Infant AED Usage & Technique: Essential Life Saving Techniques

Table Of Content(s)

1. Introduction
2. What is an Infant AED?
3. What are the key attributes of an infant AED?
4. When to use AED on an infant?
5. What is the recommendation for AED regarding infants and children?
6. What is the technique of using AED on infants?
7. What causes sudden cardiac arrests in infants?
8. State the importance of infant CPR.
9. Conclusion

When it comes to the health and safety of infants, every second counts. Infant emergencies are situations that no parent or caregiver wants to face ever, however reports from the CDC states that infant mortality rates are clearly on the rise. 

Therefore knowing about infant AED (automated external defibrillator) and its usage can help caregivers take the emergency under control. Mastering the correct techniques involved in this process can significantly promote the chances of survival and recovery. 

What is an infant AED?

An infant AED is a specialized version of automated external defibrillators, particularly designed for pediatric patients. The core function of infant AEDs are the same as the other ones. Infant AEDs are just adapted to ensure safety and wellbeing for pediatric patients. 

What are the key attributes of an infant AED?

An infant AED is crucial for pediatric cardiac emergencies. The design modifications and other features make it highly safe. These are the key attributes of an infant AED:

• Pediatric Electrode Pads: Infant AEDs come with smaller electrode pads specifically designed to fit an infant’s chest size. This ensures proper placement and reduces the risk of injury.
• Adjusted Shock Energy: The device delivers a lower, controlled energy shock that is safe and effective for infants, made specifically for their smaller bodies and delicate heart structures.
• Pediatric Mode: Many AEDs feature a pediatric mode that automatically adjusts the settings to provide an appropriate shock level for infants and young children.
• Clear Instructions and Prompts: Infant AEDs are equipped with voice prompts and visual indicators specifically designed to guide users through the resuscitation process for infants, making the device easy to use even in high-stress situations.
• Safe Placement Guidelines: The device includes specific instructions for the correct placement of pads, which is crucial for effective defibrillation in infants, ensuring that the shock is delivered properly.
• Compatibility and Versatility: Some AEDs are designed to be versatile. This allows a switch between adult and pediatric modes, making them suitable for a wide range of ages with just a change of electrode pads.

When to use AED on an infant?

Knowing when to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on an infant can be critical in saving a young life. Cardiac events in infants are rare. But when they happen, quick and decisive action becomes essential. Here’s when you should use an AED on an infant:

• Unresponsive and Not Breathing: If the infant is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping, immediately start CPR and use an AED if available. Early defibrillation is key to increasing the chances of survival.
• Signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest: If an infant suddenly collapses, stops breathing, or loses consciousness, it could be a sign of cardiac arrest. In this scenario, using an AED as soon as possible is vital.
• After Performing CPR: If you’ve been performing CPR on an infant and an AED becomes available, apply it immediately. The AED will analyze the infant’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is needed.
• Guidance from Emergency Services: If you’re in contact with emergency medical services (EMS) and they instruct you to use an AED, do so without hesitation. They may guide you through the process while help is on the way.
• Witnessed Collapse: If you witness an infant suddenly collapse and lose consciousness, use an AED as soon as you have one. The sooner the AED is used, the better the chances of restarting the heart.

What is the recommendation for AED regarding infants and children?

When it comes to using an AED on infants and children, specific guidelines ensure safety and effectiveness. These recommendations are designed to address the unique physiological needs of younger patients.

• Use Pediatric Pads: For children under 8 years old or weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kg), pediatric pads should be used. These pads deliver a lower energy shock appropriate for smaller bodies.
• Switch to Pediatric Mode: If the AED has a pediatric mode, activate it. This setting adjusts the shock level to suit infants and young children, ensuring a safer defibrillation.
• Positioning Pads: For infants, place one pad on the center of the chest and the other on the back, between the shoulder blades. This front-and-back placement helps to ensure the shock travels through the heart.
• Use Adult Pads if Necessary: If pediatric pads are not available, adult pads can be used on children older than 1 year. They should be placed carefully so that they do not overlap or touch.
• Follow AED Prompts: Always follow the voice prompts and instructions provided by the AED. The device is designed to guide you through the process safely.

Read More: How to Use an AED: Step-By-Step Guide

What is the technique of using AED on infants?

Using an AED on an infant requires careful attention to technique to ensure the shock is delivered effectively and safely. Here’s how to properly use an AED on an infant:

• Ensure Safety: First, check that the environment is safe. Move the infant to a dry, flat surface away from any water or conductive materials.
• Turn on the AED: Open the AED and turn it on. The device will provide voice prompts to guide you through the process.
• Pediatric Pads: If available, use the pediatric electrode pads designed for infants. Place one pad in the center of the infant’s chest, just below the collarbone, and the other pad on the infant’s back, between the shoulder blades.
• Ensure Proper Pad Placement: If you’re using adult pads because pediatric ones aren’t available, place them carefully to avoid overlap. One pad should be on the chest and the other on the back.
• Follow Prompts: Allow the AED to analyze the infant’s heart rhythm. Follow the voice prompts closely, and do not touch the infant during the analysis.
• Deliver Shock: If the AED advises a shock, ensure no one is touching the infant, and press the shock button. The AED will then deliver a controlled shock to try to restore a normal heart rhythm.
• Resume CPR: After the shock is delivered, or if no shock is advised, immediately resume CPR, starting with chest compressions. Continue to follow the AED’s instructions until emergency medical services arrive.

What causes sudden cardiac arrests in infants?

Sudden cardiac arrest in infants is a rare but life-threatening event. It can be caused by several underlying conditions, related to the heart or respiratory system. Understanding these causes is crucial for prevention and prompt response.

• Congenital Heart Defects: Infants born with structural heart abnormalities may be at a higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest due to impaired heart function.
• Respiratory Distress: Severe respiratory issues, such as asthma or pneumonia, can lead to inadequate oxygen supply, triggering cardiac arrest.
• Infections: Serious infections, particularly those affecting the heart (like myocarditis) or causing sepsis, can result in sudden cardiac arrest.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: Imbalances in potassium, calcium, or sodium levels can disrupt the heart’s electrical system, potentially leading to an arrest.
• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Though not fully understood, SIDS is a leading cause of sudden cardiac arrest in infants, often occurring during sleep.
• Inherited Arrhythmias: Genetic conditions like Long QT Syndrome can cause abnormal heart rhythms, leading to cardiac arrest.

State the importance of infant CPR

Infant CPR is a critical skill that can make the difference between life and death in emergency situations. When an infant’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing, immediate action is essential to maintain oxygen flow to vital organs until professional help arrives. Here’s why infant CPR is so important:

• Maintains Oxygen Flow: CPR helps keep oxygen-rich blood circulating through the infant’s body, particularly to the brain and heart, preventing severe damage or death.
• Buys Time: Effective CPR can sustain life during the crucial minutes before emergency medical services arrive, significantly improving the infant’s chances of survival.
• Increases Survival Rates: When performed correctly and promptly, infant CPR dramatically increases the likelihood of a positive outcome after cardiac arrest.
• Empowers Caregivers: Knowing how to perform CPR gives parents, caregivers, and bystanders the confidence to act quickly and effectively in an emergency, potentially saving a life.
• Complements AED Use: In cases where an AED is needed, CPR helps to prepare the heart for defibrillation, increasing the effectiveness of the shock and the chances of restoring a normal heart rhythm.

Read More: How To Position Your Hands For CPR: Adult, Child & Infant?

Conclusion

Mastering infant AED usage is an  essential skill that can mean the difference between life and death. Even though the occurrence of SCA in children is comparatively low, knowing how to respond effectively in those situations matters the most. By understanding when to use an AED, you can improve the chances of a successful outcome. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or healthcare professional, a training course on infant AED will equip you to act confidently and swiftly, in a life-threatening emergency.