This week a Safety Alert went out to everyone to remind them to check their defibrillators on a regular basis.  This was prompted when a monthly check of a unit discovered that the battery had gone flat and that the incorrect battery had been fitted.  If there had been an emergency the defibrillator would not have worked.

Key review points are:

• Ensure personnel are trained to check the defibrillators properly
• Records of inspection of each unit should be maintained
• Include defibrillators in weekly checks
• Correct batteries and spares must be included when required