AED Buying Guide: How to Improve First Aid Success Rates and Ensure Reliability

In a cardiac arrest emergency, every second counts. According to first aid research, the chance of successful survival using cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) alone is only approximately 3% to 4%. However, if an automated external defibrillator (AED) is used within the first minute of onset, the survival rate can be increased to over 90%. This demonstrates the AED's superior first aid capabilities, making it an indispensable device in emergency care. In recent years, the incidence of sudden heart attacks has gradually decreased, leading to an increasing demand for AEDs. The Fire Services Department has actively promoted AEDs and trained the public in their use, as most AEDs today are equipped with voice prompts, allowing anyone to use the device quickly, correctly, and confidently in an emergency. At the same time, participating in professional training courses will help users effectively improve the rescue success rate.

Reliability of heart machines

When choosing an AED, reliability is key . While many standard AEDs may perform a self-check once a week, ideally, a device should perform a self-check daily to ensure the battery, electrodes, and system are always in good condition, ensuring they are always ready for use. This regular checkup significantly improves reliability during emergency situations.

Selection of electrode

When choosing electrodes , it's crucial to select non-polarized electrodes. This design allows users to quickly and accurately apply the electrodes to the patient's chest, eliminating the need to consider polarity. Studies have shown that non-polarized electrodes can reduce operational errors caused by incorrect application, thereby improving safety. The simplified operating process allows anyone to confidently use an AED in an emergency.

How the Heart Rescue Machine Works

The basic function of an AED is to analyze the patient's cardiac electrical activity and determine whether a shock is needed to restore a normal heart rhythm. Another factor in improving patient survival is intelligently regulated shock volume . An ideal AED would automatically adjust the current output based on the patient's body resistance to maximize the effectiveness of the emergency. While this technology is not widely used, brands such as Cardiac Science's G5 heart-saving device are excellent examples of devices that incorporate this feature.

Semi-automatic heart-saving machine displayed by ECG

For professionals who know how to read electrocardiograms (ECGs), a semi-automatic heart-saving device with an ECG display is very useful. This allows the operator to determine the optimal time to provide emergency treatment based on ECG status, providing greater protection for the patient.

The importance of multilingual functionality

In Hong Kong, a city with a vibrant mix of Chinese and international communities, an ideal AED should feature real-time language switching . This not only facilitates quick comprehension of instructions for users of different languages, but also effectively improves the efficiency and success rate of first aid.

Cardiac Science G5 AED

Considerations for purchasing a heart-saving device

When choosing an AED, consider the following:

1. Fully automatic or semi-automatic mode. If you have learned to use a heart-saving device, you can choose according to your knowledge and experience;

2. The ideal frequency of self-testing is daily;

3. Clear voice instructions and status reminders help users operate calmly under pressure.

   
   

The key to improving your chances of survival

In short, choosing a reliable and intelligent AED device, along with proper operation and maintenance, is key to improving the survival rate of cardiac arrest patients. If you're looking for a suitable AED, HK Rescue Solutions specializes in providing advanced AED products and training services. Feel free to contact us and work together to build the strongest line of defense for you.

Need more details or guidance on how to save your heart? We are always waiting for you! 😊