Final answer:
If no pediatric AED paddles are available, adult paddles may be used on a child by positioning one pad on the front of the chest and the other on the back, and performing CPR before defibrillation, if trained.
Step-by-step explanation:
When facing a cardiac emergency with a child and only adult AED paddles are available, one should still use the AED. Pediatric paddles are designed to deliver a reduced energy shock appropriate for children's smaller bodies, but if not available, adult paddles can be used as a life-saving measure. It is crucial to position the adult paddles so that they do not touch each other when applied to the child's chest. Place one pad on the child's chest and the other on their back. Before using the defibrillator, it is advisable to perform CPR if you are trained to do so, as it can be critical in many cases to maintain blood flow to the heart and brain until the AED is used. Always follow the AED's verbal instructions carefully.