Where Should You Place AED Pads on an Infant?
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in infants is a terrifying event, requiring immediate and precise action. Knowing the correct placement of AED pads is crucial for maximizing the chances of a successful resuscitation. This guide will explain the proper pad placement for infants, addressing common questions and concerns.
Understanding Infant AED Pad Placement
Unlike adults and children, infant AED pad placement is slightly different due to their smaller size and developing anatomy. The goal is to avoid placing pads directly over the heart, which can be easily damaged by the electric shock. Instead, we aim for optimal shock delivery while minimizing the risk of harm.
Standard Placement:
The standard placement of AED pads on an infant involves positioning one pad on the upper right chest, just below the right clavicle (collarbone), and the other pad on the back, between the shoulder blades. This anterior-posterior (front-back) placement ensures the electrical current passes through the heart effectively.
Important Considerations:
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Pad Size: Always use infant-sized AED pads if available. Adult pads are far too large and may deliver an ineffective shock or cause burns. If infant pads aren't available, carefully consider using adult pads, ensuring they do not overlap significantly. Ideally, you would use only one adult pad. The location of this single pad should be placed on the front of the chest, ideally centrally, avoiding placement directly over the heart. This method is a last resort and requires training and immediate expert review.
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Hair: If the infant has hairy chest or back, ensure you carefully shave or trim the hair in the pad placement areas to ensure good contact. Hair can impede the flow of the electrical current.
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Medication Patches: Remove any medication patches from the infant's chest and back before applying the AED pads.
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Wet Skin: Dry the infant's skin before applying the pads to ensure proper contact.
How do I know if I'm placing the pads correctly?
Visualize a line drawn down the middle of the infant's chest. The upper right pad should be positioned slightly to the right of this line, below the clavicle. The lower pad on the back should be roughly centered between the shoulder blades. The pads should be flat against the skin, ensuring good contact.
What if I don't have infant-sized AED pads?
As mentioned, if infant-sized pads aren't available, adult pads should only be used as a last resort. Use only one adult pad in the center of the chest, avoiding the heart if at all possible. This is a less ideal scenario, and immediate professional medical assistance is crucial.
Why is proper AED pad placement so critical in infants?
Incorrect pad placement can lead to ineffective defibrillation, delaying or preventing the restoration of a normal heart rhythm. It can also cause burns or other injuries to the delicate tissues of the infant.
What should I do after applying the AED pads?
Follow the prompts of the AED. Ensure everyone else steps clear before the device analyzes the heart rhythm and delivers a shock. Immediately after the shock is delivered, begin chest compressions.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided with your specific AED and seek professional medical training in CPR and AED usage. The information here is not a substitute for proper training and certification in pediatric advanced life support (PALS) or similar advanced emergency care. Early and appropriate medical care is critical in these situations.
