Can I Reuse An AED?
Yes! The automated external defibrillator (AED) is the base of the life saving unit. It is the vital piece that provides the feedback and instructions to the layperson (the user) while they are attempting to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm. The unit can be used multiple times throughout its lifespan, however some of the AED accessories will require replacement after it has been employed in its life saving efforts.
Reusing An AED After It Was Utilized In An Emergency
You have used your defibrillator, and it has given life to a patient who was in sudden cardiac arrest. Your quick actions have made the difference between life and death for the victim. However, now that you have used your defibrillator, can it be reused in the event of a future emergency? Which parts of the AED should be kept and which are disposable? Below are some steps you can take to ensure the continued use of your automated external defibrillator even after it has performed in a medical emergency:
1. Changing The AED Pads
The pads on your defibrillator are designed to be used only once and then discarded. If the pads are attached, remove them from the AED by pressing the release button on each side of the pad while pulling away from the unit. These pads are not reusable, not only for sanitation reasons but also because the adhesive gel that connects the pads to the chest wall will no longer be as effective. Luckily, you can easily order new pads from your AED provider and keep a spare pair as a back-up.
2. Changing The Batteries On Your AED
The second step is to change out the batteries in your AED. These batteries power the device and allow it to function properly during an emergency situation. If your AED has been in its cabinet for an extended period of time and then was used to deliver electrical shocks, it may be running on a low battery. Changing out battery cells ensures that the AED will have enough power for its next use.
Maintenance Is The Key To Extending The Life Of Your AED
The fact of the matter is that properly maintaining your AED is an extremely important part of its longevity, and ensuring that it can be reused after a medical emergency has taken place. Thankfully, maintaining your device is easier than ever when you purchase your unit from AED Advantage.
Buying a defibrillator from AED Advantage provides you with peace of mind by taking care of the maintenance of your AED with friendly email reminders about expiration dates on accessories and batteries - and when the time comes to replace these parts, you can breathe easier knowing that AED Advantage has made reordering a breeze. If you're interested in finding out more about the full range of products found in AED Advantage's store, visit their website today, or contact a member of their team to start shopping.
AED Advantage offers a 10% Rescue Discount for replacing accessories on an AED that has been used. Contact us to learn more.
Also, if you are interested in sharing your story, AED Advantage is always looking for ways to inform the public of these important devices and their ability to save lives.
