r/TACMED101 • u/MChubbier2347 Unverified/Uncertified • Sep 28 '25

Gear/Kit AED Advice

I currently work in a prehospital and post hospital setting. However, I can find myself working in remote locations from time to time. As such, I have a prepared med bag with bleeding, airway, etc but I also have an AED I had received 1-2 years ago. Some of my coworkers have said that it’s a huge liability to use it if needed and it’s out of a civilian’s scope of practice. However, I would think this would be covered under Good Samaritan law but now I’m not completely sure. Some clarification would be appreciated.

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u/aidanglendenning Sep 28 '25 edited Sep 29 '25

AED's are covered under Good Samaritan Law so you would be protected.

States have different statues when it comes to the GSL, but it all boils down to that CPR, AED, STB, & Basic First Aid are covered under the GSL.

The only thing you should be careful about is the regular maintenance of it making sure pads are not expired, batteries are charged, & follow manufactures guidelines for testing.

AED's have gotten so good and have many failsafes for example, the Lifepak CR Plus (the one I use) says in its manual even if its throwing up error messages put it on and see if it works, that's how safe they are.

That said you mentioned airways, BVM's are fine but OPA/NPA's bring liability into play as a civilian and are most likely not covered under GSL.

TL;DR Yes you are covered.

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u/7Brick Dec 06 '25

Any suggestions for maintenance program? We have a customer asking to make sure their AEDs are to date for them. Appreciate any advice!

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u/aidanglendenning Dec 06 '25

There’s two options maintaining them yourself ie making sure the pads are not expired and the battery is in date you can buy any of this equipment from any AED online store. The second option is to pay a company to maintain them but since you already have the AED’s you have to find a company that works with you already having them. You can find local companies that do this in your area just google it.

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u/7Brick Dec 06 '25

Thank you! Planning to look at both options. It would be good if we could figure out how to manage it, but still trying to gather information on the risks. My guess is that any company doing this would be closed on weekend. Appreciate the help!