Choosing the Right External Defibrillator

There are two main types of defibrillators: semi-automatic defibrillators and fully automatic defibrillators. Both emit voice instructions that guide the user, step by step, through the entire process (performing cardiac massage, positioning electrodes, etc.).

• Semi-automatic external defibrillators: The specificity of semi-automatic defibrillators is that the electric shock is only applied when the user presses a button at the request of the device that has identified that this is necessary.

Semi-automatic external defibrillator

• Automatic external defibrillators (AEDs): With automatic defibrillators, the shock is sent directly from the device when it identifies it as necessary, without user intervention.

Automatic external defibrillator

When choosing a defibrillator, it’s important to take several factors into account, such as how easy the device is to use, whether or not it has Wi-Fi connectivity, its size, durability, reliability, speed, and cost.

• Ease of use: It is crucial to choose a defibrillator with simple icons/images and understandable verbal instructions. Clear visual and audio cues help users stay focused.
  Preferably choose a device with automatic assistance features. Certain defibrillators can be configured to automatically alert the user as soon as the device is ready to apply the first electrical discharge.

• Wi-Fi connectivity: Some defibrillator models have this very useful feature, which allows first responders to access precise cardiac arrest data before they even arrive at the scene. This way, they can see the details of the shocks administered and view the patient’s electrocardiogram (ECG).

• Size and durability: Most public places have a small defibrillator, which can be installed and used even when space is limited. It is recommended to choose a device with an IP56 rating, the highest degree of protection against dust and water for these devices, to ensure greater durability.

• Reliability and operability: The reliability of the defibrillator is crucial to guarantee its correct operation in emergencies. As such, it is of the utmost importance to choose devices from renowned brands in the field of cardiology. Sometimes, when it comes time to use the defibrillator, the battery isn’t charged or in place. To avoid this type of problem, you can opt for a connected model or one with automatic alarms, which will issue a warning if the device is not operational (dead battery, missing electrodes, malfunction, etc.).

• Speed: You should opt for a device that starts up and charges quickly, i.e. that is ready to deliver the defibrillation shock in the shortest possible time.
  

• Cost: In addition to the price of the defibrillator, it is important to take into account the cost of maintaining the device and the price of consumables (see question 5).
  

To use a defibrillator, you need consumables such as a battery and paddles (electrodes). It is essential to regularly check the stock of these consumables to ensure that the defibrillator is always operational.

• Battery: The battery in a defibrillator lasts an average of five years. It must be recharged after each use so that the device is always in working order.

• Paddles/electrodes: The paddles are used to measure the heart rate and deliver electric shocks. They are disposable, which means they must be replaced immediately after each procedure. They have a lifespan of two to five years. If they are not used, they must be replaced when they reach their expiration date. For children up to eight years old and weighing less than 25 kg, child paddles should be used.

Electrodes for defibrillators

According to Regulation (EU) 2017/745 for medical devices, only CE-marked defibrillators can be marketed in Europe. Defibrillators are class III devices.

In the United States, defibrillators have to be approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

In many countries, such as France, the law requires establishments that receive the public to have an external defibrillator.

An automatic external defibrillator will cost:

• between 400 and 1,500 euros for adult models.
• between 400 and 2,000 euros for models that can be used for both adults and children.
• between 300 and 1,200 euros for training defibrillators (for fire stations, first aid training centers, and other certified entities).
• around 300 euros for a pocket defibrillator.

Replacing the paddles/electrodes and the battery can cost between 25 and 350 euros, depending on the defibrillator model.

As a general rule, you don’t need to be a healthcare professional to use a defibrillator – anyone can.

Combined with cardiac massage,  a defibrillator substantially increases the chances of survival of a person in cardiopulmonary arrest. Therefore, the most important thing is for anyone who witnesses the event to quickly start the process and follow the instructions given by the defibrillator to the letter.

Although it is not essential to be trained to use an AED, it is recommended, because a person who knows how to use the device will be able to intervene more quickly and effectively in a real emergency, while waiting for an ambulance.