What is the process of using an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm called?

The process of using an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm is known as defibrillation. This technique is employed when a person experiences a life-threatening heart rhythm disturbance, particularly ventricular fibrillation, which can lead to cardiac arrest. During defibrillation, an electric shock is delivered to the heart through paddles or pads placed on the chest, which helps to reset the heart's electrical system and re-establish an effective rhythm.

Defibrillation is crucial in emergency situations, as it can significantly increase the chances of survival when administered promptly. This contrast allows us to recognize that while cardioversion is also a procedure that uses electric shocks, it is specifically aimed at treating arrhythmias that are not immediately life-threatening, typically when the heart is still beating but out of sync. The other options, such as pacing and ablation, refer to different procedures aimed at managing heart conditions, further distinguishing defibrillation as the correct answer in the context of restoring normal rhythm using electric shocks.