Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

What is essential to remember when preparing to use an AED in a resuscitation scenario?

1. Apply pads using anterior/lateral placement

2. Delay applying pads until after CPR is completed

3. Ensure the patient is standing for effective shock

4. Use pads that cover the entire chest

The correct answer is: Apply pads using anterior/lateral placement

In a resuscitation scenario, applying the pads of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) correctly is crucial for effective delivery of a shock to restore normal heart rhythm. The anterior/lateral placement refers to positioning one pad on the right side of the chest, just below the collarbone, and the other pad on the left side, on the side of the chest below the breast. This placement maximizes the electrical flow through the heart, increasing the chances of successful defibrillation. This technique is based on established protocols and guidelines, ensuring that the AED can effectively analyze the heart's rhythm and deliver a shock if necessary. By focusing on this correct pad placement right from the start of the resuscitation effort, the responder is better positioned to provide timely intervention which is critical in cardiac arrest situations. The other options reflect practices that are not aligned with effective AED use. For example, delaying the application of pads until after CPR compromises the chances of timely defibrillation. Similarly, having the patient standing is not a viable option as they need to be in a supine position to effectively receive the shock. Using pads that cover the entire chest is also incorrect because this does not align with the recommended pad placement for optimal electrical conduction.