Introduction to Cardioversion
Learn about physiology, indications, equipment, and voltage selection, and clinical considerations when performing cardioversion.

Learning Objectives
Describe the physiologic principles of synchronized cardioversion, including its effect on cardiac conduction and its distinction from defibrillation.
Identify appropriate indications, contraindications, and patient assessment findings that influence the decision to perform synchronized cardioversion.
Select and prepare appropriate cardioversion equipment, including pad size, pad placement, synchronization settings, and energy selection based on patient characteristics and clinical requirements.
Apply a systematic approach to performing synchronized cardioversion by assessing patient stability, verifying synchronization with the R wave, delivering the shock safely, and reassessing the patient’s response.
Evaluate cardioversion outcomes, recognize potential complications, and document procedural details and patient responses to support ongoing clinical management.
Author(s)
Mjaye Mazwi, MD
Attending Physician, Cardiology | Anne and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Assistant Professor of Pediatric Cardiology | Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Citation
Mazwi M, Olszewski AE, Wolbrink TA. Introduction to Cardioversion. 8/2014. Online Video. OPENPediatrics. https://learn.openpediatrics.org/learn/course/internal/view/elearning/2994/introduction-to-cardioversion.
