Providing best practice in the management of atrial fibrillation in the United States.

BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent arrhythmia. Patients with AF may report a variety of symptoms and often describe compromised quality of life. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and all-cause mortality. PURPOSE The purpose of this review article was to provide an overview of AF management based on current guidelines and new data. CONCLUSIONS The 2011 American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association/Heart Rhythm Society guideline update provides diagnostic and management recommendations for the patient with AF based on the current evidence. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Nurses are integral to the care of patients with AF. It is essential for nurses to stay apprised of current guidelines and new evidence so that the assessment, management, and education of the AF patients and their families can be optimized.