If an AED does not have a pediatric setting and only adult pads are available, what should you do?

Using adult AED pads on a child is appropriate when only those pads are available and there is no pediatric setting on the AED. Adult pads can be placed directly on the child's chest, typically one pad on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side of the chest or back, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. In this situation, it is crucial to provide care as soon as possible when a child is in need of defibrillation, and adult pads can still effectively deliver the necessary shock.

Methodologies for defibrillation have demonstrated that adult pads can be used safely and effectively on children, particularly in emergencies where time is critical. Waiting for specific pediatric pads may lead to delays in treatment that could be detrimental to the child’s outcome. Thus, using the adult pads, despite their size, is the correct course of action when pediatric pads are not an option.