ZOLL received FDA clearance for its AED Plus fully automated external defibrillator with Real CPR Help technology. Unlike other AED’s, the AED Plus actually measures the depth and rate of chest compressions and provides real-time feedback to the rescuer. Additionally, while CPR is applied, the device continuously monitors the EEG for a signal and will warn rescuers to stand back when it’s ready to apply a shock. From ZOLL:
The new fully automatic unit provides all the same Full-Rescue features and benefits as the semiautomatic version of the AED Plus except that a shock is delivered automatically if one is advised. Shortly after determining that a shock is needed and warning rescuers to stay clear, the Fully Automatic AED Plus delivers the shock automatically—without requiring the rescuer push the Shock button.
Research shows that safety is not compromised when rescuers use a fully automatic rather than a semiautomatic AED.1 On initial power-up, the Fully Automatic AED Plus will prompt “Automatic Defibrillator” to alert the user to the type of AED. Once the heart analysis begins and the Fully Automatic AED Plus prompts “Don’t Touch Patent,” if a shock is needed, it will be delivered after a brief verbal countdown. Typically a shock is delivered within 14 seconds of initial analysis, if the presenting rhythm is shockable.
Product page: AED Plus Automated External Defibrillator…
Press release: Fully Automatic AED Plus from ZOLL Granted 510(K) Clearance by U.S. Food and Drug Administration