Atrial Fibrillation Flashcards
1
Q
What is atrial fibrilation?
A
It’s the uncontrollable quivering of the atrias.
2
Q
What are the characteristics of A fib on a 12-lead
A
- Absence of P waves
- Irregularly irregular heart rate
3
Q
Quickly describe the patho of A fib
3
A
- Atrias can’t fill properly so ventricles can’t fill properly.
- Leads to inconsistent blood supply
- May cause ischemia (of myocardium)
4
Q
Why is uncontrolled A fib dangerous?
A
It’s not sustaible for long periods of time (hemodynamically unstable)
5
Q
What are 7 risk factors of Atrial Fibrilation
10
A
- Hypertension
- Coronary artery disease
- CHF
- Valvular disease
- Inflammation
- Obeisity
- Alcohol use
- Old age
- Lung disease
- Endocrine disorder
6
Q
Signs+symptoms symptoms of a fib
A
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- SOB
- Heart palpitations
- Hypotension (more severe/instable)
7
Q
What are possible complications of A Fib?
4
A
- Cardiogenic shock
- Emolic event (stroke, MI, PE)
- Hypotension
- Hemodynamic instability
8
Q
Key questions to ask someone with A Fib
A
- Duration + Frequency of symptoms?
- Do they have known cardiac conditions/disease?
- Use of anti-arrhythmic medication?
- History of triggers (known a-fib)
- Previous treatment
9
Q
Possible treatment (PCP)
A
Start an IV, administer IV fluids
