AED Protocol Guidelines

AED Protocol Guidelines

AED Tips and Considerations

Gain added confidence when designing your program with these tips.

Defibrillator Application Guidelines

Once the defibrillator is turned on and the pads applied to the patient, the ERT or Early Defibrillation Response Team member shall not remove the pads or turn off the device unless prompted by the device itself or directed by a higher medical authority. In all cases, the Team member shall continue to assess the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation and provide CPR as indicated.

AED Application Criteria

The defibrillator shall be applied only to patients who are unresponsive and not breathing.

Defibrillation Procedure

Defibrillation shocks are to be delivered only in accordance with the early defibrillation response protocol. If the device advises no shocks, the ERT or Early Defibrillation Response Team responder follows the approved protocols for patient care and CPR.

Wet Environments and Metal Surfaces

The defibrillator can be used in fresh and saltwater environments and on metal surfaces that are wet or dry. Always follow all defibrillator recommended safety precautions.

Excessive Chest Hair

If required for proper defibrillation pad adhesion, any excess hair on the patient’s chest is shaved with a prep razor supplied in the accessory kit. A smooth shave is not required.

Medication Patches

Using a gloved hand, remove any medication patches, if present, from the patient’s chest prior to pad placement and wipe the skin clean with a cloth.

Implantable Pacemakers and Defibrillators

If the patient has an implantable pacemaker or internal defibrillator, do not place the defibrillation pads directly over the implanted device. If the presence of an implanted device affects pad placement, place the defibrillation pad as close to the recommended pad placement as possible.

AED Abuse or Vandalism

No abuse or vandalism of the defibrillator is to be tolerated. If abuse or vandalism is suspected, it is to be reported to the Early Defibrillation Program Coordinator immediately so that the defibrillator can be evaluated for proper operation.

Implementation Guide

Get Your Site Assesment

0% Complete

Loading...

You're all done! See your recommended AED's below.

The best AED for your needs

Philips HeartStart OnSite AED M5066A

(2)
$1,479.00$1,689.00
Hot

Philips HeartStart FRx AED with FREE Carry Case 861304

(1)
$1,944.00$2,038.00
Hot

Cardiac Science Powerheart® G5 AED

(1)
$2,064.00

Defibtech View AED

(1)
$1,880.00

LIFEPAK 1000 AED

$3,436.00$4,232.00

ZOLL AED Pro

$2,895.00$2,995.00

Would you like these results sent to your email?

If so, just fill our your email address below and submit.

We value your privacy and will not share, sell or rent your personal information. View our privacy policy.
Which is the best AED for my needs?
Let us help you identify the best options using our tool, Zappy!
Cost
AEDs that are budget friendly without compromising quality and performance.
Portability (Size/Wt.)
AEDs that are compact and lightweight. Great for travel and small spaces.
Durability (Dust/Water Resistance)
AEDs with high resistance to dust and water damage. Perfect for outdoors, areas near water, vehicles, and industrial settings.
CPR Feedback
AEDs with audible and/or visual feedback on the quality of compressions given during CPR. Great for untrained responders or those with limited training.
Fully Automatic Option
No shock button. The AED will automatically deliver a shock if needed. Removes the responsibility from the user. Great for untrained responders.
Pediatric Method
A pediatric key or button eliminates the need to purchase pediatric pads.
Maintenance Cost
Cost of replacement supplies for the life of the AED.
Remote Monitor Option
This feature reports the status of the AED to a web portal. Great for large or multi-location deployments. Cuts down on administrative workload. Adds accountability and ensures readiness.
Dual Language
AEDs that can toggle between two languages. Great for deployments that have diversity. English/Spanish is the preset option. Must request for alternative languages.
Required Inspection Interval
Each state requires AED maintenance per manufacturer guidelines. Some AEDs save time by requiring inspections less frequently. Great for large or multi-location deployments.