In a cardiac emergency, knowing where to place defib pads can save a life. An automated external defibrillator (AED) analyzes heart rhythm and delivers a shock if needed, but that shock must travel through the heart effectively to work. That’s why proper defib pad placement is so important. This guide explains where to place defib pads on both adults and children, using simple terms and clear instructions so responders of all experience levels feel confident during high-stress situations.
Why Defib Placement Matters
AEDs are designed to restart the heart by sending an electric shock through the chest. For that shock to be effective, the defib pad placement must allow the current to pass directly through the heart muscle. Poor placement can reduce the chance of a successful shock or delay care when every second matters.
AED Pad Placement for Adults
For adults, the most common and effective defib pad placement is called anterior-lateral. One pad goes on the upper right side of the chest, just below the collarbone. The other pad is placed on the lower left side of the chest, a few inches below the armpit. This setup allows the electric current to travel through the heart in a direct line. When placing AED defibrillator pads, make sure the chest is dry and free of any obstacles, such as medical patches or thick chest hair, which may need to be removed to ensure good contact. Following this method helps responders deliver a strong, uninterrupted shock to the heart when it is needed most.
Pad Placement in Children Over 55 Pounds
Children weighing more than 55 pounds or generally over 8 years old should use adult defibrillation pads. If the child’s chest is too small to allow for standard side-by-side pad placement without overlap, use the anterior-posterior method: place one pad in the center of the chest and the other in the center of the back between the shoulder blades. This ensures safe spacing and effective shock delivery. DO NOT DELAY THERAPY IF YOU ARE NOT SURE OF EXACT AGE OR WEIGHT.
HeartSync adult pads are labeled with placement diagrams to support proper positioning.
HeartSync pediatric defibrillation pads are intended for use with manual defibrillators only. They are not compatible with AEDs. For questions about compatibility, refer to the defibrillator compatibility chart or contact Nissha Medical Technologies at 1.800.669.6905 or HS.Info@NisshaMedical.com.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Defib Pad Placement
In a high-pressure situation, it’s easy to overlook small details that make a big difference. One of the most common errors in defib pad placement is positioning the pads too close together, which can interfere with the path of the shock. Another issue is placing pads over medical devices like pacemakers or patches, which can block proper conduction. Wet skin, excessive chest hair, and tight clothing can also prevent pads from sticking or reduce the effectiveness of the shock. Always check the chest for moisture or obstructions, and make sure the pads are firmly pressed into place. Taking a few extra seconds to double-check defibrillator pads placement can improve the chances of a successful rescue.
The Advantage of HeartSync Defib Pads
HeartSync defib pads are designed to improve ease of use and performance in critical moments. Our smaller pad size helps avoid crowding on the chest, making placement faster and more intuitive. We offer the longest leadwires on the market, giving responders more flexibility in pad positioning and patient access. Each pad features an advanced hydrogel that ensures strong, reliable adhesion, even in challenging conditions. A large conductor plate is built into every pad to help disperse energy efficiently and support effective defibrillation.
HeartSync Defib Pad Placement Tips
HeartSync defib pads come with clear illustrations printed directly on them, showing exactly where each pad should be placed. This built-in guide removes guesswork, even for someone using an AED for the first time. While it’s helpful to review pad placement in advance, especially during CPR or safety training, you don’t need to memorize it. Just follow the images on the defib pads and apply them as shown. Knowing that the instructions are right on the pads can reduce panic and help ensure correct defib placement during a cardiac emergency.
Combined, these features make Nissha defib pads a smart choice for clinical and emergency settings.
Review the HeartSync Instructions for Use here.
