During Your Cardioversion Procedure

• Small pads (electrodes) are placed on your chest to record your heartbeat at all times.
• An intravenous (IV) line is placed in your arm. This gives you medication (sedation) that keeps you free of pain. You’ll feel sleepy.
• You will be given oxygen through a soft plastic tube in your nose.
• Pads will be placed on your chest and back. A very brief electric shock is given through the pads. Remember, because of sedation you won’t feel the shock.
• Your heartbeat is watched to make sure the normal rhythm has been restored.

After the Procedure

• You’ll be monitored until you are fully awake. Then you’ll be able to sit up, walk, and eat.
• In most cases, you’ll be able to go home after the sedation wears off. This usually takes a few hours.
• For a day, the skin on your chest may feel a little sore, like a mild sunburn.
• Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours after the procedure.

Back on Track

The day after your procedure, try to take it easy. Take medication as directed. And call your doctor if you notice skipped beats, a rapid heartbeat, or chest tightness. These may be signs that an irregular heartbeat has returned.