An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a life-saving medical device used to restart the heart during sudden cardiac arrest. The device’s functionality depends entirely on proper maintenance and the timely replacement of its components. A non-functional device is useless in an emergency, so understanding the replacement schedules for the AED and its accessories is essential.
Understanding AED Consumables: Pads and Batteries
The most frequent replacement tasks involve the device’s consumables: the electrode pads and the battery. Electrode pads typically have a shelf life ranging from 18 to 30 months, though some manufacturers offer pads that last up to five years. The expiration date is necessary because the pads contain a conductive hydrogel that is applied to the skin to ensure proper electrical transfer. Over time, this gel naturally dries out, reducing adhesion and electrical conductivity. This degradation compromises the device’s ability to deliver an effective shock.
Pads must be replaced immediately after any use, even if no shock was delivered. Owners must also monitor expiration dates for both adult and pediatric pads, as they serve different patient populations and require separate tracking.
The AED battery is another component with a finite lifespan requiring scheduled replacement. Most batteries are designed to last between two and five years in standby mode, but this varies widely by manufacturer and model. Owners should always follow the manufacturer’s specific guidelines for replacement. Replacement should occur before the printed expiration date on the battery, ensuring maximum capacity is available for a rescue. Environmental factors like extreme temperatures can also shorten battery life.
Determining the Lifespan of the AED Unit
The main AED hardware unit has a defined service life, typically between five and ten years, which often aligns with the manufacturer’s warranty. This lifespan is determined by the manufacturer’s expected service life and the technological obsolescence of the internal components.
Even if the battery and pads are current, the device may require replacement if it reaches its “end of life” determination. This occurs when the manufacturer can no longer supply repair parts or when the technology becomes outdated. For example, modern AEDs use biphasic waveforms, which are more effective than older monophasic technology. Replacing the unit due to obsolescence ensures the device incorporates the latest advancements, such as improved shock delivery algorithms and enhanced voice prompts, meeting current resuscitation guidelines.
Mandatory Readiness Checks and Documentation
Maintaining an AED requires a consistent schedule of checks to ensure the device is always ready for a rescue. Most manufacturers recommend performing a quick visual inspection daily or weekly, primarily checking the device’s status indicator light. A green or blinking light signals that the AED has successfully passed its internal self-tests and is operational.
Monthly checks should be more comprehensive, verifying that the electrode pads are sealed and the battery is properly installed. Owners must maintain an official log or documentation system to track all maintenance activities. This log should record the installation and expiration dates for all pads and batteries, along with the results of the periodic readiness checks. Detailed documentation is often required by regulatory bodies and helps ensure compliance, protecting the owner by demonstrating that the device was maintained according to manufacturer specifications.