Self-adhesive monitor/defibrillation pads improve prehospital defibrillation success

Part 6: Defibrillation

“…Evidence from one small, good-quality controlled study (LOE 3) 7 in 1987 showed that self-adhesive pads were associated with a significantly improved rate of ROSC and hospital admission compared with hand-held paddles. Several studies have shown the practical benefits of pads over paddles for routine monitoring and defibrillation.…”

Part 6: Electrical Therapies

“…98 86,99 Small electrodes (4.3 cm) may be harmful and may cause myocardial necrosis. 88 When using handheld paddles and gel or pads, rescuers must ensure that the paddle is in full contact with the skin.…”

Part 5: Electrical Therapies

“…Smearing of the paste or gel may allow current to follow a superficial pathway (arc) along the chest wall, "missing" the heart. Self-adhesive monitor/defibrillator electrode pads are as effective as gel pads or paste (LOE 3 [95][96][97] ), and they can be placed before cardiac arrest to allow for monitoring and then rapid administration of a shock when necessary. 98 Consequently, self-adhesive pads should be used routinely instead of standard paddles (Class IIa; LOE 2, 4).…”

“…90,95 Small electrodes (4.3 cm) may be harmful and may cause myocardial necrosis. 101 When using handheld paddles and gel or pads, rescuers must ensure that the paddle is in full contact with the skin.…”