Is the use of an AED at depth authorized?

• A. Always
• B. Never
• C. False; Defibrillation is not currently authorized at depth
• D. Only with specialized underwater AED

Answer: (C)

Defibrillation with an AED at depth is not authorized. The main reason is safety and effectiveness: the AED relies on proper pad contact and a dry, stable chest to deliver a shock reliably. Water, depth, and movement make reliable pad placement and shock delivery impossible, and attempting it could put the rescuer and others at risk. Current practice is to perform CPR and bring the diver to the surface for medical care and AED use on a dry, stable ground or vessel. Specialized underwater AEDs are not part of authorized protocols at depth, so defibrillation there is not permitted.