Should a patient's clothing be removed before using an AED?

Using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) properly is crucial for its effectiveness in treating a patient experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. One of the essential steps in preparing to use an AED is ensuring that the defibrillator pads are placed directly on bare skin. This is vital for several reasons.

First, removing clothing ensures good skin contact, which is necessary for the electric current generated by the AED to effectively reach the heart. Clothing can insulate the pads and impede the current, potentially reducing the efficacy of the shock delivered. Secondly, it minimizes the risk of burns. Fabric can create a barrier that might cause the shock to be less effective or even cause burns on the patient's skin.

Furthermore, the need for bare skin is consistent with the manufacturer's instructions for nearly all AEDs. Some AEDs also have special considerations for situations where removal of clothing is difficult due to the patient being in wet conditions or due to the type of clothing worn, but these situations still tend to emphasize the necessity of proper contact with the skin.

Removing clothing provides the best opportunity for a successful shock, which can save a life in emergencies where every second counts. Therefore, ensuring that pads are applied to bare skin is a fundamental part of the AED protocol.