Transcutaneous pacing (also called external pacing) is a temporary means of pacing a patient's heart during a medical emergency. It is accomplished by delivering pulses of electric current through the patient's chest, which stimulates the heart to contract. Transcutaneous pacing may be uncomfortable for the patient. Sedation should therefore be considered. Prolonged transcutaneous pacing may cause burns on the skin. It is meant to stabilize the patient until a more permanent means of pacing is achieved.