Bring these

• Flashlight
• Site AED program and inspection record

Before touching anything

• Use the AED manufacturer's inspection schedule and your facility's emergency-response/AED program.
• As a practical facility routine, a documented monthly readiness check is a useful baseline unless the manufacturer or site program requires more frequent checks.
• Also check after an AED has been used, after an alarm/error indication, and after any event that could have damaged the cabinet or device.

1. 1Status indicatorConfirm the device displays the manufacturer's normal ready/OK status. A red, failed, blank or unfamiliar status indication requires follow-up using the device manual or service provider.
2. 2Access and cabinetConfirm the AED is in its designated location, readily accessible, not blocked, and the cabinet/signage are intact. If the cabinet has an alarm, verify it according to the site's approved procedure without compromising AED readiness.
3. 3Pads and batteryCheck that electrode-pad packages are sealed and within their expiration date, and that the battery status/expiration or replacement date is acceptable for the model. Confirm required pediatric pads/key, spare battery or other site-required accessories are present where applicable.
4. 4Physical conditionLook for cracks, contamination, moisture, missing components, damaged cables/connectors or evidence of tampering. Do not dismantle the AED for a routine facility inspection.
5. 5Rescue kit and signageVerify the site's intended rescue supplies are present and usable, such as gloves, scissors, razor and barrier mask, and that directional/AED signage remains visible.
6. 6After the AED is usedDo not simply return it to the cabinet. Follow the manufacturer's post-use process and the facility's medical/emergency-response program. Typically this includes replacing used pads and other consumed supplies, checking/replacing the battery if required, cleaning the device as instructed, downloading/event-data handling only by authorized personnel, and confirming the AED returns to its normal ready status before it is placed back in service.

Record AED location/ID, date, ready-status indication, pad expiration, battery status/date, cabinet/access condition, accessory status, deficiencies and corrective action. Keep the record consistent with your facility's AED program and manufacturer recommendations.

American Heart Association — What is an AED? Manufacturer's instructions for the exact AED model installed at your facility.