How iPAD Defibrillator Pads Are Designed to Save Lives Faster
iPAD defibrillators require several components to work effectively - electrode pads to deliver the shock, a battery to power the device, and the defibrillator unit with voice prompts to guide responders.
During Sudden Cardiac Arrest, the heart fails to function properly and stops pumping blood to the brain and other vital organs. A defibrillator (AED) plays a crucial role in restoring the heart to a normal cardiac rhythm.
Electrode pads are crucial as they deliver an electric current directly to the heart. This current helps re-establish a normal heart rhythm by passing through the heart tissue between the pads.
How Do Defibrillator Pads Work?
Defibrillator pads use adhesive electrodes to deliver an electrical current to the heart. The adhesive pads are placed on the bare chest of the casualty (or on the chest and back for paediatrics), creating a connection to the defibrillator unit.
Once they have been applied to the casualty, as guided by the iPAD defibrillator voice prompts, the defibrillator begins to analyse the heart rhythm. The defibrillator assesses abnormal heart rhythms such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT).
If an irregular rhythm is detected, the defibrillator will prompt the user to press a shock button. Fully automatic defibrillators administer shocks independently after detecting a shockable rhythm and giving a verbal countdown so you can ensure the area is clear.
How to Position Pads on Adults and Paediatrics
Positioning electrode pads correctly on casualties is important, as it ensures the electrical current travels to the heart effectively.
CU Medical iPAD electrode pads come with clear instructions for proper placement, ensuring effective use during emergencies. The prompts will guide you with pad placement and application.
- Adults: Place one pad on the upper right chest, just below the shoulder. The second pad should be placed on the left side of the chest, just below the breast area for both men and women.
- Paediatrics: Place one pad on the front of the chest and the other on the back, allowing safer defibrillation on smaller bodies.
What Are Pre-Connected Pads?
Pre-connected pads are set up with the defibrillator in advance, saving vital time during Sudden Cardiac Arrest. These pads are attached to the defibrillator's circuitry and securely stored within the unit. This arrangement ensures that the pads are ready to use immediately when the case is opened, eliminating any need to connect them during an emergency.
Opting for pre-connected pads can enhance the speed of response, potentially increasing the chances of a successful shock and improving outcomes for the casualty.
For both types of pads, it’s important to check they are within date and stored correctly. Expired or improperly stored pads may compromise the effectiveness of the shock or fail to adhere properly to the casualty's chest.
Before administering a shock, always:
- Ring emergency services: Call 999 immediately. Continue with CPR and defibrillation until help arrives, unless you have been told otherwise.
- Ensure safety: Make sure the area around the casualty is safe.
- Follow voice prompts: iPAD defibrillators provide clear voice prompts to guide you through resuscitation. Do not skip any steps.
- Check pad replacement: Ensure the pre-connected pads are placed correctly on the casualty, following the instructions.
The user-friendly design of iPAD defibrillators, combined with pre-connected pads and clear voice prompts, allows even untrained bystanders to act promptly during emergencies.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest can happen to anyone at any time. Prompt action and access to immediate help are vital, increasing the chances of survival.
Whether in a public space or workplace, having an iPAD defibrillator equipped with pre-connected pads ensures the defibrillator is ready to act immediately.
At defibshop, we offer a range of CU Medical Systems Pads and Batteries, ensuring your iPAD defibrillator is always ready to use during an emergency. Explore iPAD defibrillators and accessories to ensure emergency preparedness at all times.