Positioning of AED pads
Correct positioning of the AED pads is essential for successful defibrillation to take place. The optimal position is usually indicated on the AED pads or on the packaging they come in. Place pads on the patient’s exposed chest in an anterior-lateral (front-side) position — one pad slightly below the collarbone on the right side of the patient’s chest and one pad on the patient’s left side below their armpit. Ensure the left lateral (side) pad is correctly positioned – when placed too far forward on the patient’s chest, or too low down towards their abdomen, electricity may not be conducted effectively through the heart with the AED shock.
Most AED pads are ‘universal’, which means it does not matter which is placed in each position as long as both positions are covered.
AED pads for children and infants
Standard adult AED pads are suitable for use on patients 8 years and older. Ideally, for children under 8 years old and infants, paediatric pads and an AED with a paediatric capability should be used. These pads are placed in the same way as the adult AED pads and come with a diagram of where on the chest they should be placed.
Note:
- If the AED does not have a paediatric mode or paediatric pads — the standard adult AED pads can still be used. Apply the AED pads firmly to the bare chest in the positions shown in the diagram for adults, ensuring that they do not touch each other on the child’s chest.
- If the child is too small and the pads touch each other — use the front – back position. Apply one AED pad on the upper back (between the shoulder blades) and the other on the front of the chest, if possible, slightly to the left.
