AEDs and maintaining them

We are all aware that AEDs can save lives if used quickly enough in an emergency.

Imagine a scenario where a colleague suffers a ‘SCA’ (serious cardiac arrest), and you quickly grab the AED to assist them, only to find that the device is malfunctioning.

If you perform weekly and monthly checks, the equipment will most likely work correctly.

Detecting and correcting faults early will help ensure failures remain extremely rare.

By having and maintaining AEDs, you can catch issues before they become serious problems.

Did you know that AEDs do self diagnostics

AEDs perform a series of self-diagnostic checks to detect problems or faults.

The AED checks the battery’s state and condition, the software’s functionality, and any connectivity issues.

If everything is in order, it will shut down until the next diagnostic check.

Whatever model of AED you have, it will notify you that a self-diagnostic check has failed.

An audible beep, similar to a smoke alarm when the battery is low, or the pads are out of date.

Some will display a flashing light to indicate that the diagnostic check failed, while others will display both.

As a result, installing and maintaining AEDs is essential.

Check your AED(s) weekly and document that they are functioning properly without any faults. If you discover a fault, correct it immediately.

Batteries do run down over time

AEDs perform regular self-diagnostics to ensure that all systems function properly.

They power up, perform diagnostics, and enter standby mode if no faults are detected.

AEDs perform regular self-diagnostics to ensure that all systems function properly.

If there are no faults, they power up, run the diagnostics, and then switch to standby mode.

As previously stated, they will notify you if they discover any faults.

Batteries don’t last forever, so you should replace them every 3–5 years.

It’s wise to keep a spare set of batteries in a safe, room-temperature location, ready for use as needed.

Make sure to reset the AED after replacing the batteries to ensure that it recognises the new batteries.

You would be surprised at how many people do not reset the AED according to the manufacturer’s instructions and assume the batteries are faulty when they aren’t.

We at Warwickshire First Aid Training occasionally receive calls reporting that the AED we provided is malfunctioning.

When we ask if they have pressed the reset button, they often say no.

To find replacement batteries for your AED, consult the manufacturer’s handbook.

Electrode Pads need checking too

You must replace the single-use electrode pads.

You should install a new set, as they come sealed in protective packaging.

Check the cables before placing the pads in the AED container.

Replace damaged pads.

Having a spare set or two of electrode pads in a safe place will keep the AED ready to use.

You have an accessory pack too.

You get an accessory pack inside your AED.

Inside, you will find a single-use safety razor designed to remove excess body hair before applying the pads. You will also find round-nose scissors to remove clothing, as you need to apply the pads to bare skin.

If the skin is damp due to sweat or water, use a towel to dry the area off before applying the pads.

The accessory pack includes CPR face shields that enable mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while serving as a protective barrier.

You must inspect and replace the accessory pack after use.

AED warranty

Warranties range from three to five years, depending on the AED model on site.

The manufacturer, which will have an approved list of service agents, will work with you to schedule a visit to service your AED after the warranty expires.

You can see why it is now beneficial to regularly check and maintain your AEDs so they are ready for use in an emergency.

AED training

With each AED, we can set it up for you and provide training for up to 12 staff members on its use in an emergency.

This training takes approximately 3 hours to complete, and your colleagues will receive an Ofqual-approved QNUK Level 3 Award in Responding to Incidents with an AED (RQF) certificate, valid for one year.

All work-based first aid courses, including Emergency First Aid at Work and First Aid at Work, incorporate AED training as standard.

These certifications are valid for three years and comply with the Resuscitation Council UK guidelines and HSE (First Aid) guidelines as well.

Conclusion

Regularly checking your AED ensures its functionality when needed.

It all comes down to having AEDs, maintaining them, and correcting faults discovered during self-diagnostic checks.

It is wise to have the AED serviced regularly by the manufacturer or their authorised service providers.