Which statement best describes a consideration when applying AED pads related to chest hair?

Which statement best describes a consideration when applying AED pads related to chest hair?

• A. Water around the chest has no effect on pad adhesion
• B. Excessive chest hair may prevent proper pad adhesion
• C. Patches must be removed after pad placement
• D. Implants must be removed before using AED

Answer: (B)

Effective defibrillation hinges on solid pad-to-skin contact. Excessive chest hair can prevent the AED pads from sticking firmly, creating gaps and higher skin impedance that reduce the current delivered to the heart. If hair blocks adhesion, quickly shave the area where the pads will go (or follow the device’s guidance for pad placement) to ensure a good seal. Don’t delay the shock for lengthy hair removal. Water on the chest can undermine adhesion and increase impedance, so it wouldn’t help, and you don’t remove implants or patches after pad placement.

Effective defibrillation hinges on solid pad-to-skin contact. Excessive chest hair can prevent the AED pads from sticking firmly, creating gaps and higher skin impedance that reduce the current delivered to the heart. If hair blocks adhesion, quickly shave the area where the pads will go (or follow the device’s guidance for pad placement) to ensure a good seal. Don’t delay the shock for lengthy hair removal. Water on the chest can undermine adhesion and increase impedance, so it wouldn’t help, and you don’t remove implants or patches after pad placement.