defibrillation
Pronunciation: dee-FIB-rill-AY-shun
The delivery of electrical current to terminate life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.
Full Definition
Defibrillation is a critical emergency intervention involving the delivery of a controlled electrical shock to the heart to terminate chaotic electrical activity and restore normal rhythm. This procedure is essential in treating ventricular fibrillation (VF) and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT), both shockable rhythms in cardiac arrest protocols. Modern defibrillators use biphasic waveforms that are more effective and require lower energy levels than older monophasic devices. Successful defibrillation depends on rapid recognition of shockable rhythms, proper electrode placement, and minimal interruptions in chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from synchronized cardioversion, which is used for organized rhythms with pulses.
In Context
- "Immediate defibrillation was performed for witnessed ventricular fibrillation." — Resuscitation record
- "The patient achieved return of spontaneous circulation after the third defibrillation attempt." — Code team documentation