Atrial Fibrillation Case Study

Words: 547
Pages: 3

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can increase a patient’s risk of stroke and heart failure (MayoClinic, 2017). Atrial fibrillation is identified by an EKG that demonstrates a P wave rate of >300 (P waves are not normally observable due to the rate), no PR interval, and the QRS rate variable and rhythm are irregular (Huether & McCance, p. 639). During atrial fibrillation, the atrium beats chaotically and irregularly, which causes it to be out of sync with the ventricles (MayoClinic, 2017). Patient’s that experience atrial fibrillation, can have symptoms including heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and/or weakness (MayoClinic, 2017). Some individuals might even present with altered mental status due to the lack of oxygen perfusing to …show more content…
In lone atrial fibrillation, the cause is often unclear, and serious complications are rare (MayoClinic, 2017). Nursing interventions that can be used to either prevent the disease from occurring or exacerbation of the disease or disorder.
-Education about atrial fibrillation and medication management
-Education about understanding the importance of taking medication appropriately and monitoring their heart rate
-Education about keeping up with regularly scheduled lab work and follow-up appointments
-Eating a heart healthy diet
-Avoid smoking and illegal drugs
-Maintaining a healthy weight
-Avoiding or limiting caffeine and alcohol
-Reducing stress and managing anger issues (guided imagery, music therapy,