Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

For which age group would it be appropriate to use pediatric AED pads?

1. Only for children 1 year and older

2. 2-year-old weighing 27 lbs and 5-year-old weighing 43 lbs

3. Any child over 8 years of age

4. For infants under 1 year only

The correct answer is: 2-year-old weighing 27 lbs and 5-year-old weighing 43 lbs

The use of pediatric AED pads is specifically designed to provide appropriate electrical shock therapy for children who are at a higher risk for adverse effects from adult-sized pads due to their smaller body size and different anatomical considerations. The guidelines for pediatric use generally indicate that these pads are suitable for children aged 1 year to approximately 8 years, or for those who weigh less than 55 pounds. In the context of the options, the choice highlighting both a 2-year-old weighing 27 lbs and a 5-year-old weighing 43 lbs accurately reflects two children who fall within the appropriate weight and age range for the use of pediatric AED pads. Both of these children are under the typical threshold for using adult AED pads, which makes this choice the most suitable. Using pediatric pads on infants or children above the specified age can lead to less effective defibrillation or even further complications, thereby underscoring the importance of adhering to recommended guidelines in emergency response situations. Thus, this choice encompasses children that fit the criteria set forth by health organizations for pediatric AED administration.