When is it safe to use adult AED pads on an infant?

Using adult AED pads on an infant is safe only when pediatric pads are unavailable. This is because pediatric pads are designed specifically for the smaller body size and lower voltage requirements of infants and young children to minimize the risk of injury. In cases where pediatric pads cannot be obtained, it is permissible to use adult pads, ensuring that they are placed in a way that avoids overlapping, which reduces the risk of current traveling through the infant's heart incorrectly.

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of having the appropriate equipment to ensure the safety and effectiveness of defibrillation on infants. In situations where the proper pediatric pads are at hand, they should always be prioritized over adult pads to optimize care for the child.