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How to use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

Guide on how to use an AED Automated External Defibrillator
AED Emergency Guide

How to Use an AED: Step-by-Step DRSABCD Guide

If someone collapses and is not breathing normally, an AED (automated external defibrillator) can help restart the heart. This guide explains how to use an AED, step by step, using the ZOLL AED Plus as an example.

How to Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

Sudden Cardiac Arrest can happen anywhere, at any time. When it does, fast action matters. AEDs are designed so everyday people can help, even without medical training. The device tells you what to do, then you follow along.

DRSABCD Quick Checklist

Use this as a mental prompt in a high-stress moment.

  • D - Check for DANGER
  • R - Check for RESPONSIVENESS
  • S - SEND for help (phone 111, retrieve AED)
  • A - Open patient's AIRWAY
  • B - Check patient's breathing
  • C - Start CPR
  • D - Use an AED
Can I hurt someone by using an AED?
No. An AED will only advise a shock if it detects a rhythm that needs it.
Start CPR right away.
CPR keeps blood moving while the AED is being brought to you.
Why ZOLL AEDs help:
Devices like the ZOLL AED Plus guide your compression rate and depth.

D – Danger

Before helping, check the area for danger. Look for traffic, electricity, water, aggressive behaviour, fire, or anything that could harm you or the patient. If it is not safe, do what you can to remove the danger or wait until it becomes safe to approach.

Keep it simple If you are not safe, you cannot help. Make the scene safe first.

R – Response

Check if the person responds. Tap their shoulders and speak loudly. Ask “Are you okay?” then look for movement, speech, or any sign of awareness.

If they respond, keep them comfortable and monitor them. If they do not respond, treat this as an emergency and continue immediately.

S – Send for Help

Call emergency services straight away. In New Zealand, dial 111. Put your phone on speaker if possible so you can keep working.

If other people are nearby, point to someone specifically and give a direct instruction, for example: “You, call 111.” then “You, bring the AED.”

A – Airway

Open the airway with a head tilt and chin lift. Tilt the head back gently and lift the chin. This helps stop the tongue from blocking the airway.

Quickly check the mouth for obvious blockage. If there is vomit or food, roll them onto their side and clear it if safe to do so, then return them to their back.

B – Breathing

Check for normal breathing for up to 10 seconds. Look for chest movement, listen for breathing sounds, and feel for breath.

Important Gasping, snoring, or irregular breaths are not normal breathing. If they are not breathing normally, start CPR immediately.

If they are breathing normally but remain unconscious, place them in the recovery position on their side and keep monitoring until help arrives.

C – CPR

Start CPR right away. Place the person flat on their back on a firm surface, then kneel beside their chest. Put your hands in the centre of the chest and begin compressions.

CPR for Adults: Chest Compressions

  • Hands in the centre of the chest.
  • Arms straight, shoulders above hands.
  • Push hard and fast at 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
  • Allow full chest recoil between compressions.
  • Minimise pauses.

If trained, use 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. If you are not trained or not comfortable giving breaths, do hands-only CPR continuously. The most important thing is that compressions start quickly and keep going.

How to use an AED step by step video demonstration

D – Defibrillation: Use the AED

As soon as the AED arrives, turn it on and follow the prompts. AEDs are designed for laypeople. They analyse the heart rhythm and only advise a shock if it is needed.

1. Turn on the AED

Open the lid or press the power button. The device will start talking you through the steps right away. With the ZOLL AED Plus, the voice prompts are clear and easy to follow, which helps reduce panic.

2. Expose and prepare the chest

Remove clothing from the chest. Dry the chest if wet. If the chest is very hairy, quickly shave the pad areas if a razor is available. Remove any medication patches from the chest before applying pads.

3. Attach the pads

Apply the pads firmly to the bare chest exactly as shown in the diagrams. The ZOLL AED Plus commonly uses a one-piece pad design that helps speed up placement and reduce mistakes.

4. Stand clear while it analyses

Stop CPR when instructed. Ensure nobody is touching the patient while the AED analyses. Say “Stand clear” loudly so everyone understands.

5. Shock if advised

If the AED advises a shock, make sure everyone is clear, then press the shock button when prompted. If it says no shock advised, resume CPR immediately.

6. Resume CPR and follow the prompts

Start CPR again immediately after the shock, or after a no shock advised message. The ZOLL AED Plus provides CPR feedback that can help you maintain a good compression pace and depth.

What to do until help arrives Keep following the AED prompts, keep doing CPR, and re-analyse when the AED tells you to. Continue until emergency services take over or the person starts breathing normally and shows clear signs of life.

Key AED Facts Everyone Should Know

  • An AED only advises a shock when it detects a shockable rhythm.
  • You cannot accidentally shock someone who does not need it.
  • CPR is still essential, keep compressions going between AED prompts.
  • AEDs are designed for everyday people, not just medical professionals.
  • Having an AED on site is a strong safety step for homes, workplaces, clubs, and venues.

FAQ: How to Use an AED

Do I need training to use an AED?

No. AEDs are designed to be used by anyone. The device provides clear voice and visual prompts that guide you through the process. Training helps confidence, but following the prompts is enough to act.

What if I am scared of doing it wrong?

Start with the basics. Call emergency services, start CPR, then turn on the AED and follow the prompts. Doing something quickly is far better than doing nothing.

What if the AED says “no shock advised”?

Resume CPR immediately. Some cardiac arrest rhythms are not treatable by shock. CPR keeps blood moving while you wait for the next analysis cycle and for emergency services to arrive.

Can I use an AED for home use?

Yes. Many families choose an AED for home use, especially if there are cardiac risk factors. The biggest benefit is speed, since you do not need to wait for an AED to be brought from elsewhere.

Why do people choose the ZOLL AED Plus?

Many buyers value the clarity of prompts and the CPR feedback guidance. In a high-stress moment, having the device coach compression quality can help an untrained rescuer deliver better CPR.

Be Ready to Save a Life

Knowing how to use an AED gives you a clear plan in a cardiac emergency. Follow DRSABCD, start CPR, then let the AED guide you. You can make a life-saving difference.

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What’s the Difference? Semi-Automatic vs. Fully Automatic AEDs Explained

Save a life with an AED

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are designed to make lifesaving intervention accessible to anyone.

The ZOLL AED Plus is one of New Zealand’s most trusted devices because it is simple to use, highly reliable and provides real-time CPR coaching. It also comes in two configurations: semi-automatic and fully automatic. Both options are safe, effective and capable of analysing a patient’s heart rhythm to determine whether a shock is required. The difference lies in how the shock is delivered and how much control the rescuer has.

This article explores how each mode works and why, in almost all situations, a semi-automatic AED is the preferred choice.

 

Understanding How AEDs Decide to Deliver a Shock

Before comparing the two models, it is important to clarify a key safety point.

 

Both the semi-automatic and fully automatic ZOLL AED Plus devices will only deliver a shock if the patient has a shockable heart rhythm.

 

The rescuer cannot force the device to give a shock, nor can they harm a patient by pressing a button at the wrong time. The AED performs its own analysis and will only proceed if a shock is medically appropriate. This means both options are inherently safe, even for untrained or first-time rescuers.

 

How a Semi-Automatic AED Works

A semi-automatic AED provides the rescuer with the final decision point. After the device analyses the heart rhythm and determines that a shock is needed, it will prompt the rescuer to press the shock button. The device will not proceed until that button is pressed.

Key benefits

  1. Full control over timing
    The rescuer can visually check that no one is touching the patient before pressing the button. This reduces the risk of a bystander receiving a shock.

  2. Allows quick situational awareness
    During emergency responses, multiple people may be assisting. A deliberate button press ensures everyone is clear before the shock is applied.

  3. Ideal for workplaces and public settings
    Most organisations prefer semi-automatic AEDs because they align with common first-aid training principles and reduce the chance of accidental contact.

For these reasons, we recommend the semi-automatic ZOLL AED Plus in almost all cases.

 

 

How a Fully Automatic AED Works

The fully automatic ZOLL AED Plus removes the need to press a shock button. If the device detects a shockable rhythm, it will announce a clear countdown and then automatically deliver the shock.

 

How the process works

  1. The device analyses the rhythm.
  2. If a shock is required, it announces “Shock advised” and begins a countdown.
  3. At the end of the countdown, the AED delivers the shock automatically.

Considerations

 

  1. Risk of accidental contact
    If someone still has their hands on the patient during the countdown or is slow to move away, they may receive residual energy from the shock. This does not occur often, but the risk is slightly higher than with semi-automatic models where the rescuer chooses the exact moment to shock.

  2. Useful in solo-rescuer environments
    Fully automatic devices can be helpful if only one rescuer is present and needs to focus entirely on CPR and pad placement.

Although the fully automatic device is still safe and easy to use, its automatic shock delivery means the rescuer has less control over ensuring a completely clear environment.

 

 

Why We Recommend the Semi-Automatic ZOLL AED Plus

For most workplaces, sports clubs and community settings, the semi-automatic model provides the ideal balance of safety, control and confidence.

Our recommendation is based on three key reasons:

  1. Greater control means safer operation
    The rescuer chooses the exact moment the shock is delivered. This reduces the chance of someone touching the patient at the critical moment.

  2. No risk of premature or unexpected shocks
    Even though fully automatic devices give a countdown, the semi-automatic option avoids surprises and supports better coordination among everyone assisting.

  3. Matches most first-aid training
    Training providers in New Zealand predominantly teach semi-automatic AED use. Having a device that aligns with training builds confidence and helps rescuers act quickly.

Whichever option is chosen, the ZOLL AED Plus remains one of the safest and most reliable units available. Both versions perform the same advanced heart rhythm analysis, both deliver a shock only when appropriate and both guide the rescuer through CPR with ZOLL’s proven Real CPR Help technology.

We Recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines
  • FDA Approved
  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device
  • Lowest cost of ownership
  • No yearly servicing plans or costly ongoing maintenance required
  • 5 Year battery & pad life
  • 7 Year Warranty
  • IP55 Rated
  • Made in USA
ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator
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Understanding Good Samaritan and Liability Protection Laws

Many potential rescuers hesitate to intervene during an emergency because they fear legal consequences and are suprised to learn Australian and New Zealand law protects people who assist others in good faith.

Knowing your rights and obligations as a Good Samaritan can give you the confidence to act quickly when someone’s heart stops.

What Is a Good Samaritan?

The Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR) defines a Good Samaritan as a person who, in good faith and without expectation of payment, comes to the aid of another in an emergency.

The organisation urges members of the public, including volunteers and off‑duty healthcare professionals, to provide assistance after considering their own safety. In general, a Good Samaritan has no legal obligation to help but is encouraged to do so because any attempt at resuscitation is better than none.

Legal Protections and Duty to Rescue

Fear of litigation should not deter action. Australian and New Zealand law protects Good Samaritans who act in good faith and without recklessness.

While Australian jurisdictions have enacted statutes that provide immunity from civil liability, New Zealand does not have explicit Good Samaritan legislation. Instead, there is a statutory duty to render assistance to another person. The term “actual care” is not defined in the legislation, but the expectation is that a rescuer provides reasonable assistance within the limits of their training.

Duty of Care and Acting Within Training

Once a person decides to help, they owe a duty of care proportional to their skills. Health professionals and trained volunteers are held to a higher standard than untrained bystanders. However, even professionals are not required to provide the highest level of care; they must perform tasks to the standard of a reasonably competent person with their training.

For lay rescuers (people without formal health professional training), the standard is lower – call 111, start CPR and apply an AED if available. In short, the law wants to encourage help, not hinder it.

Summary

Good Samaritan principles reassure rescuers that they can help without fear of being sued. Acting in good faith, staying within the scope of your training and avoiding reckless behaviour keeps you within the law. In New Zealand, there is also a duty to render assistance, so offering help is not only safe but expected. Understanding these protections empowers bystanders to become lifesavers.

We Recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines
  • FDA Approved
  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device
  • Lowest cost of ownership
  • No yearly servicing plans or costly ongoing maintenance required
  • 5 Year battery & pad life
  • 7 Year Warranty
  • IP55 Rated
  • Made in USA
ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator
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CellAED Recall – The Dangers of Cheap AEDs and What To Do

Unfortunately in recent months, we’ve received contact from multiple people, businesses and schools around New Zealand (and even some in Australia), that had purchased the CellAED®, only to find out the company behind the CellAED® is now in voluntary administration, and has seen the product recalled from various markets around the world.

 

In some cases, this has led to people having paid for a product they never received.

 

We would like to assure our customers that AED NZ  has never sold or distributed the CellAED® product. 

 

We were approached to sell the CellAED® early its in release in the New Zealand market, and our decision not to stock or recommend the CellAED was based on significant concerns about the device’s clinical claims and limited features.

 

Most notably, the CellAED® is not compliant with modern resuscitation guidelines, including only providing an 85 joules shock to the patient – when the ANZCOR (Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation) requires 200 joules to meet compliance, as well as lacking any CPR feedback.

 

I Have a CellAED® – What Do I Do Now?

Unfortunately as of writing, there is no way to purchase a replacement CellAED®, and we have heard from some customers that had paid for replacement parts and that their orders are now going unfulfilled.

 

As we do not stock the CellAED® product range, we are unable to assist with customers who are enquiring about refunds for pending orders or order updates.

 

We strongly recommend replacing your CellAED® with a high-quality, clinically proven AED such as the ZOLL AED Plus we supply.

 

Don’t Take The Risk – Invest in a High Quality, Clinically Proven Superior AED – the ZOLL AED Plus

We recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator as a replacement for the CellAED®. The ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator is clinically a superior device, that is compliant with New Zealand guidelines, fully FDA Approved and has various lifesaving features missing on the CellAED®.

 

We recognise the unfortunate position the collapse of the CellAED® has put many people, schools, sports clubs and businesses in – and we have a special replacement offer. To find out more, send us an email to or contact us for a quote for the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator – just mention your situation and we’ll do our best to make things right for you.

We Recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines
  • FDA Approved
  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device
  • Lowest cost of ownership
  • No yearly servicing plans or costly ongoing maintenance required
  • 5 Year battery & pad life
  • 7 Year Warranty
  • IP55 Rated
  • Made in USA
ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator
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Long-Life Accessories and Low Maintenance: Understanding AED Ownership Costs

ZOLL AED Pro

Automated external defibrillators are investments in safety. While the initial purchase price varies, the total cost of ownership depends on pad and battery life, maintenance requirements and the availability of consumables. Many organisations learn that cheaper AEDs become more expensive over time due to frequent replacement of consumables or difficulty sourcing parts. Understanding these factors helps buyers make informed decisions.

Consumable Life: Five Years vs. Two

One of the biggest cost drivers is how often the pads and batteries need replacement. ZOLL’s AED Plus and AED 3 use pads and batteries that last five years. In contrast, many competing devices require new pads and batteries every two to four years. Over a ten-year period the longer life cycle of ZOLL consumables translates to fewer purchases and lower maintenance costs.

Batteries also matter. ZOLL’s AED Plus uses off-the-shelf lithium camera batteries (Duracell 123A), which are inexpensive and readily available. Cheaper AEDs sometimes use proprietary battery packs that are more expensive and harder to source, creating hidden costs and downtime.

Self-Testing and Program Management

An AED must be ready at all times. ZOLL models such as the ZOLL AED Plus and ZOLL AED 3 perform automatic self-testing of pads, batteries and internal circuitry. This ensures that any issues are flagged before an emergency. The devices also integrate with management software like PlusTrac™, which helps track pad and battery expiration dates, monitor responder certification and maintain compliance.

Ruggedness and Environmental Resistance

New Zealand’s environments range from humid coastlines to dusty worksites. A durable defibrillator is essential. ZOLL AEDs have an IP55 ingress protection rating, meaning they resist dust and water. Cheap units may not offer similar protection, leading to damage or failure in harsh conditions.

The Real Cost of Cheap AEDs

While a low-priced defibrillator may appear attractive, frequent pad and battery replacements, limited warranties and poor support quickly add up. Cheaper devices might also be subject to recalls or consumable shortages. When calculating value, consider the cost of consumables over the device’s lifespan and the consequences of downtime.

Investing in a quality AED with long-life accessories ensures readiness and minimises total cost of ownership.

We Recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines
  • FDA Approved
  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device
  • Lowest cost of ownership
  • No yearly servicing plans or costly ongoing maintenance required
  • 5 Year battery & pad life
  • 7 Year Warranty
  • IP55 Rated
  • Made in USA
ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator
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Choosing the Right AED: Regulatory Approval, Safety Standards and What to Look For

Choosing the Right AED: Regulatory Approval, Safety Standards and What to Look For

Selecting an automated external defibrillator requires more than comparing price tags. Buyers in New Zealand must ensure that the device meets regulatory standards and includes features that maximise the chance of survival. Here’s what to consider:

 

Regulatory Approval

  • FDA Approval: AEDs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have undergone rigorous testing and certification to prove that they perform as advertised.
  • MedSafe Certification: MedSafe is New Zealand’s Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority. Certification confirms that the AED meets local safety standards.
  • TGA Approval: Devices approved by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration meet international safety criteria. Since many AEDs sold in New Zealand are also marketed in Australia, TGA approval provides another layer of assurance.

Choosing a device without recognised approval is risky. Unapproved products may not perform reliably, and they could violate import regulations.

 

Essential Features

  • Voice and visual prompts: The AED should guide rescuers through each step with clear audio instructions and visual icons. Visual cues are especially important in noisy environments.
  • Real-time CPR feedback: Devices like the ZOLL AED Plus provide verbal and visual feedback on compression depth and rate, helping even inexperienced responders deliver effective CPR.
  • Self-testing: Automatic self-checks of pads, batteries and circuitry ensure the device is ready to use.
  • Durability: Look for an IP rating of 55 or higher, indicating resistance to dust and water.
  • Pediatric capability: If children may need treatment, choose an AED with a pediatric mode or specialised pads.

Cost vs. Value

While cost is a factor, don’t sacrifice life-saving features for a lower price. Cheaper devices often lack real-time CPR feedback and may have short consumable life, increasing long-term costs. Ensure that replacement pads and batteries are readily available and affordable. Consider the warranty and whether the supplier offers ongoing support.

 

Compliance and Duty of Care

Employers in New Zealand have a duty to provide appropriate first-aid facilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act. WorkSafe New Zealand recommends having an AED on-site when ambulance response may be delayed or when specific risks exist. Investing in a reliable AED not only supports compliance but also demonstrates a commitment to staff and visitor safety.

 

Choosing the right AED involves balancing cost, compliance and features. By prioritising regulatory approval and essential life-saving technologies, buyers can select a device that will perform when it matters most.

 

We recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines

  • FDA Approved

  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device

  • Lowest cost of ownership

  • No yearly servicing plans or ongoing maintenance required

  • 5 Year battery & pad life

  • 7 Year Warranty

  • IP55 Rated

  • Made in USA

ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator
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Storing an AED in an Outdoor Cabinet in New Zealand

When time is critical, every second counts. If you’re placing an automated external defibrillator (AED) outdoors – for example at a sports field, public park or community venue in New Zealand – choosing a proper outdoor cabinet and maintaining readiness is key.

Below is an overview of the pros, cons and key considerations for storing an AED outdoors in New Zealand.

 

Pros of Outdoor Cabinet Storage

Improved accessibility & visibility

  • An outdoor cabinet makes the AED accessible 24/7 (or as close as possible) without relying on building opening hours.
  • Visible signage and placement in a prominent outdoor position increase chances it will be found when needed.
  • For venues like sports fields , having an AED visible adjacent to the field or clubhouse means quicker deployment.

Protection from the elements

  • Purpose-built outdoor cabinets are designed to protect the AED from rain, wind, dust and UV exposure. For example, the cabinet we supply is galvanised steel, wall-mountable, weather-resistant.
  • It is important to keep the AED cabinet protected from direct weather exposure, especially in harsher coastal environments. We recommend storing the AED under cover, and kept away from salt-spray.

Keeps AED onsite at high-risk locations

  • If you manage venues where community gatherings occur (like sports clubs and community halls), an outdoor cabinet means the AED is right where the risk is, reducing delay.

Encourages public-access readiness

  • Outdoor cabinets signal that the AED is for public use, raising awareness.
  • Registration with a national register (see below) combined with outdoor placement increases the chance someone will locate the unit in an emergency.

 

Cons and Risks of Outdoor Cabinet Storage

Exposure to environmental extremes

  • While cabinets mitigate many risks, outdoor locations still expose AEDs to temperature extremes (very hot sun, freezing winter, moisture/humidity). Batteries and electrode pads degrade faster under stress.
  • If the cabinet isn’t suitable for the install location, the AED could become damaged (rain, salt-spray, heat, cold) and may not operate correctly when needed.

Vandalism, theft or misuse

  • Outdoor access brings higher risk of vandalism, theft, accidental damage or unauthorised use. Alarmed or locked cabinets may mitigate this.

Maintenance burden and hidden readiness gaps

  • Because outdoor units are more vulnerable, they require more frequent checks.
  • There’s a particular risk: someone might retrieve the AED only to find the battery flat or pads expired.

Signage and locating issues in dark or remote outdoor settings

  • If outdoor cabinet is poorly lit or signage is inadequate, someone under stress may struggle to find the AED quickly. For example, weather-proof doesn’t necessarily equal well-lit at night or visible across a large field.

Potential misconception of “set-and-forget”

  • There’s a risk that once installed outdoors, few people think to inspect it regularly. Outdoor placement can lull organisations into a false sense of security unless maintenance is actively managed.

 

 

Summary – What to keep in mind

  • Installing an outdoor cabinet for an AED is a very good step if the AED needs to be accessible at all times and you anticipate use in a public or semi-public outdoor environment.

  • It is not enough just to install the cabinet and mount the AED; readiness relies on accessibility, maintenance and registration.

  • Registering the AED with AED Locations (and ideally with St John’s AED registry) is highly recommended, it increases the chance that someone will find the device in an emergency and that 111 dispatchers can direct people to it. But registration alone does not guarantee that the AED will work or be accessible.

  • For outdoor cabinets in New Zealand: choose the right materials, protect against the elements, ensure signage/lighting/access, and schedule regular checks to ensure the device is not forgotten and becomes out of service.

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Understanding AED Battery and Pad Life and Self‑Testing

When investing in an automated external defibrillator, you want a device that stays ready without constant oversight and expensive yearly servicing plans.

 

The ZOLL AED Plus leads the market with long battery and pad life and robust self‑testing.

Battery Life

  • The AED Plus uses ten lithium batteries that typically last five years or 225 shocks, longer than many competitors.
  • Batteries can provide up to 13 hours of continuous monitoring, ensuring the device remains powered throughout prolonged emergencies.
  • The batteries are a consumer grade Duracel CR123 lithium battery, making them readily available from us, or from electronics stores – don’t get stuck with a competitor’s AED who cannot source replacement batteries for you (yes we’ve heard this happen many times!)

Electrode Pad Life

  • The AED Plus’ adult CPR D-Padz electrodes have a 5 year life. Like all AEDs, the pads are a one-time use item and must be replaced once opened and used in a rescue.

Self‑Testing Features

  • A configurable automatic self‑test runs every one to seven days and performs a monthly full‑energy discharge
  • The tests verify battery capacity, electrode connection, ECG circuitry, CPR circuitry and audio systems
  • A simple “Red X” indicator alerts owners when service is needed, eliminating guesswork.

Maintenance Best Practices

  • Check status regularly – a quick glance at the status window tells you if the AED is ready.
  • Replace batteries and pads on schedule – the long life of ZOLL components means fewer replacements, but mark calendar reminders to ensure compliance.
  • Store in a visible, accessible place – proper placement and signage reduce response time.

Key Benefits of the ZOLL AED Plus

  • Industry‑leading battery life – five‑year battery and pad life minimises downtime and costs.
  • Comprehensive self‑testing – automatic diagnostics keep the device reliable without manual checks.
  • Low cost of ownership – fewer consumables and replacements save money over the device’s life.

 

 

 

We recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines

  • FDA Approved

  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device

  • Lowest cost of ownership

  • No yearly servicing plans or ongoing maintenance required

  • 5 Year battery & pad life

  • 7 Year Warranty

  • IP55 Rated

  • Made in USA

ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator
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Real CPR Help: How ZOLL Technology Improves Survival During Cardiac Emergencies

Not all defibrillators are the same. Research shows that survival from sudden cardiac arrest more than doubles when emergency medical providers use ZOLL defibrillators with CPR feedback technology and scenario-based training. High-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is critical: each minute without proper CPR and defibrillation reduces survival by 10 percent. ZOLL’s Real CPR Help® technology guides rescuers to deliver effective compressions and improves outcomes.

 

Why High-Quality CPR Matters

While only half of SCA victims initially require a shock, all require effective CPR. Traditional defibrillators deliver a shock but do little to assist the rescuer. ZOLL devices bridge this gap by providing real-time feedback on compression depth and rate. Visual displays and voice prompts tell rescuers to “push harder” or confirm when compressions are adequate, ensuring high-quality CPR even for untrained bystanders.

 

Features of Real CPR Help

  • Compression depth indicator: Real-time visual guidance shows whether compressions meet the recommended depth.
  • Adaptive metronome: An audible metronome guides rescuers to provide compressions at an adequate rate.
  • Full-colour touchscreen: On models like the ZOLL AED 3, step-by-step instructions appear on a bright screen, making the device user-friendly.
  • Rapid shock analysis: ZOLL AEDs minimise the time between CPR and defibrillation, reducing interruptions.
  • Automatic self-testing: Models such as the ZOLL AED 3 and ZOLL AED Plus perform regular tests of pads, batteries and circuitry, ensuring the device is rescue-ready.

These features are designed to support lay rescuers in high-stress situations. ZOLL’s CPR-D-padz electrodes feature a one-piece design for easy and accurate placement, and they come with a rescue kit containing scissors, gloves and a mask for efficiency. The devices are built with IP55-rated ruggedness and long-life batteries and pads that last five years.

 

Proven Impact on Survival

A study reported that using ZOLL defibrillators with Real CPR Help® more than doubled survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The combination of real-time feedback and proper training enabled rescuers to apply the proper rate and depth of compressions, deliver timely shocks and maximise survival odds. By transforming bystanders into effective responders, ZOLL’s technology bridges the gap between sudden collapse and professional medical care.

 

Choosing a defibrillator with CPR feedback is not just about technology, it is about giving bystanders the confidence and guidance to act quickly. When lives are at stake, real-time feedback can make all the difference.

 

We recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator:

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines

  • FDA Approved

  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device

  • Lowest cost of ownership

  • No yearly servicing plans or ongoing maintenance required

  • 5 Year battery & pad life

  • 7 Year Warranty

  • IP55 Rated

  • Made in USA

ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

 

AED NZ
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Why Every New Zealand Workplace and Home Should Have a High-Quality AED

Why Every New Zealand Workplace and Home Should Have a High-Quality AED

Sudden cardiac arrest strikes without warning and is one of the leading causes of death in New Zealand. More than 1,500 Kiwis suffer SCA each year. Survival declines by about 10 percent for every minute that passes without defibrillation. Having an automated external defibrillator nearby dramatically increases the chance of survival.

 

Rapid Response Saves Lives

In many parts of New Zealand, emergency services may take several minutes to arrive. An AED allows bystanders to deliver a life-saving shock within the crucial first minutes. Modern devices are designed to be used by anyone; they provide step-by-step voice instructions and visual prompts so even untrained individuals can respond confidently.

 

Legal Protection and Ease of Use

New Zealand’s Good Samaritan law protects people who use AEDs in emergencies. This means you cannot be prosecuted for acting in good faith. AEDs are easy to maintain—most units perform regular self-checks and will alert you when pads or batteries need replacement. Long-life consumables and self-testing features keep the device rescue-ready with minimal effort.

 

Compliance and Workplace Safety

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act employers are expected to provide appropriate first-aid equipment. WorkSafe’s guidance notes that organisations should consider having an AED if ambulance response might be delayed or if electrical hazards are present. Equipping a workplace with a reliable AED demonstrates a commitment to staff welfare and may reduce liability.

 

Why Choose a High-Quality AED

  • Reliability: ZOLL AEDs undergo rigorous testing; each device delivers up to 200 shocks before leaving the factory.
  • Long-life consumables: Five-year pads and batteries reduce ongoing costs.
  • Real-time CPR feedback: Features like Real CPR Help guide rescuers to provide effective compressions.
  • Durability: IP55-rated devices resist dust and moisture.

A low-cost AED may appear attractive, but unapproved devices can be unreliable, and consumables may be hard to source. Some cheap units have been subject to large recalls due to defects that could cause device failure. Investing in a high-quality AED protects your family, staff and visitors and offers peace of mind.

 

Taking Action

Cardiac emergencies can happen anywhere—in an office, at home, on a sports field or at a construction site. By installing a reliable AED and ensuring people know where it is and how to use it, you dramatically improve the odds of saving a life. To learn more about ZOLL AEDs and how they can fit into your safety plan, contact our team today. Together we can make New Zealand workplaces and homes heart-safe.

We recommend the ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator

  • Compliant with New Zealand Resuscitation Council Guidelines

  • FDA Approved

  • ECG monitoring capability built into every device

  • Lowest cost of ownership

  • No yearly servicing plans or ongoing maintenance required

  • 5 Year battery & pad life

  • 7 Year Warranty

  • IP55 Rated

  • Made in USA

ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator
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