Compared to Biphasic 1, the second step of Biotronik's Biphasic 2 waveform has shorter duration.

Compared to Biphasic 1, the second step of Biotronik's Biphasic 2 waveform has shorter duration.

• A. Longer duration than Biphasic 1
• B. Shorter duration than Biphasic 1
• C. Equal duration to Biphasic 1
• D. No second step exists

Answer: (B)

Biphasic defibrillator shocks deliver energy in two phases: the first phase provides the main energy with one polarity, and the second phase reverses the polarity. In Biotronik’s Biphasic 2 waveform, the second phase is shorter than in Biphasic 1. This shorter second step preserves the effectiveness of the shock—since the first phase does the heavy lifting—while reducing the duration of energy delivery during the reverse phase. Shortening the second phase helps balance defibrillation success with safety, limiting unnecessary myocardial exposure without compromising outcome.

Biphasic defibrillator shocks deliver energy in two phases: the first phase provides the main energy with one polarity, and the second phase reverses the polarity. In Biotronik’s Biphasic 2 waveform, the second phase is shorter than in Biphasic 1. This shorter second step preserves the effectiveness of the shock—since the first phase does the heavy lifting—while reducing the duration of energy delivery during the reverse phase. Shortening the second phase helps balance defibrillation success with safety, limiting unnecessary myocardial exposure without compromising outcome.