While a defibrillator delivers an electrical current to the heart to reset its rhythm, the provided reference specifically focuses on the voltage used for this critical procedure.
Understanding Defibrillation and Electrical Shock
Defibrillation involves sending a carefully controlled electrical shock through the chest and heart. This shock uses high voltage to drive a current through the heart muscle, aiming to stop chaotic electrical activity (like ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia) and allow the heart's natural pacemaker (the SA node) to regain control.
Voltage Levels in Defibrillators
According to the reference:
A defibrillator uses moderately high voltage (between 200 and 1,000 volts) to shock the heart, which essentially resets the SA node and forces it to resume its normal electrical activity.
Here's a quick look at the voltage range mentioned:
| Electrical Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Voltage Range | 200 to 1,000 volts |
The exact voltage delivered can vary depending on the patient's condition and the specific defibrillator used.
Current vs. Voltage in Defibrillation
The reference primarily details the voltage applied. In an electrical circuit, voltage is the electrical potential difference that drives the flow of current. Delivering a high-voltage pulse across the chest creates a current flow through the heart. The effectiveness of the shock depends on delivering sufficient electrical energy, which is a function of voltage, current, and time.
Important Note: The provided reference specifies the voltage range but does not detail the specific type of current waveform used (such as monophasic or biphasic). Modern defibrillators commonly use biphasic waveforms as they typically require less energy and voltage compared to older monophasic units.
In summary, while defibrillation uses an electrical current to shock the heart, the reference highlights the moderately high voltage (200 to 1,000 volts) that drives this current.
