BLS Renewal Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive Test Prep

For the anteroposterior placement of AED pads in adults and children aged 8 years and older, the correct position is to place one pad on the left side of the chest (just below the left nipple) and the other pad on the back, between the shoulder blades. This placement ensures that the electrical shock delivered by the AED can effectively travel through the heart, maximizing the chances of restoring a normal rhythm in the event of a cardiac arrest.

The use of the back pad allows for improved conductivity and a direct path across the heart from the front to the back, which helps in providing a more effective shock as needed. Proper pad placement is essential for the efficacy of the AED in an emergency situation, and following these recommended guidelines can significantly improve outcomes for the patient.