What is a likely cause if a defibrillator is leaving marks on patients?

A defibrillator leaving marks on patients is most often attributed to the condition of the paddles being used. If the paddles have pitting or rough surfaces, they can create abrasions on the skin when applied with pressure during defibrillation. Pitted paddles do not distribute the energy as evenly as well-maintained ones, which can lead to localized heating and tissue irritation, resulting in visible marks such as burns or abrasions.

In this context, using too much conductive gel can create a mess or reduce contact but is less likely to cause direct skin damage compared to the condition of the paddles themselves, while improper settings likely lead to ineffective shocks rather than skin marks. Synchronization mode is designed for specific use in cardiac rhythms and does not directly relate to skin damage. Overall, the integrity and condition of the paddles are crucial in ensuring patient safety and preventing undesirable skin marks.