Treatment of AF in an ED Observation Unit: Faster and Better?

Compared with patients who received traditional inpatient care, patients managed in an ED observation unit had comparable outcomes and significantly shorter stays.

The management of uncomplicated acute atrial fibrillation (AF) has evolved during the last few years, with early rate control and cardioversion gaining favor. Researchers compared traditional inpatient care with management in an emergency department observation unit in a prospective, randomized trial of 153 adult patients who presented to an academic ED with acute (<48 hours’ duration) uncomplicated AF. Patients in both groups underwent initial pharmacologic rate control followed by electrical cardioversion, if needed. Patients were followed up after 30 days and 6 months.

Rates of conversion to sinus rhythm did not differ significantly between patients managed in the ED observation unit and those who received traditional inpatient care (85% …

Reviewing Author

Richard D. Zane, MD, FAAEM

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Richard D. Zane, MD, FAAEM

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose