What Are The AED Pad Placement Options In The Anteroposterior Placement

AED Pad Placement: A Guide to Saving Lives

In a cardiac arrest situation, every second counts. Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) effectively can significantly increase the chances of survival for the victim. A crucial step in AED use is proper pad placement. This guide explores anteroposterior pad placement, a technique used for specific situations, along with other essential AED pad placement information.

Understanding AEDs and Cardiac Arrest

An AED is a portable medical device designed to analyze the heart rhythm of a person experiencing cardiac arrest. If a shock is necessary, the AED delivers an electrical current to attempt restarting the heart’s normal rhythm. Early defibrillation is critical for maximizing survival rates in cardiac arrest.

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including electrical problems within the heart itself. Without immediate intervention, death can occur within minutes.

Anteroposterior vs. Anterolateral Pad Placement

There are two primary AED pad placement configurations:

• Anteroposterior (AP) placement: This involves placing one pad on the front (anterior) chest wall and the other on the back (posterior) of the victim.
• Anterolateral (AL) placement: This is the more common method, where one pad is placed on the right side of the chest and the other on the lower left chest wall, below the armpit.

When to Use Anteroposterior Pad Placement

AP placement is primarily recommended for:

• Children: Due to their smaller body size, AP placement allows for a more direct current path across the heart in children.
• Certain medical conditions: In some rare cases, chest wall abnormalities or implanted medical devices might necessitate AP placement for adults.

Important Considerations for Anteroposterior Placement

While less common, here’s a breakdown of AP pad placement for adults (if recommended by a medical professional):

• One pad: Placed just below the left nipple on the chest wall.
• Second pad: Placed on the left side of the back, directly below the shoulder blade (scapula).

Always follow the specific instructions provided by the AED device during use.

Additional AED Pad Placement Information

For adults and children over 8 years old, anterolateral (AL) placement is the standard method. Here’s a breakdown of AL placement:

• One pad: Placed on the upper right side of the chest, just below the collarbone.
• Second pad: Placed on the lower left chest wall, below and to the left of the nipple.

Here are some additional factors to keep in mind regarding AED pad placement:

• Bare skin: Ensure the pads make direct contact with the victim’s bare skin. Remove any clothing or jewelry that might obstruct proper placement.
• Wet skin: If the victim’s skin is wet, dry it off with a towel as much as possible before applying the pads.
• AED instructions: The AED itself will provide clear visual and audio instructions on pad placement during use.

Table: AED Pad Placement Options

Using an AED Effectively

Here’s a simplified overview of the steps involved in using an AED:

1. Check the scene: Ensure it’s safe for you to approach the victim.
2. Call for help: Activate the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) immediately.
3. Position the victim: Lay the victim flat on their back on a hard surface.
4. Open the airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
5. Check for breathing: Look, listen, and feel for signs of breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
6. Apply AED pads: Follow the device’s instructions to place the pads on the victim’s chest.
7. Follow AED instructions: The AED will analyze the heart rhythm and advise if a shock is necessary. If a shock is recommended, stay clear of the victim and allow the AED to deliver the shock.

FAQ: AED Pad Placement and Use

This FAQ section addresses commonly asked questions regarding AED pad placement and AED use in general.

Q: Can I use an AED if I’ve never been trained?

A: While AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, proper training is highly recommended. An AED training course equips you with the knowledge and skills to use the device confidently and effectively in a stressful situation. It also covers crucial steps like CPR and scene safety.

Q: What if the AED doesn’t have pictures showing pad placement?

A: Most modern AEDs have clear visual guides and voice prompts to direct pad placement. However, if you encounter an AED without visual aids, prioritize calling emergency services and follow the spoken instructions carefully.

Q: What happens if I place the pads incorrectly?

A: Modern AEDs are designed to analyze the heart rhythm before delivering a shock. Even with slightly misplaced pads, the AED will typically assess the situation and advise on proper placement before proceeding.

Q: Can I move the victim to position the pads better?

A: It’s generally recommended to minimize movement of the victim unless absolutely necessary. If possible, try to achieve proper pad placement without significantly moving them.

Q: What if the victim has a pacemaker or other implanted device?

A: AEDs are generally safe for use with most implanted devices. However, it’s crucial to avoid placing pads directly over the implanted device. If possible, try to identify the location of the device and place the pads accordingly.

Q: I’m scared to use an AED. What should I do?

A: It’s understandable to feel apprehensive in a high-pressure situation. Remember, any attempt at resuscitation is better than no action. Even if you’re unsure about using the AED perfectly, calling emergency services and starting CPR can significantly improve the victim’s chances of survival.

Additional Resources

• American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/
• National Institutes of Health: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/
• International Red Cross: https://www.ifrc.org/