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CU Medical Systems iPAD SP1 Semi Automatic Schools PackageFrom £1,212.00 £1,010.00
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Physio Control LIFEPAK CR2 USB Semi Automatic Office PackageFrom £1,250.40 £1,042.00
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Philips HeartStart FRx Semi Automatic Defibrillator with Carry Case and Infant KeyOnly £1,494.00 £1,245.00 -
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CU Medical Systems iPAD SP1 Fully Automatic with AED Armor CabinetFrom £1,546.80 £1,289.00
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Physio Control LIFEPAK CR2 Semi Auto USB with Handle and AED Armor CabinetFrom £1,647.60 £1,373.00
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Physio Control LIFEPAK CR2 Fully Automatic WIFI with AED Armor CabinetFrom £2,214.00 £1,845.00
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Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) in Children
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) does not discriminate, and affects a person of any age. In the UK, 270 children suffer a fatal SCA in schools every year, making emergency preparedness vital in improving survival outcomes.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are life-saving devices used to treat casualties of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). When responding to a casualty under 8 years old or weighing less than 25kg, the defibrillator must deliver a lower energy shock. This is achieved through the use of paediatric pads, which reduce the joule output. defibshop supplies defibrillators with integrated paediatric modes or switches. When activated, the device prepares immediately for paediatric use, supporting a safe and effective response for younger casualties.
Benefits of Paediatric Defibrillators
Having a defibrillator with paediatric mode offers several benefits to organisations such as schools looking to lower costs while enhancing health and safety:
- Faster emergency response times without the need to retrieve specific paediatric pads
- Cost savings compared to ordering both adult and paediatric replacement pads
- Added convenience for responders in an emergency
Defibrillators with a paediatric adjustment also give responders increased confidence, knowing they are able to safely perform defibrillation on a child without causing further harm.
How to Use A Defibrillator on Children
The process of using a defibrillator on children varies slightly from adults. To use an AED on a child in SCA, follow these steps:
1. Switch on the defibrillator and follow the voice prompts provided.
2. If using paediatric pads, ensure these are connected and place them as directed on the packaging (one in the front centre of the chest, and one in the middle of the back). If using a paediatric switch defibrillator, switch the AED into child mode by inserting the key or activating the switch as instructed.
3. Allow the defibrillator to analyse the child's heart rhythm before pressing the shock button if advised (this happens automatically with fully-automatic AEDs).
4. Perform CPR as instructed by your AED, modifying the technique for smaller infants (usually two fingers pressing down in the centre of the chest).
5. Continue chest compressions until signs of consciousness return or emergency medical responders take over.
Can a defibrillator be used on a child?
Yes. Defibrillators are safe to use on children with a few adjustments. For casualties over 8 years old (or above 25kg), the process is the same as when treating an adult. For those less than 8 years old (or below 25kg), paediatric pads are required to lower the energy output. Due to limited research, defibrillators are not recommended for use on babies below 1 year old, unless there is no other option or the casualty has a history of heart problems.
How many joules are required to defibrillate a child?
This depends on several factors, including the defibrillator, the child’s age, and their weight. In the UK, official guidance for manual defibrillators recommends a dosage of 4 joules per kilogram of body weight. Using paediatric pads adjusts the level to between 50-75 joules, while defibrillators with built-in paediatric mode adjust the output automatically.
How do I use the paediatric switch on my defibrillator?
This depends on the specific make and model of your defibrillator. For most models, the switch is labelled ‘Adult/Child’. Make sure to choose the child setting before applying the electrode pads. Other defibrillators use a paediatric key, which when inserted, automatically switches the defibrillator into child mode ready for use.
