<s>[INST] My aunt just had a heart valve replacement and was released from the hospital about 2-3 days ago. I found out this evening that she is back in ICU. It s my understanding that her heartbeats that should be @ 100 drops to 50 and that they plan to shock her heart tomorrow! Is this normal procedure? Safe? and what does it all mean is going on? Thank you Bev I apologize, I am not financially able to pay for this service. Thanks anyway [/INST] Hi, According to the scenario you are telling I am expecting she has an irregular heart rate called as AF - Atrial Fibrillation which causes decreased cardiac output and is bad for patients especially those having a valve disease. If she does not have a clot in her heart, and it is a new episode, we generally prefer to convert it into normal regular sinus rhythm which is done in two ways - medically or by giving a small intensity of shock. Giving shock is more effective. So I think this is what your doctors must be doing. I expect that was helpful to you and don't worry that shock is given when patient is sedated so she won't feel anything. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. </s>