Safety requirements using the defibrillator – Patient / chest preparation.

Question 1

• What should occur if the patient presents with moist or sweaty skin?

Answer 1

o The locations should be dried with a towel only.

Question 2

• Should Betadine or Alcohol wipes be used on the chest?

Answer 2

o No, as they can cause burns and interfere with pad adhesion.

Question 3

• When should chest hair be modified and what methods should be used?

Answer 3

o Chest hair should be clipped only when coarse, dense and wiry. The hair should be clipped and not shaved, as shaving can cause electrical arcing.