Physio-Control LIFEPAK 15 - Manual (Page 137)

THERAPY
5
©2007-2013 Physio-Control, Inc. LIFEPAK 15 Monitor/Defibrillator Operating Instructions
5-23
Manual Defibrillation Warnings
Manual Mode
The LIFEPAK 15 monitor/defibrillator is set up to operate in Manual mode when it is turned on
(factory default setting). If required by your protocols, the defibrillator can be set up to power on in
the automated external defibrillator (AED) mode. For information on switching from AED mode to
Manual mode, see "Switching from AED Mode to Manual Mode" on page 5-14.
WARNINGS
SHOCK HAZARD
Conductive gel (wet or dry) on the paddle handles can allow the electrical energy to
discharge through the operator during defibrillation. Completely clean the paddle
electrode surfaces, handles, and storage area after defibrillation.
BURNS AND INEFFECTIVE ENERGY DELIVERY HAZARDS
POSSIBLE FIRE, BURNS, AND INEFFECTIVE ENERGY DELIVERY
Precordial lead electrodes and lead wires may interfere with the placement of standard
paddles or therapy electrodes. Before defibrillation, remove any interfering precordial
lead electrodes and lead wires.
POSSIBLE BURNS AND INEFFECTIVE ENERGY DELIVERY
A gel pathway on the skin between the standard paddles will cause defibrillating
energy to arc between paddles and divert energy away from the heart muscle. Do not
allow conductive gel (wet or dry) to become continuous between paddle sites.
POSSIBLE PATIENT SKIN BURNS
During defibrillation, air pockets between the skin and standard paddles can cause
patient skin burns. Completely cover paddle electrode surfaces with fresh conductive
gel and apply 25 lb of pressure per paddle during discharge.
POSSIBLE PADDLE DAMAGE AND PATIENT SKIN BURNS
Discharging the defibrillator with the standard paddle surfaces shorted together can
pit or damage the paddle electrode surface. Pitted or damaged paddle surfaces may
cause patient skin burns during defibrillation. Discharge the defibrillator only as
described in these operating instructions.
POSSIBLE INCORRECT ENERGY DELIVERY
The defibrillator does not automatically adjust energy when using pediatric therapy
electrodes or pediatric standard paddles. Manually select the appropriate energy prior
to defibrillating the patient.