What confirms that the AED pads are placed correctly?

The correct response is that the AED verifies placement. An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is designed with built-in technology that can detect whether the pads are correctly positioned on the patient's chest. When the pads are applied, the AED analyzes the heart's rhythm and confirms proper pad placement by checking for adequate contact with the skin. This confirmation is crucial because correct positioning of the pads directly impacts the efficacy of the shock delivered to the heart.

While it may be beneficial for the pads to stick to the skin, and firm attachment of both pads is ideal, these factors alone do not ensure proper placement for the AED's function. Simply feeling confident about the placement does not provide a reliable method of verification; it is the AED's assessment that ultimately determines if the pads are appropriately positioned for delivering a shock if needed.