Discharge Instructions for Cardioversion

Your doctor performed a procedure called cardioversion. Your doctor used a controlled electric shock to briefly stop all electrical activity in your heart. This helped restore your heart’s normal rhythm. Here are some instructions to follow while you recover.

Home Care

• Don’t drive until you know how the procedure has affected you.

• Don’t be alarmed if the skin on your chest is wrinkled or feels like it is sunburned. These minor symptoms will go away in a few days.

• Ask your doctor about medications to keep your heart rhythm steady.

• If you were prescribed medication, take it as instructed by your doctor. Don’t skip doses or take double doses.

• Learn to take your own pulse. Keep a record of your results. Ask your doctor when you should seek emergency medical attention. He or she will tell you which pulse rate reading is dangerous. 

• Keep in mind this procedure may need to be repeated at a later date. About half of all patients who undergo cardioversion need a repeat procedure within a year.

• Talk to your doctor about the possibility of having a pacemaker inserted.

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.