There are several different types of AED
We’ve reviewed all AEDs and have chosen to bring you this selection, which we feel are the best available
These recommended defibrillators all have the following features:
Provide a shock to the patient either at the press of a button or automatically
Perform self-tests to let you know if the device is ready for use
Have voice instructions to guide the rescuer through every step
Have a long-lasting battery life, requiring very little maintenance
Semi-Automatic or Fully Automatic?
Defibrillators are available either as semi-automatic or fully automatic. The difference is that semi-automatic require a button for the rescuer to push if a shock is required. A fully automatic defibrillator does not require a button to be pressed and will shock the patient if a shockable heart rhythm is detected. All other functions remain the same between the two types.
Semi-Automatic AED
A semi-automatic defibrillator advises the user that a shock is required. It guides the rescuer through the process and when to push the flashing shock button. This provides the rescuer with control over when the shock is administered. This can be desirable as it allows the rescuer to ensure nobody is in contact with the patient when the shock is administered. An AED will not shock a patient unless a shockable heart rhythm is detected, but it does not know if someone else is in contact with the patient.
Fully-Automatic AED
A fully-automatic defibrillator will automatically administer the shock when needed. Once the pads have been put in place on the patient these defibrillators will give verbal instructions to stop CPR and gives a countdown to ensure no one is touching the patient.
ZOLL AED 3® Semi-Automatic Defibrillator, with WiFi connectivity to link with PlusTrac AED programme management system
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Cardiac Science Powerheart® G5 AED Fully-Automatic Defibrillator with Pads and equipped with Intellisense™ CPR Device
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Which type of defibrillator do I need?
When deciding on an AED, the key questions you need to ask yourself is who may potentially use your AED should the need arise. This is most likely your designated workplace first aider.
Have the people who may need to use it received training?
If trained, they the user will more likely to be comfortable using a semi-automatic AED
Is the user likely to tense up in a crisis or will they remain calm?
If the user is a trained first aider then they have been trained to perform first aid tasks without panicking
Will the AED be in a public place where anyone could use it?
If yes, it may be best to opt for a fully-automatic model so any member of the public can use it
Other defibrillator resources:
How to use a
defibrillator?
Read resource
What is an
AED?
Read resource
