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A cardioversion paddle is a handheld electrode used with a defibrillator to deliver a controlled electrical shock to the chest. Cardioversion paddles are usually used as a pair, with one paddle placed on each side of the chest or in another approved position. The shock is used to help reset certain abnormal heart rhythms. Many modern systems use adhesive electrode pads instead of handheld paddles.
read more about cardioversion paddle ...A cardioversion paddle is used during electrical cardioversion or defibrillation, depending on the rhythm and clinical situation. In synchronized cardioversion, the shock is timed with the heart rhythm to treat selected arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, or certain tachycardias. In emergency defibrillation, shocks may be used for life-threatening rhythms such as ventricular fibrillation. The care team chooses the mode, energy level, and timing based on the rhythm and patient condition.
The paddles deliver electrical energy from the defibrillator through the chest. For synchronized cardioversion, the machine detects the heart’s electrical activity and times the shock to a safer point in the rhythm cycle. Conductive gel or pads help improve contact and reduce skin injury. The goal is to interrupt the abnormal rhythm so the heart can return to a more organized rhythm.
The clinician places the paddles firmly on the chest in the approved positions and confirms the rhythm on the monitor. If synchronized cardioversion is planned, synchronization mode is checked before shock delivery. The team makes sure no one is touching the patient or bed when the shock is delivered. Sedation may be used for planned cardioversion when the patient is awake and stable enough.
Cardioversion paddles should be used only by trained clinicians. Risks include skin burns, pain, arrhythmia, blood clot complications in some patients, or sedation-related problems. Patients are monitored with ECG, blood pressure, oxygen level, and symptoms before and after the shock. Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, stroke symptoms, or worsening rhythm after cardioversion needs urgent care.
They are often the same handheld electrodes used with a defibrillator. The difference is the mode and purpose of the shock, such as synchronized cardioversion versus emergency defibrillation.
An awake patient can feel pain from the shock, so planned cardioversion often uses sedation when appropriate. Emergency defibrillation may be done immediately if the patient is unconscious or pulseless.
Adhesive pads can stay in place, support hands-free shock delivery, and reduce the need for someone to hold paddles during treatment.
No. Cardioversion can restore rhythm in many cases, but arrhythmias can return. Medication, ablation, or other treatments may still be needed.
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Synchronized Electrical Cardioversion. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482173/. Date Accessed June 16, 2026.