Product Focus: Philips HeartStart FRx AED

Go to AED Superstore’s home page  – what do you see? Today, there are fifteen different AEDs from six different manufacturers. All AEDs function in the same manner: turn the device on, follow the instructions to place the electrode pads on the patient, let the machine analyze the patient, and then deliver the shock, if needed. What could be more simple and why so many choices? What makes one AED different from another? This Product Focus blog series will help answer these questions.

Let’s look at the Let’s look at the Philips HeartStart FRx AED, brother to the well-known Philips HeartStart Onsite AED. This compact, rugged AED, a compact, rugged device which is easy to use and has features which make it an ideal choice for both novice and professional rescuers. Once you turn on the FRx, the built-in software guides the user through every step of the rescue process including voice prompts to remind the user to call for emergency services, expose the chest and apply the electrode pads, then performing heart rhythm analysis, delivering the shock, if necessary, and then starting CPR. The face of the FRx uses illuminated icons to help the rescuer follow the steps of the process even in the noisiest of environments. Pushing the blue “i” button will activate the CPR Coach for assistance in performing chest compressions.

The SMART Pads II electrode pads enable the FRx to keep pace with the responder by adjusting to their actions. The intuitive software will only advance to the next step when the current instructions have been carried out. If you need the FRx for a pediatric rescue, the optional infant/child key, which is inserted in the slot on the face of the FRx, will reduce the energy delivered by the AED to the proper level for pediatric patients (age 1-8, less than 55 pounds). Most other AEDs use separate pediatric electrode pads; with the reusable infant/child key, there are no pads to swap, which saves valuable time and eliminates the need to carry separate electrodes. Can you say cost effective?

The electrode pads are even preconnected which saves time during the rescue process and allows the self-test to check the moisture content of the pads ensuring they are ready when needed. There is also a TSO C-142 aviation battery available  which carries the same 4-year warranty as the standard battery.

Let’s talk about rugged. The HeartStart FRx has an Ingress Protection (IP) Rating of 55, which means it can withstand jetting water and dust particulates. Also, testing has shown the FRx will hold up under loads of 500 pounds and can withstand a one meter drop onto concrete. This is an AED police can throw in the trunk of their car while patrolling, and EMTs can stow in their bags without worrying about being bounced and banged around. In fact, the small profile and 3.5 pound weight makes the HeartStart FRx an ideal choice for any situation. Throw in an 8-year warranty and you’ve got yourself one durable, efficient, easy to use, incredible AED!