Question

What weight/age is it appropriate to use the smaller pediatric paddles for a manual defibrillator?

A: < 40 kg or <10 yo
B: < 30 kg or < 5 yo
C: < 10 kg or < 1 yo
D: < 20 kg or < 3 yo

Answer 1

Smaller pediatric paddles for a manual defibrillator should be used for children who weigh less than 10 kg or are younger than 1 year old to ensure safety and effective defibrillation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate weight and age for using smaller pediatric paddles for a manual defibrillator is < 10 kg or < 1 yo. This corresponds to children who are typically less than one year old. Pediatric paddles are designed to deliver a reduced energy level that is suitable for the smaller body mass and heart size of infants and very small children.

Using the correct size defibrillator paddles is critical for the safety and efficacy of the defibrillation process. Inappropriately large paddles or energy settings can cause harm, including burns or cardiac damage. Conversely, too small paddles or insufficient energy may fail to achieve successful defibrillation in young patients.