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Switching Between Adult and Child Modes on the iPAD SP1 Defibrillator

When responding to Sudden Cardiac Arrest, defibrillation plays a crucial role in restoring the heart’s normal rhythm. When combined with effective CPR, it significantly improves the chances of survival during an emergency. Together, these life-saving interventions work to maintain blood flow to the brain and heart, and increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.

The iPAD SP1 defibrillator is designed with dual-use functionality, enabling responders to switch between adult and child modes quickly and efficiently. This feature ensures the correct energy levels are applied based on the casualty’s age, improving safety during an emergency. 

 

A Guide to Adult and Child Defibrillation

Defibrillation involves delivering an electrical shock to the heart and is necessary when a casualty suffers from Sudden Cardiac Arrest due to either ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT). 

Given the physiological differences between adults and children, it’s important to adjust the energy level appropriately. While defibrillators can be used on children, a lower level of joule output is recommended. Adult defibrillators typically deliver a shock of 120-200 joules, whereas paediatric casualties should receive between 50-70 joules. 

Follow these guidelines when using a defibrillator on adults and children: 

  • Child Mode: Weighing less than 25kg and under 8 years old.  
  • Adult Mode: Casualties over 8 years old and weighing above 25kg. 

The iPAD SP1 regulates the shock level when selecting the correct mode, such as the ‘adult’ or ‘child’ mode. 

How to Switch Between Adult and Child Mode 

 

How to Find the Adult/Paediatric Button

  • The adult/ paediatric switch is located on the defibrillator’s front face. By lifting the cover, responders can quickly select the appropriate mode for the casualty. 
  • The switch includes a simple diagram, demonstrating the correct mode for each casualty. The right switch indicates ‘child’ mode and the left is for ‘adult’ mode. 
  • When paediatric pads are attached, the iPAD CU-SP1 automatically adjusts the energy level, ensuring the appropriate output for paediatric use, even if the switch is set to adult mode. 
  • If there are no paediatric pads available, adult pads can be used, provided the defibrillator is switched to paediatric mode. 
  • It is crucial to select the correct mode before applying the pads, as the energy output cannot be adjusted once the pads are in place.

iPAD SP1 Semi-Automatic Defibrillator: After the pads are applied, the iPAD SP1 Semi-Automatic defibrillator performs an ECG analysis. If the defibrillator detects an irregular rhythm, the voice prompts will instruct the responder to press the shock button and ‘stand clear’ from the casualty. 

iPAD SP1 Fully Automatic Defibrillator: In the fully automatic version, the iPAD SP1 Fully-Automatic defibrillator follows the same procedure to analyse the heart’s rhythm. If a shock is required, the defibrillator will automatically deliver it, without requiring manual intervention from the responder.

Choosing the appropriate defibrillator for its intended environment is crucial for effective defibrillation. Read our https://www.defibshop.co.uk/manufacturer/ipad/product-overviews/automatic-vs-semi-automatic-ipad-defibrillators which compares fully automatic and semi-automatic defibrillators for further guidance. 

 

Pad Placement for Adults/ Paediatrics 

Correct pad placement is essential for effective defibrillation:

  • Adults: For adults, you should place one pad on the upper right side of the chest. Place the second pad on the left side of the torso, just below where the chest muscle ends.
  • Children: Place one pad in the centre of the chest and one pad on the back of the casualty. 

Act promptly, ensuring the pads are applied correctly and within adequate time. Prolonged exposure of the pads outside of their packaging can compromise the adhesive, affecting their functionality during use. 

The iPAD SP1 defibrillator’s ability to switch between adult and child modes ensures adequate defibrillation across different age groups. This dual-use functionality enhances reliability during Sudden Cardiac Arrest. For optimal use and guidance, see our training courses provided by Imperative Training. 

For further manufacturer information, always refer to the iPAD SP1 instructions for use to ensure proper setup and operation.