Why Defibrillator Testing Can Make the Difference Between Life and Death
Understanding the Defibrillator
A defibrillator sends a controlled electric shock through the chest to stop a dangerous heart rhythm and give the heart a chance to resume beating normally. It is one of the most important lifesaving devices in any healthcare facility, but only if it has been proven to work.
Why Regular Testing Matters
Every defibrillator should be checked against the performance and safety requirements set by the relevant standards and by the manufacturer. Testing confirms that the device delivers the correct energy and works as intended.
As a good practice, test your defibrillators at the interval the manufacturer recommends, or at least every six months. The correct procedure is found in the model’s service manual. If it is not available, generic test procedures can be used as a fallback.
Testing also has to keep pace with technology. Modern defibrillators use monophasic, biphasic and pulsed multiphasic waveforms, so your analyzer needs to handle all of them.
Saving Lives with AEDs
The automated external defibrillator (AED) is a compact, portable device that analyzes the heart rhythm and advises a shock only when one is needed. Combined with CPR between shocks, it greatly improves the chance of survival.
AEDs are built for people with no medical training. Simple voice prompts walk the rescuer through each step, which makes them valuable for nurses, hospital staff and bystanders alike.
Datrend Phase 3: Accurate Testing You Can Rely On
The Datrend Phase 3 defibrillator/pacer analyzer is designed to verify the performance of defibrillators, AEDs and transcutaneous pacers. It was the first analyzer built specifically for pulsed multiphasic defibrillators, and it tests monophasic and biphasic devices as well, with 1% accuracy on line or battery power.
What makes the Phase 3 a practical choice:
- Built for mobility: up to 24 hours of continuous battery operation and a detachable paddle plate for hands-free testing.
- Faster inspections: 32 autosequences reduce testing time and manpower.
- Easy PC connection: USB communication captures waveforms in real time and transfers data to a PC. Phase 3pc software is included as a standard accessory.
- Waveform storage: stores up to 10 defibrillator discharge waveforms, along with test records.
Go Further with the Phase 3 VLM
ior testing at maximum energy, the optional Variable Load Module (VLM) offers selectable loads from 25 to 175 ohms, in accordance with AAMI DF-80 and IEC 60601-2-4. Phase 3VL software provides high-resolution waveform graphics and detailed test data.
Keep Your Facility Ready
Following the manufacturer’s testing schedule and using a dependable analyzer helps keep every defibrillator accurate, safe and ready. Contact us to learn more about how the Datrend Phase 3 and Phase 3 VLM can support your defibrillator testing program.
