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AED Maintenance
AEDs are relatively simple to maintain.
Almost all manufacturers can provide a maintenance program in which the
batteries and electrodes are replaced periodically and the AED is tested
once or twice each year. These programs are expensive and, while they
might be needed for an AED that is being used on an ambulance, they are
largely overkill for most AED programs.
AEDs
perform self tests on either a daily or weekly basis. If the AED is ready
for use, a ‘Ready’ indicator will show on or near the handle or on the
faceplate of the AED. These tests cover battery readiness and the
integrity of the internal circuitry. If a problem is detected, a symbol or
icon will be displayed and an audible signal or digitized voice will
provide a warning that the AED needs to be serviced.
Someone
should be assigned the task of checking the status of the AED on a daily
basis. For the most part, this check simply ensures that the readiness
indicator is displayed. Once each month, a more thorough check should be
conducted. It is wise to develop a check list of the items to be checked
that someone can initial and date to verify compliance. The serial number
and location of each AED can be listed. This checklist may differ slightly
from one AED to another and the items for it can be developed from an
analysis of the operating manual that accompanies each AED. Generally, the
following should be checked:
- The readiness indicator and
the absence of ‘Trouble’ signals or symbols
- The batteries and battery
pins should be free from bends and discoloration
- One set of electrodes should
be attached to the AED (if this is possible) and a back up set should be
housed in the carrying case
- The electrodes should be
sealed in their air-tight packaging and there should be no cuts or damage
to the electrode cables
- The electrodes should be
within their expiration date
- The battery should be within
its expiration date
- All instructional cards
should be present
- A rescue kit made up of
razor, scissors, CPR mask, alcohol wipes, protective gloves, and a
washcloth should be present
- There should be no cracks on
the AED or obvious damage to either the electrodes or the AED
If a problem is found on any part of the
inspection, a note should be made on the checklist and the checklist
given to the person who must take corrective action.
Some manufacturers recommend turning the
AED on periodically. This forces the device to perform a self-test. Resist
the temptation to turn the machine on too frequently. Every self- test
depletes the charge in the battery slightly, shortening its useful life.
Refer to your instructional manual on this issue.
The periodic inspection sheets should be
kept permanently in a secure location for future reference if the need
arises.
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