Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do I need training to use a defib unit?

A. AEDs are designed for use by lay persons as they offer audible and visual prompts to guide the responder through an emergency. If it is possible to train responders then it would of course be beneficial. Training helps to familiarise potential users with how to react to cardiac arrest victims and what to expect from a defib unit. Within an organisation it is common to have selected members of staff trained to use defibs in case of an emergency. At The Defib Pad we offer certificated defib training courses at over 200 nationwide centres.

Q. Can we train our own staff or do we have to go on a course?

A. Training can be carried out by a competent trainer if you have one in-house. Use of training defib units allows members of your team to see, feel and hear the defib in action. The only difference between the trainer unit and a real model is that the trainer unit won't ever deliver a shock.

Q. Do defibs need protection or can they just be wall hung?

A. Depending on where you store your defib unit depends on the level / type of cover you require. You can buy wall brackets, storage cases, wall cabinets, wall cabinets with temperature control, wall cabinets with weatherproofing, alarmed cabinets and many other variations to suit your needs. Every defib unit that we sell displays the IP rating of the unit in the technical specs information tab of the product listing. If the unit is being stored outdoors, you will require an outdoor heated cabinet to ensure the defibrillator can maintain its operating temperature.

Q. If we ever actually use the defib can it be re-used?

A. A. Defib units are re-usable, however you will need to replace the pads after each use and the battery may also require replacement.

Q. What is the lifespan of a defib unit?

A. The lifespans of different defib units vary from model to model. Most AEDs will be supplied with warranties spanning from 5 to 10 years but the actual life expectancy of most defib units will be 10 years. The amount that your defib is used or the conditions that it is exposed to will have an impact on the defibrillators life.

Q. How do you know which defib unit to go for when they all sound so similar?

A. Buying a defibrillator can feel like a tough decision. It is a product that is still relatively unknown and can be fairly intimidating when researching.

There are two key things to remember; firstly, who is the proposed user of the defib and will they need training? Do your staff already have a higher level of medical training? If your staff are not medical professionals then a fully automatic unit would be most appropriate. If you feel your staff would be better equipped with some prior knowledge and hands on experience, then training may be beneficial.

Secondly, if you have no idea what a defibrillator unit is, who would use it, why you would need one, where it should be stored, or anything else defib related then please do give us a call. Our staff are trained and competent in our product range so can offer a wealth of knowledge to assist you in making a decision.