When using an AED, what should be done with transdermal medical patches?

When using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), it is crucial to remove transdermal medical patches immediately before placing the pads. This is because patches can contain medications that may affect the patient's heart or lead to skin irritation or burns if the pads are placed over them during defibrillation.

Transdermal patches, whether used for pain management, nicotine replacement, or other purposes, deliver medication through the skin. If the AED pads are placed on top of these patches, it can interfere with the electrical conductivity necessary for delivering a shock and also pose a risk of burning the skin due to the electrical current passing through the patch material.

Therefore, removing the medical patch helps ensure that the pads maintain effective contact with the skin, allowing for optimal shock delivery if needed while minimizing the risk of additional complications for the patient.