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Adult & Pediatric CPR & AED Course

AED for Infants and Children Under 8 Years

How an AED Works

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) analyzes the heart’s rhythm to determine if a shockable rhythm is present. If needed, the device delivers an electrical shock to the heart, temporarily stunning the heart muscle.

This shock effectively resets the heart’s electrical system, allowing an organized heart rhythm to return. If normal rhythm is restored and CPR continues, the heart muscle may begin contracting and pumping blood efficiently again—a condition known as Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC).

Using an AED on Infants and Children Under 8

Equipment may vary by manufacturer, but most AEDs follow the same basic operating steps. Some AEDs are designed for both pediatric and adult use, delivering a reduced shock when switched to pediatric mode.

Step-by-Step AED Operation

  1. Open the AED case and power on the device if required.
  2. Choose the appropriate AED pads:
    • Use pediatric pads for children under 8 years old.
    • If pediatric pads are not available, use adult pads, ensuring they do not overlap or touch.
  3. Attach AED pads to the victim’s bare chest:
    • Peel the backing away from the adhesive pads.
    • Follow the placement instructions on the pads and attach them accordingly.
    • If required, connect the pad cables to the AED unit.
  4. “Clear” the victim and allow the AED to analyze:
    • When prompted, ensure no one is touching the victim during analysis.
    • Some AED models require you to press a button to begin analysis, while others start automatically.
  5. If shock is advised:
    • The AED will instruct you to clear the victim before delivering the shock.
    • Ensure that no one is touching the victim and loudly say, “Clear the victim!” or “Everybody clear!”
    • Visually confirm that no one is in contact with the victim.
    • Press the “shock” button if required (some AEDs deliver the shock automatically).
  6. After shock delivery or if no shock is needed:
    • Immediately resume CPR.
    • Continue chest compressions and rescue breaths as instructed.
  7. Reassess after 5 cycles or 2 minutes of CPR:
    • The AED will prompt you to analyze the heart rhythm again.
    • Follow the AED’s guidance and repeat the process as needed.