Are you in the market for an automated external defibrillator and want to know what’s the best AED for CPR? Unless you have a considerable amount of life support training, you need a device that provides simple CPR assistance — and Philips devices are second to none.
The combination of CPR and defibrillation is proven to save lives, but 70% of Americans are ill-equipped to perform CPR unassisted. Philips defibrillators feature several state-of-the-art features that make CPR easy for anyone to administer.
Philips AEDs Allow for Steady, Consistent Chest Compressions
Each Philips defibrillator contains a built-in metronome that ticks during the CPR portion of the rescue. You want to deliver CPR chest compressions in time with the beat, as the metronome is your guide for the optimal pace.
When performed on adults, chest compressions should always be administered at a rate of 100 to 120 beats per minute. But when you’re in a frantic emergency, it’s not always easy to keep a steady hand and maintain that optimal pace, even if you do try to follow the beat of Stayin’ Alive. The metronome is a lifesaver.
AED Devices with Life Guidance CPR Assistance
The newer Philips AEDs, like the Philips HeartStart FRx, are designed with the company’s signature Life Guidance CPR assistance. When you press the blue i-button, the device guides not only the pace of your chest compressions but also the number and depth.
Even older Philips AEDs have enhanced CPR coaching that goes beyond the basic metronome guide, so don’t worry if you’re relying on a slightly older model like the Philips OnSite. You’re still getting one of the best AEDs for CPR.
Built-In CPR Coaching That Can Be Modified for Pediatric Patients
Philips defibrillators are child-friendly, and the CPR coaching is easily modified when you’re treating a pediatric patient. Children under 8 years old and 55 pounds have special CPR requirements; for instance, smaller children should only have their chests compressed to a maximum depth of 2 inches, rather than the 2-2.4 inch depth required for adults.
Some Philips AEDs have special pediatric pads (sold separately), and others have a specialized Infant/Child Key that enables you to switch between adult and child modes. But regardless of which model you use, every Philips AED is designed to support child-friendly CPR coaching.
Patented Technology to Reduce Delays Between CPR & Shock
Philips’ Quick Shock technology reduces the delay between CPR and shock delivery. In most cases, shocks are administered within 8 seconds of CPR delivery. This is an important feature, as every second counts in a cardiac emergency. When you stop administering CPR, the heart stops delivering blood to vital organs. That’s why excess downtime can be so hazardous and why Philips devices are among the best AEDs for CPR.
The American Heart Association further confirms that faster shock delivery can save lives. The 2005 AHA Guidelines note that “Reduction in the interval from compression to shock delivery by even a few seconds can increase the probability of shock success.”
Philips Makes CPR and Defibrillation Easy
Philips defibrillators aren’t just the best AEDs for CPR. They’re among the best AEDs period. Philips AEDs are easy to use, cost-effective, and some of the most technologically advanced defibrillators on the market.
When you use one of these devices, you’ll feel confident throughout every step of the rescue process, whether you have some BLS training or you’re a complete novice. When a cardiac emergency arises, you’ll be ready to spring into action.