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AED Shock Capacity: How Many Shocks Can an Automated External Defibrillator Deliver?

An AED’s shock capacity depends on its battery, not a fixed "jolt count." Modern AEDs use long-life lithium batteries (typically 12V DC) rated for a specific number of shocks or years of standby.

Typical Specifications

ParameterTypical Range
Shock capacity (full energy)200–300+ shocks
Standby life4–5 years (battery expiration date marked)
Energy per shock (adult)150–360 J (biphasic truncated exponential)
Pediatric energy50–100 J (with pediatric pads/attenuator)

What "Jolts" Means in Practice

  • Not continuous: AED analyzes rhythm → advises shock → charges → delivers → re-analyzes (2 min cycle).
  • Typical cardiac arrest: 3–5 shocks in first 10 minutes if VF/pVT persists.
  • Battery depletion: After rated shocks, voltage drops; AED may fail to charge to full energy.
  • Self-tests: Daily/weekly auto self-tests consume minimal battery.

Factors Affecting Battery Life

  • Temperature extremes (cold reduces capacity).
  • Frequent "on" time without shock (analysis draws power).
  • Expired or non-OEM batteries.

Maintenance Essentials

  • Check status indicator (green check/ready light) daily.
  • Replace battery by expiration date (even if unused).
  • Replace pads every 2–3 years (gel dries).
  • Post-use: data download, battery/pad check, restock.

Common Models (Examples)

  • Philips HeartStart OnSite/FRx: 4-year battery, ~200 shocks or 4 hrs monitoring.
  • ZOLL AED Plus/3: 5-year battery, 300+ shocks.
  • Cardiac Science Powerheart G5: 4-year battery, 290 shocks.
  • Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2: 4-year battery, 200+ shocks.

Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for exact specifications. AEDs are designed for lay rescuer use—voice prompts guide the entire process.

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