top of page

Introduction to Cardioversion

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

Released:

November 23, 2020

Audience:

Physicians, Nurses, Emergency Medical Technicians, Paramedics

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.

bottom of page