Before applying AED pads, what should be done with the patient's clothing?

The correct answer is to remove clothing to expose the skin. In the case of a cardiac emergency where an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is required, it is essential to ensure that the pads can make direct contact with the skin for effective defibrillation. The pads need to adhere to the chest without any barriers that could interrupt the electrical current intended to restore a normal heart rhythm.

Removing clothing helps prevent any interference that could hinder the performance of the AED. Additionally, if clothing is wet or made of certain materials, it might not conduct electricity properly, which could affect the efficacy of the shocks delivered by the AED.

The other options do not provide the necessary preparation for AED application. Leaving clothing on might provide warmth but would impede the life-saving process. Cutting clothing off can be a valid approach, especially in emergency situations where time is critical; however, the primary action should be to remove clothing to cleanly expose the skin. Ensuring clothing is soaked is not appropriate, as moisture would likely reduce the effectiveness of pad adhesion and increase the risk of burn or injury during defibrillation.