defibrillator on a child

Can You Use a Defibrillator on a Child?

Learn how to defibrillate a child safely. Discover when and how to use an AED on children, including key differences and UK guidelines.

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Sudden cardiac arrest in children is rare, but when it happens, immediate action saves lives. Schools across the UK are increasingly equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs), but many still have questions around using them on children. Can a defibrillator be used on a pupil? Do you need child specific pads? Is your device ready to help outside school hours?

In this blog, we cover everything schools need to know about defibrillating children, including age guidance, AED types, how to perform CPR and defibrillation, and the importance of making your defibrillator publicly accessible.

Can You Use a Defibrillator on a Child?

Yes. A defibrillator can and should be used on a child who is unresponsive and not breathing normally. While cardiac arrest is more common in adults, it can happen at any age. Children may experience it due to undiagnosed heart conditions, trauma, or breathing problems.

Using an AED alongside CPR can dramatically increase a child’s chances of survival.

What Age Can You Defibrillate?

Current UK guidance recommends:

  • Under 1 year: Use a defibrillator only under professional advice or in extreme emergencies

  • Ages 1 to 8: Use an AED with paediatric pads or activate paediatric mode

  • Over 8 years: Use the defibrillator as you would for an adult

If you do not have child specific pads or paediatric mode, it is still better to use adult pads than to wait. A shock is always better than no shock.

What Makes a Defibrillator Child Ready?

Some AEDs require separate paediatric pads to deliver a reduced energy shock. These pads are placed with one on the chest and one on the back, which differs from adult placement.

Other defibrillators are equipped with a child mode switch, which adjusts the energy level automatically. This means you can use the same set of pads for both adults and children, making them ideal for schools.

Some devices even come with universal pads, suitable for both age groups with no manual change required.

AED Models with Paediatric Capability

At Defib Supplies, we stock a wide range of AEDs that are suitable for use on children. The following models include either universal pads or a paediatric mode switch:

If your current device does not support paediatric use, it may be time to upgrade. You can browse our child compatible AEDs or get in touch for advice on choosing the right one for your school.

How to Perform CPR and Defibrillate a Child

In an emergency, knowing how to act quickly and confidently can make all the difference. If a child is unresponsive and not breathing normally, you must begin CPR immediately and use a defibrillator as soon as one is available.

Here is a step-by-step guide for children aged 1 to 8 years:

1. Check for a response

  • Gently tap the child and call their name

  • If there is no response and they are not breathing normally, call 999

  • Ask someone to bring the nearest defibrillator

  • If you are alone, put your phone on speaker and start CPR

2. Begin CPR

  • Place one hand on the centre of the child’s chest

  • Push down firmly to a depth of around 5 centimetres

  • Complete 30 compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute

  • Give 2 rescue breaths if you are trained. If not, continue compressions

3. Turn on the AED

  • Follow the voice prompts

  • Expose the chest and ensure it is dry

4. Attach the pads

  • Use paediatric pads if available

  • If using adult or universal pads, place them as directed by the AED

  • Activate child mode if the unit has a switch

5. Deliver the shock

  • Ensure no one is touching the child

  • Press the shock button if instructed

  • Continue CPR immediately after the shock

Repeat the cycle of compressions and breaths until emergency services arrive or the child starts breathing normally.

Why Schools Should Consider an Outdoor Cabinet

Many schools keep their defibrillators indoors, often locked away after hours. This means they are only accessible during the school day, leaving pupils, staff, and the surrounding community without access when it may be needed most.

Installing an outdoor cabinet allows your defibrillator to be available 24 hours a day. These cabinets are weather resistant, secure, and highly visible. Emergency services can also be directed to them via the national defibrillator network.

Making your AED publicly accessible turns your school into a valuable community asset.

Community First, Always

The more accessible your defibrillator is, the greater the chance it will save a life. Whether you are responding to a pupil during the school day or someone in need outside your gates at night, a cabinet and a child ready AED ensure you are prepared for every emergency.

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