An overview of atrial fibrillation.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) may be encountered in primary, secondary and tertiary settings, and nurses are likely to care for patients with this condition. This article focuses on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestation and management of patients with AF. Diagnosis and treatment are discussed, particularly in the light of managing thromboembolic risk.
Cardiac Intervention Unit, Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Bournemouth. gaynor.richards@rbch.nhs.uk
Gaynor
G
Richards
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000379:methods; D004554:Electric Countershock / Q000379:methods; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents