What does undergoing defibrillation aim to achieve in a clinical setting?

Undergoing defibrillation aims to restore normal heart rhythm following a cardiac event, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. During these conditions, the heart's electrical activity becomes chaotic, leading to ineffective pumping of blood and putting the individual at high risk of cardiac arrest. Defibrillation delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart, which can reset its electrical activity and allow for the re-establishment of a coordinated heartbeat.

This immediate intervention is crucial for improving the chances of survival and reducing the risk of severe complications associated with interrupted blood flow. In this context, the treatment focuses on normalizing the abnormal rhythms rather than simply increasing heart rate, enhancing blood flow, or maintaining muscle tone.