Every moment counts in pediatric emergencies, and one of the most crucial tools in saving a child’s life is the Automated External Defibrillator(AED). An AED is a portable device that delivers an electric shock to the heart during cardiac arrest and helps restore the normal rhythm. When used correctly, an AED can significantly increase the chances of survival for young patients. However, pediatric patient requires special consideration due to their smaller, more delicate hearts. Pediatric AEDs, AEDs with pediatric settings adjust the energy output to ensure safe and effective defibrillation.
In this blog, we’ll discuss when and how to use an AED on a pediatric patient during Pediatric Advanced Life Support(PALS).
Recognizing When to Use an AED on a Pediatric Patient
An AED should be used on a pediatric patient when:
- The child is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping for air, indicating a likely cardiac arrest.
- No pulse is detected, or the pulse is too weak to sustain life.
- Cardiac arrest is suspected due to a shockable rhythm, such as ventricular fibrillation(VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia(VT).
- The child has experienced a sudden collapse, often a hallmark of cardiac arrest.
- There is no movement or response to stimuli, even after initial resuscitation efforts.
- The situation involves a known or suspected electrical injury, drowning, or trauma, which can lead to cardiac arrest and may benefit from AED use.
Steps to Use an AED on a Pediatric Patient
Using an AED on a pediatric patient involves specific steps to ensure proper defibrillation and increase the chances of survival. Follow these steps carefully during an emergency:
1. Check if the Scene is Safe:
The first step in any pediatric emergency is to check the scene’s safety. You need to check it confirm if there is no hazard to you or the patient.
2. Turn on the AED:
Power on the device and carefully follow the audio or visual instructions provided.
3. Apply Pediatric Pads:
- Use pediatric pads designed for children if available.
- If pediatric pads are unavailable, use adult pads with the correct placement: one pad on the chest and the other on the back.
4. Allow the AED to Analyze:
Pause CPR briefly to let the AED assess the heart rhythm and determine if a shock is necessary.
5. Deliver the Shock if Advised:
Ensure no one is in physical contact with the patient, then press the shock button as instructed by the AED.
6. Resume CPR Immediately
Begin high-quality chest compression and follow the AED’s prompts until it advises further action or professional help arrives.
Special Considerations for Pediatric AED Use
When you are using an AED on a pediatric patient, some adjustments are necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness. Children are smaller and have more delicate physiology, which requires certain energy levels and techniques for optimal outcomes. Here are some things you need to consider while using AED on infants and children:
1. Energy Levels
You have to use reduced energy settings for pediatric patients. It is available on AEDs with a pediatric mode or pediatric pads.
2. Manual Defibrillators
In advanced care settings, a manual defibrillator is preferred for precise control over shock energy and customization for the child’s needs.
3. Pad Placement
Place pads correctly to avoid overlap. For younger children and infants, position one pad on the chest and the other on the back.
4. Infants Under 1 year
Manual Defibrillators is recommended as the first choice, but if unavailable, AEDs with pediatric settings can be used.
Importance of Timely AED Use in PALS
The sooner an AED is used, the greater the chance of survival. Early defibrillation not only improves the likelihood of resuscitation but also reduces the risk of long-term brain damage caused by a lack of oxygen. On the other hand, delaying the use of an AED lowers the effectiveness of the shock, making it harder to revive the patient. In many cases, pediatric cardiac arrest is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm, such as ventricular fibrillation, which cannot be corrected with CPR alone. Defibrillation addresses this issue by delivering a controlled shock to reset the heart’s electrical system, allowing CPR to circulate oxygen-rich blood effectively. Combining the timely use of an AED with high-quality CPR creates a powerful life-saving strategy. It maximizes recovery chances, reduces complications, and provides the best possible outcome for children in cardiac emergencies. Quick and decisive action in these critical moments can make all the difference.
Conclusion
Pediatric cardiac emergencies can be fatal, and using AED as soon as possible can make a life-saving difference. If you know when and how to use an AED and recognize the key signs of cardiac arrest, then it can help you to act quickly and effectively. With proper training and preparation, AEDs are a powerful tool in saving young lives during critical situations. You should always follow the recommended steps and be ready to provide prompt and effective care during pediatric emergencies.
If you are a new parent, a healthcare professional, or anyone who simply wants to be prepared for pediatric emergencies, then we strongly urge you to join infant CPR or PALS classes. You will learn effective AED use for young children, along with life-saving CPR techniques, airway management, and how to recognize and respond to signs of pediatric cardiac arrest. Join us at Sacramento CPR Classes and be ready to act with confidence. Your preparedness can help save the life of a child in an emergency.