What is a Defibrillator?

Defibrillator UK

A defibrillator is a medical device designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart in cases of life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. These irregular heart rhythms can lead to cardiac arrest, and a defibrillator can restore a normal heart rhythm, potentially saving a person's life.

Defibs

Defibrillators can sometimes be commonly referred to as 'defibs'.

Video Overview: Defibrillators Explained

The British Heart Foundation provide a useful explanation of what a defibrillator is in the video below:

What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a type of defibrillator specifically designed to be used by non-medical personnel in emergency situations such as sudden cardiac arrest. It provides easy-to-follow voice and visual prompts to guide users through the steps of delivering a controlled electric shock to the heart. AEDs are commonly found in public places, workplaces, and homes to ensure that life-saving treatment can be administered quickly.

Why should you own a defibrillator?

Having a defibrillator at your disposal can make a critical difference during emergencies. St John Ambulance state that you can significantly increase someone’s chances of cardiac arrest survival by using a defibrillator before an ambulance arrives. These devices are user-friendly and can be operated by individuals with basic training.

What are typical features of defibrillators?

Many defibrillators come with advanced features such as:

• Clear step-by-step instructions for ease of use
• Automatic detection of heart rhythms
• Compact and portable designs
• Long battery life and regular self-testing

How do I use a defibrillator?

Using a defibrillator is straightforward and usually involves these steps:

1. Turn on the device and follow the voice prompts
2. Place the electrode pads on the patient's chest
3. Allow the defibrillator to analyze the heart rhythm
4. If a shock is advised, ensure everyone is clear and press the shock button
5. Resume CPR as instructed

The above is only suggested guidance. You should always follow the instructions provided in the instruction manual that comes with the product.

Video Overview: How To Use A Defibrillator

St Johns Ambulance provide a useful of how to use a defibrillator in the video below:

Defibrillator FAQs

Can you get a free defibrillator UK?

Get A Free Defibrillator UK

Whilst defibrillators are available via local community groups and UK Government funding is increasing for improving the availability of defibrillators across the United Kingdom, the convenience of owning your own defibrillator device can’t be understated in a cardiac emergency. 

Where is my nearest defibrillator UK?

If you’re keen to find your nearest local defibrillator you can use British Heart Foundation’s Defib Finder tool. Bear in mind that by owning a defibrillator, you can save invaluable seconds in saving the life of an individual suffering from cardiac arrest.

Can you buy a defibrillator for your home UK?

Yes, you can buy a defibrillator for your home in the UK. Explore the range of AED defib devices available at UK Meds. 

Do planes have defibrillators UK?

Whilst there is no legal requirement for all airlines to carry AED defibrillators in the UK currently, many airlines flying from the UK include AED defibs as part of their in-flight safety measures.

How many defibrillators are there in the UK?

It is estimated that there are over 100,000 defibrillators across the UK, on The Circuit, although tens of thousands of these defib devices are unknown to ambulance and emergency services.

Are defibrillators mandatory in the workplace UK?

Whilst there is currently no legal requirement for employers to provide an AED defibrillator in the workplace the GOV UK Health and Safety Executive states that should a needs assessment identify an AED need it is recommended that staff are fully trained in its use.

How many lives do defibrillators save UK?

According to BHF, the immediate provision of bystander CPR and defibrillation can increase the chances of survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest two-to-threefold.

Buy Defibrillator

Can you buy defibrillators online at UK Meds?

Buy Defibs

Yes. At UK Meds, we offer a selection of portable AED defibrillators to suit various settings, including homes, offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. Our range includes automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

Why should I buy defibrillators at UK Meds?

Buy a defibrillator at UK Meds and be prepared for emergencies. Our user-friendly online clinic offers a hassle-free shopping experience for purchasing your new defibrillator, and our knowledgeable customer support team is here to assist you in choosing the right defib device for your needs. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in a defibrillator today and help to potentially save lives in a cardiac emergency.

Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Alexis Missick MBChB. MRCGP
GMC reference no: 7151419
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