Where to Buy AED Electrode Pads?

1. Introduction to AED Electrode Pads

Defibrillator electrode pads are an indispensable accessory, acting as the vital conduit for transmitting electrical energy from the device to the victim's body. These pads are coated with a special conductive gel, designed to adhere firmly to the chest skin and precisely deliver the electric shock to the heart during resuscitation.

2. Functions and Operating Principles of Electrode Pads

Electrode pads perform two critical functions during a rescue:

• First, they collect the victim's ECG signals and transmit them to the AED for heart rhythm analysis.

• Second, when the machine determines a shock is necessary, the pads deliver a high-intensity electric pulse (typically 150–360 joules) directly to the heart muscle, helping to "restart" normal heart activity.

The operating principle relies on the conductive gel layer, which reduces impedance (resistance) between the skin and the electrode, ensuring the current is transmitted effectively and evenly. This optimizes the shock energy and increases the likelihood of successful cardiac resuscitation.

3. Why Must AED Pads Be Replaced Periodically?

Electrode pads typically have a shelf life of 18–30 months, depending on the manufacturer. Even if the machine is not used, the conductive gel eventually dries out, loses adhesiveness, and significantly reduces conductivity. Using expired pads can lead to serious consequences: failure to deliver a sufficiently strong shock, device errors, or inaccurate heart rhythm analysis.

Furthermore, pads that peel or lose adhesion will not make good contact with the skin, creating air gaps that interrupt the current or even cause burns to the victim. Therefore, checking expiration dates and replacing pads periodically is a mandatory task to ensure the AED is always ready to operate effectively when needed, avoiding regrettable errors during an emergency.

4. Recommended Replacement Frequency

• Expiration: Pads must be replaced immediately upon expiration as indicated on the packaging, even if they have never been used. Facilities with multiple AEDs should schedule periodic checks every 3–6 months to ensure all pads are within their shelf life.

• After Use: After every use, pads must be replaced immediately as they are single-use items. Even if the package is opened but the pads are not used, the conductive gel is exposed to air and begins to oxidize; therefore, they should not be reused.

• Spare Stock: Organizations should stock at least one spare set of pads for each AED and regularly update expiration dates in the equipment maintenance log.

5. Risks of Buying Pads of Unknown Origin

• Safety Hazards: Counterfeit pads often have poor adhesion and peel easily during shock delivery, creating air gaps that cause uneven current distribution and a high risk of burns. More dangerously, these products may contain toxic chemicals or allergenic materials, causing severe skin irritation to the victim.

• Technical Failure: Technically, low-quality pads often have non-standard dimensions, thickness, and circuit designs, leading to incompatibility. The AED may report errors, fail to recognize the pads, or misanalyze the heart rhythm, interrupting the rescue at the most critical moment.

• Legal & Reliability Issues: "Gray market" pads often lack clear manufacturing information or carry falsified expiration dates. Using these products not only wastes money but puts the victim's life in danger and can cause serious legal liabilities for the organization using the device.

6. Where to Distribute and Buy AED Electrode Pads

To ensure the defibrillator's performance, you should consult clearly licensed medical equipment providers.

With years of experience and a close partnership network with reputable international manufacturers, Wellbeing distributes a wide variety of pads compatible with most popular AED brands in Vietnam, such as Philips HeartStart, Zoll AED Plus, and Nihon Kohden. Every product is stored under medical-standard temperature and humidity conditions, ensuring the conductive gel remains in an optimal state.

Furthermore, the Wellbeing Health Education Organization boasts a team of doctors and technicians who not only advise on suitable pads but also guide customers on inspection, storage, and periodic replacement planning. Our commitment to returns and exchanges for quality issues has built absolute trust with our customers.

Although electrode pads are small accessories, they play a decisive role in the effectiveness of cardiac arrest rescue. Saving costs by buying cheap, unverified pads can lead to irreversible consequences. Conversely, investing in genuine products from a reputable distributor like Wellbeing ensures quality and provides absolute peace of mind.