Should you remove clothing to use an AED?

Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) effectively requires proper pad placement on the skin to ensure optimal conductivity and effectiveness during a cardiac event. When the pads are applied directly to bare skin, it improves the chances of delivering a successful shock if needed, as clothing can create a barrier that interferes with the electrical signal.

Removing clothing is essential when it obstructs the areas where the pads must be placed. This ensures that there is direct contact between the pads and the skin, allowing the AED to function as intended. Clearing any clothing enables first responders to follow the manufacturer's guidelines, which often specify that the pads should be applied to clean, dry skin for maximum effectiveness.

In instances where clothing does not obstruct pad placement, the decision to remove it may not be necessary, but doing so ensures the best practice. It is important to always prioritize the efficiency and effectiveness of the lifesaving measures you take in an emergency situation, which is why ensuring the pads are placed on bare skin is considered standard procedure.