The survival chances for sudden cardiac arrest are less than 10%.
If you were thinking about renting or buying an AED, I bet this statistic crossed your mind a lot-wow, scary indeed!
More than 90%, amply demonstrating the slight chance of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest.
In fact, shocking-we can change that figure with a little bit of education to the people on how to respond properly in such an emergency.
From 10% to 74% is a big increase just by having the defibrillator on hand!
Such are life-saving tools and they, fortunately, require little maintenance. "Little maintenance" is not synonymous with "no maintenance."
Since this may not really be at the top of your daily checks, it's good to have a 6-point maintenance checklist for the AED.
This way, you will know for sure your AED will be in working order when the time comes to reach for it.
After all, the last thing you expect to find in an emergency is, "Oops! This machine isn't ready to use"!
6-Step AED Maintenance Check
1. Check the Active Status Indicator: It Should Be Flashing Green
The Active Status Indicator (ASI) is a very small light placed in the upper part of the AED.
It flashes green in order to indicate readiness for use.
If the ASI is continuously flashing red, then the AED needs to be turned on.
Thereafter, it will provide a voice prompt guiding what to do next.
If, however, the indicator isn't flashing at all, the most likely explanation for this is that the battery could be dead.
Even with long-lasting AED batteries, there comes a time when they die.
This suggestion supports the initiating of constant reviews.
The already replaced battery would result in the ASI flashing green again. If not, then the battery pack is probably defective and will need to be replaced.
2. Check the AED and Accessories:
AEDs are very durable, though strong, but need a rigorous checking once in a while to ensure their functional condition remains at optimum.
Over time dirt and dust may accumulate, especially around the battery compartment and within the connector socket, mainly if the AED is frequently used.
Ensure a thorough examination of the device to find any cracks, damages, or dirt accumulation in its connection socket and the joints need to be given much focus.
If you find some visible damage on the unit, stop using it immediately and contact your service team for repair assistance.
3. Check the Defibrillation Pads:
Defibrillation pads have an expiration date, which you can find on the package label.
Never use expired pads or ones with damaged or torn packaging.
Also, avoid opening the package until the pads are needed.
Carefully inspect the pads and cables.
Make sure the connector end of the cable is properly plugged into the AED pad connector port, usually located in the corner of the device.
If you notice broken cables, cuts, or any damage or if the pads are expired or have been opened replace them immediately.
4. Check the Battery Pack Expiration Date:
Look for a white label on the right side of the battery pack that’s where you’ll find its expiration date.
While the AED has a self-test function that regularly checks battery levels, it’s still important to replace expired battery packs to keep the device ready for use.
Lifeline battery packs are easy to install and include a separate 9V lithium battery.
This smaller battery powers the AED’s self-test feature and the active status indicator.
5. Check the Lifeline Data Card (If installed):
If your AED has a data card, first check that it is properly installed.
To access it, you’ll need to remove the battery pack. Press the eject button on the side of the AED to take out the battery.
The data card is located in a slot right above the battery compartment.
To remove the data card, press it all the way in and then release it. This will cause it to partially eject, allowing you to pull it out completely.
To install a new Lifeline Data Card, insert it into the thin slot above the battery pack with the label facing up.
Push it in until it clicks into place and sits flush with the slot’s surface.
The data card must be replaced every time the AED is used.
6. Record Your Inspection on the AED Inspection Tag:
Regular checks are important, but they’re only useful if they’re properly recorded.
The inspection tag serves as a quick reference to show that the AED is safe to use when needed.
This tag keeps a record of past inspections and provides a clear status of maintenance checks, including expiration dates for defibrillator pads and batteries.
After completing your inspection, make sure to update the tag.
Since AEDs are designed for anyone to use even a child or an untrained bystander it’s crucial to keep this record up to date.
This ensures the device is always ready and safe in an emergency.
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