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Physio-Control of Redmond, WA, just announced that its LIFEPAK 1000 defibrillator has been deployed on the International Space Station (ISS) as the first automated external defibrillator (AED) in space. The International Space Station is a state-of-the-art, orbiting laboratory complex that travels 240 miles above the Earth. Crew members currently have interior living and working space for conducting ongoing medical and space research.

The ISS has utilized manual defibrillators in the past, but NASA has decided to utilize an AED as it requires less training and maintenance, and better enables astronauts to respond to a medical emergency. The small size and light weight of the 1000 also minimized the use of available space onboard the ISS.

AEDs automatically interpret a patient's heart rhythm and, if necessary, deliver a potentially lifesaving defibrillation shock to treat cardiac arrest patients. The easy-to-use devices have become common in places such as airplanes, health clubs, and schools. The LIFEPAK 1000 AED will be available for NASA crew members should someone experience sudden cardiac arrest in space.

Available from Physio-Control since 2006, the LIFEPAK 1000 can also be programmed so those with more advanced training can view the three-lead ECG onscreen to provide continuous cardiac monitoring.

NASA conducted extensive evaluations of 18 AEDs available worldwide before selecting the LIFEPAK, analyzing user interface, ease of use, durability and detailed technical specifications related to the unique conditions encountered in space, including electromagnetic interference, pressure susceptibility, temperature, vibration, acceleration and other environmental factors.

The LIFEPAK 1000 was deployed on board the Space Station in almost the same device configuration used by professional emergency responders. Minor adaptations were a customized battery developed and provided by Micro Power Electronics, and a NASA-created cover for the device specifically designed for space use to help protect it from electromagnetic interference.

"We are honored NASA selected the LIFEPAK 1000 defibrillator to protect the lives of crew members onboard the International Space Station," said Brian Webster, president of Physio-Control. "The 1000 is used by thousands of emergency responders worldwide and was designed for use in the harshest environments and situations; it's proven to be one of the most reliable products Physio-Control has ever developed. This 'space first' is especially exciting for us, as it underscores the many reasons customers choose LIFEPAK defibrillators for emergency medical use."

Adapted from a press release from Physio-Control, www.physio-control.com