For which age group is anterior/posterior pad placement always recommended?

Anterior/posterior pad placement is specifically recommended for infants due to their smaller body size and the anatomical positioning of their heart. In infants, this pad placement ensures that the electrical shock from an automated external defibrillator (AED) is delivered more directly to the heart. Infants have a higher risk of harm from improper pad placement, so utilizing an anterior/posterior configuration helps to maximize effectiveness while minimizing potential injury.

For other age groups, such as children and adults, the traditional anterolateral pad placement is common and effective. The heart's positioning and the size of body structures vary significantly with age, which influences the best approach to defibrillation, making the anterior/posterior placement specifically advantageous for the unique physiology of infants.

Using this technique for infants aims to provide the greatest chance of successful defibrillation while safeguarding this vulnerable population.