A physical therapist administers cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to a patient who collapsed in the waiting area. The therapist is unable to establish a pulse after three cycles of CPR and therefore prepares to utilize an automated external defibrillation unit (AED). Which action would be the LEAST appropriate when using the device?

• A. Wipe the patient's chest dry
• B. Ask another therapist to stabilize the patient's head when administering the electric shock
• C. Analyze the patient's heart rhythm
• D. Apply the pads to the patient's bare chest

Answer: (B)

Using an AED correctly requires delivering a shock only when the device analyzes a rhythm that needs it and ensuring no one is in contact with the patient during the analysis and shock. Wiping the chest dry helps the pads adhere and transmit energy efficiently, and placing the pads on the bare chest is essential for proper contact and accurate rhythm analysis by the device. The device will analyze the heart rhythm automatically, guiding whether a shock is indicated. Having another clinician stabilize the patient’s head during the electric shock would involve touching the patient at a moment when no one should be in contact, which risks current flow through the person and delays or disrupts safe shock delivery. Therefore, stabilizing the head during shock is not appropriate; stand clear and let the AED complete its analysis and discharge the energy.