Philips OnSite AED Frequently Asked Questions
Does the battery need recharging? The long-life lithium battery does not need recharging. It contains power cells of the same kind safely used in many other consumer products, such as cameras. The battery typically lasts approximately four years in "standby mode." "Standby mode" means HeartStart is standing at the ready to help save a life if needed. Every day, HeartStart runs self-tests to check its battery, pads freshness and internal circuitry. If it ever detects a problem, such as a low battery, it chirps like your smoke alarm to alert you.
Can the Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator treat an existing medical condition? The Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator is only intended for use in the treatment of the most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest, known as ventricular fibrillation (VF). VF occurs when the electrical system of the heart short circuits, causing the heart to quiver rather than pump in a normal rhythm.
If you have questions or concerns about your health, or an existing medical condition, please talk with your doctor. A defibrillator does not take the place of seeking medical care.
Why is a prescription no longer needed? The HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator and home defibrillator is the first and only defibrillator available without a prescription, which means that it is considered safe and easy to use by virtually anyone with the materials provided in the package.
Is training needed to use HeartStart? HeartStart comes with a "Quick Start" poster, an Owner's Manual, Quick Reference Guide . Users should have training in CPR and defibrillator use. Many training organizations offer a combined course.
Can I use Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator on myself? You cannot use HeartStart on yourself. Victims of cardiac arrest are unconscious and not breathing.
If you have questions or concerns about your health, or an existing medical condition, please talk with your doctor. A defibrillator does not take the place of seeking medical care.
Is the Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator safe? The Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator was designed with safety in mind--safety of the victim, the user and those living in the household, including children and others who might be curious about the device.
HeartStart is designed to only deliver a shock if it determines one is needed. It will not deliver a shock to a person who doesn't need it. For the safety of the home responder, it is important to follow the voice instructions and to make sure that no one touches the patient when a shock is delivered.
Can the Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator be used on children? Yes, HeartStart can be used on infants and children. HeartStart Infant/Child SMART pads cartridges are sold separately. A prescription is required. In fact, Philips defibrillators were the first automated external defibrillators available for use on children under the age of 8 or weighing less than 55 pounds.
HeartStart actually senses when the Infant/Child pads cartridge is installed. It automatically adjusts to deliver a lower energy level appropriate for infants and children, and also provides coaching for performing CPR on a child.
The Infant/Child Pads are available by prescription only. Talk to your doctor.
What if I need to defibrillate a child, but I do not have the infant/child pads cartridge? If you are not sure of a child’s exact age or weight, or if infant/child pads are not available, do not delay treatment. Perform 1 minute of infant/child CPR, call 911, then apply the defibrillator. Use the adult pads, but place them on the child’s chest and back. Remember that, with the adult pads on a child, the optional CPR coaching will be for an adult.What should I consider before purchasing HeartStart?
Can HeartStart be used on a person with a pacemaker or ICD? It is all right to use the HeartStart on a person with an implanted device such as a pacemaker or ICD, but do not place the pads directly over the implant. You can tell where an implant is located by a lump in the skin and a scar.
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you cannot use the HeartStart to treat yourself.
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Users may need to perform CPR.
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Responding to cardiac arrest may require you to kneel.
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Voice instructions and enclosed materials are in English.**
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HeartStart provides audible and visible indicators when maintenance is required.
**Contact Philips for information about other languages.
It is also all right to use HeartStart on someone wearing an oxygen mask.
Training
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The Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator is designed to be fast to learn and easy to use. You can be confident that the device will talk you through each step of its use in an emergency situation.
CPR Coaching HeartStart provides coaching for adult/child CPR with voice instructions and timing cues for each breath, the appropriate number and rate of chest compressions, and the duration that CPR should be performed. Users should have training in CPR and defibrillator use. Many training organizations offer a combined course.
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