How to Place AED Pads: Visual Guide [Infographic]

The correct placement of automated external defibrillator (AED) pads is crucial for effective intervention during sudden cardiac arrest, a condition the American Heart Association estimates claims hundreds of thousands of lives annually. Understanding how to place AED pads, a process often supported by clear visual aids like infographics, ensures that the electrical current can properly flow through the heart. Tools such as the AED Trainer by companies like Philips Healthcare provide simulated scenarios to enhance proficiency in correct pad placement. Furthermore, guidelines developed by medical professionals emphasize that precise adherence to illustrated instructions, often found directly on the AED device, is essential for maximizing the chances of successful defibrillation.

The Life-Saving Role of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are portable medical devices designed to analyze the heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock, if needed, to restore a normal heartbeat. These devices are instrumental in saving lives during cardiac emergencies, especially in cases of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).

AEDs are designed for ease of use, guiding responders through the necessary steps with audible and visual prompts. Their widespread availability in public places, combined with straightforward operation, makes them a crucial component of emergency response systems.

The Critical Function of AED Pads

AED pads are the interface between the AED device and the patient. These adhesive pads, strategically placed on the chest, allow the AED to monitor the heart's electrical activity.

More importantly, the pads deliver the electrical shock that can terminate life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT). Without properly functioning and correctly placed AED pads, the device is rendered ineffective, severely diminishing the chances of survival for the victim.

The pads contain conductive gel, which ensures efficient delivery of the electrical current to the heart. The quality and condition of these pads are, therefore, paramount for successful defibrillation.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Prevalence and the Urgency of Intervention

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death worldwide. It occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, often due to an electrical malfunction.

SCA can strike anyone, at any time, and often without warning. The consequences are dire: without immediate intervention, irreversible brain damage and death can occur within minutes.

The statistics surrounding SCA are alarming, highlighting the pressing need for accessible AEDs and trained responders.

Every second counts in these situations, and rapid intervention with CPR and AED use significantly increases the victim's chances of survival. This underscores the vital importance of widespread AED availability and the knowledge of how to use them effectively.

Preparing for Action: Essential AED Pad Components and Inspection

[ The Life-Saving Role of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are portable medical devices designed to analyze the heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock, if needed, to restore a normal heartbeat. These devices are instrumental in saving lives during cardiac emergencies, especially in cases of Sudd...]

Before an AED can deliver a potentially life-saving shock, ensuring the AED pads are ready for immediate use is paramount. This preparedness involves several crucial steps, from inspecting the pads for integrity to understanding the role of the connector cable. Rigorous attention to these details can be the difference between a successful resuscitation attempt and a tragic outcome.

Pre-Use Inspection and Preparation

The first step in preparing for action is a meticulous inspection of the AED pads themselves. The integrity of these pads directly impacts their ability to deliver the electrical current effectively.

Inspect the packaging for any signs of damage, such as tears or punctures, which could compromise the sterility and functionality of the pads.

Open the packaging and visually examine the pads. Look for any signs of dryness, discoloration, or physical damage.

The gel adhesive should be moist and evenly distributed. Dry or cracked gel can impede proper skin contact, reducing the effectiveness of the shock.

Expiration Dates: A Critical Check

AED pads, like all medical supplies, have an expiration date. This date signifies the period during which the manufacturer can guarantee the pad's efficacy.

Using expired pads can significantly reduce the chances of a successful defibrillation.

Locate the expiration date clearly printed on the pad packaging. Implement a system for regularly checking expiration dates, especially for AEDs stored in public places. Replace expired pads promptly to ensure the AED remains fully functional.

Optimizing Pad Storage for Longevity

Proper storage plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of AED pads. Adhesion is the most important factor.

Store AED pads in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Excessive heat or humidity can degrade the adhesive gel, rendering the pads unusable.

Keep the pads sealed in their original packaging until needed. This protects them from environmental factors that can compromise their effectiveness.

Regularly check the storage environment to ensure it meets the recommended conditions. Replace pads if they have been exposed to adverse conditions, even if they are not yet expired.

The Connector Cable: Ensuring a Secure Link

The AED connector cable is the vital link between the AED unit and the AED pads, transmitting the electrical shock. Its integrity is just as critical as that of the pads themselves.

Before use, visually inspect the connector cable for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires, cracks in the insulation, or loose connections.

Ensure the connector cable is securely attached to both the AED unit and the AED pads. A loose connection can interrupt the flow of electricity, preventing the AED from delivering the necessary shock.

If the connector cable appears damaged, do not attempt to use the AED. Replace the cable immediately to ensure proper functionality. Regular maintenance checks should include testing the cable connection.

By diligently following these steps, we can ensure AED pads are always ready for use in an emergency. This proactive approach maximizes the life-saving potential of AEDs.

Patient Assessment and Preparation: Key Steps Before Pad Placement

With the AED pads prepped and ready, the immediate next step involves carefully assessing the patient and preparing their body for the life-saving shock. This phase is crucial because a misstep here can significantly reduce the AED's effectiveness, or worse, cause harm.

Recognizing Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Effective intervention starts with accurate recognition. The primary signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) include:

• Unresponsiveness: The person does not respond to shaking or shouting.
• Absence of Normal Breathing: The person is not breathing or is only gasping.
• Lack of Pulse: No pulse can be felt within 10 seconds (though this can be challenging to assess accurately for untrained individuals).

If these signs are present, it must be immediately assumed that the patient is experiencing SCA, and the AED should be deployed without delay. Call for emergency medical services simultaneously, if possible, or delegate this task to someone else.

Selecting the Correct AED Pad Type: Adult vs. Pediatric

AEDs are equipped with different pad sizes tailored to the patient's age and size. Using the wrong pad type can compromise the effectiveness of the defibrillation.

Adult pads are designed for individuals 8 years of age or older, or weighing more than 55 pounds (25 kg). Pediatric pads, also known as attenuated pads, are specifically designed for children between 1 and 8 years of age, or weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kg).

Pediatric pads deliver a lower dose of electrical energy, which is essential to avoid harming a child's smaller body. If pediatric pads are unavailable for a child, adult pads can be used, ensuring that the pads do not touch each other or overlap.

Preparing the Patient's Chest for Pad Placement

Proper skin preparation is vital to ensure good contact between the AED pads and the patient's skin. This step minimizes resistance and allows the electrical shock to effectively reach the heart.

• Hair Removal: Excessive chest hair can prevent the pads from adhering properly. If necessary, use a razor (often included in the AED kit) to quickly shave the area where the pads will be placed. Dry shave only in situations when shaving cream or gel isn't available to minimize delays.
• Moisture Removal: Moisture on the skin, such as sweat or water, can also interfere with pad adhesion and shock delivery. Thoroughly dry the chest with a towel or any available absorbent material.
• Implanted Devices: If the patient has an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator, avoid placing the AED pads directly over the device. Adjust the pad placement to be slightly to the side to avoid interference.
• Medication Patches: Remove any medication patches (e.g., nicotine, nitroglycerin, pain relief) from the chest, as these can interfere with the AED's functionality and potentially cause burns.

By meticulously preparing the patient, you are not only ensuring the AED's efficacy but also prioritizing patient safety during a critical intervention. Each step contributes to maximizing the chances of a successful resuscitation.

Proper Pad Placement: A Step-by-Step Guide to Application

With the AED pads prepped and ready, the immediate next step involves carefully assessing the patient and preparing their body for the life-saving shock. This phase is crucial because a misstep here can significantly reduce the AED's effectiveness, or worse, cause harm.

Understanding the Anatomical Landscape: Locating the Heart

Successful defibrillation hinges on accurately directing the electrical current through the heart. Therefore, understanding basic chest anatomy is paramount.

The heart, nestled between the lungs in the mediastinum, is positioned slightly to the left of the sternum (breastbone). Its apex (lower tip) points downward and to the left.

This positioning is key to understanding optimal AED pad placement. Inaccurate placement might result in the electrical current bypassing the heart entirely, rendering the defibrillation attempt futile.

Standard AED Pad Placement Positions

There are two primary methods for AED pad placement: antero-lateral and antero-posterior. Each has its advantages depending on the patient and circumstances.

Antero-Lateral Placement: The Most Common Approach

The antero-lateral placement is the most frequently used method. It involves placing one pad on the upper right chest, just below the collarbone (clavicle). The second pad is placed on the lower left side of the chest, a few inches below the armpit.

This configuration ensures that the electrical current traverses the heart from front to side, maximizing the chances of successful defibrillation.

Antero-Posterior Placement: An Alternative Strategy

In the antero-posterior placement, one pad is positioned on the front of the chest, usually over the heart. The other pad is placed on the patient’s back, directly behind the heart.

This method is often preferred in situations where anterior access is limited or when dealing with patients with implanted devices like pacemakers or defibrillators.

The antero-posterior placement allows for a more direct electrical pathway through the heart muscle, potentially increasing the effectiveness of the shock.

Harnessing Visual Aids: Diagrams and User Guides

AED pads and user guides are intentionally designed with clear, intuitive diagrams that illustrate proper pad placement. These visual aids are invaluable during a high-pressure emergency.

Rely on these diagrams to guide you. They provide a quick reference for correct pad positioning, especially when time is of the essence.

AED user guides contain detailed instructions and illustrations. Familiarizing yourself with these resources beforehand can significantly boost your confidence and efficiency during a real-life event.

Do not underestimate the power of these simple yet effective tools. They are designed to minimize errors and maximize the chances of a successful outcome.

CPR and AED Integration: Maximizing Resuscitation Efforts

With the AED pads prepped and ready, the immediate next step involves carefully assessing the patient and preparing their body for the life-saving shock. This phase is crucial because a misstep here can significantly reduce the AED's effectiveness, or worse, cause harm.

The seamless integration of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) with Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use represents a cornerstone of modern emergency cardiac care. The critical synergy between these two interventions dramatically increases the likelihood of survival following Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).

The primary objective is not simply to apply the AED, but to weave its functionality into an ongoing effort to sustain vital organ function until advanced medical care arrives.

The Primacy of Continuous CPR

CPR serves as a bridge, maintaining crucial blood flow to the brain and heart during SCA. Immediate initiation of CPR is paramount, buying precious time and improving the chances of successful defibrillation.

Even as an AED is being retrieved and prepared, uninterrupted chest compressions and rescue breaths must continue. Pauses in CPR, even brief ones, can significantly reduce the likelihood of successful resuscitation.

Compressions First: A Foundational Principle

Current guidelines emphasize a "compressions first" approach. Before anything else, ensure high-quality chest compressions are being delivered at the correct rate (100-120 compressions per minute) and depth (at least 2 inches for adults).

Rescue breaths should be integrated, ideally at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths, but compressions should never be sacrificed to prioritize ventilation. A single-minded focus on chest compressions should be the default.

Orchestrating CPR and AED Deployment

Coordinating CPR and AED use is a ballet of efficiency and precision. The goal is to minimize interruptions to chest compressions while swiftly deploying the AED.

Clear communication and defined roles are essential. One rescuer should maintain continuous CPR while another prepares and operates the AED.

Minimizing Interruptions: The Critical Few Seconds

Every second counts. When the AED arrives, CPR should only be paused long enough to apply the pads, allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm, and deliver a shock if indicated. These pauses must be kept to an absolute minimum.

After delivering a shock, immediately resume CPR, starting with chest compressions. Do not wait to check for a pulse. Follow the AED's prompts and continue CPR until the AED advises otherwise or until advanced medical personnel arrive.

Switching Roles: Preventing Rescuer Fatigue

CPR is physically demanding. To maintain high-quality chest compressions, rescuers should switch roles approximately every two minutes. This prevents fatigue and ensures that compressions remain effective.

The transition should be seamless, with minimal interruption to chest compressions. Designate a clear signal for the switch, and ensure that the new compressor is immediately ready to take over.

Advanced Considerations: Beyond the Basics

While adherence to established protocols is critical, understanding the nuances of CPR and AED integration allows for more effective resuscitation efforts.

For example, if the AED advises "no shock indicated," immediately resume CPR, starting with chest compressions. The absence of a shockable rhythm does not negate the need for continued circulatory support.

Similarly, if the patient shows signs of returning circulation (e.g., movement, breathing), continually monitor the patient and prepare to resume CPR if necessary. Vigilance is paramount.

Ultimately, effective integration of CPR and AED use is a testament to preparedness, training, and decisive action. By understanding the principles outlined above, bystanders and first responders can significantly increase the chances of survival for victims of sudden cardiac arrest.

Addressing Medical Conditions: AED Therapy for Arrhythmias

With the AED pads prepped and ready, the immediate next step involves carefully assessing the patient and preparing their body for the life-saving shock. This phase is crucial because a misstep here can significantly reduce the AED's effectiveness, or worse, cause harm.

The seamless integration of the AED into the resuscitation effort underscores its pivotal role in addressing life-threatening arrhythmias. Understanding how AEDs specifically target and treat conditions like Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) and Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is essential for effective intervention.

Ventricular Fibrillation (VF): The Chaotic Heart

Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) is a chaotic, unsynchronized quivering of the heart's ventricles. This quivering prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood, leading to a rapid loss of consciousness and, ultimately, death if untreated.

In VF, the heart's electrical activity becomes completely disorganized, preventing any coordinated contraction. An AED is designed to analyze this chaotic rhythm and, if VF is detected, deliver a controlled electrical shock.

This shock, known as defibrillation, aims to depolarize the heart muscle simultaneously, effectively stopping the chaotic electrical activity. This momentary pause allows the heart's natural pacemaker to regain control and restore a normal, organized rhythm.

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): The Rapid Heart

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is a rapid, abnormally fast heartbeat originating in the ventricles. While VT can sometimes be tolerated for a short period, sustained VT is a serious condition that can quickly degenerate into VF.

VT compromises the heart's ability to fill with blood properly between beats. This reduces cardiac output and can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness.

An AED is programmed to recognize VT based on its rate and morphology. If VT is detected and deemed "shockable," the AED will advise and deliver an electrical shock similar to VF. This shock aims to interrupt the rapid ventricular rhythm and allow the heart to reset to a normal rate.

AED Therapy: More Than Just a Shock

It’s crucial to recognize that the AED's role extends beyond simply delivering a shock. Modern AEDs provide clear, step-by-step voice prompts that guide the user through the entire resuscitation process, including CPR.

The AED analyzes the patient's heart rhythm before each shock. If the initial shock is unsuccessful, the AED will prompt the user to continue CPR and will re-analyze the rhythm at pre-determined intervals, typically every two minutes.

This iterative process of CPR and rhythm analysis ensures that the patient receives continuous support while the AED works to restore a normal heartbeat.

Continuous Monitoring and Post-Shock Care

Following a successful shock, continuous monitoring is essential. The AED will typically provide prompts to check for signs of circulation, such as breathing or movement.

Even if a normal rhythm is restored, the patient requires immediate medical attention. It's crucial to continue monitoring the patient and be prepared to resume CPR if the heart stops again before emergency medical services arrive.

Post-shock care also includes providing reassurance and emotional support to the patient as they regain consciousness. Documenting the event, including the time of the arrest, the AED's readings, and any interventions performed, is crucial for the arriving medical personnel.

Limitations and Considerations

It's important to acknowledge that AEDs are not a guaranteed solution. They are most effective when used promptly and in conjunction with high-quality CPR.

Furthermore, AEDs are not designed to treat all types of cardiac arrest. Some cardiac arrests are caused by non-shockable rhythms, such as asystole (flatline) or pulseless electrical activity (PEA). In these cases, CPR is the primary intervention, and the AED will not advise a shock.

Understanding the specific ways in which AEDs address life-threatening arrhythmias like Ventricular Fibrillation and Ventricular Tachycardia is crucial for empowering individuals to act decisively during a cardiac emergency.

When applied correctly and swiftly, AEDs offer a critical intervention to restore normal heart function and dramatically increase the chances of survival.

Training and Competency: Building Confidence in AED Use

With the AED pads prepped and ready, the immediate next step involves carefully assessing the patient and preparing their body for the life-saving shock. This phase is crucial because a misstep here can significantly reduce the AED's effectiveness, or worse, cause harm.

The seamless integration of knowledge, skills, and preparedness is the cornerstone of effective AED deployment. While the technology of AEDs has become increasingly user-friendly, competent operation requires dedicated training and continuous skill refinement.

This section addresses the critical aspects of building confidence in AED use, emphasizing the role of certified instructors, valuable training resources, and the necessity of hands-on practice.

The Indispensable Role of Certified CPR/AED Instructors

The foundation of any successful AED program lies in the quality of its training. Certified CPR/AED instructors are not merely facilitators of information; they are crucial guides who translate complex medical knowledge into actionable skills.

Their expertise ensures that participants grasp the nuances of patient assessment, pad placement, and the coordination of CPR with AED use.

Certification indicates a standardized level of proficiency, ensuring instructors possess the knowledge and pedagogical skills to effectively train others.

Furthermore, certified instructors are equipped to address participant questions, clarify misconceptions, and adapt training to diverse learning styles. This personalized approach is instrumental in fostering confidence and competence among trainees.

Leveraging Training Resources for Optimal Learning

Beyond the instructor, a variety of resources contribute to comprehensive AED training. These resources serve as valuable supplements to classroom instruction, reinforcing key concepts and providing opportunities for self-directed learning.

CPR/AED Training Manuals: These manuals offer a structured overview of the resuscitation process, covering topics such as recognizing cardiac arrest, performing CPR, and using an AED.

They often include detailed illustrations and flowcharts, providing a visual guide to critical steps.

AED User Guides: Specific to the AED model being used, user guides provide detailed instructions on device operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Familiarization with the user guide is essential for ensuring efficient and accurate AED deployment.

Video Tutorials: Video tutorials offer a dynamic and engaging way to learn about AED use. They often feature real-life scenarios and demonstrations, enhancing understanding and retention.

Manikins: Perhaps the most crucial resource for hands-on practice.

Manikins allow trainees to simulate real-life resuscitation scenarios, practicing chest compressions, rescue breaths, and AED pad placement.

The tactile experience gained through manikin practice is invaluable in developing muscle memory and building confidence.

The Imperative of Hands-On Practice and Refresher Courses

While theoretical knowledge is important, true competency in AED use stems from hands-on practice. Regular practice sessions, simulating various emergency scenarios, are essential for reinforcing skills and building confidence.

This practice allows participants to apply their knowledge in a safe and controlled environment, identifying areas for improvement and refining their technique.

Furthermore, the benefits of regular refresher courses cannot be overstated. Medical guidelines and AED technology are constantly evolving, necessitating ongoing training to stay current with best practices.

Refresher courses also provide an opportunity to review fundamental skills, address common errors, and maintain a high level of preparedness.

Ultimately, the combination of certified instruction, diverse training resources, and consistent practice is the formula for building a confident and competent community of AED users, ready to respond effectively in the face of sudden cardiac arrest.

Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understanding Your Responsibilities

With the AED pads prepped and ready, the immediate next step involves carefully assessing the patient and preparing their body for the life-saving shock. But even before that crucial moment, and certainly in the moments that follow, a web of legal and ethical considerations come into play. Understanding these responsibilities is not just a matter of compliance; it's an integral part of providing responsible and conscientious care.

Good Samaritan Laws: Shielding the Helping Hand

Good Samaritan Laws are designed to protect individuals who voluntarily provide assistance to someone in distress. These laws vary by jurisdiction, but their core purpose is consistent: to encourage people to act in emergencies without fear of legal repercussions.

The key is acting in good faith, meaning you have a genuine intention to help, without expecting compensation, and that you are acting reasonably and prudently, according to your level of training.

It's important to note that Good Samaritan Laws typically do not protect individuals who act with gross negligence or recklessness, or who abandon the victim once assistance has begun. Furthermore, these laws may not apply if the rescuer has a pre-existing duty to provide care, such as a healthcare professional on duty.

Key Considerations Regarding Good Samaritan Laws:

• Scope of Protection: Familiarize yourself with the specific Good Samaritan Laws in your region.
• Limitations: Understand the limitations of the protection offered.
• Duty to Act: Recognize if you have a pre-existing duty to provide care.

Implied Consent: Acting in the Patient's Best Interest

In emergency situations where a person is unconscious or otherwise unable to provide explicit consent for treatment, the principle of implied consent comes into effect. Implied consent assumes that a reasonable person would consent to medical treatment if they were able to do so. This allows rescuers to provide necessary care, including using an AED, without the risk of legal liability.

However, implied consent is not a blanket authorization. Rescuers must still act in the patient's best interest, providing only the care that is reasonably necessary to address the immediate emergency.

If the patient regains consciousness and refuses treatment, their wishes must be respected, unless they are deemed incapable of making informed decisions (e.g., due to altered mental status or intoxication).

Navigating Implied Consent:

• Reasonableness: Act reasonably and provide only necessary care.
• Patient Wishes: Respect the patient's wishes if they regain consciousness.
• Informed Decisions: Assess the patient's capacity to make informed decisions.

In conclusion, understanding the legal and ethical landscape surrounding AED use is as crucial as knowing how to operate the device itself. Good Samaritan Laws offer a degree of protection to well-intentioned rescuers, while the principle of implied consent allows for the provision of necessary care to those who cannot provide explicit consent. By being aware of these considerations, rescuers can act confidently and responsibly in emergency situations, maximizing their ability to save lives.

The Power of Action: Bystanders and First Responders in Emergency Response

With the AED pads prepped and ready, the immediate next step involves carefully assessing the patient and preparing their body for the life-saving shock. But even before that crucial moment, and certainly in the moments that follow, a web of legal and ethical considerations come into play.

The successful deployment of an AED, however, hinges not only on technical proficiency and legal understanding, but also on the proactive engagement of bystanders and the seamless coordination with emergency response professionals.

This convergence of lay responders and trained medical personnel forms a critical chain of survival.

Empowering Bystanders: The First Critical Link

Bystanders are, statistically, the most likely individuals to witness a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). Their immediate response is paramount to the victim's chances of survival.

However, fear, uncertainty, and a lack of confidence can paralyze potential lifesavers.

Empowering bystanders involves providing clear, concise instructions and fostering a sense of capability.

This can be achieved through readily available public education campaigns, community CPR/AED training programs, and simplified AED designs that offer real-time, voice-guided prompts.

Effective empowerment includes:

• Clear instruction: Simple, step-by-step guides readily available (e.g., wall posters, smartphone apps).
• Debunking myths: Addressing common misconceptions about AED use (e.g., fear of shocking someone who doesn't need it).
• Creating a support system: Encouraging teamwork, where one bystander calls 911 while another retrieves the AED.
• Highlighting the impact: Sharing success stories and testimonials to inspire confidence.

Confidence, coupled with basic knowledge, can transform a hesitant onlooker into a proactive lifesaver.

Seamless Coordination with EMS and First Responders

While bystanders initiate the life-saving process, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and other first responders are equipped to provide advanced medical care and transport the patient to a hospital for definitive treatment.

Seamless coordination between these groups is crucial for maximizing the victim's chances of a positive outcome.

This coordination starts with the initial 911 call. Bystanders should provide accurate information about the victim's condition, location, and the interventions being performed (CPR, AED shocks).

Effective coordination includes:

• Clear communication: Maintaining a continuous flow of information between bystanders and arriving EMS personnel.
• Smooth handoff: Efficiently transferring patient care to EMS, ensuring minimal interruption in chest compressions and other interventions.
• Providing context: Sharing details about the AED shocks delivered and any other relevant medical history.

Pre-planning, drills, and established protocols facilitate a more fluid and effective transition of care.

The Patient's Role: Passive Participant, Active Partner

During the acute phase of SCA, the victim is often unresponsive and unable to participate actively in their resuscitation.

However, post-resuscitation, the patient's role becomes increasingly important.

Following the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), the patient can provide valuable information about their medical history, symptoms, and any medications they are taking.

Furthermore, the patient's emotional and psychological well-being should be addressed.

Experiencing an SCA is a traumatic event, and patients may require counseling, support groups, or other mental health services to cope with the aftermath.

The patient's role includes:

• Providing medical history: Sharing relevant information with medical professionals.
• Adhering to treatment plans: Following prescribed medications and lifestyle modifications.
• Seeking emotional support: Accessing counseling or support groups to address the psychological impact of SCA.

By actively engaging in their recovery, patients can play a crucial role in optimizing their long-term health and well-being.

So there you have it! Hopefully, this visual guide cleared up any confusion about how to place AED pads correctly. Remember, every second counts in an emergency, so knowing how to place AED pads properly can truly make all the difference. Keep this infographic handy and share it with your friends – you never know when this knowledge might be needed!