Donate Now

In the world of emergency medical equipment, few tools hold as much potential to save lives as the defibrillator. These devices, available in both automated external (AED) and manual variants, are designed to deliver a crucial shock which restores a patient’s heart back to normal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest. However, their effectiveness is reliant on proper upkeep and maintenance. In this blog post, we will explore in detail the steps necessary to ensure your defibrillator remains in optimal condition and ready to use when seconds count with our defibrillator maintenance guide.

What is a defibrillator?

A defibrillator is a device that gives a shock of electricity to the heart. It helps to get the heart beating again when someone is in cardiac arrest and their heart has stopped. They might also be called a defib, an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) or a PAD (Public Access Defibrillator). Start your defibrillator Project now.

Why is upkeep so important?

Ensuring the pads and batteries of a defibrillator are in optimal condition is prime importance for its effectiveness in saving lives during cardiac emergencies. Here is why:

Immediate availability:

During a sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. Having functional electrode pads and fully charges batteries ensures that the defibrillator is ready for immediate use without any delays. Any delay in accessing or using the defibrillator due to faulty pads or depleted batteries can significantly reduce the chances of survival for the victim.

Effectiveness of shock delivery:

The electrode pads are responsible for delivering the electric shock to the patient’s chest to restore normal heart rhythm. If the pads are expired, damaged or attached incorrectly, this can compromise the effectiveness of the shock delivery and decrease the likelihood of successful defibrillation.

Patients’ safety:

using expired or defective electrode pads or batteries can cause safety risks to both the patients and the rescuer. Properly functioning equipment minimises the risk of complications or injuries during the defibrillation process, ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the rescue.

Routine checks and inspections:

Regular maintenance is essential to defibrillator upkeep. Incorporating routine checks and inspections into your maintenance schedule is crucial to ensuring the devices reliability. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Visual inspection:

Perform regular visual inspections of the device, paying close attention to the exterior for any signs of wear and tear. Focus on the electrode pads and cables for integrity, ensuring they are properly connected and free from any damage.

Battery Check:

The battery is the “Heart” of the defibrillator. Regularly check the battery status indicator to ensure that it is fully charged and replace it if needed. A defibrillator with a depleted battery will not be effective during an emergency.

Electrode pads:

Check the expiration date of the electrode pads and replace them as needed. Pads have an expiration date of 2 years. Expired pads may not adhere properly to the patient’s skin which can have an adverse impact on the effectiveness of the shock delivery to the heart.

Self-test function:

Our defibrillators come with a self-test function. Make it a habit to regularly run this test to ensure that all components are functioning correctly. Follow our partners (Defib World) guidelines for interpreting the results of the self-test.

Storing a defibrillator:

Storing a defibrillator properly is crucial to ensure its functionality and accessibility during emergencies. Here are some guidelines for safe defibrillator storage:

Indoor storage:

Wall Mounting: Consider installing the defibrillator indoors on a wall using a suitable bracket or cabinet. This ensures easy access for responders.
Temperature control: Maintain the indoor environment at a suitable temperature (above 0° Celsius) to prevent damage to the device. Avoid storing it in areas with extreme heat or cold.

Outdoor storage:

Unlocked outdoor cabinet. The best choice for outdoor defibrillator storage is an unlocked cabinet accessible to anyone in an emergency. This ensures quick access.
Temperature controlled cabinet- If you keep the defibrillator outside, use a temperature-controlled-cabinet to maintain a suitable temperature. A qualified electrician can install an outdoor cabinet.
Protection from elements- Outdoor cabinets protect the defibrillator from harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and UV exposure.
Visible location: Place the cabinet in a visible location to help the public identify its presence.

Avoid incorrect storage.

Temperature- We recommend not storing your defibrillator in spaces lower than 0° Celsius. Incorrect storage can reduce the devices’ effectiveness during emergencies.
Theft Prevention- Ensure the storage solution prevents theft and unauthorised access.
Remember, having a defibrillator readily available can significantly improve survival rates during cardiac emergencies. Proper storage ensures its functionality when needed most.

You can contact our defibrillator team who will help you to choose a defibrillator that’s right for you. They’re available by phone, email or online chat from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Email: info@londonhearts.org

Tel: 020 7043 2493

Apply for a Defibrillator: Apply For A Defibrillator | London Hearts

When you’re ready to get a defibrillator, you’ll need to choose which one to get. Each type offers unique benefits and considerations that can impact their effectiveness in saving lives during a cardiac emergency.

The type of defibrillator you choose will depend on:

the location it will be placed
who will use it
whether it will be used on children

Automatic vs Semi-automatic defibrillators

Defibrillators are either semi-automatic or fully automatic. The difference is how much action is needed from the person using it.

A semi-automatic defibrillator analyses the person’s heart rhythm. require the rescuer to press a button to deliver a shock when instructed by the device. This allows the rescuer to maintain control over the situation and ensures that nobody else is in contact with the patient’s body during the shock delivery, maximising its impact.
A fully automatic defibrillator will advise if a shock is needed. It will tell people to step back and then it will give a shock.

Benefits of Semi-automatic v Automatic defibrillators

Semi-automatic defibrillators:

Rescuer control ensures no interference during shock delivery.
Reduces the risk of a diminished shock due to contact with the patient’s body.

Fully automatic Defibrillators

No need for rescuer intervention during shock delivery.
Clear countdown announcement ensures safety for all involved.

Common Features of Both Types:

Both types of defibrillators require electrode pads to be applied to the patient before the shock delivery.

Neither will deliver a shock without detecting an irregular heart rhythm, minimising the risk of accidental shocks.

Both provide voice instructions to guide rescuers through the process, including when a shock has been delivered and when to continue CPR.

Will it work for children?

For children under 8, the shock from a defibrillator needs to be weaker than it is for adults. Some defibrillators let you switch easily from adult to child mode. Others need different electrode pads that are suitable for use on children or a special ‘child key’ to switch mode.

We always recommend a defibrillator with a built-in-switch as this can save vital time during an emergency.

If you’re not sure whether to get a semi-automatic or fully automatic defibrillator, we can talk through your needs.

Call 020 7043 2493 or email: info@londonhearts.org

If you are looking for part funding towards a semi-automatic or fully-automatic defibrillator you can apply via https://londonhearts.org/apply-for-a-defib/

APPLY FOR A DEFIB

London Hearts – Harlech House, 20 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9LJ.

info@londonhearts.org

Charity Number – 1180901 VAT Number – 317828189

Web Designer Cardiff

Built by FireCask