An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a sophisticated medical device used to analyze the heart’s rhythm and deliver an electrical shock to a person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Functional readiness is paramount because every minute without defibrillation significantly decreases the chance of survival. An AED that is not properly maintained quickly becomes non-functional, potentially turning a life-saving opportunity into a tragedy. Establishing a strict, multi-tiered maintenance schedule is a foundational necessity to ensure the device is prepared to perform when an emergency occurs.
Quick Daily and Weekly Visual Checks
The simplest maintenance checks are performed frequently and require no specialized technical knowledge, allowing any designated staff member to perform them quickly. The most immediate sign of readiness is the status indicator light, which should display a solid or flashing green light or an equivalent “ready” symbol. This confirms the device has passed its internal self-test. If the indicator shows a red “X” or emits a chirping sound, the device requires immediate attention and troubleshooting according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
These quick inspections also involve confirming the AED is physically accessible and visible in its designated location. Ensure there are no obstructions blocking the pathway to the cabinet or wall mount. A brief check should also confirm the presence of the rescue kit, which is often stored alongside the device. This kit typically contains items necessary for preparation, such as a razor for clearing chest hair, scissors to cut clothing, and gloves for personal protection.
Detailed Monthly Readiness Audits
Monthly inspections transition from simple visual confirmation to a more hands-on audit of the device’s critical components to ensure sustained operational capacity. The most important task is verifying the expiration dates on the electrode pads and the standby battery, as both components have a finite shelf life. Electrode pads are sealed to maintain the conductive gel, and this seal or the gel itself will expire, typically within two years.
The AED’s power source, whether a battery pack or a set of proprietary cells, must also be checked against its replacement date, which ranges from two to five years depending on the manufacturer and model. Note that the installed battery often has a separate expiration date from any spare battery kept with the unit. The monthly check is the ideal time to verify that the AED has successfully completed its automated internal self-tests, which assess circuitry, software, and capacitor function.
This audit should include manually checking the device’s physical integrity for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the casing or loose connections. Every monthly inspection must be meticulously recorded in a maintenance log, noting the status of consumables, the readiness indicator, and the date of the check. Proper documentation ensures a clear history of maintenance and provides proof of compliance with an established readiness protocol.
Professional Annual Inspection and Compliance
While internal checks maintain day-to-day readiness, a comprehensive annual inspection by a qualified service technician or the manufacturer is necessary to ensure the long-term efficiency and regulatory compliance of the AED. This professional service goes beyond simple visual checks to perform deeper diagnostic testing on the device’s internal electrical and mechanical components. The technician can verify the accuracy of the defibrillation energy delivery, a critical test that cannot be performed by non-specialized personnel.
Annual servicing is also the appropriate time for any necessary software or firmware updates, which are often released by manufacturers to enhance performance or address known issues. As AEDs are classified as Class III medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, they are subject to stringent regulatory oversight concerning safety and effectiveness. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is a fundamental part of upholding these federal standards.
The annual review also addresses the regulatory landscape, which often includes local health and safety standards or state-specific mandates for AED program management. Maintaining detailed, up-to-date documentation of all maintenance, replacements, and staff training is necessary to demonstrate adherence to these requirements. A professional annual inspection ensures the device meets all required operational readiness standards and provides the necessary paperwork for compliance audits, mitigating potential liability concerns.