Think Safe’s Unique Solutions Integrator Approach to Workplace Emergency Preparedness

Think Safe recently developed an integrated solution for one of the nation’s leading providers of accounting, tax and consulting services. This new client has more than 6,000 employees and associates in about 75 cities nationwide. The client’s goal was to have a best practice first aid program to include Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and appropriate first aid supplies that ensured a high-level of readiness at all times yet was user-friendly and affordable. The company’s office suites are low risk of injury workplaces but a specific goal was to address the need to respond to the nation’s biggest killer – Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) – which claims the lives of over 300,000 people annually.  Key decision makers at the company were well aware of some key information that OSHA had released on the topic. ” Employers should consider use of AEDs at their work sites to reduce the time to defibrillation with the goal of improving survival.”

These offices are now fully equipped to deal with any medical illness or injury-related emergency situations with their investment of proper first aid equipment, AEDs, and site specific employee training. This program and client showcase how multi-facility organizations can implement affordable employee benefit programs and safety practices that offer improved emergency preparedness across a common culture without human resources drain or capital drain.   The average cost per employee for the entire program was less than $2 per employee per year over a 5 year period (the costs drop to pennies per employee after that).

Will they ever get a return on this minimal investment?  Well, is saving even one life enough of a return?  One employee shared a story of an event that occurred at their office,  “An employee was walking by a tax partner’s office when she saw him slumped over his desk. It looked like he was sleeping so the co-worker went into his office and found him unresponsive.  The co-worker immediately initiated the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) and an AED was retrieved by a tax secretary.  The secretary used the AED and revived the tax partner (shock was advised by the AED) while someone else called 911.  The tax partner was very fit and in good shape so it was a surprise to everyone when they found out he had a cardiac arrest.  The tax partner survived thanks to the AED machine and the quick action by the employees. The paramedics and doctors said the partner would likely have not have survived, if the defibrillator had not been used at the office and they had waited for EMS to arrive.”

In choosing Think Safe the above medical-related first aid emergency could be addressed.  However, Think Safe was picked as the provider of choice because they offered a unique, innovative, simple & user-friendly, and affordable AED and first aid program solution for other emergencies that might occur at the workplace.  Think Safe is the manufacturer and patent owner of the First Voice Emergency Instruction Device (EID) and this “first aid tablet” can guide employees through any major or minor first aid emergency and giving reminders or when to: call 911, check scene safety, use personal protection, provide treatment and how to or what not to do,  and what to do after the incident or during for record keeping.

Each client location implemented the following First Voice equipment and services (see picture):

Easy to access medical-related emergency equipment including AED, first aid kit, Emergency Instruction Device (EID) and signage.

 

AED in carrying case with adult 4 yr pads, 4 yr battery and full 10 year warranty

Alarmed AED wall-mounted cabinet (helps aid in notification of AED use; response needed when alarm sounds)

“V-shaped” Wall sign  (8×10” faces) for above AED cabinet to help improve visibility of AED location from any angle

Tamper Evident AED Fast Response Scissors/Razor Kit with use instructions

Laminated AED Use Protocols (attached to AED case for easy reference during AED use)

Think Safe’s Patented First Voice Emergency Instruction Device (EID) (automated first aid tablet, http://www.think-safe.com/FirstVoice/EmergencyInstructionDevice/tabid/285/Default.aspx)

50 Person OSHA/ANSI Compliant First Aid Kit with Pocket Refill System  (comes with tamper-evident seals)

 

To ensure legal protection and ongoing program compliance Think Safe also provided the following services:

Online & Blended Certified Training for CPR/First Aid/BBP (ILCOR/ECC/AHA/Red Cross/National First Aid Science compliant) that comes with Course Completion Tracking & Includes Refresher Training & Tracking

Training DVD or online training link for “Brand of preference” AED picked (HR Dept keeps this DVD and uses corporate key code for free AED training to provide any new employees or for use at employee meetings as a refresher training tool)

Think Safe documents provided for workplace postings help communicate key information. (Included with Site Administrator Toolkit)

Site Administrator Tool Kit to include all AED Program Communication Tools (AED Site Assessment assistance (where to put AED), Company-wide AED information distribution & Email notice templates, CPR/AED posters, AED policy template, Emergency Response Plan (ERP) documents & integration, EMS Notification/Registration, “AED Equipped” location stickers to remind employees of AED location inside office, inspection tag system, AED location thumbnail decals for evacuation/exit charts at facilities, Free AED prescription, and more…)

Online First Voice Manager AED Program Management Software for Auto Notification Reminders, Tracking & Reporting on AED consumables (pads, battery) and any first aid or other safety program supplies or training www.firstvoicemanager.com (works on any mobile device or PC with internet access)

Mobile compatible AED Inspection Tool with Continual 24/7 AED Maintenance Log Redundancy & Backup (proves AED was maintained if there is an incident involving use and someone does not survive; legal protection)

State/Local AED Owner Civil Liability Immunity Law Compliance & AED Program Medical Director Oversight, as needed

Equipment Recall Advice, Guidance and Warranty Servicing

Free AED Post-Event Review Technical Support & Incident Assistance

Free replacement pads/battery after any AED use event

Phone Technical Support or Online Technical Support

Contact us and mention this blog post and we’ll make sure you get a free site assessment and Site Administrator Toolkit information. 

Let Think Safe provide you more information on this unique, effective solutions integrator approach to workplace emergency preparedness, AED programs, or first aid programs.  Please  fill out the form below,email us or call us at 319-377-5125. 

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Local YMCA Receives Lifesaving Donation of Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Cedar Rapids, IA – June 23, 2015 – Think Safe andHeartSine presented the YMCA of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Area with a donated AED on Tuesday, June 23 at 2:00 p.m. at the Helen G.Nassif YMCA.Five months after staff at the Helen G. Nassif YMCA saved the life of a local school teacher using an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), the YMCA was awarded a second AED from HeartSine, the device manufacturer. Valued at $1595, the AED will be located in the Welcome Desk at the request of the man whose life was saved after experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest while using the YMCA’s indoor track.On January 20, 2015, staff members performed lifesaving measures to the member after he went down on the track. They grabbed the AED and another staff member who was working out at the time, cleared the area and later brought the Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to the site of the emergency. Two YMCA members who are health care professionals witnessed the event and joined in the lifesaving effort until an ambulance arrived. The patient survived and as a result, HeartSine, the AED manufacturer, awarded an AED to an organization chosen by the survivor. He chose to have it donated to the Helen G. Nassif  YMCA so the facility has an AED on each level. Think Safe is the local distributor who sold the AED to Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA. The donation is made possible by HeartSine, the AED manufacturer, through their Forward Hearts AED donation program. On behalf of survivors who’ve benefited from their AED products, HeartSine awards an AED to the organization of the survivor’s choice. Think Safe President, Paula Wickham said, “This is the way things should work. The Pay It Forward Program allows recognition of a life-saving event and enables others to share their story and life-saving victory over the disease that is the nation’s leading killer. Another life may be saved in the future, in the pool area, due to Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA doing the right thing for their members. Our congratulations go out to HeartSine and Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA for another valuable life saved!” Interested in finding out how Think Safe’s products and training options can benefit your workplace? Simply contact Think Safe at 888-473-1777 or click on the More Information button, and we’ll be happy to contact you. Or, if you like what we do, refer us to a friend! More InformationRefer a friend

New AEDs Hit U.S. Market

Cardiac Science Unveils Powerheart® G5 AED
Cardiac Science is proud to announce the Powerheart® G5 AED in the United States. The G5 is easy to use, reliable, rugged and boasts advanced technology. By using variable escalating energy, it delivers customized energy needed to a patient.

Cardiac Science G5

HeartSine Unveils samaritan PAD 450P AED
HeartSine® Technologies debuts the first and only FDA-cleared Automated External Defibrillator to provide real-time verbal and visual feedback on the rate of CPR compressions. The samaritan PAD 450P is compact, easy to use, and also boasts the highest IP Rating.

HeartSine samaritan PAD 450P

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Interested in finding out how Think Safe’s products and training options can benefit your workplace? Simply contact Think Safe at 888-473-1777 or click on the More Information button, and we’ll be happy to contact you. Or, if you like what we do, refer us to a friend!

More InformationRefer a friend

AED Battery Recycle Program

DID YOU KNOW…

Your expired AED battery can be used to create a “Re-Cell” or recycled battery that is manufactured using FDA approved GREEN TECHNOLOGY?

What are recycled AED battery packs and why do I need to know about them?

AED battery packs consist primarily of 2 components:

1.Lithium cells which are common and used in many products.

2. Housing around the cells that fit in specific AEDs. Recycling / Recell simply means replacing the lithium cells within a battery pack with new ones – the exact type and brand that were used originally by the AED manufacturer. The original case (housing) can be recycled multiple times. Here are some facts and features/benefits to the Recell batteries:

• Battery has an identical warranty to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer).
• FDA approved as a Class III medical device. ANSI/AAMI/IEC standards compliant.
• Authorized by DOT (Department of Transportation)/United Nations of Tests and Criteria.
• Full indemnification protection for harm or loss when used by the public.
• Complete AED warranty coverage (these batteries do not void your AED warranty) when using our battery packs.
• To purchase “Re-Cell” or recycled batteries (that are much more affordable) you must send us an expired battery.

Why do we Recycle or “Re-cell” the AED batteries?

• AED batteries contain toxic, ignitable, and reactive hazardous waste that must be disposed of properly.
• Just the battery housing that is dumped into U.S. landfills every year is equal to 2.3 million water bottles in volume.
• Eliminate 200 tons of hazardous waste in landfills created annually by lithium AED battery packs.
• Life saving AED devices should not kill the environment.

What AED batteries?

	Philips FR2
	HeartStart FRx or Onsite
	PhysioControl/Medtronic Lifepak 500
	PhysioControl/Medtronic Lifepak 1000
	Cardiac Science 9146
	Cardiac Science 9141
	and more…

GO GREEN. GET RECYCLING NOW!

Call us at 888-473-1777 to verify if your batteries can be recycled or if you get money back.

SEND US YOUR EXPIRED BATTERY & YOU MAY GET UP TO $15.00 per battery!

Please complete the following form with information regarding the EXPIRED AED batteries you are returning. A customer representative will contact you with instructions and payment details. Or, call us at 888-473-1777 or email us!

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Recertified Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Shopping?

Why buy recertified?  Is it safe?  Recertified AEDs are becoming more popular now that the AED industry is about 25 years old.  There are certain times when a recertified AED may be more viable than a new AED.  Primarily these situations are driven by budget but they also may derive from the need for brand consistency and perhaps the AED manufacturer is no longer making a certain model/brand.

• Zoll AED Plus: 7 years
• Zoll AED Pro: 5 Years
• Cardiac Science Powerheart G3: 7 years
• Cardiac Science Powerheart G3 Pro: 5 Years
• Physio-Control LifePak CR Plus: 8 years
• Physio-Control LifePak CR Express: 5 years
• Physio-Control Lifepak 1000:   5 years
• Heartsine Samaritan PAD AED: 10 years
• Defibtech Lifeline AED:  5 years
• Philips HeartStart Onsite AED:  5 years
• Philips HeartStart FRx AED:  5 years – See more at: http://www.aed.com/new-vs-re-certified-aeds#sthash.fmpbzgHL.dpuf

There are many questions when purchasing used or recertified AED devices.   The truth is that  people should not be able to tell the difference between a new and/or used recertified AED.  What are the differences?

New AED

Never been used Longer warranty (usually 5-10 years) New battery, electrodes, and accessories

Recertified AED

Previously used (usually traded-in when customer switches models or upgrades, sales rep demo unit) Tested/Passed Tests done by biomedical certified professionals before resold Warranty (3 months to 5 years, varies by company certifying or brand/model) New battery, pads, but some other accessories may be used (case, download cable, etc) Required to meet same performance standards as new devices

Are Recertified AEDs safe?  They are deemed safe only if the source performs the right testing and recertification procedures checklists are followed.

AED Recertification Checklist and Questions to Ask:

AED will be upgraded to current software updates for brand/model and current AHA guidelines (if upgrade available from manufacturer)

Each unit is connected to a defibrillator analyzer to simulate a shockable rhythm, and 3 shocks are delivered to assure the joule output is within FDA guidelines

All device and performance information is recorded and stored in both electronic and paper form

Visual inspection to ensure AED is in acceptable cosmetic condition

Device is thoroughly and meticulously cleaned

AED is accessorized and made patient-ready with electrodes and batteries installed

AED is turned on to initiate self-test that assures it is ready to be used in a rescue event

Battery and Pad expiration dates are recorded for automated setup of client reminders 90 days in advance of any replacement needed by end user

Package for shipment is prepared; AED should be shipped without battery installed

Quality Control inspects package for proper accessories and compared to packing slip

Order is professionally packed in accordance to Fedex/UPS regulations

AED tracing is submitted to the original manufacturer in accordance with FDA regulations

Before purchasing a recertified AED you should ask the dealer questions aside from finding out their conformity to testing procedures above.  Here is a list of appropriate questions to ask before buying and finding out the hard way that your investment was not a wise choice.

• What is the warranty of the device?  What does the warranty cover?  What was the original factory warranty that has expired?
• Are these units tested and what’s the process?
• Are you an authorized dealer? For all manufacturers and brands?
• Is the unit in stock? What is the serial number? When was it manufactured?
• What is the return policy?
• Does your company have liability insurance? (products and Errors & Ommissions/Professional? & General)?
• Does the company provide any indemnity coverage or insurance certificate?
• Does the device come with a loaner program if servicing is needed?
• What accessories come with the AED?  Does 1 or 2 sets of pads come with it?  A case?  Download/upload cable or accessory?  User guide?  Operating manual?
• Do you need to register the device with the manufacturer or will they?
• What shape / condition is the unit in?  Can you see a picture? Was it used daily or infrequently?
• Is this a monophasic or biphasic unit? (all AEDs should be biphasic per current AHA guidelines; older models may be monophasic)
• Is there a training DVD or link that shows how to use the AED? Have them provide this, if so.
• How expensive are replacement batteries and pads/electrodes?  How often do they need to be replaced?
• How easy to find are the consumables – batteries and pads?  Is the manufacturer still manufacturing them?  Are they available after-market or generic?
• How much would servicing cost if the AED needed servicing?  What are the procedures for servicing?
• Is the most current software available installed on the unit?
• Doe the device come with free download software and accessory tool?
• Are recycled batteries available for the AED? What are the costs? Availability?
• What is the perceived life left on this unit?
• Is there a trade-in program for trading up to another AED (new or recertified) in the future?

Can You Tell Which AED
is New vs Recertified?

Our goal at AED.com is to give you outstanding service and
prodducts of the highest quality regardless of whether the
product is New or Recertified. We know you cannot tell
the difference in the products, but we assure you that one
of them is not new. That lack of distinction is the result we
labor for on every recertified device we sell.

– See more at: http://www.aed.com/new-vs-re-certified-aeds#sthash.fmpbzgHL.dpuf

Can You Tell Which AED
is New vs Recertified?

Our goal at AED.com is to give you outstanding service and
prodducts of the highest quality regardless of whether the
product is New or Recertified. We know you cannot tell
the difference in the products, but we assure you that one
of them is not new. That lack of distinction is the result we
labor for on every recertified device we sell.

– See more at: http://www.aed.com/new-vs-re-certified-aeds#sthash.fmpbzgHL.dpuf

Our goal at AED.com is to give you outstanding service and
prodducts of the highest quality regardless of whether the
product is New or Recertified. We know you cannot tell
the difference in the products, but we assure you that one
of them is not new. That lack of distinction is the result we
labor for on every recertified device we sell. – See more at: http://www.aed.com/new-vs-re-certified-aeds#sthash.fmpbzgHL.dpuf

GO GREEN. GET RECERTIFIED!

Think Safe has recertified devices!  Need budget relief?  For current in-house inventory of available recertified AEDs and pricing from Think Safe (and all answers to the questions above about these recertified AEDs), please complete the form below, or call us at 888-473-1777.

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How many devices do you need?

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First Aid Word Search

For a hard copy of the word search, fill out the form below!

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AED UPDATE: 2020 FDA Approved AEDs

Click here to see

if your AED is FDA Approved

Did you know about this Philips AED

Recall?

Philips has recently issued a recall on their HeartStart Home and OnSite (HS1) AEDs.

Affected Devices :  Serial Number A13G-#####

If you have purchased a Philips device in 2013 or after,  please read the information below to see if you are affected. If you are affected contact Philips immediately for a replacement device at 1-800-263-3342 and select OPTION 5.  Live technical support is available Monday through Friday, 7:00AM to 5:00PM PST.  You can also leave a message 24 hours a day, seven days a week and a customer support representative will return your call promptly on the next business day.

Read the letter from Philips:

Philips Field Note 2014 FEB 10

Models Affected: M5066A and M5068A.  Affected Devices have Serial Number A13G-#####

Problem: Contact pins contaminated preventing a connection from pads cartridge to the AED.

Other AEDs under recall:

Recall Date: 01/01/2016

Title: 9131-001 Defibrillator Electrodes, Lot No. 141125-02

Units: Powerhear G3 9300A, 9300E, 9300p, 9390A, and 9390E AEDs

Alert Documentation

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 01/13/2012

Title: Cardiac Science Notifies AED Customers of Voluntary Medical Device Recall.

Units: Cardiac Science Powerheart, CardioVive, CardioLife; GE Responder and Responder Pro; and Nihon-Kohden Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) selected Powerheart models, 9300E, 9300P, 9390A, 9390E, 11,000 units worldwide.

Issue: Cardiac Science is conducting a voluntary recall of a limited number of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) manufactured between July 1, 2011 and December 30, 2011. The affected AEDs contain a circuit board manufactured with a component that may fail unexpectedly due to a supplier manufacturing defect. If the component were to fail during a rescue attempt, the AED may not deliver defibrillation therapy. This issue was detected at the Cardiac Science factory through our standard quality control processes. We have no reports of this issue impacting a rescue. This action is being conducted with the knowledge of the appropriate Regulatory Agencies.

Fix: enter serial number, if on the list contact Cardiac Science and have repaired at no cost.

Alert Documentation

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Recall Date: 06/29/2010

Title: Mandatory Software Update for Field Correction: AED resistor and AED relay Does your unit need to have the 11/13/09 corrective action?

Fix: enter serial number, if on the list download and install the software update

Alert Documentation

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 02/03/2010

Title: Cardiac Science Notifies AED Customers of Voluntary Medical Device Recall

Fix: If on the list, remove from service immediately. CS will replace the AED

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 11/13/2009

Title: Voluntary Medical Device Correction: AED resistor and AED relay

Fix: Install mandatory software update on all models

Alert Documentation

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 10/09/2009

Title: Factory-Testing Corrective Action

Fix: If on the list, send unit to CS for testing

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 12/03/2014

Title: PadPro and R2 Multi-Function Defibrillation Electrodes because they will not work with Philips FR3 and FRx AEDs.

Units:   Adult Radiotransparent Electrode Catalog Number: 2001H, 2001H-C, 2001H-PC, 2516H, 2516H-PC Pediatric Radiotranslucent Electrode Catalog Number: 2603H Mini Pediatric Radiotranslucent Electrode Catalog Number: 2602H Pediatric R2 Multifunction Electrode Catalog Number: 3115-1750 R2 Multifunction Electrode Catalog Number: 3115-1751

Issue: Electrodes will not work with Philips FR3 and FRx AEDs. Philips made changes to the connector design of their FR3 and FRx AEDs. Because of these changes, the CONMED electrodes will no longer work with these AEDs. The FRx AED requires electrode pads be connected to the device before it is used. The AED will make a continuous alarm chirp to alert the user that the correct pads are not connected. The FR3 does not require electrode pads to be pre-connected. Users will not know that the pads do not work until they try to use the AED. This may result in a delay in delivering the electrical therapy needed to revive a patient. Delay in therapy could result in serious injury or death.

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 03/14/2011

Title: Defibtech LLC, Lifeline and ReviveR AEDs: Software Defect May Cancel Shock

Units: Model DDU-100 series with software version 2.004 or earlier, sold under the brand names Lifeline and ReviveR. 65,885 AEDs distributed in the United States are subject to this recall.

Issue: AEDs using software version 2.004 or earlier may cause the device to cancel shock during the charging process. Failure to provide appropriate therapy may result in failure to resuscitate the patient.

Fix: Customers can check the nine-digit serial number on the back of their AED against the list published by Defibtech to see if their devices are affected.

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 05/21/2010

Title: Defibtech LLC, DBP-2800 Battery Pack for ReviveR AED

Units: DBP-2800 Battery Pack for the Defibtech ReviveR AED

Fix: Contact Defibtech for correction

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 09/12/2012

Title: HeartSine Samaritan 300/300P PAD Voluntary Recall

Units: HeartSine Samaritan 300/300P PADs, if your unit was recalled you will have received a letter directly from HeartSine. Units affected are: 0400000501 – 0700032917 08A00035000 – 10A0070753 10C00200000 – 10C00210106

Issue: Off/On issue, battery management software issue.

Fix: Contact Think Safe 319-377-5125, 8 AM through 5 PM CST, Monday through Friday

Alert Documentation

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 02/16/2018

Title: Field Action for R92 Resistor Issue

Units: A limited number of Philips HeartStart Home and OnSite (HS1) and Philips FRx units are affected by this action. Serial numbers of all affected devices. Home/Onsite: A02I-xxxxx – A13B-xxxxx FRx: B04L-xxxxx – B13B-xxxxx

Issue: The issue affects certain HS1 (OnSite) and FRx defibrillators, which contain a component called a resistor that, under extremely rare circumstances, may fail when high voltage is applied. In all instances of resistor failure, the AED will initially communicate the failure by emitting a pattern of triple chirps.

Fix: If your device is part of this notification and is still under warranty, customers may choose to receive a refurbished exchange unit at no cost If a device is no longer under warranty or if customers wish to purchase a newer model replacement for their present AED. Philips is offering trade-in rebates, ranging from $50 to $625, depending on the age and model of the affected AED. To request a warranty exchange unit or a trade-in rebate, or to obtain additional information, customers should contact Think Safe at 888-473-1777.

Alert Documentation

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Recall Date: 02/14/2018

Title: HeartStart FRx, HeartStart Home, and Heartstart OnSite AEDs Recall

Units: Onsite (A13A-xxxxx or A13B-xxxxx) and Frx Automated External Defibrillators (B04L-xxxxx through B13B-xxxxx)

Issue: Philips HeartStart FRx, HeartStart OnSite, or HeartStart Home automated external defibrillators (AEDs) manufactured between 2002 and 2013. Philips is voluntarily issuing this recall notification due to awareness of isolated failures with one of the device’s electrical components (a resistor).

Fix: Contact Think Safe 319-377-5125, 8 AM through 5 PM CST, Monday through Friday

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 02/09/2018

Title: HeartStart MRx Defibrillators Recall

Units: Model/Item numbers: M3535A, M3536A

Issue: Philips is recalling the HeartStart MRx Defibrillator due to a defect in the device’s Gas Discharge Tube (GDT). The GDT has micro cracks which allows internal gasses to escape and causes the tubes to not function as expected. This also permits an electrical current surge to cross the device’s designated resistors, which will damage the resistors and prevent the device from working while in automated external defibrillator (AED) mode.   As a result of this GDT defect, the HeartStart MRx may fail at any time, including when delivering repeated shocks in AED mode, or during the periodic Operational Check outlined in the device’s Instructions for Use. If the device is used in AED mode after failure, the device will not deliver patient therapy. Continued use of the device in AED mode after failure may lead to serious patient injury or death.

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 2/14/2014

Title: Feild Safety Notice: Contact Pin Contamination

Units: A limited number of Philips HeartStart Home and OnSite (HS1) models M5066A and M5068A are affected by this action. Philips has identified the serial numbers of all affected devices.

Issue: In a limited number of HeartStart Home and OnSite (HS1) AEDs, one or both contact pins may be contaminated by residue from the soldering process. This contamination could prevent an adequate connection between the pads cartridge and the AED.

Fix: If you are have an affected device, please contact Philips for a replacement AED at 1-800-263-3342 and select option 5. Live technical support is available Monday through Friday, 7:00AM to 5:00PM PST. You can also leave a message 24 hours a day, seven days a week; a customer support representative will return your call promptly on the next business day.Please keep your AED in service until you receive a replacement if there are no alternative defibrillators readily available.

Alert Documentation

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Recall Date: 12/28/2012

Title: Philips HeartStart FR2+ defibrillator discontinuance

Units: FR2+

Alert Documentation

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Recall Date: 10/30/2012

Title: AED Maintenance Information

Issue: Philips wanted to inform FRx and OnSite HeartStart AED owners of potentially misunderstood alerts from their AEDs.

Alert Documentation

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Recall Date: 06/02/2010

Title: Voluntary recall: Specific Philips HeartStart HS1 and FRx Defibrillators

Units: HS1 (models M5066A and M5068A) and FRx (model 861304) automated external defibrillators. The units affected by the recall were manufactured by Philips in March 2010.

Fix: Perform serial number look up on company website, company will direct further if your unit is affected.

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 03/20/2020

Title: 2020 Component Wear that prevents patient Connection

Units: LIFEPAK 500

Issue: LIFEPAK 500 AEDs in high-use enviroments (Emergency Medical Services) may ot detect a patient connection due to mechanical wear-through of the contact plating on the therapy connector. Wear-through of the connector exposes base metal on which an oxide layer may form result in the device not recognizing a patient is connected. When the circumstance arises, the device will provide the user the “CONNECT ELECTRODES” message.

Fix: Replace AED with a FDA approved device.

Alert Documentation

Need help with recalls for your device? Contact Think Safe!

Recall Date: 10/27/2017

Title: Recalls Defibrillation Electrodes Due to Incorrect Placement Instructions for Infants Depicted on Artwork

Units: Model/Item Numbers: 11101-000016 and 11101-000017 Lot codes: 713609, 717912, 713904, 718033, 715008, 719323, 45932237, 46042286, 45979590, 46050960, 45979954, 46052545, 46007867, 46061770, 46023185, 46063054, 46023823, 46078012 Manufacturing Dates: April 27, 2017 to August 10, 2017 Distribution Dates: May 30, 2017 to September 4, 2017 Devices Recalled in the U.S.: 7,973 units nationwide

Issue: Physio-Control Inc. is recalling infant/child defibrillation electrodes because the artwork on the pads within the packaging shows incorrect placement instructions for infants. There is no issue with the performance or function of the defibrillation electrodes. However, incorrect placement of the electrodes on an infant may result in failure to deliver an effective shock to an infant in cardiac arrest. A delay in therapy could result in serious injury and/or death.

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Recall Date: 01/13/2017

Title: LIFEPAK 1000 defibrillator due to reported instances where the device has shut down unexpectedly during patient treatment.

Units: Lifepak 1000

Issue: LIFEPAK 1000 defibrillator due to reported instances where the device has shut down unexpectedly during patient treatment.

Fix: Customers are also being advised to implement a weekly schedule of battery removal and reinstallation for all LIFEPAK 1000 devices. The removal and reinstallation of the battery will clean the contacts of oxidation and will reduce the likelihood of this issue from occurring. Physio-Control will be initiating a hardware device correction for all affected LIFEPAK 1000 devices and the company will contact customers to schedule device corrections once the hardware correction is ready for implementation. The company will provide customers with updated information regarding the timing for this device correction at the website URL shown below, when it is available.

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Recall Date: 07/19/2013

Title: 2013 class 2 recall of Lifepak 500 AED (all parties contacted so no remaining devices left to be upgraded)

Units: LIFEPAK 500 PART NUMBERS: 3011790-001568, 3011790-001574, 3011790-001627, 3011790-001634, and 3011790-001650.

Issue: The LIFEPAK 500 Automated External Defibrillator (AED) could be susceptible to malfunction due to an assembly error. If affected, the malfunction would be the result of internal shorting on a printed circuit board assembly and could render the device inoperable.

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Recall Date: 04/10/2013

Title: 2013 CR Plus and Express AED recall: (over 130,000 AEDs affected)

Units: LIFEPAK CR Plus and LIFEPAK EXPRESS defibrillators. Product part’s numbers: 3200731-xxx, 3202177-xxx, U3200731-xxx, and U3202177-006.

Issue: LIFEPAK CR Plus or LIFEPAK Express Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are recalled due to the potential to experience an early internal battery depletion issue.

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Recall Date: 07/ 26/2011

Title: 2011 Lifepak 500 recall:

Units: LIFEPAK 500

Issue: The potential reliability issue is the result of a design characteristic of a SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) electronic component on the main printed circuit board assembly.

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Recall Date: 07/31/2009

Title: Physio-Control Inc., LIFEPAK CR Plus Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)

Units: Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR PLUS AEDs with the serial numbers below are affected by this recall. Serial Numbers: 37026963, 37026983, 37026984, 37026997, 37027002,37027008, 37027039, 37027040, 37027049, 37027053, 37027063, 37027065, 37027066, 37027070, 37027071, 37027073, 37027075, 37027090, 37027099, 37027105 37027122, 37027197, 37027529, 37027569, 37031393, 37037850, 37037893, 37037986, 37038002, 37038211, 37038365, 37135986, 37154526, 37154638

Issue: An extremely humid environment may cause the LIFEPAK CR Plus AED to improperly analyze the rhythm correctly and may cause the device to delay or fail to delivery therapy.

Fix: Contact Physio-Control Customer Care 1-800-442-1142, 6 AM through 4 PM Pacific Time

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Recall Date: 10/30/2008

Title: CR Plus 2008 recall:

Units: LIFEPAK CR Plus

Issue: The device may not power on although it indicates it is ready for use and would not be able to provide defibrillation therapy.

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Recall Date: 10/30/2008

Title: 2008 Lifepak Express recall:

Units: LIFEPAK Express

Issue: The device may not power on although it indicates it is ready for use and would not be able to provide defibrillation therapy.

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Recall Date: 08/04/2007

Title: Lifepak 500 – 2007 recall

Units: biphasic LIFEPAK 500 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) with software version 4.4 or lower; Part Nos. 3011790-XXXXXX, D3100790-XXXXXX, and U3011790-XXXXXX . (XXXX indicates various non-contiguous numbers)

Issue: Reduced Shock- the device may deliver 100 Joule (J) to a patient, which is less than the recommended factory minimum default setting of 200 J.

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Recall Date: 06/21/2007

Title: CR Plus – 2007 recall

Units: LIFEPAK CR Plus

Issue: Premature battery depletion due to electrical component failure

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Recall Date: 06/21/2007

Title: Lifepak Express – 2007 recall

Units: LIFEPAK EXPRESS defibrillator

Issue: Premature battery depletion due to electrical component failure

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Recall Date: 03/29/2007

Title: CR Plus – 2007 (march) recall

Units: LIFEPAK CR Plus

Issue: LIFEPAK CR Plus defibrillators with software version 1.16 or lower may miscalculate the HLC battery capacity and result in the CHARGE-PAK battery charger icon/indicator to display and falsely indicate battery needs replacement.

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Recall Date: 02/23/2006

Title: CR Plus – 2006 recall

Units: LIFEPAK CR Plus

Issue: One of the printed circuit board assemblies may be contaminated with solder flux which can cause a short that may render the device inoperative.

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Recall Date: 02/22/2006

Title: Lifepak 500 – 2006 recall

Units: LIFEPAK 500

Issue: Component leads may have intermittent connection to the printed circuit board assembly pads – which could render the device inoperative.

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Recall Date: 10/19/2005

Title: Lifepak 500 – 2005 recall (cases)

Units: a) Hard shell carry case for the Lifepak 500 AED. Catalog number 3005384-000 through 002, Recall # Z-0004-06; b) Hard shell carry case for the Lifepak CR Plus. Catalog number 3201582-000 through –002, Recall # Z-0005-06

Issue: Some hard shell carry case for Lifepak 500 and Lifepak CR Plus automated external defibrillators may have blocked pressure vent which may make it difficult to open the case after a sudden decrease in altitude (such as in aircraft landing or mountain descent).

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Recall Date: 10/04/2005

Title: Lifepak CR Plus – 2005 recall (cases)

Units: Hard shell carry case for the LIFEPAK CR Plus.

Issue: Some hard shell carry case for LIFEPAK 500 and LIFEPAK CR Plus automated external defibrillators may have blocked pressure vent which may make it difficult to open the case after a sudden decrease in altitude (such as in aircraft landng or mountain descent).

Fix: On 7/12/05 the firm issued a letter to customers instructing the customers to inspect the cases for blocked vent. If the customer noted that the vent was blocked, to contact the firm for a replacement case. The firm provided response cards for the customers to return stating they had inspected their units.

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Recall Date: 03/10/2005

Title: Lifepak 500 2005 recalls

Units: LIFEPAK 500 Serial numbers – various, noncontiguous Part numbers – 3005400-XXX, D3005400-XXX, U3005400-XXX

Issue: Potential to not detect patients at the low end of the patient impedance range.

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Recall Date: 02/03/2005

Title: Certain Medtronic LIFEPAK 500 Automated External Defibrillators Class 1 Recall

Units: LIFEPAK 500 automated external defibrillators (AEDs), part numbers 3005400-XXX, D3005400-XXX and U3005400-XXX. This action affects 1,924 devices. All were manufactured in 1997.

Issue: The affected AEDs may display a “Connect Electrodes” message and then will not defibrillate the patient, even when the electrodes are properly connected.

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Recall Date: 07/20/2004

Title: Lifepak 500 – 2004 recalls

Units: LIFEPAK 500

Issue: Potential for batteries to malfunction due to battery cell rupture.

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Recall Date: 06/12/2003

Title: Lifepak CR Plus – 2003 recall

Units: LIFEPAK CR Plus All serial numbers below 31058753

Issue: Defibrillation therapy may be delayed or not delivered for persons needing defibrillation therapy.

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Recall Date:

Title: Lifepak Express – 2006 recall

Units: LIFEPAK EXPRESS Part number 3202177-00 through -002 Serial numbers listed above with the CR Plus

Issue: One of the printed circuit board assemblies may be contaminated with solder flux which can cause a short that may render the device inoperative.

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Recall Date:

Title: 2008 CR Plus recall:

Units: LIFEPAK CR Plus

Issue: This recall is being conducted due to the device being configured with the incorrect software for semi-automatic instead of fully automatic use. When the device is needed for a cardiac arrest emergency, the device will require that the user press the shock button instead of automatically delivering a shock as per the normal operation of the fully automatic device.

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Title: Welch Allyn AED 10 Recall Information

Units: Welch Allyn AED10 or MRL JumpStart defibrillator * Part numbers 970300x, 970302x, 970308x, 970309x, 970310x, 970311x, where “x” specifies the language as English, Dutch, Danish, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Polish, Spanish, or European English

Issue: Low Energy Shock, Electromagnetic Noise Interference, Unexpected Shutdown During Use, Blown Fuse, Loss of Voice Prompts Shutdown in Cold Temperatures

Fix: Contact Think-Safe (888)473-1777

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Recall Date: 02/12/2009

Title: ZOLL Medical Corporation, ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator, Class 1 Recall

Units: ZOLL AED Plus Defibrillator, Class 1 Recall Units Recalled: This product was manufactured from May, 2004 through February, 2009 and distributed from May, 2004 through February 9, 2009.

Issue: The AED failed to deliver the defibrillation energy.

Fix: The company sent their distributors and customers an initial recall letter on February 12, 2009 by certified mail. This letter instructed customers to replace their batteries every three years. The company then sent their distributors and customers a follow-up recall letter on March 31, 2009 by certified mail. This letter instructed customers to download new software for their devices and to remove any battery replacement reminder labels.

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If you would like to search for recalls that may be related to your AED within the US FDA database for “Medical Device Recalls”.

Please click here and type in your AED brand name or model in the fields provided.

More Information

If you need more information or want FREE assistance with your AED recall upgrade contact us on the form below and we are happy to help you with getting up to date! 

You can also call us at 888-473-1777 or

email us at info@think-safe.com.

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AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Battery Recycle Program Offers Big Savings!

How much battery life do you have left on your Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Battery? Have you checked the install date or expiry date lately?

Think Safe can recycle your old battery from ANY AED, and we even PAY YOU for certain battery brands/models! All you have to do is call us, get a recycle program shipment packaging # assigned, and ship us your batteries for CASH OR CREDIT!

Why not call us to confirm how much you get money back on expired batteries?  Why not also check out our consumables (battery/pad/electrode) pricing?  We believe in providing the BEST PRICING on replacement supplies for your AED!    Keep reading for more details on how to recycle your battery and get the best deals!

Get paid for recycling batteries from these models:

Cardiac Science
Powerheart AED (9200RD/9210RD) -Batteries discontinued. *Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information.
Firstsave AED (9200D/9210D) -Batteries discontinued. *Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information.
Firstsave AED G3 (9300C-001)-Batteries discontinued. *Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information.
Medtronic/Physio-Control
Medtronic/Physio-Control LifePak 500 (Catalog numbers 99401-001083, 99401-001085, 99401-001087 and 99401-001089) -Batteries and pads- call for deadline information or Email us.**Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information. Owner manual
LIFEPAK 500 Nonrechargeable lithium sulfur dioxide (LiSO2) or lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2)battery pak.  *Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information.
Philips
Heartstart FR2+ AED (M3860A/ M3861A)-Batteries and Pads call for deadline information or Email us.**Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information. Laerdal Heartstart FR2+ (M3840A/M3841A) -Batteries and Pads call for deadline information or Email us.**Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information.
Philips HeartStart Forerunner AED or FR2 *-Batteries and Pads call for deadline information or Email us.**Check on battery recycling programs to extend the life of your AED. Email us for more information.

Also – get paid or earn a credit to recycle your: 
Philips:  FRx, Onsite, HeartStart batteries – BIG SAVINGS over the life of the AED are realized when you take advantage of this AED recycling program!

DO YOU Want THE BEST PRICING ON REPLACEMENT BATTERIES for your AED?  Save Money. No Hassles.  Be an AED Program Hero.  Pricing is 1/2 or LESS of what normal prices are!  Full warranty batteries! Contact us at 319-377-5125 or fill out the form below to get more information!

We are here to help you with your AED program needs!  Fill out the form below to find out how to get $$$$$$$$ or earn future purchases credit per battery sent to Think Safe!

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AEDs: Use by Hospitals, Nursing Homes, and Healthcare Providers

Heartsine Samaritan AED

Just what is the standard or duty to provide care of healthcare, long-term care or elderly care providers for Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)?

From my consistent research and study of the AED industry, the standard appears to be that many nursing homes, elderly housing complexes or assisted living facilities still do not have an AED policy or program.   In 2007 a summary study within the industry showed:

http://www.jamda.com/article/S1525-8610%2807%2900207-1/abstract

Contrarily, here is an Ohio-based Midwest article on AEDs & some facilities who have decided to implement AED programs:  http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/358076/many_nursing_homes_lack_device_to_restart_heart_portable_defibrillators/

Now, not taken into consideration is the question regarding “duty to provide care” – and what is really the up-to-date 2014 standard to provide care as it relates to AEDs or CPR in these facilities?

*  Are there any industry mandates taking place? What is the healthcare industry doing about AEDs?

*  What are the trends for DNR orders or Attempted CPR- are the number of DNR orders going up or down as a % of population being admitted to healthcare facilities?  Should nursing homes or long-term care facilities have solid AED programs in place due to a decreasing % of DNR orders and more patient preferences to attempt CPR?

In January 2010 there was a great article I read that showed how UCLA is implementing AED programs across their system, due to the improvement in SCA survival they offer. UCLA Article

Nursing Studies Show AEDs improve SCA response times (this is an additional Nurse.com article on SCA & AEDs in the industry)

I have also read many articles/studies in recent years on in-hospital SCA survival versus out-of-hospital survival and perhaps UCLA is trying to improve SCA survival and change the statistics, which show IN-HOSPITAL survival is lower than OUT-OF-HOSPITAL per many studies.  The above link shows the obstacles facing nurses and staff and why AEDs may be a welcome addition to healthcare facilities.

Regarding long-term and elderly facility industry practices such as DNR advanced directives

are followed.  But, methods for identifying CPR status need improvement to enable accurate identification and prompt resuscitation of residents who want CPR:

http://www.gnjournal.com/article/S0197-4572%2898%2990117-3/abstract

It is known that ACPR is infrequently performed in long-term care setting and is rarely successful (successful being defined as admission to the hospital alive).  Survival (defined as discharge from the hospital) is also rare but survival does occur though. All nursing homes are not required to offer ACPR and many nursing homes in the United States, as well as in other parts of the world, do not offer ACPR.

In my assessment from my research, agencies such as the American Bar Association’s Commission on Law & Aging show that about two-thirds (2/3) of the adult population does not have an advanced directive or DNR.  I could not find any recent studies to answer my DNR questions on DNR preferences.

Recent mandates or pending mandates and “encouraged use” Bills have passed in recent years in the following states that are for assisted living facilities or long-term and medical facilities:  Texas, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, Florida and others.

Perhaps it will some day become an expectation for all long-term facilities to have an AED and perform CPR but for now, it appears that each facility has to make their own decision but for sure they should consider their state’s legislation or pending legislation as it affects licensing for their facility.

One excerpt of a study states, “Surveys have shown that many elderly in different parts of the world want to be resuscitated, but may lack knowledge about the specifics of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Data from countries other than the US is limited, but differences in physician and patient opinions by nationality regarding CPR do exist.”  In the essence of observing the opinions of those elderly that do want to be resuscitated – perhaps there will be some marketing advantage to employ by organizations that implement AED programs.

For a summary of up-to-date Nursing Home laws and examples of corporate position statements regarding AED programs, complete the following form!

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4 Steps to Take in an Emergency Situation for Caregivers

Here are 4 simple steps you’ll need to take when you find yourself in an emergency situation as a caregiver with a responsive person. Practicing these will help you know exactly what you need to do in an emergency.

4 Steps to Take in an Emergency Situation

Keeping your wits about you will be key, should an emergency arise. Practice these steps so that you’ll know exactly what to do in an emergency situation with a responsive person:

1. Assess the situation (S.A.M.P.L.E.). Answer some questions to get a better understanding of the event, and so you can relay that to emergency rescue when they arrive. Is your loved one conscious and breathing? If they are not, call 9-1-1 immediately and begin CPR compressions.  If they are conscious and responsive, look for:

(S)igns & Symptoms: What do you notice for deformities, open wounds, tenderness, swelling, if any? Do you notice any sweating, anxiety, rapid breathing?

(A)llergies: Do they have any? 

(M)edical Conditions or medications being taken or when were they last taken?

(P)rior problems they have had? Prior health history or medical emergencies?

(L)ast food and drink they had?

(E)vents: What were they doing just prior to the emergency? Did you or they observe anything odd or different?

Other questions: Was there a complaint of pain or anything else relevant? What is different or unusual about your loved one? Observe and compile as much as you can before calling 911.

2. Call 911. Do this when you have the even slightest hint that your loved one is facing a life-threatening emergency. Do not attempt to take anyone with a potentially serious problem to the hospital yourself. Rather, 911 should be called immediately. It’s crucial to accurately describe the situation and speak slowly and clearly when talking with the 911 operator.

3. Loosen any tight clothing. Make sure your loved one has nothing constricting the airways, like a restrictive shirt or tie, and keep them in a comfortable position while you wait for help.

4. Comfort and communicate. Talk to your loved one until 911 arrives, but don’t encourage the victim to talk. You want them to be as calm as possible until emergency rescue arrives. Take slow, deep breaths to help yourself stay calm as well.

You don’t have to be intimidated by the potential for an emergency. When one happens it may seem frightening, but the time you take to be prepared can make the difference between life and death.

Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, caregiver to your parents, office executive, or a blue-collar worker, Think Safe has innovative emergency first aid tools and training that can be customized to fit your needs. Check us out online or call our experts today at 888-473-1777!

For a FREE first aid preparedness training course, contact us today!

Make it a great day!

For a copy of a FREE resource card, fill out the form below!

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*Thanks to the following source: Linda Foster, MA at CarePages for some of the above content.