DC cardioversion

Question 1

Define:

Answer 1

• Procedure to convert arrhythmias into sinus rhythm using direct current electricity.

Uses a therapeutic dose of electric current to the heart at a specific moment in the cardiac cycle, restoring the activity of the electrical conduction system of the heart.

Question 2

Indications:

Answer 2

Ventricular tachycardia 
Ventricular fibrillation 
Atrial fibrillation 
SVT's - if haemodynamically unstable or other treatments failed
Atrial flutter

Question 3

Complications:

Answer 3

• Dislodge of blood clots leading to stroke or PE
• Other arrhythmias
• Skin burns

Question 4

Define implanted cardiac defibrillator:

Answer 4

Defibrillator implantable inside the body – able to perform cardioversion, defibrillation and SOMETIMES – pacing of the heart

Question 5

Indications for ICD:

Answer 5

Ventricular tachycardia

Ventricular fibrillation

post acute cardiac arrest

OR for primary prevention

Question 6

Define permanent pacing:

Answer 6

It generates electrical impulses delivered by electrodes to contract the heart muscles and regulate the electrical conduction system of the heart – can be single-chamber, dual-chamber or rate-responsive pacemaker (has sensors that detect changes in physical activity and adjusts pacing accordingly)