Perrysburg Township emergency responders carry two different types of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). The unit on the left is the Philips Heartstart FR2+, and is carried by fire department units. In addition to functioning as a standard AED, this unit has the capability to allow properly trained personnel to obtain a 3-lead EKG tracing, which appears on the display screen. This allows our personnel to initiate appropriate cardiac treatment while waiting for the more advanced LifePak 12 to arrive.
The unit on the right is the Medtronic Lifepak 500 AED. This unit is carried by our police department in their cruisers. As with all AEDs, the unit is programmed to analyze the patient's cardiac rhythm to determine whether or not an electrical shock to the heart is needed. This unit does not provide the capability to display or interpret cardiac rhythms.
Both units provide voice prompts to the user, reminding the rescuer to check for pulse and breathing, and to continue CPR. Should a shockable rhythm be identified, the machine will advise the rescuer to remain clear of the patient, and finally when to press the shock button.
Both units provide voice prompts to the user, reminding the rescuer to check for pulse and breathing, and to continue CPR. Should a shockable rhythm be identified, the machine will advise the rescuer to remain clear of the patient, and finally when to press the shock button.