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Atrial fibrillation is a common cardiac arrhythmia and is the most frequent arrhythmia experienced by older people. It is caused by chaotic electrical activity in the atria, leading to an irregular and often rapid heart rate. Atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of ischaemic stroke, resulting from the turbulent blood flow in the atria. This article details the presentation of, and risk factors associated with, developing atrial fibrillation, the importance of reducing the risk of adverse events such as stroke, and the treatment options available. It also outlines the nursing role in the care of patients with the condition, as part of a multidisciplinary team approach.
Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2018.e11077
CitationElliott K (2018) Diagnosis and management of patients with atrial fibrillation. Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2018.e11077
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software
Correspondence Conflict of interestNone declared
Published online: 26 April 2018
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