Philips Heartstart Defibrillator Pads: How Do They Work?

Defibrillator pads are an important component of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). They have an adhesive backing that sticks to the casualty’s chest in order for electrodes to pass through the wires and monitor the heart’s rhythm. This article will take you through the types of Philips defibrillator replacement pads available and how they work.

Philips Heartstart Defibrillator Pads

Philips’ defibrillator pads are single-use and designed specifically for use in Philips AEDs. They are medically approved and compliant, with a design that conforms to the body’s contours to facilitate proper current distribution.

Philips AED pads are made with a thin, flexible conductor that sits between a protective polymer backing and hydro-gel adhesive. Their durable design makes them able to withstand the effects of CPR, staying firmly in place throughout the delivery of treatment. Protective packaging helps ensure the electrode pads are clean and secure, until ready for use.

Types of Philips Defibrillator Pads

Philips HS1 Adult SMART Pads

Designed for use on adults or those over eight years of age, compatible with the Philips HS1 defibrillator. They are pre-connected, the AED will automatically detect the cartridge is in place once inserted. Clear images help ensure the defibrillator pads are positioned correctly by the responder.

Philips HS1 Infant/Child SMART Pads

As their name suggests, these electrode pads are designed specifically for use on children aged 0-8 years (below 55lbs). They are specially designed to deliver a lower energy output, with one placed in the front centre of the chest, and the other in the middle of the pack. When inserted in the Philips HS1 AED, the device will recognise the paediatric pads and automatically reduce the energy level for defibrillation.

Philips Heartstart FRx SMART Pads II

These defibrillator pads are specifically designed for use with the Philips Heartstart FRx AED. To save using specific Paediatric pads, an optional Infant/Child Key can be inserted into the AED that reduces the electrical current accordingly.

How do Philips’ SMART Defibrillator Pads Work?

Made using advanced SMART technology, Philips’ defibrillator pads are multifunctional, used not only for defibrillation but also ECG monitoring, pacing, and cardioversion. SMART analysis allows the settings to be adjusted automatically to deliver the right shock for the casualty. When positioned correctly, the pads send feedback to the AED, reading the heart rhythm to determine whether a shock is needed.

If this is advised, the defibrillator will then send a shock through the electrodes to the casualty’s heart to help establish a more regular rhythm. SMART features such as a built-in metronome and voice prompts help the responder deliver effective CPR alongside defibrillation. Together, this life-saving treatment helps increase the chances of survival in a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).

All Philips SMART defibrillator pads come with up to 2-year expiry, when a replacement pair will need to be purchased to keep the unit ready in the event of an emergency. It is recommended to keep a spare set of defibrillator pads at hand in case the original set is used.

Prepare your organisation and make sure everyone is confident to respond to a SCA with the right defibrillator pads.

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How to use Philips Heartstart defibrillator pads?

First, ensure the casualty’s chest is bare and dry to make sure the pads adhere correctly in order to deliver the shock. Remove the defibrillator pads from their packaging and place on either side of the casualty’s chest as shown in the images. The defibrillator will then monitor the heart rhythm and advise if a shock is needed. Depending on the model, this will be delivered either automatically or by pressing a button.

What is the shelf-life on Philips defibrillator pads?

Philips Heartstart defibrillator pads have an expiry of up to 2 years. It is important to replace them after this time to ensure the adhesive is effective. It is advised to keep a set of Philips defibrillator replacement pads handy, to replace them after an emergency. Register for our free Battery and Pad Reminder Service, and we’ll remind you to order your replacement parts 3 months prior to expiry.