Electricity does not stop flowing because a printed date has passed.

What “Expiry” Really Means

The expiry date relates to:

• Adhesive performance

• Gel hydration

• Packaging integrity and sterility

• Manufacturer storage guarantees

It does not mean the pad suddenly becomes non-conductive.

When testing into a calibrated defibrillator analyser at a known resistance, such as 50 ohms, the electrical pathway remains intact. Energy will still be delivered and measured correctly.

Physics does not change at midnight on an expiry date.

What the Video Demonstrates In the video below, a shock is delivered through out-of-date pads into a calibrated 50-ohm test load.

The analyser measures and confirms:

• Delivered energy

• Peak voltage

• Peak current

• Shock duration

The waveform is delivered and verified within specification.

This is not opinion.

It is measured output.

Important Clarification

This does not mean expired pads are acceptable for clinical use.

For patient care, pads should always be replaced before expiry to ensure:

• Reliable adhesion

• Proper gel condition

• Manufacturer compliance

Clinical readiness and technical verification are not the same thing.

For controlled equipment testing, expired pads will conduct a shock.

For real-world patient use, they should be replaced.

Both statements can be true at the same time.

Why the Myth Continues

The confusion usually comes from mixing up:

• Clinical safety standards

• Electrical functionality

They are related, but they are not identical. When we test defibrillators, we rely on measurement, not assumption. If you want clear, evidence-based insight into AED testing, governance, and performance verification, explore the rest of our Insights articles and resources.