How to Select an AED
- 1). Determine the site where you'll be using and storing the defibrillator. Will it be primarily for home use? Will it be kept in a dusty or damp area, or used outdoors? Will it be used on children?
- 2). Ask your physician which AEDs he would recommend for you and your specific needs.
- 3). Research the various kinds of AEDs on the market by doing an Internet search or by reading brochures. Choose one that is "user friendly." The AED should have a clearly marked "ON" button, a status indicator that is easy to monitor and which tells you when the AED is ready to use.
- 4). Check each AED's International Protection Rating by going to http://www.aeduniverse.com/AED_Buyers_Guide_s/96.htm. The IP rating tells you how resistant the AED is to particulate contamination and to water.
- 5). Compare features such as ease of operation, reliability, size, medical technology, water resistance, and cost. Check if the AED is fully automatic, if there have been any recalls on a particular model, its battery capacity, how effective the first shock is, if it detects pacemakers, if you can use it on children and its energy level. Check warranties on the AED and on its battery.
To compare these features on the most well-known brands of AEDs, go to AED Universe:
http://www.compareaed.eu/product_comparison.php?lang=en&id1=&id2=&id3=#