Guarantee Cardiac Safety And Peace Of Mind - Maintaining Your Automated External Defibrillator
Cardiac arrest can strike at any time and in any place, and to combat that threat, many people have begun purchasing and installing automated external defibrillators, or AEDs for their clinics and First Aid Kits. If you've recently purchased an AED, it's important that you recognize that simply buying the device won't guarantee that it's always in the best condition.
Below, you'll find a guide to some steps you should take to maintain your AED. Following these suggestions will guarantee that you can provide the quick response you desire if the time ever comes.
Battery Checks
Defibrillators operate by deploying a high intensity shock of electricity to the heart in an attempt to restore its natural rhythm. As such, perhaps the most important aspect of maintaining an AED is making sure that its power source is functioning correctly and at its highest capacity.
You should regularly check that your AED batteries are fully charged and within their expiration date. Many AEDs contain a display light that should provide you with a warning when the batteries are beginning to wane, and keeping a few extra batteries on hand for those occurrences can be a wise investment.
Pad Upkeep
Many people don't realize that the battery isn't the only component of an AED that has an expiration date. The pads which are applied to the victim expire as well, so maintaining their replacement schedule is also an important task. Without correctly functioning pads, attempting to use a fully charged AED may make a serious medical situation even worse.
You should be sure to maintain a full compliment of replacement AED pads and keep them in a sealed container until the time comes when they need to be deployed. You should also keep in mind that the adherent gel which is applied to the pads needs to be stocked and within its expiration date as well.
Other Supplies
Keeping a small medical kit on hand near an AED is a great way to make sure that it functions at its greatest capacity. A safety razor for removing chest hair, small scissors for cutting through clothes, and safety gloves and towels are all important tools that you should be sure to keep on hand. Stocking up on these items will guarantee that you can provide the necessary treatment as quickly as possible, and will greatly improve the usefulness of your AED.
For more information, contact a professional like Halifax Heart Center.