If Mr. Goodman had a pacemaker, where should the AED pads be placed?

When using an AED on a patient with a pacemaker, it is crucial to avoid placing the pads directly over the device itself, such as the pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). The reason for this is that the pacemaker and ICD are sensitive devices designed to monitor and manage the heart's rhythm. If AED pads are placed over them, it could interfere with their function and potentially cause harm or ineffective shocking.

Instead, the pads should be placed in the standard positions recommended for AED use, typically one pad on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side of the rib cage, making sure there is a safe distance away from the area where the pacemaker is situated. This placement ensures that the electrical shock can effectively reach the heart while minimizing any risk to the implanted device.

This understanding highlights the importance of being aware of any cardiac devices a patient may have when applying emergency procedures, especially in situations requiring defibrillation.