How to Buy a Defibrillator

During a heart attack, there is a narrow window of opportunity to act before permanent brain damage or damage to other vital organs occurs. According to the Harvard Health School Family Medical Guide, most of the 1,000 people who go into cardiac arrest daily will die because they don't get the treatment they need in time. If you or a loved one has a history of heart disease or heart attacks, it might be time to consider buying a defibrillator to keep at home in case of an emergency.

Things You'll Need

• An FDA-approved Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

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Instructions

• 1

  Check with your doctor before purchasing any AED to make sure it's right for you. Most over-the-counter defibrillators no longer need a doctor's prescription, and having one on hand might convince an insurance company to cover some of the cost.

• 2

  Check with your insurance company to see if it covers all or part of the costs of AEDs. Standards will vary from one company to another and from one plan to another. Check also with your state's health association. Some states, like New Hampshire, provide a reduced-price contract for AEDs.

• 3

  Research which AED devices are FDA-approved. This list may change, but currently, the two approved over-the-counter AEDs are the Heartstream FR2 AED with Attenuated Defibrillation Pads and the Philips HeartStart Home OTC Defibrillator.

• 4

  Purchase the AED of your choice via one of several venues: drugstores, most of which now carry them; chain stores like Staples; online sites like the Home Defibrillator Store; or directly from the manufacturer.

• 5

  Receive training for your AED. Although most AEDs such as the Phillips model come with a training video, you should check with your doctor for any additional instructions. Also, the American Heart Association has developed a 3 1/2-hour course called "HeartSaver AED for Lay Rescuers and First Responders." To find the closest training center that offers this course, call the AHA at 800-242-8721.