Defibrillator pads play an essential part in saving lives during cardiac emergencies.
Have you seen them in movies, TV shows or public places such as airports, gyms or schools?
What exactly are defibrillator pads, and how do they function?
In this Blog, we'll break everything down so you can understand their significance and how they help save lives.
What Are Defibrillator Pads?
Defibrillator pads are gel-coated patches attached to someone's chest during a cardiac emergency to act as an external defibrillator.
These devices can be combined with either an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or manual defibrillators to assist in defibrillation.
These pads are intended to deliver an electric shock directly into the heart when an individual experiences life-threatening heart rhythm issues such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT).
Consider defibrillator pads as the bridge between defibrillation machines and peoples' hearts.
These sensors help the machine assess a heart's rhythm and, if necessary, administer shock treatments to restore normal heartbeat patterns.
Why Defibrillator Pads Important?
When someone goes into sudden cardiac arrest, their heart stops beating effectively. Instead of pumping blood, it may quiver (fibrillate) or beat too fast (tachycardia).
Without immediate treatment, this can lead to death within minutes. Defibrillator pads, along with an AED, are designed to quickly respond to this situation.
Here’s why they’re so important:
Save Time: Defibrillator pads are easy to use even for people without medical training, enabling AEDs to rapidly analyze heart rhythms and decide if a shock is required.
Deliver Life-Saving Shocks: In case your heart begins beating in an abnormal rhythm, life-saving shock pads provide controlled electric shocks to "reset" it and encourage it to start beating normally again.
Safe and Effective: Our pads are specifically designed to reduce harm to those receiving a shock, with gel padding that ensures shock delivery smoothly while decreasing burn risks.
How Do Defibrillator Pads Work?
Defibrillator pads might look simplistic, but they are part of a complex system designed to save lives.
Here is a detailed breakdown of how they work:
1. Placement on the Chest:
First, place two pads onto their bare chests for placement of an AED device. These must be properly aligned for proper functionality of an AED; most commonly this occurs with:
One pad on the upper right side of the chest, just below the collarbone.
One pad on the lower left side of the chest, below the armpit.
Some AEDs use an alternate placement system, placing one pad on your chest and one pad on your back.
Each pad typically includes diagrams or instructions to help guide users when positioning themselves correctly.
2. Analyzing the Heart Rhythm:
Once the pads have been applied to a person's chest, an AED will begin analyzing his/her heart rhythm.
Step four is of utmost importance as not all cardiac emergencies require shocks to restore normal rhythms.
The AED can detect whether the heart has entered a shockable rhythm (VF or VT) or not (such as asystole or flatline).
3. Delivering the Shock:
If the AED detects a shockable rhythm, it will charge up and prompt you to deliver a shock.
The pads are the component that deliver shockwaves directly into the heart.
Electric current travels through pads onto chest and heart areas to "reset" and perhaps restart normal heartbeat patterns.
4. Guiding CPR:
Once shock has been administered (or none is required), an AED will guide you in performing CPR.
CPR should continue while AED monitoring the heart rhythm. Should additional shock be necessary, the AED will notify you.
Types of Defibrillator Pads
Not all defibrillator pads are the same. They come in different types and sizes depending on the situation and the person being treated.
Here are the main types:
1. Adult Pads:
Adult defibrillator pads are designed for use on people over the age of 8 or weighing more than 55 pounds.
They deliver a higher energy shock, which is necessary for an adult’s larger body size.
2. Pediatric Pads:
Pediatric pads are smaller and deliver a lower energy shock, making them safe for children under 8 or weighing less than 55 pounds.
Some AEDs come with a switch or key that adjusts the energy level for pediatric use.
3. Pre-Connected Pads:
Some AEDs have pads that are already connected to the device, making them quicker to use in an emergency. Others require you to plug the pads into the AED before use.
4. Disposable vs. Reusable Pads:
Most defibrillator pads are disposable and designed for single use. After they’ve been used, they need to be replaced.
However, some training AEDs come with reusable pads for practice purposes.
How to Use Defibrillator Pads?
Using defibrillator pads is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Turn on the AED: Most AEDs will start giving you instructions as soon as you open the lid or press the power button.
Expose the Chest: Make sure the person’s chest is bare. If necessary, wipe away sweat or water, as moisture can interfere with the pads.
Attach the Pads: Peel the backing off the pads and place them on the chest as shown in the diagrams. Press firmly to ensure they stick.
Stand Clear: Once the pads are in place, the AED will analyze the heart rhythm. Make sure no one is touching the person during this time.
Follow the Prompts: If a shock is needed, the AED will tell you to press the shock button. If no shock is needed, it will instruct you to start CPR.
Continue Until Help Arrives: Keep following the AED instructions until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive.
Why Everyone Should Know About Defibrillator Pads?
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. In fact, it’s one of the leading causes of death worldwide.
The good news is that immediate use of an AED with defibrillator pads can significantly increase the chances of survival.
By understanding what defibrillator pads are and how they work, you can be prepared to act in an emergency.
Whether you’re at home, at work, or in a public place, knowing how to use an AED could mean the difference between life and death for someone in cardiac arrest.
Conclusion
Defibrillator pads are a small but mighty tool in the fight against sudden cardiac arrest.
They’re easy to use, highly effective, and designed to guide even untrained bystanders through the process of saving a life.
If you ever find yourself in a situation where someone needs help, don’t hesitate to use an AED.
Remember, every second counts, and your actions could make all the difference.
So, the next time you see an AED in a public place, take a moment to familiarize yourself with it. You never know when you might need to use it and when you do, you’ll be ready.
FAQ
Can I Use Adult Pads on a Child?
No, adult pads should not be used on a child unless pediatric pads are not available. Using adult pads on a child can deliver too much energy, which could be harmful.
Can Defibrillator Pads Be Reused?
No, defibrillator pads are designed for single use only. After they’ve been used, they need to be replaced.
Do Defibrillator Pads Expire?
Yes, defibrillator pads have an expiration date, usually around 2-5 years from the date of manufacture. It’s important to check the expiration date regularly and replace them if needed.
Can I Use an AED on Someone with a Pacemaker?
Yes, you can still use an AED on someone with a pacemaker. Just make sure the pads are not placed directly over the pacemaker device.
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