Which defibrillator should I buy?

There are many defibrillators available on the market and it can become overwhelming knowing which one is the best option for you. There are a number of factors which may determine your choice including; where it will be stored and who it will be most likely used for. 

Defibrillators as we know them today have actually been around since the 1930’s. Although thankfully there have been many developments since, the basic principle is still the same. An electric shock from the defibrillator is delivered to the heart in order for it to stop the heart, so that it can begin beating again at it’s natural pace. 

As science and medicine progresses over the years, newer, more advanced defibrillators are being released. Whether they are more weather resistant, lighter and easier to carry or provide real time feedback, it is safe to say that defibrillators are a medical device that we just couldn’t live without. But, to choose the right one for you, there are a few things to consider. 

Where will your defibrillator be stored? 

Thinking about where your defibrillator will be stored when not in use is a really important factor to remember when choosing the right defibrillator for you. For example, if you are looking a defibrillator to be stored in your local community, you would be best searching for one that has clear visual and audio guides so that any member of the public can use it. As well as a defibrillator which has a strong outer casting to repel water and dirt, such as this one here. 

Community defibrillators are always stored in a yellow, green or red cabinet so that they can be safely stored whilst being visible in an emergency. If on the other hand, you are looking for a defibrillator for a sports centre, you don’t need to worry so much about a cabinet but, might want to consider a defibrillator that is lightweight and can be quickly transported when needed. An 8-year warranty, low maintenance, hard wearing to military standards and lightweight at 1.9k, this defibrillator is idea for sports centres. 

Who will your defibrillator be most likely used for? 

Cardiac arrests can happen to anyone at any time. This means both children and adults are susceptible to falling ill and unfortunately, they mostly come with prior warning. That’s what makes them so deadly. 

If your defibrillator will be more than likely used on children, such as in a school or play gym, you should think about a defibrillator that is suitable for both adults and children. This is because children between the ages of one and eight required a lower shock frequency than those older. With this, opting for a defibrillator that can be switched between adult and child mode can save precious seconds which, can ultimately make the difference between life and death. A defibrillator such as this one with a child switch is a great choice. 

In the UK, there are around 30,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests which happen every year with only one in ten surviving. It’s this reason why many businesses across the country have defibrillators in case their staff or, visitors fall ill - it really could save a life. With this, defibrillators for offices should have clear and easy to understand verbal instructions so it can be heard over background office noise. Low maintenance, an ambient noise detector and a CPR to shock time of less than 6 seconds, this defibrillator is a great choice for businesses. 

If you’re still unsure as to which defibrillator is the best option for you, take a look at look at our defibrillator collection for more ideas.