Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) Maintenance Information
Even though the Purdue University Fire Department will come out annually to check an AED, it is just as important that the department or designated responsible group takes a proactive approach to ensuring the AED is rescue ready.
Self Inspections
On the Inspections page, there is a form for each department and (or) responsible party that has an AED to complete and self-report the status of their AED(s). This self-audit is to be completed quarterly or four times a year. Complete the Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) Quarterly Checklist.
Each field is to be completed on the form. Once completed, hit the submit button and it will be sent to Lt. Kevin Luse for review and recordkeeping. If the audit is done through Maximo, please keep records for up to two years.
To assist with understanding and completing the status of a Cardiac Science battery, please use the below indicators while checking the unit. Remember that these batteries have a four-year warranty. It is recommended to write the date on the new battery during installation. If it dies before the fourth year, then contact Cardiac Science for a new replacement battery.
4 green lights = 100% (4 years)
3 green lights = 75% (3 years)
2 green lights = 50% (2 years)
1 green light = 25 % (1 or less years)
Red light = needs replaced
No light = dead battery (Take AED out-of-service until the battery is replaced.)
Accessories and Maintenance
It is the expectation of the department or designated responsible group that has bought an AED to maintain their unit(s) in the rescue ready mode. Every two years the electrode pads will need to be replaced, even if they were not used. The electrodes use a water-based gel on the pads that can dry up and make the pads useless and cause the pads to not analyze the heart rhythm. Two adult electrode sets should be with each AED unit at all times. If applicable, one child set should also be ordered every two years. A battery should be replaced about every four years (see the previous section on self-inspections).
If the AED is used for an emergency, the used electrode pads that were placed on the victim are not to be re-used. If EMS takes them off at the scene, the used electrode pads are to be thrown away. In order to put the AED back in service, the spare adult electrode set that is to be with the unit will be connected as the main electrodes and the department is to order a new electrode pad set that will replace the used set. If any of the ready kit items have been used, then they are to be replaced or properly cleaned. A new ready kit can be purchased as an accessory.
Remember to complete a new AED online self-audit form once the status, location, responsible party changes and expired electrode pads/battery have been updated. The form should reflect these new changes or new expiration dates/status.
If additional assistance is needed, please contact Lt. Kevin Luse at keluse@purdue.edu or (765) 494-0966.
Information about purchasing AEDs can be found at Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) Purchasing Information.