Iridia is Born
In 1997, a tragic incident unfolded at a mill, marking a somber chapter in its history as two dedicated staff members collapsed and succumbed to Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). At that time, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) were only accessible to ambulance attendants and fire rescue personnel.
In response to this heart-wrenching loss, Iridia Medical emerged as a pioneer, introducing the first public-access defibrillator program in British Columbia. Through its online store, Iridia Medical now provides a variety of AEDs for purchase, aiming to empower individuals and communities in the face of SCA.
SCA can strike indiscriminately, affecting anyone, anywhere, at any age, and without warning. Shockingly, an estimated 35,000 people experience cardiac arrests outside of hospitals annually in Canada, translating to one occurrence every 15 minutes. This underscores the vital importance of widespread access to AEDs and the ongoing efforts to mitigate the devastating impact of SCA.
What is an AED?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device designed for identifying and treating life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias through defibrillation, specifically by administering electrical therapy. In emergency situations, AEDs play a crucial role in restoring normal heart rhythm. Key features of AEDs include their capacity to analyze the heart’s rhythm, assess the need for defibrillation, and deliver an electric shock if required.
These devices are user-friendly, often equipped with visual and audio prompts to guide bystanders or trained individuals through the necessary steps. With their widespread placement in public spaces like airports, schools, and community centers, AEDs significantly increase the chances of early defibrillation, thereby improving outcomes for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs should be accessible within 80 seconds from all locations!
AED Batteries
Although AEDs are designed to function for years, their batteries do need to be replaced periodically. In general, to ensure your device is properly maintained, an AED’s battery needs to be replaced every 2-5 years, but the specific lifespan of the battery varies across different AED models.
Most AED units use model-specific batteries; therefore, you will need to buy the replacement batteries that are unique to your AED.
You can replace the battery yourself as it is a very simple procedure, however it is important that you follow all safety precautions and adhere to any specific instructions included with your device.
AED Electrodes/Pads
Electrodes play a vital role in an AED’s ability to perform effectively, in fact – your AED unit wouldn’t function without them.
The electrode pads are designed to make the process of performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) easier and more efficient by checking the victim’s heart rhythm, and providing a shock if needed.
Your AED’s performance depends largely on the effectiveness of its electrodes.
The typical life expectancy of AED pads is between 18 and 30 months. Luckily, the easiest way to ensure that your pads are emergency ready is to simply check the expiration date printed on their packaging.
The length of time that an AED pad lasts depends on several factors including: the model of AED used; storage conditions; and environmental conditions.
When replacing the AED pads for your defibrillator, ensure that you choose pads specifically designed for your unit. Once you’ve identified the suitable pads for your AED, it’s advisable to acquire two sets:
- Adult defibrillation pads
- Pediatric defibrillation pads
Contact Us
Keep your community safe! We can help from the initial step of purchasing to anything you may need along the way.
Let us know what you’re looking for and we can help with the rest.
AED Escalate Program
AED Escalate gives you peace of mind knowing that your AED will receive the support it needs to run smoothly and effectively, no matter what happens.
Upgrading your program to AED Escalate gives you access to:
- Discounts on AED accessories
- Post-shock services
- Access to a medical professional
- And more!
Trade-In Program
Looking to replace an old AED in Canada? You may qualify to receive exclusive discounts on select AED products.