Open AccessDiagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation in the acute care setting
Author(s) -
Nottingham Fatima
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of the american academy of nurse practitioners
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1745-7599
pISSN - 1041-2972
DOI - 10.1111/j.1745-7599.2010.00508.x
Subject(s) - medicine , atrial fibrillation , intensive care medicine , modalities , treatment modality , nurse practitioners , medline , therapeutic modalities , cardiology , health care , social science , sociology , political science , economics , law , economic growth
Abstract Purpose: To discuss the causes of atrial fibrillation (AF), risk factors, and pathophysiology, and review current treatment guidelines for AF in the inpatient setting. Data sources: Peer‐reviewed medical and nursing journals, American College of Cardiology (ACC), American Heart Association (AHA), and European Society of Cardiology (ESC) practice guidelines. Conclusions: There are many predisposing factors to AF and a variety of treatment modalities. Nurse practitioners (NPs) should acquaint themselves with the pathophysiology and evidence‐based treatments in order to provide individually based care to patients. Implications for practice: Pharmacological management is often warranted in patients with AF. NPs must be aware of updated clinical evidence in order to properly treat patients to provide symptomatic relief and improve quality of life.