A. AEDs are designed for use by anyone as they offer audible and visual prompts to guide the responder through an emergency. If it is possible to train responders then it would of course be beneficial. Training helps to familiarise potential users with how to react to cardiac arrest victims and what to expect from a defib unit. Within an organisation it is common to have selected members of staff trained to use defibs in case of an emergency. At The Defib Pad we offer certificated defib training courses at over 200 nationwide centres.
A. If you provide a defibrillator in your workplace, you have an obligation to train staff on how to use it. DefibPad offers small group defibrillator training courses at your site anywhere in the UK. Alternatively, defibrillator training can be carried out by a competent trainer if you have one in-house. Use of training defibrillators allows members of your team to see, feel and hear the defib in action. The only difference between the trainer unit and a real model is that the trainer unit won't ever deliver a shock.
A. Where to store a defibrillator requires you to consider accessibility, visibility and protection. In an emergency, a defibrillator should always be easy to locate and access, and ready for operation. If storing a defibrillator indoors, you can choose from a range of wall mounted cabinets or brackets. If the defibrillator is being stored outdoors, you will require an outdoor heated cabinet as defibrillators need a temperature controlled environment.
A. Defibrillators can be used more than once. After use, you will need to replace the defibrillator pads in order to use it again.
A. How long a defbrillator last varies from model to model. Most AEDs will be supplied with warranties spanning from 5 to 10 years but the actual life expectancy of most defib units will be 10 years. The amount that your defib is used or the conditions that it is exposed to will have an impact on the defibrillators life.
A. Buying a defibrillator can feel like a tough decision. It is a product that is still relatively unknown and can be fairly intimidating when researching.
There are two key things to remember; firstly, who is the proposed user of the defib and will they need training? Do your staff already have a higher level of medical training? If your staff are not medical professionals then a fully automatic unit would be most appropriate. If you feel your staff would be better equipped with some prior knowledge and hands on experience, then training may be beneficial.
Secondly, if you have no idea what a defibrillator unit is, who would use it, why you would need one, where it should be stored, or anything else defib related then please do give us a call. Our staff are trained and competent in our product range so can offer a wealth of knowledge to assist you in making a decision.