In a pediatric emergency, every second matters. The tools you use can make a life-saving difference. That’s why it’s critical to know when to use pediatric defib pads.
Pediatric defibrillation pads are made for children who weigh less than 22 pounds. They are intended to be used with defibrillators capable of delivering a lower energy shock appropriate for a child’s size and physiology. Placement and size of the defibrillation pad are important. Incorrect use and/or use of larger adult pads on a small child, where pads are placed too close together, increases the risk of harm to the patient.
This guide explains when to use pediatric defibrillation pads, how they differ from adult pads, and what clinical teams need to know to reduce risk and improve outcomes.
Why Pediatric Defib Pads Matter in Emergency Care
Pediatric patients who weigh less than 10 kg (22 pounds) have smaller chests, lower body mass, and more sensitive organs than adults. Because of this, defibrillation protocols need to be different and require careful handling during electrical therapy. Pediatric defib pads are designed especially for the pediatric population and are intended to be used with a reduced energy dose that’s safer for a child’s heart while still supporting effective restoration. This is outlined in the American Heart Association’s 2020 Pediatric Advanced Life Support Guidelines.
Pediatric defib pads are smaller, allowing for proper spacing between the two pads. If the chest is too small, clinicians can place one pad on the front and one on the back, a method known as anterior-posterior placement, to maintain safe pad separation and effective therapy.
By using pediatric pads correctly, your team can act quickly and confidently, even under pressure, to give them the best chance of recovery.
Pediatric vs. Adult Defib Pads: What’s the Difference?
Pediatric and adult defib pads may look similar, but they’re not interchangeable. Each one is designed for a specific type of patient. It is important to note that therapy should not be delayed if you are unsure of the exact age or weight, or if only one type of pad is on hand.
Pediatric pads are designed for children who weigh less than 10 kg (22 pounds). The smaller size of the pads allows for better placement on the child. When space is limited, clinicians can place one pad on the chest and the other on the back. This method, called anterior-posterior placement, keeps the shock path aligned with the heart.
In addition, pediatric pads are used with less energy from the defibrillator. This reduces the risk of tissue damage while still supporting effective defibrillation. According to the American Heart Association’s 2020 Pediatric Advanced Life Support Guidelines, “It is reasonable to use an initial dose of 2–4 J/kg of monophasic or biphasic energy for defibrillation. For refractory VF, it may be reasonable to increase the defibrillation dose to 4 J/kg. For subsequent energy levels, a dose of 4 J/kg may be reasonable, and higher energy levels may be considered, though not to exceed 10 J/kg.”
In contrast, adult pads are larger and are designed to deliver a higher dose of energy. When used on small children, they may overlap or sit too close together. This can block current from reaching the heart. Special care should be taken to not overlap pads. However, it is important to note that therapy should not be delayed if you are unsure of exact age or weight.
Understanding these differences helps clinical staff respond with greater confidence and deliver care that’s both fast and appropriate.
HeartSync pediatric defib pads are made for clinical use and come in models compatible with ZOLL and Physio-Control defibrillators.
When to Use Pediatric Defib Pads: Weight, Age, and Spacing Criteria
Nissha Medical Technologies offers both adult and pediatric pads. The quick comparison below outlines the key differences that can impact patient safety, placement, and energy delivery, and provides an understanding of when to use pediatric pads.
| Feature | Pediatric Pads | Adult Pads |
| Patient Population | Pediatric patients whose weight is less than or equal to 10 kg (22 lbs) | The pads are used on patients whose weight is greater than 10 kg (22 pounds). |
| AED or AED Mode | NO AED or AED MODE | Yes > 25 kg / 55 lbs ≥ 8 Years Old |
| Pad Size | Smaller, fits pediatric anatomy | Larger, covers more surface area |
| Maximum Energy Dose used with pads | ≤ 100 J | ≤ 360 J |
| Compatible Devices | Zoll: R Series, X Series and Propaq MD Physio Control: LifePak-15, LifePak 20e | Zoll: R Series and X Series Physio Control: LifePak-15, LifePak 20/20e, LifePak-1000 Cardiac Science: PowerHeart AED G3 Plus, PowerHeart AED G3 Pro |
Download our printable pediatric defib placement guide here.
Best Practices for Using Pediatric Defib Pads
In hospitals, teams must stay ready to treat pediatric cardiac emergencies. That starts with having the right tools in the right places.
Stock pediatric defib pads in all critical care areas. This includes emergency departments, pediatric units, cardiology departments, surgical suites, and intensive care units.
Train all care teams to:
- Recognize when pediatric pads are appropriate
- Estimate weight quickly when age is unclear
- Use anterior-posterior placement if the chest is too small
- Check pad spacing to prevent overlapping before delivering a shock
Reinforce this training during mock codes. Consistent practice builds speed and confidence when it matters most.
Misplaced or incorrect pads or incorrect settings on the defibrillator can delay treatment or negatively impact shock effectiveness. Clear protocols and hands-on education help teams respond quickly and accurately.
NMT’s Offerings: HeartSync Pediatric Defib Pads Designed for Effective Care
NMT’s HeartSync pediatric defibrillation pads are engineered for reliable clinical performance and are compatible with Zoll and Physio-Control defibrillators, which are capable of use in manual mode only and delivery of the lower energy appropriate for pediatric patients in critical situations.
These pads are:
- Sized appropriately for patients under 10 kg (22 lbs)
- Packaged with clear visual instructions for placement
- Designed with a 36-month shelf life
Key Takeaways for Clinical Teams
Pediatric cardiac emergencies demand precision. Choosing the right defib pads based on a child’s weight and size protects patients and improves outcomes.
In the hospital, preparation makes all the difference. Keep pediatric pads stocked where they’re needed. Include them in regular training and mock codes.
Using the correct pads isn’t just good practice, it can directly impact patient outcomes. Proper pad selection can reduce complications and ensure accurate shock delivery. NMT’s HeartSync pediatric defibrillation pads are designed to fit several models of both Physio-Control and ZOLL defibrillators for the US market.
With the right tools and training, your team can respond quickly and confidently, giving pediatric patients the best chance when every second counts.
Need product information or placement guidance?
Download the HeartSync pediatric defib pad literature ›