Editing Defibrillation (section)

=== Paddle electrodes ===
{{ double image|total_with=400px
| image1   =
| caption1 = An automated external defibrillator: this model is a semi-automatic due to the presence of a shock button
| image2   =
| caption2 = The same AED with electrodes attached
}}

The most well-known type of electrode (widely depicted in films and television) is the traditional metal "hard" paddle with an insulated (usually plastic) handle. This type must be held in place on the patient's skin with approximately 25&nbsp;lbs (11.3&nbsp;kg) of force while a shock or a series of shocks is delivered. Paddles offer a few advantages over self-adhesive pads.  Many hospitals in the United States continue the use of paddles, with disposable gel pads attached in most cases, due to the inherent speed with which these electrodes can be placed and used. This is critical during cardiac arrest, as each second of [[perfusion|nonperfusion]] means tissue loss.  Modern paddles allow for monitoring ([[electrocardiography]]), though in hospital situations, separate monitoring leads are often already in place.

Paddles are reusable, being cleaned after use and stored for the next patient.  Gel is therefore not preapplied, and must be added before these paddles are used on the patient.  Paddles are generally only found on manual external units.