Compare AEDs

• 1). Research AEDs currently available by doing an Internet search.
  
  
• 2). Review the literature on AEDs.
  
  
• 3). Compare the features of the AEDs.
  
  
• 4). Decide whether a semi-automatic or a fully automatic AED is best for your particular situation. A semi-automatic AED requires the user to press a shock button. If a user hesitates to push the shock button, she loses precious time. Semi-automatic AEDs involve multiple buttons, making its use complicated. Fully automatic AEDs are best for public access and for users concerned with ease of operation under stressful conditions.
  
  
• 5). Select an AED that has pacemaker detection technology.
  
  
• 6). If an AED might be used on children under the age of nine, select an AED with specific pediatric electrodes.
  
  
• 7). Evaluate the cost of the AED by taking into account not only the initial purchase price but also the cost and frequency of battery changes, the warranty on the AED and the warranty on the AED battery.
  
  

Reliability

• 1). Select an AED with a minimum Ingress Protection rating of IP X4 if someone may use the defibrillator outside. The first number of an IP rating indicates how resistant an AED is to partial contamination. The second number of an IP rating indicates how resistant the AED is to water.
  
  
• 2). Select an AED equipped with automatic self-tests. Most AEDs are inactive for long periods of time. Automatic self-tests on electrodes, batteries, capacitors, software and electronics are necessary to ensure that the AED will operate properly when needed.
  
  
• 3). Select an AED that has a battery capacity of no less than 4 Ah. If the AED will be placed outside in freezing temperatures, select an AED with the highest battery capacity available.