Maintaining your Physio-Control CR2

Every AED can save lives, but it also requires some minimal maintenance to be sure it’s ready when you need it. 

The Physio-Control CR2 AED conducts routine self-checks, and is equipped to alert you when it needs attention, but this is not always enough to confirm the AED is ready. Simple, regular inspections are key to ensuring your CR2 is at maximum rescue capacity.

Follow this quick five step process to check your LIFEPAK CR2:

1) Visual Overview:

• If your CR2 is in a case, you can leave it in the case for inspection.
• Look for any physical damage or missing parts.
• Is the indicator light is flashing green?
  • If yes, your AED has no internal issues
  • If no, you can do the following steps to see where there may be a problem:
    • Open the lid and wait for the voice prompts to begin
    • IMMEDIATELY press and hold the “Language” and “Child Mode” buttons at the same time until you hear either “Device Ready” or “Device Not Ready”
      • If you hear “Device Ready” you can close the lid and continue inspection
      • If you hear “Device Not Ready” you should then hear:
        • Replace Electrode Tray;
        • Replace Battery; or
        • Contact Qualified Service Personnel

2) Battery:

• CR2 batteries have an expected in-unit life of around 4 years
• The battery is located on the side of the unit.
• You will not be able to see the expiration date, but do not remove the battery from the AED.
• Your AED check tag should list the expiration date of the battery. Check the tag to identify whether it has expired.
• If the expiration date is nearing or has passed, or if the device has indicated the battery needs to be replaced, promptly order a replacement.
• Consider ordering an additional battery to have on hand as a back-up should the battery have problems during a rescue.

3) Electrode pads:

• The electrode pads for the CR2 are packaged in a convenient tray that snaps into the AED.
• Inspect the pads to ensure they are still sealed in the package.
• Next, look at the expiration date on the pads (next to the hourglass symbol).
• If you have extra electrode pads stored with your AED, be sure to check the expiration date on those pads as well.
• There are NO pediatric pads to check for the CR2, as this device has a CHILD MODE button which is used in conjunction with the standard electrode pads.

4) Inspect accessories:

• Emergency Response Kit
  • All AEDs should have an emergency response kit stored with the device.
  • These kits typically include a towel, razor, CPR face shield, scissors, and gloves.
  • If any parts are missing, show signs of wear, have been opened, or are damaged, be sure to order replacements.
• Signage
  • Make sure all signage is placed appropriately and undamaged.
  • Signs should be clearly visible from most angles.

Step five: Check the integrity and security of your AED cabinet.

• If your cabinet has an alarm and/or a strobe light:
  • Trigger the emergency response system by opening the door.
  • If it does not sound and/or light up, it might be time to change the batteries. Check your cabinet manual if you are unsure which batteries your cabinet uses.

• Cabinet door:
  • Visually inspect the door for signs of rust or other damage.
  • Ensure the door opens easily and is not obstructed by furniture, doors, or objects.

Indicate your findings on your AED check tag, making sure to note the month and day of the check. If you are nearing the bottom of your tag and you don’t have replacements, add a pack of tags to your next order.

If you have any concerns about your AED, please do not hesitate to contact our team of experts here at Cardio Partners. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.

If you are managing multiple AEDs, consider subscribing to our AED compliance management service, LifeShield. LifeShield helps you digitally keep track of your AEDs and manage their expiration dates and readiness levels. It also provides medical oversight and keeps you up to date on new local and state AED legislation so you can ensure you stay compliant. Learn more about LifeShield by chatting with one of our specialists, or visiting our website https://www.aed.com/aed-compliance-management.html.