What is the effect of using pediatric AED pads on an adult?

Using pediatric AED pads on an adult can result in a shock that is not sufficient to effectively correct an abnormal heart rhythm. Pediatric pads are designed to deliver a lower energy dose that is appropriate for the smaller bodies of children. When these pads are used on adults, the energy delivered may be too low to be effective in defibrillating an adult heart, which typically requires a higher energy dose to restore a normal cardiac rhythm. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that the appropriate pads for the patient’s age and size are used to maximize the chances of a successful shock and improve outcomes in a cardiac emergency.