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Management of Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department

  • Invasive Electrophysiology and Pacing (E. Kevin Heist, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in adults and is responsible for 600,000 emergency department (ED) visits each year in the USA. Over 60% of these patients are admitted to inpatient units. The prevalence of AF is increasing, resulting in higher numbers of AF-related ED visits and inpatient admissions. These trends underscore the need for improvements in the efficiency of AF management in the ED.

Recent Findings

Several treatment protocols have been developed to address challenges associated with AF management in the ED, including: initiation of oral anticoagulant (OAC) therapy, cardioversion, and arranging for outpatient follow-up. Studies of these protocols have demonstrated that they can be utilized safely and effectively.

Summary

Published treatment protocols for AF in the ED have been shown to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and improve adherence to guideline-directed OAC therapy. Widespread adoption of AF treatment protocols could improve patient outcomes and reduce the costs associated with inpatient AF treatment.

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    1. Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA

      Weeranun Bode & Leon M. Ptaszek

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    Correspondence to Leon M. Ptaszek.

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    W Bode: no relationships to disclose. L.M. Ptaszek: consultant for Abbott, Broadview Ventures, Bristol Myers Squibb, Moderna, Pfizer, and World Care Clinical.

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    Bode, W., Ptaszek, L.M. Management of Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department. Curr Cardiol Rep 23, 179 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-021-01611-2

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