Semi-Automatic AED or Fully Automatic AED: Which Should you Choose?

If you are considering investing in an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), then congratulations on making the decision to help save lives. Only 1 in 10 people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest but with an AED close by, and the right training, this figure can be dramatically improved.

You may be wondering whether to purchase a semi-automatic or fully automatic AED, so we’ve combined some useful information to help you decide which defibrillator would be best for your facility.

An AED is a portable electronic device that checks the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to restore the normal rhythm when a victim has gone into sudden cardiac arrest. There are two types of devices available – semi automatic AEDs and fully automatic AEDs.

Whilst both models will analyse the victim’s heart rhythm and determine whether a shock is required, the difference lies in the functionality. Semi-automatic AEDs will ask the rescuer to press a button to deliver a shock to the victim, thus leaving it up to them to actually deliver the treatment. Fully automatic AEDs, on the other hand, automate this entire process and will deliver the shock automatically.

Semi-Automatic Vs Fully Automatic AED

DEFIBRILLATOR TYPE

Semi-Automatic AED

Fully Automatic AED

Advantages

Clear concise instructions throughout the process
More control over when shock is delivered

Clear concise instructions throughout the process
Even a hesitant rescuer can use the AED as they are not required to push a shock button

Disadvantages

Rescuer is relied upon to press the shock button and may not be able to do so if they are treating a loved one or are in a state of shock

Rescuer will need to ensure no-one else is touching the patient or holding their hand before shocks are delivered

When deciding between a semi or fully automatic AED you will need to think about all of the people who may potentially need to use the defibrillator – will they stay cool, calm and collected and be able to push the shock button when required or will they (understandably) panic under the pressure of literally having someone’s life in their hands?

At the end of the day, the fact that you are considering investing in an AED already puts you ahead when it comes to saving lives, so if you need more help in making the decision between semi and fully automatic defibrillators please speak to us today on 01543 372888 or email us at info@firstresponsefirstaid.co.uk.

Why choose First Response? (First Aid) Ltd

First Response (First Aid) Ltd have some of the most amazing trainers out there, and anybody who has had the pleasure of attending any one of the many courses would fully agree with this statement.

Well done, team First Response (First Aid) Ltd and a big thank you goes out to our customers for providing us with so much positive feedback.

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Having never taken a first aid course, it really helped me learn about helping someone whether a family member or a stranger. I now know what to do and how to deal with a potential life threatening situation. I thought Brian was fantastic.

, Emergency First Aid Course including the Paediatric Element
in Worcestershire school
I completed a paediatric first aid course with Tom MacArthur a few weeks ago. Today my daughter was showing signs of meningitis with an extremely high temperature. I would like you to pass on my thanks to Tom for teaching me as well as he did because his voice was ringing in my ears telling what I should do, I remained calm and felt confident that I was able to manage the situation until the emergency services arrived. I have had first aid training in the past but none have been as effective, Tom is a real credit to your company. Please pass on my thanks to him, his training was invaluable to me today.

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in Walsall
Have been on so many, many first aid courses over the years. Genuinely and by far the highest quality, delivery and fun aspects which help me retain a lot more information.

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in Birmingham
Trainer made the subjects easy to follow and explained things very well. Brian made everyone feel at ease so doing the practicals was more relaxed and easy to follow. I felt the assessments throughout were thorough but not intimidating.

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Sarah, Emergency First Aid at Work Including Paediatric
in Emergency First Aid Includiong Paediatric Coalville
I took part in your one-day first aid at work course today at the golf club Aldridge, and I would just like to say that I have done many first aid courses in my time but the one I did today was absolutely fantastic!! The two gents that hosted the course were inspirational and I can promise you we will recommend your company to everyone that walks through our door! I feel for the first time ever, after a course that I would be confident in doing all I could in saving someone's life. I walked out wishing I did the 3-day course, Thank you again and see you in 3 years!!

Sarah, Level 2 Emergency First Aid at Work
in Walsall

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