AED Pads: A Complete Guide

Automated external defibrillators (AEDS) are portable electric devices that can play a crucial role in saving lives during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) emergencies. When a victim suffers from cardiac arrest, the electrode pads of this device play an essential role in monitoring the heart’s rhythm and delivering electric shocks when necessary to help restore the heart to a normal rhythm. Without functioning electrode pads, your AED may not fully work. Understanding the lifespan of AED electrode pads, the types of pads available, when to replace them, and where to store them helps ensure these essential accessory’s effectiveness in your AED device.

What is an Electrode AED Pad

AED electrode pads adhere to the chest of an individual who needs defibrillation, typically an individual suffering from a cardiac arrest emergency. These pads are attached to a cable that serves as the interface between the patient’s body and the AED, enabling the device to analyze the heart’s rhythm and deliver electric shocks to restore standard heartbeat patterns.

Electrode pads are typically single-use and should be replaced after each use or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regularly checking the expiration date and condition of the pads can ensure their effectiveness in an emergency.

How to Apply AED Pads

AED pad placement varies by age and size. Infants need pediatric pads, which are smaller pads that adhere to the chest and back called anterior-posterior. Adult pads are placed anterior lateral on the opposite chest sides. The following steps walk you through general steps of how to apply AED pads:

Step 1: Check the Environment
Be sure the victim is dry and free from materials like aluminum, iron, or steel that could mis–conduct the electricity from the AED. Remove any jewelry, piercings, or other metal from the person’s body. Be sure the victim is dry, and remove any chest hair if needed to ensure the pad's adhesives can stick to the chest. 

Note: Typically AEDs come with a CPR response kit that includes a razor that can be used for shaving a hairy chest. 

Step 2: Choose the Correct Pads
Decipher the age and weight of the victim to see if they would need pediatric or adult pads. Pediatric pads would be used on a victim who is eight years old, younger, or under 55 lbs.

Step 3: Place the AED Pads on the Victim’s Chest 
Place one AED pad above the victim’s right-handed side of their chest for adult pad placement. Place the other pad on the left side slightly lower and below the left nipple.

Place the initial AED pad slightly to the left center of the chest for pediatric pad placement. The second pad should be placed between the shoulder blades on the child’s back.

Note: Application of AED electrode pads can vary slightly based upon the AED unit in use. To help increase rescue outcomes and rescuer confidence, we highly recommend getting CPR and AED trained with your particular AED model.

Training & Practicing with AED Pads

AED trainers with AED pads can benefit individuals new to using an AED and who need to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment. AED trainers can help students practice proper pad placement and deliver simulated shocks.

Training courses are also available to guide how to use an AED. Check out our various resources available online and in person. Practicing the placement of AED pads can help build confidence and efficiency in rescuers when acting quickly during an emergency.

Troubleshooting Issues with AED Pads

Users may encounter common issues when using AED pads. One of the most common issues is pad placement errors. Suppose a rescuer applies the pads in the wrong places on the chest or does not consider the obstacles that may interfere with pad adhesions, such as wet environments or a victim with a hairy chest. Training courses are a great way to remember these common obstacles and make rescuers comfortable placing pads on a victim quickly during chaotic situations like an emergency.

Another issue AED users may encounter is finding that their pads are expired or damaged. When pads are expired or are damaged, they must be replaced immediately as they may not deliver an effective shock or proper monitoring.

When doing regular maintenance checks, it’s essential to look for the following:

• Overall condition of pad - no tears, rips, or damage to the pad
• Adhesion - pads adhesive stickiness can wear over time, making it crucial to check the adhesive side of the pad before using
• Expiration date - be sure your pads are not expired before placing them on the victim

These issues can be avoided altogether by keeping a set of spare pads on hand. Extra AED pads can offer a quick resolution and give AED owners peace of mind that they are covered if one of these issues arises.

AED Pad Regulations & Standards

AED pads' creation and quality control are subject to specific regulations to ensure their safety, reliability, and effectiveness in emergencies.

In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates medical equipment and devices, including AEDs and their accessories, like pads. The European Union has the European Medicine Agency (EMA) and the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) that provides regulations for medical devices to help oversee the safety of products like AED pads. When purchasing AED pads in the U.S., purchasing from a manufacturer or distributor that carries FDA-approved pads is critical.

AED pads must meet performance and safety standards to ensure effectiveness and patient safety. For instance, the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) has standards related to defibrillation pads, such as AAMI DF80, which specifies requirements for the performance and testing of electrode pads used with AEDs.

AED Pads Options and When to Use Them

Several types of AED pads are available, each designed for specific purposes. Some are designed for quick application, while others are specifically designed for children/infants. Below are some electrode pads we have available:

•  Standard Electrode Pads: Standard AED pads are the most commonly used electrode pads. They consist of two adhesive pads, one placed on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side of the chest. These pads are connected to the AED device via cables that allow monitoring and a shock to be delivered when necessary. Find the standard electrode pads for your AED model: ZOLL STAT-PADS II, the Cardiac Science PowerHeart G3 & G3 Pro AED Pads, or the Defibtech Lifeline AED Pads.
  

• Pre-Connected Pads: Pre-connected pads are designed for quick and easy application. They come pre-attached to the AED unit with cables, eliminating the need for manual pad placement and cable connection. The Philips HeartStart Onsite AED Smart Pads are pre-installed into the AED, making it easy for the rescuer to tear open the pads. 

  Note: While tempting, the “Pull” indication on the Philips HeartStart Onsite AED Smart Pads is not intended to be pulled unless they are going to be used in an emergency. Pulling the pads out of the unit exposes the adhesive on the pads to the environment, rendering them useless unless they are going to be used immediately.
  

• Pediatric Electrode Pads: Pediatric electrode pads are designed for children less than 55 lbs or under age 8. Pediatric pads are more petite and deliver reduced energy level shocks that are more appropriate for pediatric patients. These pads can come in a standard form, a pre-connected form, or a pediatric key. The Philips HeartStart FRx Infant/Child key is the most cost-effective option as it never needs to be replaced. When inserting this key into the Philips HeartStart FRx AED, the adult pads are transformed into pediatric pads by delivering a lower energy shock. Does your facility need pediatric pads? 
  
• CPR Feedback Pads: Some advanced AED models have electrode pads that provide real-time CPR feedback. These pads have sensors that monitor the quality and rate of chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and can be an excellent option for beginners or individuals who have yet to be trained. For example, the Cardiac Science G5 Intellisense CPR Feedback Pads can be used with the PowerHeart G5 AED and provide CPR feedback by Resuscitation Guidelines.
  
• Pad-Paks: Pad-Paks provide a cost-effective solution by simplifying the maintenance and replacement process by combining the battery and electrode pads into one unit. When the Pad-Pak reaches its expiration date or is used, the battery and electrode pads are replaced. The HeartSine samaritan AED Adult Pad-Pak and the HeartSine samaritan AED Pediatric Pad-Pak are examples of these convenient electrode pads and are compatible with the HeartSine samaritan AED.
  

Replacement Electrode Pads

Electrode pads need to be replaced for multiple reasons. When delivering a shock or if a pad is applied to a person for training, the electrode pad's adhesive may lose its grip and cannot stick onto another victim’s chest properly. The adhesive may also wear out if the AED pads’ expiration date has passed, making spare pads a vital accessory to ensure prompt replacement.

AED pads should be replaced if the electrode pads show signs of wear and tear or are visibly damaged, as they may not function correctly during an emergency. Each AED may have different instructions on the frequency of pad replacement. Keeping one set of AED electrode pads is not enough. A set of spare pads on hand can help when a replacement is needed.

Regularly assessing the condition of pads, following expiration dates, and adhering to the storage guidelines can help lengthen the lifespan of AED pads and maintain the capabilities needed to help save lives. Have questions on which electrode pads are best for you? Call 800-544-0004 or fill out our contact us form today! 

AED Pad Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I place AED pads on someone who is wet?
A. It is not recommended to place AED pads on a wet victim or someone who just got out of a pool. Damp skin can create a barrier that prevents the pads from adequately contacting the skin. It is best to dry the person’s chest quickly and thoroughly before applying AED pads to ensure the pads can deliver a shock.

Q. Can AED pads overlap?
A. No, AED pads should not overlap when placed on a person’s chest. Overlapping pads can interfere with the delivery of the electrical shock and hinder the effectiveness of the treatment. It is essential to follow the instructions on the back of the pads and ensure proper placement without any overlap.

Q. Can AED pads be reversed?
A. No, AED pads should not be reversed or swapped between the left and right sides of the chest. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions provided with the AED device for correct pad placement.

Can AED pads be reused?
A. No, AED pads are for single use only and should not be reused. The adhesive properties and performance of the pads can deteriorate after use, making them less effective and unable to deliver the necessary shock level.

Q. Why do AED pads expire?
A. AED pads have expiration dates because the adhesive properties and electrode performance degrade over time. Expiration dates ensure the pads are still effective and will adhere properly to the patient’s skin when needed. Regularly checking the expiration dates and replacing expired pads is crucial to maintain the reliability and functionality of the AED device.

Q. Where can I buy AED pads? 
A. AED pads can be purchased from various sources, including online stores like AED.com, local emergency equipment providers, CPR trainers, etc. Visit AED Pads on AED.com to find a selection of AED pads suitable for different AED models. Ensuring that the pads you purchase are compatible with your device is vital.  

Q. Where should you store electrode pads?
A. Storing AED pads properly can help ensure optimal performance and longevity. 

Follow these tips on best practices for storing electrode pads: 

1. Temperature: Store your electrode pads in a dry and controlled environment (See manufacturer guidelines for recommended temperature).
2. Protective packaging: Keep pads in their original packaging or an AED electrode pad case to protect them from light, moisture, and physical damage.
3. Avoid direct sun: Direct sunlight or overexposure to the head can deteriorate the adhesive properties on the pads, making it essential to store them in a place that is out of direct sun exposure.
4. Clean location: Find a place that is clean in a dust-free zone. Dust and debris can compromise the adhesive and interfere with the connectivity of the pads to a victim’s chest.
5. Accessible: Store electrode pads in an area that is easily accessible for all staff, customers, and even maintenance who may be replacing the pads when they expire. Having the pads (if they are not already connected to the AED unit) near your device will ensure they can be quickly accessed and attached during an emergency.