Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

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During defibrillation, where should the second pad be placed on the victim's chest?

On the right side near the collarbone
To the side of the left nipple
In the center of the chest
Near the hip bone

The correct answer is: To the side of the left nipple

The correct placement of the second pad during defibrillation is essential for effective delivery of electrical shocks and improving the chances of restoring a normal heart rhythm. Placing the second pad to the side of the left nipple is part of the standard positioning for defibrillation pads, often referred to as the anterior-lateral position. In this configuration, one pad is typically placed on the right upper chest, just below the collarbone, while the second pad is positioned to the side of the left nipple. This placement allows for optimal electrical current flow through the heart, thereby increasing the likelihood of depolarizing the heart muscle and potentially converting ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia into a normal rhythm. Proper pad placement also minimizes the risk of injury to the patient and ensures the defibrillator can properly analyze the heart rhythm before delivering a shock. Therefore, positioning the second pad to the side of the left nipple is critical in delivering effective defibrillation care.