where should aed pads be placed in the anteroposterior placement for adults and 8 years and older
The correct answer and explanation is:
In the anteroposterior placement of AED (Automated External Defibrillator) pads for adults and children aged 8 years and older, the pads should be placed as follows:
- One pad should be placed on the upper right chest just below the collarbone, slightly to the right of the sternum (breastbone).
- The second pad should be placed on the lower left side of the chest. It should be positioned about 5-6 cm below the left nipple, over the ribs, and on the side of the chest.
This placement creates an electrical pathway for the defibrillator, allowing it to send the shock through the heart in a manner that is most likely to restore a normal rhythm. The idea is to position the pads so that the electrical current flows across the heart in a way that maximizes the chances of successfully restarting the heart’s normal rhythm.
When using the anteroposterior position, it is essential to ensure that the pads do not touch each other. Proper placement ensures the electrical current passes through the heart muscle efficiently, increasing the likelihood of effective defibrillation.
It’s important to note that the exact placement of the pads may vary slightly based on the patient’s size and shape. For very small children, pediatric pads or a pediatric defibrillator setting may be necessary to ensure proper defibrillation.
In an emergency situation, always follow the AED’s voice prompts for proper pad placement, as most devices are programmed to guide you through the steps. Defibrillation should be administered as soon as possible after the heart stops beating, as each minute without intervention reduces the chance of survival by approximately 10%.