Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the minimum age for performing AED defibrillation?

1. Anaphylaxis suspected

2. Arrest not witnessed by EMS

3. Shock indicated

4. Equal to or over 30 days

The correct answer is: Equal to or over 30 days

The correct answer indicates that the minimum age for performing AED defibrillation is equal to or over 30 days. This is significant because it aligns with guidelines that allow for the use of AEDs on infants and children beyond a certain age. Emergency services recognize that pediatric patients, particularly those over 30 days, may require defibrillation in cases of cardiac arrest, thus ensuring that trained personnel can intervene effectively in life-threatening situations. When considering AED usage, it is essential that all responders are familiar with age-related protocols, as the efficacy and safety of defibrillation can vary. The guideline for a minimum age threshold ensures that these life-saving measures can be applied appropriately and safely to someone who is deemed in an appropriate category for AED intervention. In contrast, the other options do not pertain to the minimum age determinant for AED use, as they relate more to specific clinical scenarios or indications for defibrillation, which are important considerations but do not establish age limits. Therefore, the focus on a minimum age of 30 days emphasizes the importance of addressing age-related protocols in emergency care with the use of AEDs.