You get called to an elementary school for a child reportedly in cardiac arrest.

• A. You may use adult pads if infant pads are necessary
• B. Start CPR using pediatric pads only
• C. Delay defibrillation until EMS arrives
• D. Remove the child from the scene to a hospital

Answer: (A)

Prompt defibrillation is essential in a child experiencing cardiac arrest when the rhythm is shockable. Pediatric pads are preferred because they’re sized for a child, but if they aren’t available, you may use adult AED pads to deliver the shock without delaying treatment. The key is to get the shock to the heart as quickly as possible, so using whatever pads are at hand is better than waiting.

Place the pads so they don’t touch each other—often one pad on the chest and the other on the back if space allows—to ensure the energy reaches the heart safely. Continue CPR and assess rhythm after the shock. Remaining on scene to treat and then transporting once stabilized is the appropriate approach; moving the child away to a hospital before resuscitation is not indicated while you’re actively managing arrest.