How to Manage Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department: a Critical Appraisal

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in emergency departments. There is growing evidence that certain patients with acute atrial fibrillation can be safely managed in the emergency room without the need for hospitalization, minimizing costs and reducing unnecessary exposures. This review addresses the emergency management of atrial fibrillation based on the latest updates on the subject with a focus on the assessment and prevention of thromboembolic phenomena, control of frequency vs rhythm control and strategies for cardioversion and restoration of sinus rhythm or for heart rate control.

Keywords

• atrial fibrillation
• cardioversion
• electrical cardioversion
• emergency department
• cardiac arrhythmias
• anticoagulant