on service because of price.
Fully Automatic or Semi Automatic Shock
Some defibrillators automatically deliver a shock when they sense a problem with the heart rhythm. Others need someone to press a button to give the shock.
Fully Automatic defibrillators are fast, but they can be difficult to follow if used in a noisy environment where instructions may not be heard. Semi Automatic AED’s need a person to press the button, so there could be a slight delay but the user keeps more control on what is happening around the rescue scene before pressing the button to deliver the defibrillation shock.
Which is better? Well, with good training, a semi automated defibrillator can be just as quick. Plus, they might be safer in some situations.
Most defibrillators come in both types.
How Tough It Is (IP Rating)
Defibrillators may become dusty and wet, depending on their location of use. So, there’s something called an IP rating that tells you how much dust and water the defibrillator can handle.
If you’re using it in a place with a lot of dust or water, you need one with a high IP rating. But if it’s just going in an office or a gym, a lower rating is fine.
The IP rating has two numbers. The higher they are, the better the protection. The first number is for dust protection, from 0 to 6.
A 6 means it’s totally dustproof. The second number is for water protection, from 0 to 8. An 8 means it can be underwater. If you see an ‘X’ instead of a number, it indicates that the defibrillator has not been tested for that kind of protection. Read our dedicated resource page to find out more
How Big and Heavy It Is
Size and weight might not matter if the defibrillator will sit in a defibrillator cabinet most of the time. But if you’re a coach or part of a quick response team, those things could make a big difference.
CPR Help
Defibrillators can help you do CPR. This can be as simple as a metronome that beeps or flashes to keep you at the right pace. Or it can be a voice that tells you how to push and how fast.
If you’re not an expert, this could be helpful. But if you know what you’re doing, you might not need it.
Very importantly some devices have CPR feedback that together with the metronome will provide you with information about performing compressions at the right depth, both the Zoll and the Cardiac Science range are available with extra optional configuration.
Warranty
A long warranty is a good thing. It means the company trusts their product, and you won’t have to pay for replacements. Most defibrillators come with an 8-year warranty, but some give you 10 years of coverage.
Batteries and Pads
Batteries don’t last forever, and the same goes for the sticky electrode pads that go on the person’s chest.
Some defibrillators can use regular camera batteries, saving you money if you don’t use it frequently. This is the case of the Zoll AED plus range.
But you’ll still need to replace the pads after you use them or when they get too old.
Some defibrillators come with different pads for adults and children, while others feature pads that are universal and interchangeable, using adult and child mode switch on the device that makes them suitable for both. Visit our range of AED with universal pads switch
If you’re in a place where kids are unlikely to need help, adult pads are probably okay. But if you’re in a school or a similar place, you’ll want pads that work for both. Keep in mind that pads have a shelf life, and tossing out two sets of pads each time will cost more in the long run.
Choosing a defibrillator doesn’t have to be a headache. Consider the price, durability, size, CPR assistance, warranty, and battery and pad requirements when choosing the right option. Remember, the right defibrillator can save a life, so take your time and pick the one that fits your needs best.
Visit our defibrillator selection for more information and options to be prepared for emergencies.
