Article posted on September 4, 2024
AED Feature of the Month: Zoll AED Plus
The Zoll AED Plus is available as either an automatic model or a semi-automatic model. With an automatic model, there is no button to administer a shock. The AED will analyze the patient’s heart rhythm and administer a shock if viable. In a semi-automatic model, the AED will analyze the patient’s heart rhythm, and if appropriate to shock the patient, the device will light up a flashing button to be pushed by the rescuer, which will then administer a shock. Both options are excellent choices and choosing automatic vs. semi-automatic is a matter of preference.
All AED pads contain an adhesive gel coating, which allows the pads to stick to the surface of the patient’s skin, and this also conducts the shock being transmitted. Due to the possibility of this adhesive gel drying out in the long term, all pads come sealed in a package and have an expiry date. The AED Plus features a unique design, which is a one-piece pad that fold out to place the pads in the correct spots, with a CPR indicator in the middle. The pads can be detached in order to adjust the placement for larger or smaller individuals. The pads for the AED Plus have a 5-year shelf life. Pediatric pads do not typically come equipped with the AED Plus but are available to purchase separately. Pediatric pads are recommended to be used on individuals less than 8 years old, or under 55 lbs.
Zoll AED Plus has a unique battery configuration. Most AEDs have a battery that is specifically made for that device, whereas the AED Plus takes Duracell Batteries available at common retail electronics stores. Batteries in AEDs have a limited life span due to the fact that they run frequent self-checks and the need to maintain enough charge to deliver multiple shocks in an emergency. The battery life for the Zoll AED Plus generally has a standby life of 5 years (older models drain the battery faster, which sets it at a 3-year standby life). Please note that the Duracell battery expiry date should be disregarded, the batteries will expire 5 years after being installed in the AED.
All Zoll AEDs run self-diagnostic checks daily, weekly and monthly. There is a green checkmark on the indicator window which will display if the device is in proper working order. If the device detects any issues, the indicator window will show a Red X, and the machine will periodically emit an audible beep. If this should happen, please consult the user manual in order to troubleshoot.
The Zoll AED Plus features CPR help, which will guide the user to complete CPR, and give feedback such as “Push Harder” or “Good Compressions” to advise the rescuer on how they are doing.
When registering with the Heart Safe AED website, you will enter important information into the database such as battery and pad expiry dates, so you can easily track when they will need to be replaced.
These devices also feature data download options, as the device records heart rhythms and other valuable data when it is being used. This data can be downloaded onto a computer and utilized by First Responders and Medical Professionals to determine the nature of the issue and assess treatment options. Please refer to the manufacturer’s website below to find out more.
AED Plus for Public Access - ZOLL Medical
The Zoll AED Plus is priced between $1400-$2000, depending on the model. Consider the cost and frequency of replacement pads and batteries when evaluating AED purchase options. A newer model is available from Zoll, with the recent launch of the AED 3. Please consult their website listed above for further details on this model.
If you are looking for replacement accessories, please contact your AED supplier, or refer to the supplier list listed on our Heart Safe Website.
If you have any questions regarding AED usage, registration, Sudden Cardiac Arrests or more, please contact the Heart Safe Public Access to Defibrillation Program!
Email: PAD@ahs.ca
Phone: 1-866-786-1440
Last Updated: Wednesday, September 04, 2024