Variation in defibrillation modes after synchronized cardioversion: A potential hazard

We conducted a survey of all defibrillators currently on the European market that offer synchronized cardioversion. The mode after cardioversion can be classed into one of four categories: (1) remain in synchronized mode; (2) defer to asynchronized mode; (3) 'intelligent'; and (4) configurable. The different modes and the lack of standardization present a potential hazard because they cause confusion among the user of the defibrillator. Uniformity should be obtained after broad agreement between clinicians and manufacturers of defibrillators. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.