Can You Use an AED on an Infant?

Posted on by
AED Infant

When faced with a medical emergency involving an infant, every second counts. Have you ever wondered “Can I use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on a baby?”. It’s also a common question we get asked at our weekly first aid courses in Port Macquarie. The answer is yes—but with some important considerations. Understanding how to use an AED correctly on an infant can mean the difference between life and death.

When to Use an AED on an Infant

According to the Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR), an AED can be used on infants if they are unresponsive and not breathing normally. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in infants is rare, but when it occurs, immediate action is crucial.

How to Use an AED on an Infant

AED Infant Pad - Front
The placement of an standard AED pad on the front on an infant (training model displayed)
AED Infant Pad - Back
The placement of a standard AED pad on the back on an infant (training model displayed)
  1. Check for responsiveness – If the infant is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call for emergency help (000 in Australia, 111 in New Zealand) and begin CPR.
  2. Turn on the AED – Follow the voice prompts and visual instructions.
  3. Use paediatric pads if available – If the AED has paediatric pads or a paediatric mode, use them. These are designed to deliver a reduced shock suitable for infants and young children.
  4. Correct pad placement – Place one pad in the centre of the infant’s chest and the other pad on their back, between the shoulder blades.
  5. If paediatric pads are unavailable – ANZCOR states that standard adult pads can be used, ensuring they do not overlap. One pad should be placed on the centre of the chest and the other on the back.
  6. Follow AED prompts – The device will assess the infant’s heart rhythm and advise whether a shock is needed. If prompted, ensure no one is touching the infant before delivering the shock.
  7. Continue CPR if necessary – If the AED does not advise a shock, or after a shock is delivered, resume CPR immediately until emergency responders arrive.

For the full ANZCOR Guideline 7 on Automated External Defibrillation, you can read it here.

Why First Aid Training Matters

While understanding the basics of using an AED on an infant is valuable, nothing replaces hands-on first aid training. A structured first aid course ensures you not only have the knowledge, but the important practical skills to act in an emergency. At Coastal First Aid, we offer expert-led first aid courses covering CPR, AED use, and more. Check out our upcoming first aid course dates in Port Macquarie and enrol in a course today.

Comments are closed.

How to Stop Bleeding – First Aid Guidelines
The Evolution of CPR Training: From Traditional Methods to The Latest Techniques in Port Macquarie

Disclaimer

The information in this post is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as such. This post does not replace professional first aid training, medical treatment, or emergency services. If you require medical assistance, always seek advice from a registered healthcare professional. For an emergency in Australia, call 000 immediately.

Coastal First Aid makes reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided. However, first aid guidelines may change over time, and we do not guarantee that the information is current, complete, or free from errors. Users should refer to official first aid organisations, such as the Australian Resuscitation Council for the latest best practices.

This post may contain links to external websites. Coastal First Aid does not endorse or take responsibility for the content, accuracy, or availability of any linked sites.

To the fullest extent permitted by Australian law, Coastal First Aid disclaims all liability, including for negligence, for any loss, injury, or damages (including indirect or consequential damages) arising from or related to the use of this information. This disclaimer does not limit any rights or guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law that cannot be excluded.

Unless otherwise stated, all original content on this blog is the intellectual property of Coastal First Aid and may not be copied, distributed, or reproduced without prior written permission.

This disclaimer is governed by the laws of Australia, and any disputes arising in connection with it shall be subject to the jurisdiction of Australian courts.