Maintaining Your Philips AED: Tips to Help Make Sure Your Philips Defibrillator is Ready for Response
Philips’ Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) offer reliable and effective treatment in cardiac emergencies. Regular maintenance ensures they remain in optimal condition and are ready to deliver life-saving treatment when needed. This guide outlines essential steps to keep your Philips AED in optimal condition, ensuring it remains fully operational and ready for use in an emergency.
Routine Maintenance for Your Philips Heartstart Defibrillator
The Philips Heartstart HS1 and Philips Heartstart FRx both conduct a series of routine self-checks to assess the device’s readiness and detect any issues. General maintenance is also advised for maximum preparation and longevity.
Conduct regular visual checks
In an emergency, your AED must be ready to use. Regular visual checks ensure it remains operational at all times. This includes the following:
- Electrode pads: Ensure they are not expired and the wires are properly connected.
- Battery: Check this is properly fitted and working normally - indicated by a green flashing light (the ‘ready’ light).
- General condition: Check for signs of wear and tear or physical damage that could prevent your device from functioning.
Tip: Keep a note of expiration dates for pads and batteries for easy reference so you can order replacements in good time. Discover our free battery and pad reminder service to help maintain your defibrillator.
Clean and disinfect after use
Like many AEDs, Philips defibrillators work with single-use electrode pads, meaning they need to be replaced after each use. You will also need to give the device a general clean to prevent dirt or debris from building up. This can be done using mild soap and water. Do not submerge the device in water.
Make sure all software is up to date
Regular self-tests ensure that your Philips AED is functioning correctly. To maintain optimal performance, check that the software is up-to-date and aligns with the latest clinical guidelines and safety standards. If there is an internal issue with your device, this will be communicated via an illuminated blue ‘information’ button.
Storing Your Philips Heartstart AED
Storing your Philips defibrillator is important for several reasons. First, you need to ensure the device is easily identifiable and can be accessed quickly in an emergency. The location you choose will also need to be protected from extreme temperatures and moisture that could cause damage.
At defibshop, we offer a range of indoor and outdoor storage options with heating and lighting to help create optimal storage conditions for your device. Here are our top tips for storing your Philips AED:
- Make it visible: Choose a location that can be easily spotted by bystanders. Defibrillator signage can help make your device stand out, which you can browse online.
- Make it accessible: Place your Philips AED in an area where it can be quickly and easily retrieved in an emergency.
- Make it secure: Regularly check both the device and its surroundings to ensure the AED remains in good condition and free from potential damage.
Tips for Handling
In an emergency, acting quickly is essential, but handling your Philips AED with care is just as important. Drops and impacts can affect performance and cause damage.
When installing your Philips defibrillator, make sure everyone is trained on how to handle it correctly. Browse our range of training courses provided at defibshop with our accredited partner Imperative Training for further support.
Other Useful Items to Keep With Your Philips AED
Along with your Philips Heartstart defibrillator, there are a few other items that are useful to keep handy for an emergency. These include:
- Towel, tissues or wipes to dry the casualty’s chest if wet
- A razor to shave the casualty’s chest if needed so the electrode pads can stick properly
- Scissors to cut clothing
- A face shield for when performing CPR
By keeping all items needed in one place, you can ensure maximum preparedness in an emergency and save valuable time.
Maintain Your Philips AED with defibshop
Maintenance is an important part of having a defibrillator, and a significant responsibility. To help remove the burden and make the process easier, we offer a selection of maintenance contracts.
These are available for devices over a five-year period and include a service and e-learning licenses giving you regular access to training. To learn more about these services, head to our maintenance section.
More Information
What checklist should I use to maintain my Philips AED?
A basic checklist for maintaining your Philips AED should include the:
- Pads - make sure the pads have not passed their expiration date, and are properly connected to your Philips defibrillator.
- Battery - ensure this is working optimally and has not passed its expiration date.
- General condition - visually inspect your device to check for damage or signs of wear.
- Cleanliness - regularly clean the exterior of your Philips AED to remove dust or dirt.
How should I clean my Philips defibrillator?
To clean and disinfect your Philips Heartstart defibrillator, use a damp cloth with mild soap and water or antibacterial cleaning solutions. Remember to take care near sensitive components, and never submerge the device in water.
How often should I service my Philips defibrillator?
Full servicing is recommended for Philips defibrillators at least once a year. This should be performed by a certified Philips technician to ensure any issues are correctly identified and resolved.
How do I protect my Philips Heartstart AED from the elements?
Store your Philips Heartstart AED in a location that is both accessible to users and protected from moisture or extreme temperatures. Choosing a storage cabinet with both heating and lighting and regularly cleaning your device will help maintain an optimal environment.