Philips
Heartstart OnSite
Defibrillator

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in the United States. Without warning, without symptoms, and regardless of a person’s age or general health, the normal pumping action of the heart suddenly stops. The victim stops breathing and has no pulse. SCA can happen for no apparent reason, or be caused by electrical shock, a heart attack, trauma, drowning, allergic reaction, or other medical condition. The only treatment is rapid delivery of a specific electrical shock — defibrillation — and time is very critical. For every minute that defibrillation is delayed, the victim’s chance of survival drops about ten percent.

January 19, 2005 Philips Announces HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator Available For Over-the-Counter Sale; First to Market a Defibrillator without a Prescription to Commercial Users.

Having rapid access to a defibrillator can truly mean the difference between life and death.

The Philips HeartStart OnSite defibrillator is designed for the ordinary person in the extraordinary moment. Lightweight, safe, and easy to use, the OnSite defibrillator uses clear voice instructions to guide the user through each step of defibrillation and CPR. Integrated SMART Pads placed on the patients bare skin transmit information to the defibrillator, which senses and adapts to your actions every step of the way. Like all HeartStart defibrillators, it can be used to treat infants, children, and adults. A long-life (4-year) lithium-ion battery keeps the defibrillator standing by, ready for use. Automated self-tests help ensure continued reliability and readiness. Now almost anybody can treat SCA quickly and effectively, wherever it happens.
HeartStart Defibrillators are intended to be used by responders trained in their use. Physician medical oversight (medical direction) is an important component of an effective early defibrillation program.