Easiest AED to Use
When an emergency occurs, you want to make sure that your AED is easy to use. If you are stuck trying to figure out how to use it then precious time is wasted. You need to be able to pull out the device, turn it on, apply the pads, and administer shocks with ease. The question then becomes, which is the simplest to use? Before you purchase your AED, you need to consider this crucial question to ensure that you buy an AED that will save time – not waste it. Here is a comparison of popular AED brands and which is the easiest AED to use!
HeartSine Samaritan PAD AED
The HeartSine Samaritan PAD AED is one of the smallest AEDs available. Its compact size makes it perfect to transport from point A to point B without struggle. Along with its small size, the AED is fairly straightforward to use – simply pressing the green on-button will turn it on, which will cue further instructions. The voice instructions are clear and efficiently identified so that no critical step is missed in the emergency assistance process.
Although this AED is uncomplicated, it does have the drawback of taking longer to retrieve the pads. The pads are stored in a compartment on the bottom of the AED that is only accessible after a green tab is pulled. The pad tray is then removed from the machine, a cover needs to be ripped off, and the pads then can be removed from the storage unit. This may not seem like a drawback, but every second is crucial in an emergency! Ease of pad access is an important trait you want in your AED!
Defibtech Lifeline AED
The Defibtech Lifeline AED is built with simplicity in mind. They wanted to create a defibrillator that was easy to use and worked efficiently. The machine has understandable voice-activated instructions that guide you through the process of administering shocks and performing CPR. The machine itself has very few buttons or screens on it, allowing the person using the machine to be able to quickly find the button needed. There are 3 small lights that identify which step you are on, making it simple for the individual using the machine.
The one issue that is seen with using this AED is also the location of the pads. Although all of the buttons and lights are located on the face of the AED, the pads are only retrieved from a pocket on the back of the machine. This is a drawback to the AED usage process as it requires the user to flip over the AED while it is in use. It is necessary for the main device to be flipped over, retrieve the pad package from a small pocket on the back, and then tear open the sealed package to remove the pads. These extra steps do not make it the easiest AED to use as, in an emergency, you want to eliminate as many steps as possible! Although this AED program is easy to follow, the layout of the machine is less ideal.
Zoll AED Plus
If you see a bright green AED, you know it is a Zoll! This brightly coloured AED is priced in the mid-range and is marketed for beginners. The design of the machine was made so that those with no AED experience would be able to work and understand the device. It is for this reason that there are more voice prompts than other AED options. The device takes the time to remind the first responder to call for help, asking if the person in need is responsive, etc. The time delay between these reminders and actual administration of shocks can add up. The individual is in need of oxygen to their brain, and every second of delay could lead to permanent brain damage or even death.
In addition, Zoll created AED pads that are all connected (1 large combined Z-shaped pad instead of 2 separate pads). This unique pad layout is different compared to other popular AED brands. Instead of two separate attachable pads, the Zoll AED has a ‘Z’ shaped large pad. Once placed on the individual in need, the pads are supposed to have the perfect placement. Some find this pre-placement layout is beneficial to quickly equipping the AED to the individual in need. There is the problem, however, of the pads being harder to handle because of the size, and the issue of them becoming tangled up. Pads need to be applied as soon as possible so that the AED can read for an irregular heartbeat and assess if shocks are required. No time should be wasted trying to attach pads.
Cardiac Science Powerheart G3 AED
Another popular option is the Cardiac Science Powerheart G3 AED. This device is the easiest AED to use second to the Philips Onsite AED (see next section). Cardiac Science is similar to the Philips defibrillator in that it is not difficult to use and has self-checking features. The layout is also similar to that of the Philips Onsite AED, with the pads accessible on the front. The main difference between these two life-saving machines is the size.
The Cardiac Science Powerheart G3 AED is one of the largest AEDs. Double the weight of the Philips Onsite AED, the Cardiac Science AED is the second largest defibrillator available (the first largest being the Zoll AED). This may cause accessibility issues for some using the AED depending on where it needs to be transported. As well, it is more difficult for a child to use the AED as they may not have the strength to remove the AED from its hanging place on the wall. An AED should be effortless for anyone to use – adult, child, elder, everyone! When the size limits the amount of people who can help, it is not the most functional to use after all.
Philips Onsite AED
Of all of the Philips life-saving machines, the Philips Onsite AED is the best and uncomplicated one to use. This compact and light-weight device is perfect for storing in a number of locations – the office, a small store, board room, café, etc.! What makes the Onsite AED so functional is the layout and storage of all the accessories. The battery is safely secured on the back of the device and the SMART pads are directly on the front. Unlike other AEDs, you only have to pull of the tab on the front to access the pads (which are already plugged in to the machine).
Of all life-saving devices, the Philips Onsite is the easiest AED to use. Everything is accessible on the device (no hidden compartments) and the voice-activated instructions (for administrating shocks as well as CPR instructions) are quick and clear. Once you turn on the machine, the AED will immediately begin to give you straightforward directions. This device has been made so that even a child could use it! No experience is necessary to use this device. You want a defibrillator that can explain what to do and is simple to use with no hassle involved! That is why the Philips Onsite AED is the easiest AED to use and should be your first choice!
Now that you know the differences between the uses of each AED brand, consider purchasing a Onsite AED for your location. With the efficient layout, compact size, and easy to follow instructions, this is the easiest AED to use! Purchase yours today and be prepared for any heart-related emergency! It could be just the thing to save a life.
When it comes to AEDs, there isn’t just one type of defibrillator (unlike what we are led to believe on television shows!). See how the different types of AEDs are used and where they can be found!
Image Sources:
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