Elective Cardioversion

This procedure is organised at the request of your Cardiologist for patients with an abnormal heart rhythm known as atrial fibrillation. Elective Cardioversion uses an electrical impulse to revert the heart to its regular rhythm.

You will be admitted to the Critical Care Unit at the Coffs Harbour Health Campus and will need to fill in an admission form and sign a consent form. This will be done at your appointment at Coffs Cardiology with your Cardiologist. A blood test needs to be undertaken 2-3 days before your cardioversion date.

The procedure, and recovery after the procedure, usually takes about 4 hours but can take longer. This procedure does involve a mild anaesthetic.

You will be unable to drive for 24 hours so you will need to arrange transport to and from the hospital.

You cannot eat or drink anything six (6) hours prior to the procedure. Please advise staff at admission if you are diabetic.