AED Safety: Can They Be Used on Any Age?

When a defibrillator is required, a common question arises in the moment: Can AEDs be used safely and effectively on any age? This concern is particularly crucial when dealing with vulnerable populations like infants. 

In this article, we’ll cover AED safety and effectiveness, special considerations, and guidelines for the correct and safe use of AEDs across different age groups.

AED Safety in Different Age Groups

The versatility of AEDs allows them to be used effectively across a wide range of age groups. That said, certain age-specific considerations are important to ensure patient safety.

Infants & Children

For children younger than eight years or weighing less than 55 pounds, it is recommended to use child pads and energy settings. 

For Philips Onsite AEDs, you can purchase Onsite Infant/Child Pads. Pediatric pads reduce the energy of the shock to make it safer for smaller, more fragile bodies. With Philips FRx AEDs, you have the option to buy the FRx Infant/Child Pediatric Key, which when inserted, lowers the voltage delivered by the device through the standard adult pads. Both the child pads and the child key are designed to be used on children under eight years old or weighing less than 55 pounds.

In the absence of pediatric pads or keys, DO NOT delay treatment! An AED with adult pads should still be used to treat the patient. If using adult pads to treat a child, apply one pad in the centre of the chest and one in the centre of the back between the shoulder blades. 

For in-depth coverage of AED pads, check out our blog “Are All AED Pads the Same?”.

Adults

In adult cases of sudden cardiac arrest, typically all you have to do is turn on the AED and listen carefully to the voice instructions, as AEDs always come equipped with adult pads. The voice instructions are designed to be simple and clear to ensure that rescuers (even those with little to no experience) place the pads and administer shocks correctly. Most AED brands come equipped with illustrated instructions as well. 

Learn how an AED works on the heart.

Older Individuals 

While AEDs are safe to use on older patients, it is important to be mindful of the potential presence of pacemakers or other medical implants. Although it is 100% safe to use AEDs on patients who have pacemakers, AED pads must be placed at least one inch away from the implant to avoid damaging it.

Pacemakers are usually visible under the skin and are normally located in the upper left chest.

Real-Life Examples

AED safety across various age groups is best illustrated through actual cases. Here are a few:

• While playing hockey, a 15-year-old boy from Quebec was saved after falling into sudden cardiac arrest with an AED that was located on-site.
• Three high school students in Montreal–all of whom had first aid and CPR training–used a defibrillator to save their teacher’s life after she lost consciousness in class. 
• Making his way off the ice after a senior’s hockey game in PEI, an older gentleman collapsed and was saved when another player administered the lifesaving shock of an AED. 

Best Practices for AED Safety

Keep these tips in mind to maximize the effectiveness of AEDs in emergencies across all age groups:

Understand the Instructions

Stay calm and listen carefully to AED instructions. As mentioned, AEDs provide clear, audible, step-by-step directions once activated. In a high-stress situation, this guidance is invaluable.

Regular Maintenance

Ensure that AEDs are regularly checked and maintained. This includes verifying that batteries are charged and electrode pads are within their expiration date. Routine maintenance can be the difference between a functional and a non-functional device in an emergency.

Training

While AEDs are designed for use by the general public, training can significantly enhance confidence and efficiency in their use. CPR and AED training courses are widely available and are recommended for everyone, especially those in high-risk environments like schools, sports facilities, and community centres.

Accessibility

AEDs should be easily accessible in public places. Clear signage and cases indicating the AED’s location are crucial, as time is of the essence in a cardiac emergency.

When it comes to the question of AED safety and whether an AED can be used on any age, the answer is a resounding yes! 

AEDs are a necessary tool in emergency cardiac situations and can be effectively used on individuals of all ages. Real-life examples have shown the life-saving potential of AEDs when used promptly and correctly.

Winter event coming up? Ensure the safety of your attendees and rent an AED.