CPR Chapter 6
what does Defibrillator mean?
A device that corrects an abnormal heart rhythm by delivering electrical shocks to restore a normal heartbeat.
Automated External Defibrillator
AED
What is a pediatric attenuator?
AN AED EQUIPPED WITH A PEDIATRIC DOSE ATTENUATOR IS PREFERRED.
How does an AED operate?
Although all AEDs operate the same way, AED equipment varies according to model and manufacturer.
If a manual defibrillator is not available,
An AED equipped with pediatric dose attenuator is preferred.
Use of an AED for Infants
For infants, a manual defibrillator is preferred to an AED for defibrillation.
Delivering a Pediatric Shock Dose
The AED shock dose may be reduced by pediatric cables, an attenuator, or programming in the device.
Choosing and Placing the AED Pads
Use child pads, if available, for infants and for children less than 8 years of age.
Victims 8 years of Age and Older
Use the AED as soon as it is available. Use adult pads. Do not use child pads-they will likely give a shock dose that is too low. Place the pads as illustrated on the pads.
Victims Less Than 8 years of Age
Use the AED as soon as it is available. Use child pads if available. If you do not have child pads, you may use adult pads. Place the pads so that they do not touch each other. If the AED has a key or switch that will deliver a child shock dose, turn the key or switch. Place the pads as illustrated on the pads.
A manual defibrillator has more
capabilities than an AED and can provide lower energy doses that are needed in infants.
Some AEDs require that
child pads be placed in a front and back, while others require right-left placement.
Some AED models are designed
for both pediatric and adult use. These AEDs deliver a reduced shock dose when pediatric pads are used.
AP pad placement is commonly used
for infants.
One commonly used method for reducing a shock dose is a
pediatric dose attenuator. When attached to AED, it reduces the shock dose by about two thirds. Typically, child pads are used to deliver the reduced shock dose.
Advanced training is
required to use a manual defibrillator and will not be covered in this course.
If child pads are not available,
use adults pads. Make sure the pads do not touch each other or overlap. Adult pads deliver a higher shock dose, but a higher shock dose is preferred to no shock.
If neither is available, (manual Vs Automated External defibrillator)
you may use and AED without a pediatric dose attenuator.