Manual or automatic defibrillators for the in-hospital setting: Suggested choice criteria

Abstract

Introduction: Hospitals are bound to provide a safe environment. Early defibrillation is a key factor in this respect. Outside in-hospital high-risk areas, the use of defibrillators is infrequent. However, even when rapid response teams (RRT) bring their own equipment, the benefit from early shocks strongly suggest their immediate availability [1]. Currently there are no guidelines as to choice, placement strategies, or types/level of defibrillators for in-hospital settings, despite investment costs [2].