What To Expect After Cardioversion

You will be closely watched for an hour or so after the procedure for any signs of complications. Your doctor or nurse will let you know when you can go home.

You may feel drowsy for several hours after the cardioversion because of the medicine used to make you sleep. You shouldn't drive or operate heavy machinery the day of the procedure. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital. Until the medicine wears off, it also may affect your awareness and ability to make decisions.

You may have some redness or soreness on your chest where the electrodes were placed. This may last for a few days after the procedure. You also may have slight bruising or soreness at the site where the intravenous (IV) line was inserted.

You will take medicine for several weeks to months after the procedure to prevent blood clots. During this time, you also may take medicine to prevent repeat arrhythmias.