Electric Cardioversion

What is an Electric Cardioversion?

Electric Cardioversion is a procedure used to restore a normal heart rhythm in patients with certain abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). During the procedure, two adhesive pads are placed on your chest and connected to a defibrillator. The defibrillator allows the medical team to monitor your heart rhythm and deliver a controlled electrical shock to restore a normal rhythm.

The procedure is performed under short general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep and will not feel the shock. A doctor, nurse, and anaesthetist will be present to monitor your breathing, blood pressure, and heart rhythm. The procedure typically takes approximately 30 minutes.

What to expect before your procedure

Please note this booklet provides general information about your procedure. The hospital booking team will contact you prior to your procedure with personalised instructions specific to your medical history.

Before

You will be required to take an anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication for at least four weeks prior to your cardioversion.

You may be asked to stop taking certain medications.

You are required to fast for 6 hours prior to your procedure.

You may drink clear water up until 2 hours before your procedure.

If you are diabetic, please contact us for specific instructions.

On the day of your procedure

Make transport arrangements to and from the hospital as you won’t be able to drive after the procedure.

Arrive at the Hospital at least two hours prior to your procedure.

During the procedure

Adhesive pads will be placed on your chest and connected to a defibrillator.

A doctor, nurse, and anaesthetist will be present throughout the procedure.

You will be given a short general anaesthetic so you are asleep and comfortable.

Your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and breathing will be continuously monitored.

A controlled electrical shock will be delivered through the defibrillator to restore a normal heart rhythm.

The procedure usually takes approximately 30 minutes.

Post procedure care & discharge information

A full report will be sent to your referring doctor with the results of your procedure.

Do not drive or return to work for the remainder of the day.

You will need to continue taking anticoagulant medication for at least four weeks after the cardioversion.

Only stop anticoagulant medication when advised by your doctor.

Please contact our rooms on (08) 9389 8658 to book your post-procedure follow-up appointment for 4–6 weeks, or as instructed by your Cardiologist.

Important information

Please seek URGENT medical care by visiting your closest Emergency Department if you experience any of the following:

Chest pain or shortness of breath that does not go away with rest

Fainting or persistent dizziness

Palpitations or rapid heart rhythm that does not settle

Bleeding or new bruising or swelling at the incision/catheter site

Fever or chills

Important Contact Information

Should you have any queries relating to your procedure, patient care or hospital admission, please contact our office on:
p. 08 9389 8658 – press option 1 and 2
OR
email: hospital.bookings@accesscardiology.com.au