It Is Not Enough To Install AEDs: To Save Lives In Florida, AEDs Must Be Properly Maintained.

Since 1997, Florida law has required that automated external defibrillators (AEDs) be installed in certain public locations such as senior centers, medical offices, and schools in order to save the lives of those suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. However, even when AEDs are installed, a lack of proper maintenance may prevent them from being used to save lives.

One study found that less than 10% of AED owners regularly test and maintain their AED and replace the batteries in the time period indicated by the manufacturer’s instructions. .

Although AEDs may go unused for years before being needed to save a life, they must be checked each day. This ensures that when the AED is needed, it is operable.

AED Maintenance

Electrodes - The electrodes should be sealed in their package. If the package is not sealed, the electrode adhesive can dry out and this will prevent the device from operating correctly. The AED monitor senses the heart rhythm through the electrode pads, and if the monitor can't sense a heartbeat, it will continue to instruct the operator to check the electrode adhesion.

When inspecting the package, one should also check the expiration date of the electrodes. Electrodes should be replaced before the manufacturer's use-by date.

Electrode Cable - The electrode cable is the cable that attaches to the monitor on one end and the electrode pads at the other end. The cable should be loosely coiled and placed in the AED bag or case. If the cable is wound too tightly, the internal lead wires can break. If the cable is missing or damaged, it must be replaced immediately.

Primary Battery - The primary battery is the battery that stays in the AED when it isn't being used. You can test the battery using the AED’s self-check diagnostic function: just push the "test" button. If there is no “test” button, the AED must be powered up by using the "on" button. If the device readily turns on and the automated voice prompts the tester to attach the electrodes, the battery is functioning properly.

Secondary Battery – There should also be a secondary battery in the AED kit. When an AED is used, it quickly depletes its battery, so a back-up must be available in case multiple shocks are needed or if the primary battery fails. The secondary battery is tested in the same way as the primary battery. If it is depleted or missing, the secondary battery must be replaced.

DC Charging Cable – When not in use, an AED should be plugged into a direct current power source. This keeps the device ready to e used and prevents the primary battery from depleting over time.

Paper / Memory Card – If the AED uses tracing paper, check that the paper is loaded properly by pressing the “record” button. Not all AEDs use paper; some use a digital memory card. Check that the memory card is installed in the appropriate slot on the side of the machine.

Miscellaneous items - An AED kit should also contain razors, alcohol prep pads and paper towels. The razors are used to remove any body hair that prevents the electrode from sticking. The alcohol pads and paper towels remove body oils, moisture and lotions that prevent electrode adhesion.

Training – It is important that someone at the facility be trained in the use of the AED. AEDs are simple to use, but they can cause injury or death if used inappropriately. Make sure that at least one employee per shift has been trained in AED use.

When properly installed and maintained, AEDs truly save lives. For each minute that passes without defibrillation after cardiac arrest, a person’s chance of survival decreases by about 10%. When an AED that has not been properly maintained fails, there is little chance of the person surviving.

Have you lost a loved one because of a malfunctioning AED? You may have a Florida AED lawsuit. West Palm Beach heart attack injury lawyer Craig Goldenfarb helps families who have lost a loved one because of an AED that did not work as intended. To discuss your claim, contact The Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb, P.A. at 1-800-GOLD-LAW.