Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2 Review: Features, Benefits, and Insights

The LIFEPAK CR2 is a lightweight, easy-to-use AED. It has many features. It’s serviceable in many situations and locations. 

Its advanced tech, strong features, and light weight make it a top choice for many emergencies. It’s pricey but worth it.

The top competitor among public users is.

Since their invention in the late 20th century, AEDs have improved. Research into effective SCA treatments drove these advancements. These changes, plus technological advances, have made many AEDs. They suit both professionals and lay rescuers.

The Physio-Control Lifepak CR2 is a top AED. It is praised for its great value, quality, and features. AED Superstore’s 2023 review named it a top choice for schools. It reflects the legacy of Physio-Control Corp. It was founded in 1955 by famed heart surgeon Dr. Karl William Edmark. As a pioneer in portable defibrillators, this brand sets life-saving technology standards.

Dr. Karl William Edmark revolutionized portable defibrillators. He developed a safer, more effective direct current (DC) shock system. It replaced the less efficient alternating current (AC) method for restoring heart rhythm.

Physio-Control, founded by Dr. Karl William Edmark, makes advanced defibrillators and automated CPR devices for emergencies. After ownership changes, including acquisitions by Eli Lilly and Medtronic, Stryker acquired the company in 2016. It is now part of Stryker’s Emergency Care division and its products are distributed worldwide.

High in value

The LIFEPAK CR2 costs a bit more than its main competitors. Its easy-to-use interface and advanced tech make it a leader in design and features.

Versatile

The LIFEPAK CR2 has a sleek design and weighs under 5 pounds. It can be easily activated by opening its cover. It is durable and offers an optional protective carrying case. Its simple interface and advanced tech ensure high performance. So, it’s a reliable choice for any rescue.

The LIFEPAK CR2 is ideal for indoor lay rescuers and pros in athletic or emergency situations. It’s a versatile addition to any first-aid kit. Its simple design and advanced features let it adapt to many rescue situations.

An Extensive range of users and locations.

Consider these possibilities:

• Single-location safety offices and stations
  • Home use, kept by anyone at risk for SCA (prescription required).
  • Small business, grocery store, daycare center.
  • Church office, sanctuary, small private school, senior center.
  • Neighborhood or mobile park clubhouse
  • Office building, school, retirement home
  • Shopping malls or shopping centers
• Portable use as part of a first aid kit
  • Individual trainers and medical personnel
  • SUV, RV, tour bus, boat
  • Intramural team, Hiking (etc.) club
  • School sports teams, buses
  • Community transit vehicles
  • Helicopter, airplane, ship
  • Police, Fire, and EMT vehicles

The LIFEPAK CR2 is very versatile. It is a reliable choice for many uses. It may not excel in every feature compared to competitors. But, its capabilities ensure effective rescues. They come from guided CPR, rapid defibrillation, and detailed aftercare support. They empower users in critical moments.

Using the Physio-Control Lifespan CR2 – outstanding features

The guide to deploying the LIFEPAK CR2 shows its great features (bolded below):

How to use a LIFEPAK CR2 AED (bold indicates feature)

1. Turn on the AED by simply opening the lid.
2. Follow the instructions delivered by Clear-Voice audio.
   1.     Audio self-adjusts its volume depending on background noise.
   2.     Audio instructions are filtered for static/distortion to assure clarity.
3. You will hear “ADULT MODE”.
   1.     Users may press the language button to select an alternate language (e.g., Spanish).
   2.     For children under age 8/55 lbs., the user may press the child button and continue, still using the same pads.
4. You will hear “REMOVE ALL CLOTHING FROM PATIENT’S CHEST”, then “PULL RED HANDLE TO REVEAL PADS; LOOK AT PICTURES ON PADS”.
   1.     Simple audio instructions guide the user through each step.
   2.     Large, unmistakable graphic drawings and obvious numbers show each step.
   3.     The layered design prevents missteps and protects pads within the unit until needed.
5. You hear “APPLY PADS TO BARE SKIN, EXACTLY AS SHOWN IN THE PICTURES. PRESS PADS FIRMLY.”
   1.     Pads with graphic diagrams for placement appear immediately and in obvious order for use. 
   2.     Pads are very easy to access using red rings, with no additional packaging to open.
   3.     The same pads are used for adults or children and placement is marked for both applications.
6. You hear, “DO NOT TOUCH PATIENT. ANALYZING HEART RHYTHM.”
   1.     Once pads are properly applied, the AED automatically analyzes the heart rhythm to determine whether a shock should be given.
   2.     The LIFEPAK CR2 is available in automatic or semi-automatic models. It can proceed with shock on its own or guide the rescuer to press a shock button.
7. If a shock is needed, you hear “EVERYONE CLEAR, DO NOT TOUCH PATIENT, (EMERGENCY TONE) DELIVERING SHOCK. SHOCK DELIVERED.”
   1.     LIFEPAK CR2 is available in automatic shock or semi-automatic models.
   2.     This AED provides shocks adjusted for adults or child at the press of a button, with escalating energy as needed.
   3.     The CR2 has the highest shocking power of any AED available for public use (360 joules).
8. You hear, “PROVIDE CHEST COMPRESSIONS TO THE BEAT.”
   1.     Guided CPR is begun, and a metronome provides rate guidance for rescuers.
   2.     As CPR is given, coaching for high-quality compressions is given by audio voice (e.g., “THE HEEL OF ONE HAND SHOULD BE IN CENTER OF CHEST. THE OTHER HAND SHOULD BE ON TOP OF FIRST HAND.”).
   3.     LIFEPAK CR2’s cprINSIGHT technology reduces CPR pause times by conducting ECG rhythm analysis during compressions. It automatically incorporates analysis information into its guidance for CPR and pauses (only) for ECG re-check and possible shock.
9. Continue CPR until the patient revives or the EMT arrives.

1. WIFI (“LIFELINKcentral”) may be used to send patient data to emergency responders and hospitals.
2. It will monitor overall AED programs.
   1. Detects AED locations, administering an entire campus or branch network. 
   2. Reports AED readiness receives fault information. Etc.

Lifepak CR2 review summary

The LIFEPAK CR2 is a lightweight, easy-to-use AED. It has advanced features, making it suitable for many settings and emergencies.

Watch this Cardio Partners training video. It will teach you how to use the LIFEPAK CR2 well.

Lifepak CR2 AED features summary.

• Rugged, versatile, full-featured, yet user-friendly AED.
• English/Spanish voice prompts and printed visuals.
• 8-year warranty; 4-yr battery
• Semi-automatic shock button (automatic shock is available).
• The child mode button eliminates the need for separate pads.
• CPR prompts and a metronome.
• Rugged construction (IP rating 55)
• Weight: 4.5 lbs.
• WIFI is equipped for patient data transmission and maintenance programs.

Many retailers are facing delays in Physio-Control units due to back orders.

Physio-Control Lifepak CR2 AED FAQs

How much does the Lifepak CR2 cost?

The Physio-Control Lifepak CR2 is approximately $2,000, though costs may vary. Discounts and special pricing are often available, particularly for non-profit organizations.

Where can I buy the Lifepak CR2?

The Physio-Control Lifepak CR2 is available through various reputable suppliers and retailers.

• AED Leader
• Response Ready
• Cardio Partners (AED.com)
• AED Brands
• AED Superstore (the largest retailer)
• Heart smart

How much do pads and batteries cost?

• Pads (used for adults or children) cost about $150 and last for 4 years.
• Batteries cost about $250, are proprietary, and you need one every four years.

Do you need a separate set of pads for children?

No, a key advantage of the Lifepak CR2 is its ability to switch between adult and child modes at the press of a button. It does this without changing pads.

What is the warranty?

The Physio-Control warrants the Lifepak CR2 AED for 8 years.

How long do batteries and pads last?

The Lifepak CR2’s batteries and pads have a lifespan of four years. The unit uses proprietary batteries, and a single set of pads is designed for adults and children.

What is CPRINSIGHT analysis technology?

A standout feature of the Lifepak CR2 AED is its ability to perform ECG readings during CPR. This cuts pauses for rhythm checks and shocks. It boosts the rescue’s efficiency and success rate.

How much does the Lifepak CR2 AED weigh?

The CR2 weighs 4.5 lbs and is approximately 9” W x 11” H x 4″D.

What is the child mode button?

After opening the lid, press the child mode button at the panel’s top. Then, apply the pads to the victim’s chest. This feature speeds up rescues. It uses the same pads for adults and children. Clear graphics show where to place them for children.