Why is it important to ensure the skin is dry before applying AED pads?

Ensuring that the skin is dry before applying AED pads is essential because dry skin allows for better conduction of the shock delivered by the AED. When the skin is wet, it can interfere with the electrical conductivity, potentially diminishing the effectiveness of the shock administered to the heart. Effective conduction is critical for the shock to reliably restart the heart's normal rhythm. Thus, preparing the skin by ensuring it is dry enhances the chances of successful defibrillation and increases the likelihood of a positive outcome in a cardiac emergency.

Other aspects, such as the possibility of a shock hazard from a wet surface, positioning of the pads, or stickiness related to moisture, do not address the core issue of ensuring optimal electrical conduction for effective treatment, which is why maintaining dry skin is pivotal.