What should you do if a patch or medication patch is on the chest during pad placement?

What should you do if a patch or medication patch is on the chest during pad placement?

• A. Remove the patch if possible and place pads on clean, dry skin away from the patch.
• B. Leave the patch in place and place pads on top of it.
• C. Apply pads on the bare skin of the chest surface directly over the patch.
• D. Rehydrate the patch with water before placing pads.

Answer: (A)

When a patch is on the chest, medication on the skin can conduct defibrillator energy and alter how the shock is delivered. Removing the patch, if possible, and placing the pads on clean, dry skin away from the patch prevents burns and ensures the pads adhere properly for effective energy delivery. If you can’t remove the patch, wipe away any residue and place the pads away from the patch rather than directly on top of it.

When a patch is on the chest, medication on the skin can conduct defibrillator energy and alter how the shock is delivered. Removing the patch, if possible, and placing the pads on clean, dry skin away from the patch prevents burns and ensures the pads adhere properly for effective energy delivery. If you can’t remove the patch, wipe away any residue and place the pads away from the patch rather than directly on top of it.