An AED, automatic external defibrillator is the only defibrillator that is approved for use by the lay public by the FDA; all other types require expertise that lay people are not expected to have. Philips Heartstart FRX defibrillators work very much like any device which has been approved by the FDA; they must be simple and require no specific medical knowledge. When a victim falls to sudden cardiac arrest, anyone with access to an AED should be able to give assistance, once the pads have been properly placed, the machine will take over.
Once the pads have been stuck in placed, one on the chest close to the right shoulder and the other on the left side of the chest at about the bottom of the rib cage the AED
- Analyses the rhythm of the heart
- Determine if an electrical shock is appropriate or not, if it is it will
- Charge the device
- Prompt the user to tell every to step back, including himself and
- Press the button to deliver the shock
AEDs are used in homes, places where large numbers of people gather and by first responders. First responders and homeowners are trained in the use of the AED, as are some personnel that are associated with schools, airports, train stations and other places where people congregate. Those who have been trained in the use of the AED are usually adept with its use; however, there will be situations where only an untrained layman is close enough to respond to the emergency. This being the case, it is important that the device be user friendly under an emergency situation. For those who are charged with the responsibility of purchasing AEDs, the ability for the machine to be used by those who have not received training is very important, as is the likelihood of the machine working as it should years after installation as well as the cost and the maintenance costs.
The Philips Heartstart FRX is an AED which meets these criteria, prompts are verbal; they are clear and concise so no errors will happen. These devices have self diagnosis capabilities and can be set to perform this function daily, weekly or monthly. If the maintenance personnel see a green light, the device is working properly, if a problem is detected the light changes to red.
