A cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) manikin is a specialized training aid designed to simulate the human body for practicing life-saving techniques. These devices allow students to perform chest compressions and rescue breaths. The cost of a CPR manikin varies based on its size, features, and intended use, ranging from small, basic models to sophisticated, high-fidelity simulators.
Pricing Based on Manikin Type and Size
The most basic factor determining a manikin’s price is its size and physical form, which correspond to the age of the patient being simulated. A standard adult torso manikin, which includes the head, chest, and airway system for compression and ventilation practice, typically represents the entry point for professional training equipment. These basic, non-electronic adult torso models generally range from about $130 to $325 per unit. This design focuses strictly on the mechanical requirements of CPR, such as correct chest depth and recoil.
Full-body manikins, which are necessary for practicing patient transport and complete rescue scenarios, are significantly more expensive. An adult full-body manikin can cost over $1,400 due to the added materials and articulated joints required for realistic handling and positioning. These models are often utilized in advanced courses that integrate trauma or rescue training.
Infant manikins are the smallest and generally have a slightly lower price point than their adult counterparts. A personal-use infant kit, often used for at-home training, can be acquired for as little as $45. However, professional-grade infant manikins, which feature a durable build and realistic chest compliance for pediatric compressions, usually start around $170 to $210 for a single unit. Child or pediatric manikins, which represent a school-aged child, are priced between infant and adult models, reflecting their intermediate size and complexity.
Technology and Features That Impact Cost
Beyond the physical form, the inclusion of technology creates the most significant price differences between manikins of the same size. Basic models rely on the instructor to visually assess the student’s technique, but modern manikins incorporate feedback systems to provide immediate, objective performance data. Entry-level feedback often includes simple mechanical clicks to confirm proper compression depth or a series of lights to indicate the correct compression rate. These basic electronic monitors can add $50 to $100 to the manikin’s cost.
A major increase in price is driven by high-fidelity systems, such as QCPR technology. This specialized technology uses internal sensors and connects via Bluetooth to an external tablet or smartphone application. The app provides real-time tracking of compression rate, depth, full chest recoil, and ventilation volume, giving students and instructors detailed metrics for improvement. For example, a single adult manikin equipped with QCPR technology often costs between $310 and $400.
These high-tech units are frequently purchased in multi-packs or training kits, which offer a cost savings compared to buying individual units. A family pack, containing adult, child, and infant manikins all equipped with QCPR, may cost around $890. Training organizations also benefit from the purchase of four-packs of adult manikins with feedback monitors, which are priced around $750. The durability and material quality also play a role, as hospital-grade or trauma-ready manikins built to withstand extensive use and specialized procedures command a higher price than economy models intended for occasional use.
Ongoing and Associated Ownership Costs
Ongoing ownership requires the regular replacement of consumable components. The most frequently replaced items are the face shield/lung bags, which ensure hygienic practice and proper ventilation simulation. These lung bags are designed for single-session use and are typically sold in bulk packs for training efficiency.
A pack of 24 replacement lung bags for an adult manikin can cost around $130. Beyond the lung bags, other consumables include sanitization wipes, which are used to clean the manikin’s face and chest area between users to maintain hygiene standards.
Electronic manikins also require periodic battery replacement or recharging, which is a supplementary cost for maintaining the functionality of the feedback systems. Accessories such as dedicated carry bags or training mats are often needed to protect the equipment and facilitate transport, adding to the overall cost.