Electrical cardioversion

Types

Defibrillation

A shock is administered at a random point in the cardiac cycle. Emergency management of cardiac arrest which has occured due to a 'shockable rhythm'.

Synchronised electrical cardioversion

A shock is administered at a specific point in the cardiac cycle.

 

Indications

Synchronised electrical cardioversion

• Termination of certain cardiac arrhythmias

Defibrillation

• Ventricular fibrillation
• Pulseless ventricular tachycardia

 

Contraindications

• Asystole (ECG flatline) 
• Pulseless electrical activity