Semi-Automatic Defibrillators

When seeking to buy a defibrillator there a few scenarios to consider which will assist in selecting the most suitable device for your needs. Whilst most public access defibrillators operate in the same way, there are a few differences which can benefit the intended user, or the environment it will be used in.
One of the key differences being is whether semi automatic defibrillators or fully automatic defibrillators is the best choice for your requirements.  Understanding the main difference that semi automatic defibrillators provide, may influence which models are recommended for you.
Quite often when you are looking at the various models of defibrillators in the marketplace, the same brand and model can be purchased as a semi automatic variant, or a fully automatic variant. For the brands where this option is available, this is welcome as it allows the user to determine which features are important, before choosing the semi automatic or fully automatic model.

Semi-automatic vs. fully automatic

For both variants, they will provide clear audible prompts to the user or rescuer once the defibrillator has been turned on.  E.g.

• Remove clothing from patient’s chest
• Apply pads to patient
• Commence CPR
• Analysing patient

After these steps are performed, this is where the main difference between semi automatic defibrillators and fully automatic defibrillator exist.
If a shock is required, semi automatic defibrillators will audibly instruct the rescuer to press the button to administer a shock to the patient. As a comparison, fully automatic defibrillators will audibly instruct the rescuer a shock is required, to stand back and not touch the patient, followed by announcing the shock is being delivered.
In essence semi automatic defibrillators are giving the user more manual control of when to press the button once advised.  Fully automatic defibrillators will automatically deliver the shock without requiring the rescuer to press the button.  It is important to note that the defibrillator will not deliver a shock if it is not required.

Scenarios for semi automatic defibrillators

The following two scenarios are examples of where certain industries, and users may find semi automatic defibrillators preferrable.

1. A trained paramedic, first responder, or an individual who has a medical background, e.g., medical clinic staff, or emergency services organisations, such as ambulance, police, fire fighters, or state emergency services personnel.
   Trained staff in these backgrounds may prefer to have more control in an emergency, as they may want to clear the area first to make sure everyone has moved away before pressing the button.  The rescuer may be completing the process of treating the patient, and once they are no longer touching the patient, they will press the button.
2. A marine environment such as marine rescue, a boat or yacht, or a passenger cruiser. Likewise, organisations responsible for saving lives across our beaches may see a preference for semi automatic defibrillators.
   When the patient is being treated by the rescuer, there may be a benefit to moving the patient to a dryer or more sheltered environment.  For instance, it has started raining after the pads have been applied, or waves are splashing onto the deck of a boat, there may be a requirement to move and dry the patient before pressing to deliver a shock.

It’s your choice

If you are looking to buy semi automatic defibrillators online, Defibs Direct has a wide range with a variety of features. We regularly have semi automatic defibrillators for sale with the intent to reduce price as being the barrier of entry to owning a life saving device.
We are here to help, if you would like to find out more, please give us a call.