Automated External Defibrillators are lightweight medical devices that are portable and can be used anywhere. This device delivers electric shocks to shock the heart’s irregular (arrhythmia) or extremely high heart rate (ventricular tachycardia) back to a normal steady rhythm. These heart irregularities usually result from a sudden cardiac arrest and, as such, require the use of CPR and AED on the individual to increase their chances of surviving.
AEDs come with a built-in computer that calculates a person’s heart rhythms using electrodes. Once the computer has finished its calculations, it will prompt the user to press the button that releases an electric shock. If the computer’s result shows that the victim doesn’t need a defibrillator, it will not prompt for the shock button to be pressed.
There are several reasons why someone may be interested in investing in AEDs. These devices can be used to save lives, but that doesn’t necessarily mean there aren’t any disadvantages to such an investment.
The purpose of this article is to explore the various pros and cons that occur when you make an investment in Automated External Defibrillators.
Main Benefits of Investing in AEDs
- The device is lightweight and can be kept and carried anywhere.
- AEDs can potentially save someone’s life.
- Anyone individual, even those without medical training, can use an AED.
- Can be kept at home that is at risk of suffering from cardiac arrest.
Lightweight Design
There are many different brands of AEDs that you can purchase. They are usually made out of metal and plastic and are light enough to carry around.
In many fictional media, defibrillators are often shown as a device capable of reviving an extremely high percentage of people than in reality. However, this does not mean that AEDs have no health benefits. Defibrillators can be used to save people, both inside and outside hospitals.
Life-saving Potential
Studies have shown an increased chance of survival of cardiac arrest of around 67% when a bystander uses an AED.
One of the most practical reasons for making an AED investment is that you do not need to be a licensed medical practitioner to use them. It does help to have some knowledge or formal training, but it is not a necessity. If any individual happens to be in a critical medical emergency, it can make a difference in the likelihood of the victim surviving if a defibrillator is used.
Easy-to-Use Device
As mentioned, AEDs have a built-in computer that detects whether a person requires shock treatment. They also usually come with written instructions and even pictures showing you how to use them. The instructions are written clearly to avoid any confusion about where to place the electrodes and what to do. Additionally, some AEDs have a built-in metronome which can help you stay on beat when performing CPR.
Can Be Kept Anywhere
Because of these benefits, having an AED on hand in the workplace or at home can be very helpful. Whether you work in an office, school, or store, this device can be a helpful addition to a first aid kit. If you have a medical condition that increases your chances of suffering from cardiac arrest, you can also keep one at home. Defibrillators are usually rather small, which means they can be kept in any room or storage without taking up too much space.
These are some of the most notable points considered pros to investing in Automated External Defibrillators.
Disadvantages That Can Come From Investing in AEDs
- Defibrillators can be quite expensive.
- Many AEDs are not covered by insurance.
- Maintenance will be required.
An AED can come with many health benefits, but there is also a risk or two that you must consider before purchasing one. These risks are less to do with the device’s functionality and more so about the finances and other aspects.
High Cost
The overall cost of a defibrillator varies depending on the brand and model. There are a few other factors to consider as well, such as the types of batteries and backup pads. The retail price of an AED can be anywhere between $1,100 and $2,500. This is an important aspect to consider when investing in defibrillators. A good device that suits your needs can be costly.
Not Usually Covered By Insurance
This also brings to the next disadvantage, which is insurance. Depending on the circumstances your AED purchase may not be covered by your insurance. However, this is most likely to happen if you are purchasing a defibrillator for work or in case of emergencies.
If you have a medical condition that brings you a greater risk of suffering from cardiac arrest, you can consult your insurance company. If your condition is backed up by your physician, your insurance may be able to cover the costs of purchasing an AED.
Maintenance Is Vital
Whilst AEDs may not require of frequent monthly maintenance, they will need some upkeep to ensure it is working properly. The batteries housed in the AED vary depending on the model used. They generally last a fairly long time, but you should look up the average life span of the type of batteries your devices uses. This means that you will need to check them regularly.
As for the pads, their life span can last anywhere between 18 and 30 months. This is because the pads use adhesive gel that may stop working after a certain amount of time. Pads will need to be checked regularly to determine whether they need to be replaced. Replacing the batteries and pads is also an additional cost that must be considered.
Policies Regarding AED Returns and State Laws
Before you consider purchasing an AED you may need to consult your state laws regarding ownership of Automated External Defibrillators. This matters most if you are considering purchasing an AED for a public gathering site.
Many states already require schools, airports, and other places to keep a defibrillator on the premises. It’s for this reason that many states have made it a requirement. Depending on which state you live in, only certain kinds of public gathering areas will have an AED nearby.
When it comes to returns, the policies may be different depending on which AED you’ve purchased and who the manufacturer is. If you do decide to return the device you’ve bought you may need to contact either the place you’ve bought it from. Many stores can give you an RMA (return merchandise authorization) number and other instructions on how to return your defibrillator.
Conclusion
This article highlights the many important pros and cons of investing in AEDs. Defibrillators by themselves are medically beneficial to a person’s chances of survival, but they can also be a costly investment.
For this reason, you will need to consider whether the pros outweigh the cons, which largely depends on the purpose of purchasing one. If you want to invest in AEDs in the workplace, they may not be covered by insurance companies, and depending on the defibrillator you purchase, they could be costly.
There are also maintenance costs to keep in mind. While AEDs may not require monthly upkeep, the batteries and pads must be checked occasionally. This is because these two components deteriorate fastest over time and will need replacements eventually. Still, does the potential to save someone’s life have a price?
An AED investment may be especially worthwhile if you or a family member are at risk of suffering from conditions that could lead to cardiac arrest or other heart irregularities. They are easy to carry. The biggest advantage is that you can use them even without formal training. If it’s a medical issue, your insurance may also cover it.
These are the pros and cons of investing in AEDs, and hopefully, they will help you make an easier decision about whether you need one or not.