Echocardiogram is another important non-invasive diagnostic tool for AF. This test uses sound waves to produces an image of the heart and helps the cardiologist observe the different regions of the heart and assess their performance. [NIH] Treatment for AF involves different approaches and may also be decided by the cardiologist depending on the nature of the AF. Paroxysmal AF, which lasts for a short duration (maximum few days) is

After ICI discharge daily ECG or predischarge (Jansen et al., 1986; Evrard et al., 2000) Holter monitoring was used to detect arrhythmias. In some cases the monitoring may be continued beyond the hospital stay for 30 (Guarnieri et al., 1999) up to 90 days (Weber et al., 1990). The use of the Holter monitor makes extended monitoring more feasible than when ECG was the only option. Several anomalies have been

Atrial Fibrillation Simply stated, atrial fibrillation describes a condition in which the human heart beats at an excessively rapid rate that can result in diminished blood flow to the body. While the condition is not typically life-threatening, atrial fibrillation still requires immediate medical care because left untreated, the condition can result in adverse, long-term complications. To determine the facts, this paper reviews the relevant literature concerning the etiology and pathogenesis

Lessening the Incidence of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation The issue of reducing or preventing atrial fibrillation (AF) after cardiac surgery has been the subject of numerous studies. Existing studies sought to establish which agents are effective in this process since multiple agents are used to prevent AF. Reduction of incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation is critical in order to promote the outcomes of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. In addition to flutter, atrial

Nursing Diagnosis Care Plan Assessment Data Analysis a) Patient is a 65-year-old male Mexican-born retired bus driver with a relevant past medical history of atrial fibrillation and deep vein thrombosis treated with Coumadin who presents with hematuria. Patient sought care after witnessing blood in his urine and feeling generally weak. In addition, the patient has history of hypertension, stroke, DVT, BPH, gout, depression, anxiety, chronic bronchitis and a remote history of chicken

Efficacy and Safety of Dabigatran vs. Warfarin for Stroke After more than five decades as the preferred anticoagulant worldwide, warfarin is being challenged by a new rival that doesn't require careful dosage monitoring. Pradaxa (dabigatran) was unanimously approved by the FDA on October 19, 2010 for treating atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, who are at an increased risk for suffering stroke and systemic embolisms (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). Dabigatran acts by