If a rescuer does not have a pediatric dose attenuator for a child, what can be used instead?

When a rescuer does not have access to a pediatric dose attenuator, using an AED without a dose attenuator is a viable alternative for providing care in pediatric emergencies. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) designed for adult use can still deliver lifesaving shocks to children, although they are not optimized for pediatric patients. Many modern AEDs are capable of adjusting the energy level of the shock based on the patient's age and size, even without a dose attenuator.

Using an AED in this scenario is appropriate because it allows for the delivery of a defibrillation shock in a time-sensitive situation, which is critical for survival in cases of cardiac arrest. Therefore, while not ideal, the AED can still function effectively, and using it promotes the continuation of care while addressing the child's needs as best as possible in the absence of specialized equipment like a pediatric dose attenuator.