Cardiology

Question 1

What are signs/complications of AF? (4)

Answer 1

• irregularly irregular pulse
• tachycardia
• eventual HF
• increased risk of stroke

Question 2

Common causes of AF (SMITH)

Answer 2

Sepsis
Mitral valve pathology (stenosis/regurg)
IHD
Thyrotoxicosis
HTN

Question 3

What 2 principles do the NICE guidelines follow for AF mx?

Answer 3

rate/rhythm control
anticoagulation

Question 4

What is involved in rate/rhythm control for AF?

Answer 4

rate control:
1. BB
2. CCB
3. Digoxin

rhythm control:
1. cardioversion
2. BB → dronedarone → amiodarone

Question 5

What medications are used to anticoagulate AF pts? (2)

Answer 5

1. DOACs (apixaban, rivaroxaban)
2. warfarin (if DOAC CI)

Question 6

When would AF be treated with rhythm control instead of rate control? (4)

Answer 6

1. their AF has a reversible cause
2. is new onset (<48hrs)
3. sx persist despite effective rate control
4. the AF has resulted in HF