Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Defibrillation with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for smaller children with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) should be performed using a pediatric mode. This study aims to investigate the easiest and fastest way to activate the pediatric mode on AEDs for pediatric OHCA. METHODS: This randomized, controlled simulation study recruited 90 adult laypersons. Laypersons were randomized to use one of three AEDs with different methods to activate the pediatric mode: a Lifepak CR-T Trainer requiring switch of electrodes, a Phillips Heartstart FR3 Trainer with a "pediatric key", or a CU Medical IPAD SP1 Trainer with a pediatric button. Laypersons were asked to use an AED on a pediatric manikin and informed that activation of a pediatric mode was recommended. RESULTS: Activation of the pediatric mode was achieved by 0/30 (0%) participants when switching electrodes (Lifepak CRT), 2/30 (7%) participants when using a key (Phillips FR3) and 18/30 (64%) participants when pushing a button (CU Medical SP1) (p < 0.001). The median (interquartile range) time to first shock among those who activated the pediatric mode were 102 (95-107) in the CU Medical SP1 group and 78 (78-78) in the Phillips FR3 group (p = 0.21). Most participants used the anterior-lateral position for electrodes. CONCLUSION: Laypersons' ability to activate the pediatric mode on AEDs and correctly attach the electrodes was generally poor. More participants were able to activate the pediatric mode by pushing a button when compared to using a key or switching electrodes. Use of the Phillips FR3 AED was associated with faster shock delivery.