What should you do before applying AED pads to a patient with a transdermal medication patch?

When using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on a patient with a transdermal medication patch, it is crucial to remove the patch to prevent any potential interference with the defibrillation process and to minimize the risk of burns to the patient’s skin.

Transdermal patches, such as those used for medications like nitroglycerin or fentanyl, can conduct electricity or burn with the high-energy shock delivered by the AED. By carefully removing the patch with a gloved hand, you ensure the pad placement on clean, bare skin, which optimizes the AED's effectiveness in delivering a shock. After removing the patch, it's a good practice to wipe the skin with a damp cloth to ensure that no residue is left that could also interfere with the efficacy of the AED pads.

This procedure emphasizes patient safety during resuscitation efforts and ensures that the defibrillation can occur effectively without any obstacles.