Equipment Selection

After completing your Site Survey, and determining where to place your AEDs, it's time to decide which AED to get, what accessories to keep with it, and how to secure it.

Which AED?

Choosing the right AED can be a complicated process, largely because inaccurate information is in great supply, and most AED manufacturers make exaggerated claims about the virtues of their products. In fact, we've devoted an entire section to help you sort out all of this information. Please visit our AED Buying Guide to learn more.

What to Keep With an AED

Although equipment needs can vary by organization and by environment, the following are good guidelines:

Minimum Equipment:

• AED
• Two (2) Sets of Adult Defibrillation Pads
• CPR/AED Response Kit (Including: CPR mask, gloves, clothing scissors, prep razor, absorbent towels)
• Carry Case for keeping the AED and above items together

Optionally:

• Spare Battery
• Infant/Child Defibrillation Pads (or key)
• Emergency Oxygen
• Special Case (ie: waterproof, protective)

Wall Mounting

AEDs should generally be wall-mounted in a prominent location. This allows the AED to be quickly located and retrieved in an emergency. An AED may not be needed for many years after it is installed. Wall mounting ensures that the AED is exactly where it should be, and that responders know where to find it.

Exceptions to wall mounting are situations in which an AED is designated for mobile use, such as being stored in a vehicle, with a designated responder, or being assigned to a coach or athletic team to travel to events.

Wall mounting is generally accomplished with a simple wall bracket, or alarmed wall cabinet. A wall bracket is designed just to hold the AED (with case and accessories) to the wall. A wall bracket provides little protection from tampering or theft, and is typically used in locations, such as small offices, where security is not a major concern. Alarmed wall cabinets hold the AED with accessories, and provide a measure of security by sounding an audible alarm when the cabinet door is opened. Wall cabinets are typically used in public areas, schools, and large organizations to discourage tampering.