The cardiovascular system is one of the key players in the health and wellness of our patients. When the heart is not functioning properly, every other system is affected adversely. One of the ways in which the heart can malfunction involves the electrical conduction system. Some of the more commonly seen arrhythmias are ventricular fibrillation with a pulse, rapid atrial fibrillation/flutter, and supraventricular tachycardias. This last rhythm is really a catch-all for any narrow, rapid rhythm originating outside of the sinus node and above the ventricles.

The danger in all of these rhythms is insufficient perfusion of the brain and other vital organs, as well as stroke resulting from micro-clots due to the choppy blood flow. The nurses responsibility is to recognize the rhythm and be able to run the algorithm for treatment dependent on the patient’s presentation, rhythm, and standing orders. Cardioversion is one of the treatment options and comes in several forms that “convert” the heart rhythm to one that is more optimal for health.

Chemical cardioversion is routinely achieved with diltiazem (Cardizem) IV bolus and gtt, as well as adenosine (Adenocard) IV rapid push. Diltiazem works by blocking entry of calcium into the cardiac muscle cell, thus slowing the ability of the cell to contract. Adenosine can be a scary drug to administer as it blocks the atrial-ventricular communication, causing the heart to stop briefly. Due to this chemical interruption, the re-entry arrhythmias are disrupted. It is important for the nurse to remain calm and supportive of the patient. Be sure to position your cardiac monitor away from the patient and family’s line of sight! Rarely, a patient will present with ventricular fibrillation and appear fine. While you attempt to chemically cardiovert this patient with amiodarone (Cordarone), be sure to have the defibrillator ready to go!

A second way to cardiovert is with electricity. This can be achieved with an implantable device, an external device that a patient wears, or done manually by trained staff. Cardioversion is always done in sync with the patient’s rhythm. Otherwise, you would be defibrillating, which is another thing altogether! The cardiac monitor senses the ventricular contraction and times the electrical impulse to prevent triggering ventricular fibrillation. It is critical to reset the sync button with each delivered charge, as most monitors automatically remove this feature after shock delivery. It is equally important to have adequate sedation for the patient, as it is a painful procedure. Follow the ACLS recommended guidelines for joules delivered and know if your machine is biphasic or monophasic.

Both forms of cardioversion require the same procedural tools. Know your rhythms and your equipment, have IV access, and administer oxygen and sedation. These are formulated actions that your institution should train you to perform comfortably and proficiently. Above all else, observe the patient. The monitor is only a tool to assist you in “seeing” the patient. After cardioversion, your patient will require monitoring and some form of antiarryhthmic drug either IV or PO, as ordered by the physician. Spend time teaching the patient about the rhythm they had, the dangers it posed, and the importance of medication compliance.