What is important to remember about AED pad placement for infants?

When using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on infants, it is crucial to place one pad on the front of the chest and the other pad on the back. This placement maximizes the effectiveness of the electrical shock delivered by the AED, as it creates a pathway through the heart that can restore a normal rhythm.

This technique for infants differs from that used on adults and children, where pads can typically be placed on the chest in a front-to-front manner. The front-and-back placement is especially important for infants due to their smaller size and the anatomical differences compared to older children or adults. Adhering to this method ensures the safe and effective use of the AED in a pediatric emergency, greatly enhancing the chances of a successful resuscitation.

While there are options suggesting the use of both pads on the front, only one pad, or avoiding the use of pads altogether, these do not align with the best practices established for treating infants with an AED. Proper pad placement is essential for maximizing the potential to save a life in the critical moments following a cardiac event.