Atrial Fibrillation: An Approach to Diagnosis and Management in the Emergency Department

Points & Pearls Excerpt

• The classifications of AF are: (1) paroxysmal AF: episodes that terminate within 7 days; (2) persistent AF: episodes that last >7 days; (3) long-standing persistent AF: rhythm that has persisted >12 months; and (4) permanent AF: where decision has been made to cease further therapy.
• AF is associated with up to a 40% increased risk in first-degree relatives with the condition.
• Patients may present to the ED in AF/AFL due to the disease itself or as a manifestation of another metabolic process or stressor (eg, sepsis, endocrine dysfunction, substance abuse, alcohol use, thromboembolism, or heart failure).
• Clinical symptoms may include chest pain, dyspnea, dizziness, palpitations, or fatigue.