Final answer:
When attempting to use an AED, shave the area on a hairy chest, ensure the victim is not in water, dry off wet areas, do not place pads over a pacemaker or transdermal medicine patch, and be aware that the skin normally conducts electricity without serious burns.
Step-by-step explanation:
When attempting to use an AED, different scenarios require specific procedures to ensure safety and efficacy during the defibrillation process:
- For a very hairy chest, it is recommended to quickly shave the area where the AED pads will be placed to ensure good contact and conductivity.
- If the victim is submerged in water, they must be removed from the water immediately and dried before the AED pads are applied.
- In the case of a small puddle or snow, move the victim to a dry area if possible, or place something dry under them before applying the AED pads.
- If the victim has a wet chest, the chest should be wiped dry to prevent the electricity from arcing and to ensure proper adhesion of the pads.
- When a victim has an implanted pacemaker, avoid placing the AED pad directly over the pacemaker. Instead, place the pad at least one inch away from the device to prevent damage to the pacemaker and ensure effective delivery of the shock.
- For a patient with a transdermal medicine patch, the patch should be removed using gloves (to avoid contact with the medicine) and the area wiped clean before AED pad placement.
Furthermore, the use of an AED does not typically cause serious burns due to the skin's capability to conduct electricity well at high voltages, and the presence of gel on pads aids in energy transfer without the skin absorbing the energy.