Defibrillation Pads: Essential Tools for Saving Lives

By Amy Jeary

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death worldwide, claiming millions of lives each year. But with early defibrillation, delivering an electric shock to restore the heart’s normal rhythm, can significantly increase the chances of survival. And that’s where defibrillation pads come in.

What are defibrillation pads?

Defibrillation pads are adhesive electrodes placed on a person’s chest during cardiac arrest. They work by conducting an electric current from a defibrillator to the heart. This current can help to reset the heart’s electrical rhythm and restore normal function.

How do defibrillation pads work?

When attached to a defibrillator, the pads deliver an electric shock to the heart. The shock disrupts the heart’s abnormal rhythm, allowing the electrical signals to travel through the heart more efficiently and hopefully restore a normal rhythm.

Why are defibrillation pads important?

Every minute that passes during cardiac arrest decreases the chance of survival by 7-10%. Defibrillation pads are essential because they allow for the quick and effective delivery of an electric shock, which can dramatically improve the chances of survival.

Facts:

  • A 2019 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association estimated that  use of defibrillators saves around 1,700 lives annually in the United States alone. This translates to roughly 5 lives saved every day.
  • The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation reports that defibrillator shocks delivered within 3 minutes of cardiac arrest can lead to survival rates as high as 70%. This highlights the critical role of early intervention defibrillators.

Statistics paint a clear picture, but the true impact of defibrillation pads extends far beyond mere numbers. Each life saved represents a family member, friend, colleague, or neighbor brought back from the brink. It speaks volumes about the power of community preparedness and the collective effort to combat SCA.

HeartSync Defibrillator Electrodes are ideal for hospital and EMS use across a variety of defib devices. They deliver reliable defibrillation, cardioversion, pacing and ECG monitoring with unique features not found on any other electrode.

  • Wide Range of Compatibility
  • Long Shelf Life (36 months)
  • Longer than most standard Lead Wires on the Market (60” for mobility and safety)
  • Leads-In or Leads-Out Options
  • Radio transparency for Imaging