Philips Heartstart HS1 vs. Philips FRx Defibrillators: Which is Right For You?
Having a defibrillator in place is vital for cardiac emergencies, but having the right defibrillator for your organisation is just as important. This blog will introduce you to the Philips defibrillator model range and compare features to help you decide.
Philips Defibrillator Models
Philips Heartstart HS1 AED: With easy-to-follow voice instructions and CPR advice, the Philips Heartstart HS1 is your coach for life-saving emergency care. The Heartstart Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is suitable for use in public places by both trained and untrained responders. The device analyses the heart rhythm providing a shock if needed, delivered by pressing a button. This offers greater control to the responder using the device, especially those with medical training. For use on infants or children under 55lbs (0-8 years), the Heartstart HS1 should be equipped with Infant/Child Pads to lower the energy level.
Philips Heartstart FRx AED: Rugged and lightweight in design, the Philips Heartstart FRx AED is ideal for use in mixed or harsher environments. SMART analysis allows the device to read the heart rhythm, automatically adjusting to deliver the right shock. Patented Quick Shock technology delivers a shock within 8 seconds of CPR. With the optional Paediatric Key, the Heartstart FRx adapts for use on infants or children without requiring specific pads. Durable and reliable, the Heartstart FRx is made to endure rough handling or extreme temperatures, withstanding up to 500kg (1,100lbs) or drops from 1.2m (4ft).
Both Philips defibrillators offer step-by-step guidance for performing effective CPR. Voice commands are adapted to the pace of the user, repeating or rephrasing prompts if necessary. An audible metronome is also included to help the responder deliver effective chest compressions.
Features Comparison: User-Friendliness and Accessibility
Both the Philips Heartstart HS1 and the Heartstart FRx are portable devices making them ready to go in an emergency. The devices also run self-tests daily, weekly, and monthly assessing pads, the battery, circuits and systems to make sure it is always ready for use. With its simple design, the Heartstart HS1 is well-suited for general public environments such as offices, shopping centres, sports clubs, schools, and museums. The FRx is designed for more outdoor, rugged environments where durability is key. For instance, golf courses, swimming pools, campsites, EMS vehicles, and more.
Cost-Efficiency
Purchasing an AED is an investment, an important one that has life-saving benefits. With their different designs, Philips’ defibrillators help deliver the right care in a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) at the right time.
The Heartstart HS1 presents a more affordable option for organisations such as schools and offices looking for a reliable, cost-efficient AED for health and safety.
The Heartstart FRx offers long-term savings with the optional Paediatric Key. This removes the need for keeping specific infant/child Philips defibrillator pads, with the device adapting automatically for use when inserted. It also offers enhanced durability for organisations requiring a more rugged AED for use in more challenging environments.
Selecting the Right Philips Defibrillator For Your Needs
When deciding between the Philips Heartstart HS1 and FRx defibrillators, consider the primary users and location. Both Philips AEDs offer reliable performance and CPR guidance to assist in a time-critical emergency.
They are also easy to set up and maintain, with daily, weekly, and monthly self-tests to give you peace of mind for emergency preparedness.
More Information
What is the difference between the Philips HS1 and Philips FRx defibrillators?
The Philips HS1 is designed for more general environments such as schools, places of work, and shopping centres. It requires specific child/infant defibrillator pads in order to deliver treatment to children from 0-8 years or who weigh less than 55lbs. The FRx is well-adapted to alternative environments including indoor and outdoor, and requires only a Paediatric Key to adapt the device for children instead of specific pads.
Which defibrillator is better - the Philips HS1 or Philips FRx?
This depends on the type of setting in which it will be used. The HS1 is an ideal cost-effective solution for schools and businesses looking for a defibrillator that is easy to manage and maintain. The FRx offers long-term savings if used with the Paediatric Key, saving organisations from having to stock both adult and infant/child defibrillator pads.
How do you use a Philips defibrillator?
Philips’ defibrillators are suitable for both trained and untrained users, with easy-to-follow voice instructions and visuals. To operate the device, press the green button to switch it on.
Remove the electrode pads and place these on either side of the casualty’s chest as shown in the image on the packaging (location differs on child/infant). Allow the defibrillator to analyse the heart rhythm and when instructed, press the shock button to deliver a shock. Make sure you are not touching the person at this time.
The defibrillator will then tell you when to start/stop chest compressions and deliver another shock if needed until the emergency services arrive.