When using an AED, why should you avoid placing pads near a pacemaker?

When using an AED, avoiding placing the pads near a pacemaker is crucial to ensure optimal pad function and safety. Pacemakers are small devices implanted under the skin to help manage heart rhythms. If the AED pads are placed too close to a pacemaker, the electrical shock delivered by the AED could potentially interfere with the functioning of the pacemaker. This interference might prevent the pacemaker from working correctly or could even cause additional complications for the patient. By placing the pads away from the pacemaker, you ensure that the shock is delivered effectively to the heart while maintaining the integrity of the pacemaker's operation.

While there are guidelines from manufacturers regarding the placement of AED pads, the primary focus in this scenario is on patient safety and proper function of both the AED and the pacemaker.