Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter Flashcards
What are the three goals in treatment of Afib/flutter
- Rate Control
- Anticoagulation
- Rhythm Control
What is the most prominent feature of Atrial Flutter on an EKG?
“saw tooth” pattern/ “flutter waves”
Why is it important to anticoagulate a patient who is in chronic atrial fibrillation?
To prevent blood stasis that could potentially result in a CVA/stroke
Which type of Atrial Fibrillation results in the greatest loss of cardiac output?
Afib with RVR
What are some EKG characteristics of Atrial Fibrillation?
Absence of P waves (“fibrillatory waves”), Irregular ventricular rate, sometimes absence of isoelectric baseline
What are some symptoms that patients can exhibit when in atrial fibrillation?
Palpitations, SOB, dizziness, fatigue, CP, Syncope
What imaging technique can be used to help to determine if a blood clot(s) in the atria is present before cardioversion?
Trans-esophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
Why might it be good to order a TSH and T4 level in a patient with atrial fibrillation?
Hyperthyroidism can be a cause of atrial fibrillation
What is the main calcium channel blocker used in rate control for atrial fibrillation?
Diltiazem (Cardizem)
What is the appropriate INR range for a patient in atrial fibrillation?
2.0-3.0
Which anti-arrhythmic drug used to control rhythm can cause Lupus-like side effects?
Procainamide (Phenytoin can also cause Lupus-like rash, but it is an anticonvulsant)
