Where should AED pads be placed for effective defibrillation?

The placement of AED pads is critical for effective defibrillation. When using an Automated External Defibrillator, the pads should be positioned to create a pathway that allows the electrical shock to travel through the heart. Placing one pad near the apex of the heart (located on the left side of the chest) and the other pad just below the collarbone (on the right side) facilitates optimal electrical conductivity.

This configuration ensures that the electrical current can flow through the heart, which is essential when attempting to restore a normal heart rhythm during a cardiac emergency. Proper pad placement increases the likelihood of successful defibrillation, which is crucial in life-threatening situations like cardiac arrest.

Other options do not provide the correct configuration for defibrillation. For example, placing pads on the shoulder and hip, or the back and front of the chest, does not create the necessary pathway for the shock to effectively reach the heart. Similarly, positioning one pad above the shoulder and the other on the abdomen would not allow for the proper flow of electricity through the heart muscle.