Solutions to Automated External Defibrillator Challenges

INTERNAL PACEMAKERS
The AED electrode pads should not be placed over the area of the implanted device. The pacemaker will be a firm lump the size of a small cell phone under the skin of the chest or abdomen. The AED electrode pad cannot penetrate through the implanted device to deliver the shock if required, so adjusting the placement of the pad is all that is necessary.

WATER
The AED delivers a shock of electricity that can be carried by water and will then not adequately penetrate the heart.

Remove the patient from water
Wipe the chest dry
The AED can be used near moisture

CHEST HAIR
The AED electrode pads must be in contact with the surface of the skin to deliver a shock. First, press firmly on the pads to provide skin contact. If that doesn’t work, remove the pads, which will remove substantial chest hair. If the problem remains, shave the chest area with a razor.

TRANSDERMAL PATCHES
If the AED electrode pads are placed over a transdermal patch, the shock will be blocked and a small burn may occur to the patient’s skin. Transdermal patches should be removed prior to pad placement if the pad would be in contact with the patch.