The presence of an implanted defibrillator is a contraindication to using an AED.

The presence of an implanted defibrillator is a contraindication to using an AED.

• A. True — you should not use an AED if an implanted defibrillator is present.
• B. False — you can use an AED but avoid placing pads over the implanted defibrillator.
• C. False — you must remove the implanted defibrillator before applying the AED.
• D. True — you cannot use an AED if an implanted defibrillator is present.

Answer: (B)

An implanted defibrillator is not a barrier to using an AED. The device can still deliver a shock if indicated, but you should avoid placing the AED pads directly over the implanted device to minimize the risk of affecting the device or causing interference. If possible, position one pad to the left of the chest and the other pad on the opposite side or lower down so the pads don’t sit directly on the device. Do not remove the implanted device from the patient. This is why the best choice is that you can use an AED but avoid placing pads over the implanted defibrillator. The other statements imply you must avoid AED use or remove the device, which is not correct in an emergency.

An implanted defibrillator is not a barrier to using an AED. The device can still deliver a shock if indicated, but you should avoid placing the AED pads directly over the implanted device to minimize the risk of affecting the device or causing interference. If possible, position one pad to the left of the chest and the other pad on the opposite side or lower down so the pads don’t sit directly on the device. Do not remove the implanted device from the patient.

This is why the best choice is that you can use an AED but avoid placing pads over the implanted defibrillator. The other statements imply you must avoid AED use or remove the device, which is not correct in an emergency.