Is it appropriate to use AEDs with adult pads on infants and children?

Using AEDs with adult pads on infants and children is appropriate only under specific circumstances, which is why this is a nuanced topic. Adult pads are not ideally intended for use on children due to the risk of improper shock delivery and potential harm. However, if pediatric pads are not available, using adult pads can be a viable option.

When using adult pads on children, it's essential to follow guidelines that ensure safety, such as placing the pads in a way that avoids overlap on small chests and ensuring that the pads are positioned correctly to deliver an effective shock. The American Heart Association recommends that if a child is over a specific age or weight threshold, using adult AED pads can be considered better than not delivering a shock at all.

In emergency situations where no pediatric gear is accessible, using the available adult pads can still lead to increased chances of survival as opposed to the delay in emergency treatment. Therefore, while there are important considerations and preferences for using pediatric pads, the flexibility to use adult pads in their absence is recognized in life-threatening situations.