When purchasing items, shoppers will often compare several similar products before eventually deciding which one is best for them. In the case of medical equipment, consistently selecting the right equipment can impact patients’ well-being or even their survival. Because Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) are life-saving devices, it is crucial that facilities obtain an AED that will work best for the establishment’s unique requirements. Evaluate the following criteria as a guide to finding the right AED for your organization’s needs.

Efficacy

Research potential purchases. If a particular brand or model has a history of breakdowns, consider purchasing a different product. On the general market, a shopper would have difficulty finding a product rated at 99% reliability, and customers often flock to such items, but for an AED, 99% is unacceptably low. One malfunction could mean the difference between life and death, so be sure to choose a reliable AED.

Manufacturer Support

When determining a vendor or manufacturer, consider both customer service and scheduled/unscheduled maintenance. Is the company easy to work with? What maintenance do they recommend or include? How will they handle a situation that requires unscheduled maintenance? In the event of such repairs, consider whether or not the distributor offers on-site repairs or loaner models. Although good support may cost a little more initially, it will likely pay for itself on account of time and convenience.

Ease of Use

In order to use a new AED, staff should be trained to do so. One medical professional insists that defibrillator instructions should be simple enough that the average person can easily understand them.Before purchasing an AED, consider the ease or difficulty of training and certification courses for the device. Does the packaging include helpful instructions? The storage display must be able to mount in an easily-accessible location and be highly visible. 

Both medical and non-medical facilities can benefit from an AED and are often legally required to have one or more on site. When the time comes to replace an existing AED or to order additional units, be sure to order the one that is the best fit for your company. The American Heart Association does not endorse or recommend any one product, but by following the steps above, you can approach the AED-buying process with confidence.

Discover top-rated AEDs from your favorite brands at Coast Biomedical. For more information about AEDs and other emergency medical equipment, browse our blog or contact us at info@coastbiomed.com