Left Continue shopping
Your Order

You have no items in your cart

May we Recommend...
$52.00
From $207.00
Add to cart
Proud Family History - AED Professionals
Thank you for choosing AED Professionals!
From Our Family to Yours, We Truly Appreciate it!
Save 55% off Short Dated OnSite Electrode Pads

What is the difference between aeds and manual defibrillators?

In the event someone suffers Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) , an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and a Manual Defibrillator will both serve the same purpose. These devices are used to deliver a potentially life saving shock to restore a normal heart rhythm during SCA. Although they use similar life saving technology, they do have some key differences.

What is the difference between an AED and a manual defibrillator?

In the world of emergency medical care, there are two main types of defibrillators: Manual Defibrillators and AEDs. A manual defibrillator is a sophisticated device typically operated by healthcare professionals ,such as firefighters and EMS, who have undergone specialized training. These devices require a deep understanding of cardiac rhythms as the defibrillation voltage is manually entered. AEDs on the other hand are commonly found in public access areas and are meant to be used by lay responders in the event of an emergency. The device automates many functions to guide the user through the defibrillation process with simple, clear instructions with some units offering audible and visual prompts.

Key difference between AEDs and Manual Defibrillators

  • Decision Making: AEDs automatically analyze the patient’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is necessary. In contrast, with manual defibrillators, users manually adjust the level of defibrillation as well as when a shock should be delivered. This is decided based on their assessment giving them greater control over the treatment.
  • Flexibility and Control: Manual defibrillators allow for adjustments in energy levels tailored to individual patient needs, providing flexibility and control in critical situations.
  • ECG Monitoring: Manual Defibrillators come equipped with the capability to monitor the patient’s ECG. allowing for ongoing assessment of the cardiac rhythm before and after defibrillation.

When are Manual Defibrillators typically used?

Manual Defibrillators are preferred in environments staffed by medical professionals. They are particularly advantageous in treating complex cardiac rhythms, responding to cardiac arrest in a hospital setting, or in conjunction with CPR. Manual defibrillators can even be used in treating infants and children experiencing cardiac arrest since they have the capability to adjust the dose of the shock administered.

AEDs and manual defibrillators operate differently but share the same objective of stabilizing the patient’s heart rhythm. AEDs expand the ability of everyday individuals to respond effectively in emergency scenarios, democratizing the tools of lifesaving intervention. Meanwhile, manual defibrillators continue to support healthcare professionals in providing advanced care. Understanding the capabilities and appropriate application of each type of defibrillator can help ensure that they are used effectively, maximizing the chance of survival in critical moments.

AED Professionals: A General Medical Devices, Inc. company

348 W. Colfax Street, Palatine, IL 60067

info@aedprofessionals.com 888-541-2337

Subscribe to our newsletter. 

Provide your email for exclusive promotions, updates and more!

Thanks for contacting us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

By subscribing to our newsletter you agree to our privacy policy and will get commercial communication

Copyright © 2004-2024 General Medical Devices, Inc.

All Rights Reserved