What is the recommended approach for using an AED on infants?

The recommended approach for using an AED on infants emphasizes the importance of adapting the method of defibrillation to be safe and effective for the smaller, developing bodies of infants. Utilizing a pediatric dose attenuator is ideal because it reduces the energy delivered by the AED to a more suitable level for infants, minimizing the risk of injury.

In scenarios where a pediatric AED is not available, using the adult AED (without modifications) can still be crucial, as immediate defibrillation is better than delaying treatment, even if the energy levels are higher than recommended for infants.

If a manual defibrillator is available, it is often preferred, as it allows for more precise control over the shock delivered, tailored to the patient’s needs and characteristics. This further enhances the safety and efficacy of the procedure when dealing with infants.

Therefore, incorporating the use of a pediatric dose attenuator, the adult AED when necessary, and the use of a manual defibrillator when available represents a comprehensive approach to defibrillation in infants, highlighting the flexibility and adaptability required in emergency scenarios.