Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Equipment Post-Incident Cleaning Protocol

It’s important to clean an AED and replace the pads and other equipment immediately after each use so that the device is effective and ready to use without delay the next time you need it to help a cardiac arrest victim. Here’s a template protocol that you can adapt to ensure safe and effective post-incident AED cleaning.

AED Post-Incident Cleaning Protocol

Instructions: AED equipment must be cleaned immediately after each use as soon as the victim is transferred to EMS, the hospital, or another person’s care so that the AED is returned to a ready state for the next use. Cleaning should be carried out by the person who used the AED in accordance with this Protocol and the instructions of the AED manufacturer.

  1. Handling of EMS Medical Waste

Be on the lookout for needles, IV catheters and other medical sharps and equipment that may be contaminated with medical waste. Carefully place any contaminated or potentially contaminated items that you handle or encounter in an approved biohazard waste container.

Wear Nitrile gloves and other required personal protective equipment at all times when cleaning used medical equipment.

  1. Cleaning of AED

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning the AED. In general:

  • Use only approved cleaning agents, including warm soapy water and materials available from [list source].
  • Do not immerse the AED in water.
  • Clean with a damp sponge or cloth.

  1. Replacement of AED Pads

Replace AED pads after each use and ensure that there’s at least one set of replacement pads available for the next time the AED is used.

  1. Replacement of Razors & Masks

Discard used pocket masks, resuscitation shields, razors, and Nitrile gloves in an approved biohazard container and replace them with clean items. There should be one capped razor, one shield, one mask, and two sets of gloves in the AED equipment bag at all times. Make sure the razor cap is secure and doesn’t come off easily. Dispose of any razors with faulty caps.

  1. Connection of AED Defibrillation Electrodes

Connect a new set of Defibrillation Electrodes to the AED after each incident. Always check the expiry date of replacement electrodes before connecting them. Using expired defibrillation electrodes may result in poor chest to electrode surface contact and compromise the AED’s performance during an emergency situation. Be careful not to break the foil seal of the replacement package when connecting to the AED.