What should you do if you need to use an AED on someone who has been submerged in water?

What should you do if you need to use an AED on someone who has been submerged in water?

• A. Pull the victim out of the water, but wipe the chest
• B. Apply pads while still in water
• C. Dry the skin and apply pads only if completely dry
• D. Place pads on wet skin

Answer: (A)

Delivery of the AED shock works best when the chest skin is dry and the pads can adhere properly. Submersion leaves the chest wet, which can cause the current to be diverted or hinder pad contact, reducing the effectiveness of defibrillation. The safest, quickest approach is to move the person out of the water onto a dry surface and wipe the chest dry so the pads can be placed firmly and deliver energy where it’s needed. Placing pads on wet skin or while still in water is not advisable because it compromises pad adhesion and the shock’s path through the heart. Once the chest is dry, apply the pads and proceed with defibrillation as indicated, continuing CPR as needed.

Delivery of the AED shock works best when the chest skin is dry and the pads can adhere properly. Submersion leaves the chest wet, which can cause the current to be diverted or hinder pad contact, reducing the effectiveness of defibrillation. The safest, quickest approach is to move the person out of the water onto a dry surface and wipe the chest dry so the pads can be placed firmly and deliver energy where it’s needed. Placing pads on wet skin or while still in water is not advisable because it compromises pad adhesion and the shock’s path through the heart. Once the chest is dry, apply the pads and proceed with defibrillation as indicated, continuing CPR as needed.