Using an AED on an Infant: UK Resuscitation Council 2025 Guidance

Although infants very rarely experience a shockable heart rhythm, the use of an AED can still be lifesaving when cardiac arrest occurs. High-quality CPR remains the foundation of care. However, if an AED is available, it should be used without delay.

Current guidance confirms that AEDs are safe to use on infants and should not be withheld when they are needed.

Key Steps for Using an AED on an Infant

1. Call for help immediately.
   As soon as you know the infant is not breathing, call 999. Ask a bystander to fetch an AED if one is available.
2. Start CPR straight away.
   Begin CPR immediately. Do not delay compressions and rescue breaths while waiting for an AED.
3. Continue CPR while preparing the AED.
   When the AED arrives, switch it on while CPR continues. Minimise any pauses while the pads are prepared and applied.
4. Apply the AED pads.
   
   • If paediatric pads are available, use them.
   • If paediatric pads are not available, use adult pads.
   Do not delay defibrillation to wait for paediatric pads.
5. Correct pad placement.
   
   • Place one pad on the front of the chest, slightly to the left side.
   • Place the second pad on the back, between the shoulder blades.
   This front-and-back positioning ensures the heart sits between the pads.
6. Follow the AED prompts.
   Allow the AED to analyse the heart rhythm. Make sure no one is touching the infant during analysis or shock delivery.
7. Resume CPR immediately.
   If a shock is delivered, restart CPR straight away and continue for two minutes before the AED re-analyses. Continue until emergency services arrive or the infant shows signs of life.

Why Speed Matters

When an infant suffers cardiac arrest, every second counts. Early CPR, rapid AED use, and following the device prompts give the infant the best possible chance of survival.

Important 2025 Guideline Updates

• AED use in infants is now explicitly included in the 2025 UK Resuscitation Council guidelines.
• Pad positioning has changed slightly. Some AED pad diagrams may still show a central chest position. For infants, the front pad should be placed slightly to the left side of the chest.
• Some AEDs may not mention infant use, but they are safe to use on infants when cardiac arrest is suspected.

Key Message

Start CPR quickly. Use the AED without hesitation. Follow the prompts.

Prompt, confident action can make a lifesaving difference for an infant in cardiac arrest.