cardioversion
Restoration of normal heart rhythm using electrical shock or medications.
Full Definition
A therapeutic intervention used to terminate arrhythmias and restore normal sinus rhythm through either electrical energy (electrical cardioversion) or antiarrhythmic medications (pharmacological cardioversion). In emergency settings, electrical cardioversion is preferred for hemodynamically unstable patients with atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, or ventricular tachycardia with a pulse. The procedure requires appropriate sedation, proper pad placement, and careful timing with the cardiac cycle to avoid inducing ventricular fibrillation. Documentation must include energy levels used, number of attempts, and rhythm outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from defibrillation, which is unsynchronized and used for pulseless rhythms.
In Context
- "Synchronized cardioversion at 150 joules successfully converted atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm." — Procedure documentation
- "The patient underwent elective cardioversion after adequate anticoagulation." — Cardiology consultation