5 Facts About Manual Defibrillators

How are Manual Defibrillators Different From AEDs?

All defibrillators — whether manual, automatic, or semi-automatic — ultimately serve the same purpose: to save the life of someone suffering from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). So how are manual defibrillators different from their automatic counterparts?

Manual defibrillators have capabilities that automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) do not. Here are 5 fascinating facts about manual defibrillators.

Manual Defibrillators are Made for Professionals

Manual defibrillators have a number of different settings which enable the user to adjust the level of energy — or the power of the shock — delivered to the patient. AEDs are considered public access devices and can be used by untrained bystanders. Manual defibrillators are for the pros only. 

They have multiple settings

Manual defibrillators typically have three modes of operation: synchronized cardioversion, external defibrillation, and internal defibrillation.

They’re Capable of Pacing

Non-invasive transcutaneous pacing (NTP) can be set up for use in patients who are clinically stable but who have a high risk of quickly decompensating. 

Patients who may benefit from standby pacing include those:

• With acute myocardial infarction showing signs of early heart block.
• Awaiting cardiac surgery.
• Awaiting placement of a permanent pacemaker, generator change, or lead wire replacement.
• Undergoing cardiac catheterization or angioplasty.
• At risk of developing post cardioversion bradycardia.

(Source: Resuscitation Central)

They Can Perform Cardioversion

Cardioversion is a scheduled medical procedure that restores a normal heart rhythm in people with certain types of abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias).

It’s typically done by sending electric shocks through electrodes placed on the chest. For most people, cardioversion quickly restores a normal heart rhythm.

They Can Play Well With AEDs and Other Medical Equipment

If the AED and the manual defibrillator are made by the same manufacturer, patients being treated for SCA can be switched from an AED to a manual defibrillator by simply plugging the leads from one device into another. If the manufacturers are different, a connector cable can be used, enabling the pads to remain on the patient’s chest.

Some manual defibrillators can also be integrated with medical devices that monitor blood pressure and oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Cardio Partners offers new and recertified AEDs as well as a selection of recertified manual defibrillators. Our BioMed team puts every recertified manual defibrillator through a rigorous, 20-point inspection to ensure rescue-readiness. Questions? Call us at 800-544-0004 or email Cardio Partners at customerservice@cardiopartners.com.

DISCLAIMER: Information and resources found on the aed.com website and blog are intended to educate, inform, and motivate readers to make their health and wellness decisions after consulting with their healthcare provider. The authors are not healthcare providers. NO information on this site should be used to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease or condition.