Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are life-saving devices designed to provide a rapid response to individuals suffering from cardiac arrest. The placement of AED pads is an important factor in the success of the device, as it can determine the effectiveness of the shock delivered to the individual. This article discusses the proper placement of AED pads in an anteroposterior position for adults and 8 years and older.
Adult Anteroposterior AED Pad Placement
For adults, the AED pads should be placed in an anteroposterior (AP) position. This means that one pad should be placed on the front of the chest, between the nipples, and the other should be placed on the back of the chest, between the shoulder blades.
The pads should be placed as close to the skin as possible in order to ensure that the shock is delivered effectively. The pads should be placed directly on the skin, not on the clothing. If the clothing is wet or damp, it should be removed to ensure proper contact.
Once the pads have been correctly placed, the AED will be able to analyze the patient’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is needed.
AED Pad Placement for 8 Years and Older
For individuals 8 years and older, the AED pads should also be placed in an anteroposterior (AP) position. However, the pads should be placed differently than for adults.
For 8-year-olds and older, the pad should be placed on the left side of the chest, in the center of the breastbone. The second pad should be placed on the right side of the chest, just below the armpit.
Similar to adults, the pads should be placed as close to the skin as possible in order to ensure that the shock is delivered effectively. The pads should be placed directly on the skin, not on the clothing. If the clothing is wet or damp, it should be removed to ensure proper contact.
Once the pads have been correctly placed, the AED will be able to analyze the patient’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is needed.
Proper placement of AED pads is essential for the successful delivery of a shock in the event of a cardiac arrest. For adults, the AED pads should be placed in an anteroposterior (AP) position, with one pad on the front of the chest, between the nipples, and the other on the back
In the anteroposterior (AP) placement of automated external defibrillator (AED) pads, which is the most common positioning used to adequately provide a shock to a patient, it is important to pay special attention to their placement in adults and patients over 8 years of age. Failure to correctly adhere to the placement of the AED pads for AP defibrillation could result in an ineffective shock and could be life-threatening for the patient.
To ensure the maximum efficacy of the shock delivered by an AED device, it is essential that the pads are properly placed in the correct position. For adults or patients over 8 years of age, the pads should be placed on the victim’s chest directly below the left and right clavicles. For adults, the left pad should be placed on the anterior side of the left clavicle and the right pad should be placed on the adjacent posterior side. For patients 8 years and older, the pads should be placed directly above and below the sternum. The posterior of the right pad should cover a larger area, reaching both the right side of the sternum and extending a bit to the left of it, while the left pad should be positioned anteriorly in the center of the chest.
In addition, it is important to keep in mind that the pads should be kept clean and free of any moisture or debris to maximize their effectiveness. If a patient is wearing tight-fitting clothes, it is necessary to remove them and attach the pads directly to the skin. In cases where the patient has a pacemaker, the pads should be placed one inch away from the pacemaker to prevent damage to the device.
In conclusion, proper placement of AED pads is integral in order to deliver a successful shock in adults and patients 8 years of age and older that is capable of restoring the patient’s heart rate. For AP placement, the pads should be placed on the chest below the left and right clavicles for adults, or directly above and below the sternum for patients 8 years and older. It is also necessary to ensure the pads are clean and free of moisture or debris, and that those with pacemakers have the pads placed one inch away from the device.
