When the AED arrives, where should it be placed?

The most appropriate placement for the AED is on the patient's chest. This positioning allows for efficient and immediate access to the electrodes that need to be placed on the chest in a timely manner. The electrodes must be positioned correctly on the patient's bare chest to administer the shock effectively if needed, ensuring the electrical impulses can reach the heart without obstruction. Placing the AED elsewhere, such as at the head, next to the ear, or on the floor, would hinder the immediate use of the device and delay critical life-saving interventions. This is crucial in cases of sudden cardiac arrest, where every second counts for a successful resuscitation effort.