Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are designed to deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm during such events. A common question arises regarding the use of AEDs on individuals with an implanted pacemaker, as both devices interact with the heart’s electrical system.
Understanding Pacemakers and AEDs
A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered medical device surgically implanted to help regulate the heart’s rhythm. It delivers low-energy electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a regular rate, especially when the heart beats too slowly or irregularly. These devices are typically placed under the skin, often in the upper chest near the collarbone, and can appear as a small bulge. The pacemaker’s internal circuitry monitors the heart’s electrical activity and sends signals through thin wires, called leads, directly to the heart muscle.
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) analyzes the heart’s electrical rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to reset the heart to a normal rhythm. The concern about using an AED on someone with a pacemaker stems from the electrical nature of both devices; people often worry about potential interference or damage to the implanted device.
Applying an AED to Someone with a Pacemaker
It is generally safe and often necessary to use an AED on someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, even if they have a pacemaker. The primary goal in such an emergency is to save a life, and immediate defibrillation can significantly improve survival rates. Medical professionals and device manufacturers confirm that AEDs can be safely applied to individuals with pacemakers.
When an AED is available, it should be used without hesitation by following its verbal and visual prompts. The AED will analyze the heart’s rhythm and determine if a shock is required, regardless of the presence of an implanted pacemaker. Acting quickly is important, as the chance of survival decreases significantly for every minute defibrillation is delayed.
Key Safety Considerations
When using an AED on an individual with a pacemaker, specific precautions should be taken to ensure both effectiveness and safety. First, try to locate the pacemaker, which typically appears as a small bulge under the skin, usually in the upper chest or shoulder area.
It is important to avoid placing the AED pads directly over the pacemaker site. Placing pads directly on the device could potentially interfere with its function or reduce the effectiveness of the AED’s electrical shock. Instead, position the AED pads at least one inch (approximately 3 centimeters) away from the pacemaker.
Standard AED pad placement often involves one pad on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side. If the pacemaker is located in a position that obstructs this standard placement, alternative pad positions, such as anterior-posterior (one pad on the front, one on the back), can be used. Regardless of the pacemaker’s presence, the AED will still function as intended, delivering a shock if a shockable rhythm is detected. Always remember to call emergency services immediately when responding to a cardiac arrest.