Ease of Use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) by Older Adults

Abstract

This study evaluated two automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to determine the extent to which different AED designs affect the performance of older adults over the age of 65 years. Forty-two untrained laypersons (20 young adults, M = 27 years old and 22 older adults, M = 71 years old) were randomly assigned to use training versions of either the Medtronic LifePak CR Plus or the Zoll AED Plus during a simulated cardiac arrest using an iStan patient simulator. A number of aspects of AED designs were difficult for the two age groups. Fifty percent of older users and 55% of younger users were able to use the AEDs to deliver a shock to the patient. For those who were able to complete the appropriate tasks steps, younger adults (M = 109.90, SD = 23.30) delivered the initial shock faster than older adults (M = 141.46, SD = 50.62). Task completion rates differed by age group and AED type. The most problematic steps across age groups included opening and activating the AED, removing the liner and placing the pads on the patient simulator. This paper will also discuss the implications of the AED evaluations and redesign recommendations.