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Seeburruth D, Tong XC, Kirwan C, Ramsden S, Kibria A, Carter J, Huang J, McArthur R, Clayton N, de Wit K. Eligibility for anticoagulation initiation in atrial fibrillation: Agreement between emergency physician and medical record review. Acad Emerg Med 2024; 31:824-827. [PMID: 38456355 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Darshana Seeburruth
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - X Catherine Tong
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher Kirwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sophie Ramsden
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aqsa Kibria
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Bahrain
| | - Jaimie Carter
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Johnny Huang
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robyn McArthur
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natasha Clayton
- Emergency Department, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kerstin de Wit
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Mazzella AJ, Wood BS, Doad J, Hendrickson MJ, Rosman L, Gehi AK. Interhospital variability in hospital admissions for patients with low-risk syncope presenting to the emergency department. Heart Rhythm O2 2024; 5:435-442. [PMID: 39119025 PMCID: PMC11305874 DOI: 10.1016/j.hroo.2024.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Guidelines and risk scores have sought to standardize the management of syncope in the emergency department (ED), but variation in practice remains. Objective The purpose of this study was to explore factors associated with admission for patients presenting to the ED with low-risk syncope. Methods Our study population included adult patients in the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample between 2006 and 2019 who presented to an ED with a primary diagnosis of syncope. Multivariable hierarchical logistic regression analyses determined the association of patient or hospital factors with admission. Reference effect measures methodology assessed the relative contributions of patient, hospital, and unmeasured hospital factors. Results Of the 3,206,739 qualifying encounters during the study period, 804,398 (25.1%) met low-risk criteria. Of these patients, 20,260 were admitted to the hospital (2.5%). Factors associated with increased odds of admission included increasing age and weekend presentation to the hospital, while female sex, lack of medical insurance, hospital region, teaching status, and higher ED volume decile were associated with lower odds of admission. Reference effect measures methodology demonstrated that unmeasured site variability contributed the widest range of odds for admission (odds ratio [OR] 5th percentile vs 95th percentile 0.23-4.38) compared with the composite patient (OR 0.33-3.68) or hospital (OR 0.65-1.30) factors. Conclusion Admission patterns for low-risk syncope varies widely across institutions. Unmeasured site variation contributes significantly to the variability in admission rates, suggesting which hospital a patient presents to plays a disproportionate role in admission decisions. Further guidance to reduce practice variation in syncope care in the ED is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J. Mazzella
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Brian S. Wood
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jagroop Doad
- Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lillington, North Carolina
| | - Michael J. Hendrickson
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lindsey Rosman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Anil K. Gehi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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3
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Long B, Brady WJ, Gottlieb M. Emergency medicine updates: Atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response. Am J Emerg Med 2023; 74:57-64. [PMID: 37776840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atrial fibrillation (AF) may lead to stroke, heart failure, and death. When AF occurs in the context of a rapid ventricular rate/response (RVR), this can lead to complications, including hypoperfusion and cardiac ischemia. Emergency physicians play a key role in the diagnosis and management of this dysrhythmia. OBJECTIVE This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning AF with RVR for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION Differentiating primary and secondary AF with RVR and evaluating hemodynamic stability are vital components of ED assessment and management. Troponin can assist in determining the risk of adverse outcomes, but universal troponin testing is not required in patients at low risk of acute coronary syndrome or coronary artery disease - especially patients with recurrent episodes of paroxysmal AF that are similar to their prior events. Emergent cardioversion is indicated in hemodynamically unstable patients. Rate or rhythm control should be pursued in hemodynamically stable patients. Elective cardioversion is a safe option for select patients and may reduce AF symptoms and risk of AF recurrence. Rate control using beta blockers or calcium channel blockers should be pursued in those with AF with RVR who do not undergo cardioversion. Anticoagulation is an important component of management, and several tools (e.g., CHA2DS2-VASc) are available to assist with this decision. Direct oral anticoagulants are the first-line medication class for anticoagulation. Disposition can be challenging, and several risk assessment tools (e.g., RED-AF, AFFORD, and the AFTER (complex, modified, and pragmatic) scores) are available to assist with disposition decisions. CONCLUSION An understanding of the recent updates in the literature concerning AF with RVR can assist emergency clinicians in the care of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brit Long
- SAUSHEC, Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX, USA.
| | - William J Brady
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| | - Michael Gottlieb
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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Addy K, Joyce LR, Al-Busaidi IS, Pickering JW, Troughton R, Than M. Implementation of an integrated emergency department acute atrial fibrillation pathway safely reduces cardioversions and hospitalisations: A comparative pre-post study. Emerg Med Australas 2023; 35:828-833. [PMID: 37169715 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF/AFL) accounts for high rates of ED presentations and hospital admissions. There is increasing evidence to suggest that delaying cardioversion for acute uncomplicated AF is safe, and that many patients will spontaneously revert to sinus rhythm (SR). We conducted a before-and-after evaluation of AF/AFL management after a change in ED pathway using a conservative 'rate-and-wait' approach, incorporating next working day outpatient clinic follow-up and delayed cardioversion if required. METHODS We performed a before-and-after retrospective cohort study examining outcomes for patients who presented to the ED in Christchurch, New Zealand, with acute uncomplicated AF/AFL in the 1-year period before and after the implementation of a new conservative management pathway. RESULTS A total of 360 patients were included in the study (182 'Pre-pathway' vs 178 'Post-Pathway'). Compared to the pre-pathway cohort, those managed under the new pathway had an 81.2% reduction in ED cardioversions (n = 32 vs n = 6), and 50.7% reduction in all cardioversions (n = 65 vs n = 32). There was a 31.6% reduction in admissions from ED (n = 54 vs n = 79). ED length of stay (3.9 h vs 3.8 h, net difference -0.1 h, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.6 to 0.3), 1-year ED AF representation (32.4% vs 26.4%, net difference -6.0% [95% CI -16.0% to 3.9%]), 1-year ED ischaemic stroke presentation (2.2% in both groups) and 7-day all-cause mortality rates (hazard ratio 1.05 [95% CI 0.6 to 1.9]) were all similar. CONCLUSIONS Using a conservative 'rate-and-wait' strategy with early follow-up for patients presenting to ED with AF/AFL can safely reduce unnecessary cardioversions and avoidable hospitalisations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaleb Addy
- Department of General Medicine, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Surgery and Critical Care, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Laura R Joyce
- Department of Surgery and Critical Care, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Emergency Department, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Ibrahim S Al-Busaidi
- Department of Primary Care and Clinical Simulation, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - John W Pickering
- Emergency Department, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Richard Troughton
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Cardiology Department, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Martin Than
- Emergency Department, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
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5
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Gehi AK, Armbruster T, Walker J, Rosman L, Laux J, Becker A, Aladesanmi O, Mazzella AJ, Deyo Z, Biese K. Implementation of an Atrial Fibrillation Decision Aid Care Pathway in the Emergency Department Reduces Atrial Fibrillation Hospitalizations. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2023; 16:e009808. [PMID: 37492958 DOI: 10.1161/circoutcomes.122.009808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A straightforward decision aid to guide disposition of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients in the emergency department (ED) was developed for use by ED providers. The implementation of this decision aid in the ED has not been studied. METHODS A pragmatic stepped-wedge cluster approach for analysis of retrospectively collected electronic health record data was used in which 5 hospitals were selected to commence the intervention at periodic intervals following an initial 1-year baseline assessment with 5 additional hospitals included in the comparison group (all in North Carolina). The primary end point of analysis was hospitalization rate. Hierarchical multivariable logistic regression analyses for admission as a function of the intervention while controlling for prespecified patient and hospital predictors were performed with clustering done at the hospital level. RESULTS Between October 2017 and May 2020, a total of 11 458 patients (mean age, 71.4; 50.5% female) presented to 1 of the 10 hospitals with a primary diagnosis of AF. Absolute admission rate was reduced from 60.5% to 48.3% following the intervention (odds ratio, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.71-0.97]; P=0.016). After adjusting for covariates, the intervention was associated with a small increased rate of return to the ED for AF within 30 days of the initial presentation (1.6% to 2.7%; hazard ratio, 1.70 [95% CI, 1.26-2.31]; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that implementation of a novel decision aid to guide disposition of patients primary diagnosis of AF presenting to the ED was associated with a reduced admission rate independent of patient and hospital factors. Use of the protocol was associated with a small but significant increase in rate of repeat presentations for AF at 30-day follow-up. Use of a decision aid such as the one described here represents an important tool to reduce unnecessary AF hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil K Gehi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (A.G., T.A., J.W., L.R., A.B., O.A., A.J.M.)
| | - Tiffany Armbruster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (A.G., T.A., J.W., L.R., A.B., O.A., A.J.M.)
| | - Jennifer Walker
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (A.G., T.A., J.W., L.R., A.B., O.A., A.J.M.)
| | - Lindsey Rosman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (A.G., T.A., J.W., L.R., A.B., O.A., A.J.M.)
| | - Jeffrey Laux
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health (J.L.)
| | - Ari Becker
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (A.G., T.A., J.W., L.R., A.B., O.A., A.J.M.)
| | - Oludamilola Aladesanmi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (A.G., T.A., J.W., L.R., A.B., O.A., A.J.M.)
| | - Anthony J Mazzella
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (A.G., T.A., J.W., L.R., A.B., O.A., A.J.M.)
| | - Zachariah Deyo
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC (Z.D.)
| | - Kevin Biese
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (K.B.)
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Vinson DR, Rauchwerger AS, Karadi CA, Shan J, Warton EM, Zhang JY, Ballard DW, Mark DG, Hofmann ER, Cotton DM, Durant EJ, Lin JS, Sax DR, Poth LS, Gamboa SH, Ghiya MS, Kene MV, Ganapathy A, Whiteley PM, Bouvet SC, Babakhanian L, Kwok EW, Solomon MD, Go AS, Reed ME. Clinical decision support to Optimize Care of patients with Atrial Fibrillation or flutter in the Emergency department: protocol of a stepped-wedge cluster randomized pragmatic trial (O'CAFÉ trial). Trials 2023; 24:246. [PMID: 37004068 PMCID: PMC10064588 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07230-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Management of adults with atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial flutter in the emergency department (ED) includes rate reduction, cardioversion, and stroke prevention. Different approaches to these components of care may lead to variation in frequency of hospitalization and stroke prevention actions, with significant implications for patient experience, cost of care, and risk of complications. Standardization using evidence-based recommendations could reduce variation in management, preventable hospitalizations, and stroke risk. METHODS We describe the rationale for our ED-based AF treatment recommendations. We also describe the development of an electronic clinical decision support system (CDSS) to deliver these recommendations to emergency physicians at the point of care. We implemented the CDSS at three pilot sites to assess feasibility and solicit user feedback. We will evaluate the impact of the CDSS on hospitalization and stroke prevention actions using a stepped-wedge cluster randomized pragmatic clinical trial across 13 community EDs in Northern California. DISCUSSION We hypothesize that the CDSS intervention will reduce hospitalization of adults with isolated AF or atrial flutter presenting to the ED and increase anticoagulation prescription in eligible patients at the time of ED discharge and within 30 days. If our hypotheses are confirmed, the treatment protocol and CDSS could be recommended to other EDs to improve management of adults with AF or atrial flutter. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05009225 . Registered on 17 August 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Vinson
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA.
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Roseville Medical Center, Roseville, CA, USA.
| | - Adina S Rauchwerger
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Chandu A Karadi
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, CA, USA
| | - Judy Shan
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - E Margaret Warton
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Y Zhang
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Dustin W Ballard
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, San Rafael, CA, USA
| | - Dustin G Mark
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Erik R Hofmann
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Dale M Cotton
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Edward J Durant
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Modesto Medical Center, Modesto, CA, USA
| | - James S Lin
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center, Santa Clara, CA, USA
| | - Dana R Sax
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Luke S Poth
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center, Walnut Creek, CA, USA
| | - Stephen H Gamboa
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Meena S Ghiya
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mamata V Kene
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Leandro Medical Center, San Leandro, CA, USA
| | - Anuradha Ganapathy
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, CA, USA
| | - Patrick M Whiteley
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, CA, USA
| | - Sean C Bouvet
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center, Walnut Creek, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Matthew D Solomon
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Alan S Go
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Mary E Reed
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
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Mazzella AJ, Hendrickson MJ, Glorioso TJ, Sherwood D, Essig J, Grunwald G, Rosman L, Gehi AK. Interhospital Variability in Utilization of Cardioversion for Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department. Am J Cardiol 2023; 191:101-109. [PMID: 36669379 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2022.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The role for direct current cardioversion (DCCV) in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the emergency department (ED) is unclear. Factors associated with DCCV in current practice are not well described, nor is the variation across patients and institutions. All ED encounters with a primary diagnosis of AF were identified from the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample from 2006 to 2017. The independent association of patient and hospital factors with use of DCCV was assessed using multivariable hierarchical logistic regression. The relative contributions of patient, hospital, and unmeasured hospital factors were assessed using reference effect measures methods. Among 1,280,914 visits to 3,264 EDs with primary diagnosis of AF, 31,422 patients (2.4%) underwent DCCV in the ED. History of stroke (odds ratio [OR] 0.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.09 to 0.22, p <0.001) and dementia (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.19, p <0.001) was associated with lowest odds of DCCV. Comparing patients more likely to receive DCCV (ninety-fifth percentile) with patients with median risk, the influence of unmeasured hospital factors (OR 14.13, 95% CI 12.55 to 16.09) exceeded the contributions of patient (OR 5.66, 95% CI 5.28 to 6.15) and measured hospital factors (OR 3.89, 95% CI 2.87 to 5.60). In conclusion, DCCV use in the ED varied widely across institutions. Disproportionately large unmeasured hospital variation suggests that presenting hospital is the most determinative factor in the use of DCCV for ED management of AF. Clarification is needed on best practices for management of AF in the ED, including the use of DCCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Mazzella
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | - Thomas J Glorioso
- Veterans Health Administration Office of Quality and Patient Safety, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington DC
| | - Dalton Sherwood
- University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jeremiah Essig
- University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Gary Grunwald
- Veterans Health Administration Office of Quality and Patient Safety, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington DC; Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, Colorado
| | - Lindsey Rosman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Anil K Gehi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
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Barbic D, Whyte M, Sidhu G, Luongo A, Stenstrom R, Chakraborty TA, Scheuermeyer F, Honer WG, Lane DJ. What is the risk of returning to the emergency department within 30 days for patients diagnosed with substance-induced psychosis? CAN J EMERG MED 2022; 24:702-709. [DOI: 10.1007/s43678-022-00364-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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A Novel Orderset Driven Emergency Department Atrial Fibrillation Algorithm to Increase Discharge and Risk-appropriate Anticoagulation. Crit Pathw Cardiol 2022; 21:130-134. [PMID: 35994721 DOI: 10.1097/hpc.0000000000000293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are frequently admitted from the emergency department (ED), and when discharged, are not reliably prescribed indicated anticoagulation. We report the impact of a novel computerized ED AF pathway orderset on discharge rate and risk-appropriate anticoagulation in patients with primary AF. METHODS The orderset included options for rate and rhythm control of primary AF, structured risk assessment for thrombotic complications, recommendations for anticoagulation as appropriate, and follow up with an electrophysiologist. All patients discharged from the ED in whom the AF orderset was utilized over an 18-month period comprised the primary study population. The primary outcome was the rate of appropriate anticoagulation or not according to confirmed CHADS-VASC and HASBLED scores. Additionally, the percentage of primary AF patients discharged directly from the ED was compared in the 18-month periods before and after introduction of the orderset. RESULTS A total of 56 patients, average age 57.8 years and average initial heart rate 126 beats/minute, were included in the primary analysis. All 56 (100%; 95% confidence interval, 94-100) received guideline-concordant anticoagulation. The discharge rates in the pre- and postorderset implementation periods were 29% and 41%, respectively (95% confidence interval for 12% difference, 5-18). CONCLUSIONS Our novel AF pathway orderset was associated with 100% guideline-concordant anticoagulation in patients discharged from the ED. Availability of the orderset was associated with a significant increase in the proportion of ED AF patients discharged.
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Barbic D, Whyte M, Sidhu G, Luongo A, Chakraborty TA, Scheuermeyer F, Honer WG, Stenstrom R. One-year mortality of emergency department patients with substance-induced psychosis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270307. [PMID: 35727766 PMCID: PMC9212133 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Psychosis is a well established complication of non-prescription drug use. We sought to measure the 1-year mortality of emergency department patients with substance-induced psychosis (SIP). Methods This study was a multi-centre, retrospective electronic medical records review of patients presenting to the ED with substance-induced psychosis (SIP). We interrogated the hospital ED database from Jan 1, 2018 and Jan 1, 2019 to identify consecutive patients. All patients were followed for one year from index visit, and classified as alive/dead at that time. Patients were included in the study if they met the following criteria: 1) ED discharge diagnosis of psychosis NOS and a positive urine drugs of abuse screen (UDAS) or the patient verbally endorsed drug use, or 2) Mental disorder due to drug use and “disorganized thought”, “bizarre behavior” or “delusional behavior” documented in the chart and one or more of the following criteria: a) arrival with police, b) mental health certification, c) physical restraints, d) chemical restraints. We excluded patients who were not British Columbia residents, since we were unable to ascertain if they were alive or dead at 1 year from their index ED visit. Primary statistical analysis was logistic regression for risk of death in 1 year, based on plausible risk factors, selected a priori. Results We identified 813 presentations for SIP (620 unique patients). The median age of the entire cohort was 35 years (IQR 28–44), and 69.5% (n = 565) were male. Thirty five patients (4.3%; 95% CI 3.2–5.9) had died one year after their initial presentation to the ED for SIP. Separate multivariable logistic regression analyses, controlling for age, demonstrated schizophrenia (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.8–11.1) significantly associated with increased 1-year mortality. Conclusions In our study of patients presenting to the ED with SIP, the 1-year mortality was 4.3%. Controlling for age, schizophrenia was a notable risk factor for increased 1-year mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Barbic
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, Vancouver, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Madelyn Whyte
- Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Gurwinder Sidhu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Allesandra Luongo
- Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Frank Scheuermeyer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - William G. Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- BC Centre for Mental Health and Substance Use Service Research, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert Stenstrom
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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11
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Masica A, Brown R, Farzad A, Garrett JS, Wheelan K, Nguyen HL, Ogola GO, Kudyakov R, McDonald B, Boyd B, Patel A, Delaughter C. Effectiveness of an algorithm‐based care pathway for patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation presenting to the emergency department. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2022; 3:e12608. [PMID: 35224547 PMCID: PMC8857555 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Atrial fibrillation (AF) carries substantial morbidity and mortality. Evidence‐based guidelines have been synthesized into emergency department (ED) AF care pathways, but the effectiveness and scalability of such approaches are not well established. We thus evaluated the impacts of an algorithmic care pathway for ED management of non‐valvular AF (EDAFMP) on hospital use and care process measures. Methods We deployed a voluntary‐use EDAFMP in 4 EDs (1 tertiary hospital, 1 cardiac hospital, 2 community hospitals) of an integrated delivery organization using a multifaceted implementation approach. We compared outcomes between patients with AF treated using the EDAFMP and historical and contemporaneous “usual care” controls, using a propensity‐score adjusted generalized estimating equation. Patients with an index ED encounter for a primary visit reason of non‐valvular AF (and no excluding concurrent diagnoses) were eligible for inclusion. Results Preimplementation (January 1, 2016–December 31, 2016), 628 AF patients were eligible; postimplementation (September 1, 2017–June 30, 2019), 1296, including 271 (20.9%) treated with the EDAFMP, were eligible. EDAFMP patients were less likely to be admitted than both historical (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45, 0.29–0.71) and contemporaneous controls (aOR, 95%CI: 0.63, 0.46–0.86). ED visits and hospital readmissions over 90 days subsequent to index ED encounters were similar between postimplementation EDAFMP and usual care groups. EDAFMP patients were more likely to be prescribed anticoagulation (38% v. 5%, P < 0.001) and be referred to a cardiologist (93% vs 29%, P < 0.001) versus the comparator group. Conclusion EDAFMP use is associated with decreased hospital admission during an index ED encounter for non‐valvular AF, and improved delivery of AF care processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Masica
- Center for Clinical Effectiveness Baylor Scott & White Health Dallas Texas USA
- Texas Health Resources Arlington Texas USA
| | - Rachel Brown
- Center for Clinical Effectiveness Baylor Scott & White Health Dallas Texas USA
- UChicago Medicine Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Ali Farzad
- Texas A&M College of Medicine Dallas Texas USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine Baylor University Medical Center Dallas Texas USA
| | - John S. Garrett
- Texas A&M College of Medicine Dallas Texas USA
- Integrative Emergency Services Dallas Texas USA
| | - Kevin Wheelan
- Baylor Heart and Vascular Hospital Dallas Dallas Texas USA
| | - Hoa L. Nguyen
- Center for Clinical Effectiveness Baylor Scott & White Health Dallas Texas USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences University of Massachusetts School of Medicine Worcester Massachusetts USA
| | | | - Rustam Kudyakov
- Center for Clinical Effectiveness Baylor Scott & White Health Dallas Texas USA
| | - Brandy McDonald
- Center for Clinical Effectiveness Baylor Scott & White Health Dallas Texas USA
| | | | | | - Craig Delaughter
- Baylor Heart and Vascular Hospital Fort Worth Fort Worth Texas USA
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12
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Kanawati J, Kumar S. Atrial Fibrillation Clinics: The Way of the Future. Heart Lung Circ 2022; 31:155-157. [PMID: 35027117 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Kanawati
- Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead Applied Research Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Saurabh Kumar
- Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead Applied Research Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia. https://twitter.com/SaurabhKumarEP
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13
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Diamant MJ, Andrade JG, Virani SA, Jhund PS, Petrie MC, Hawkins NM. Heart failure and atrial flutter: a systematic review of current knowledge and practices. ESC Heart Fail 2021; 8:4484-4496. [PMID: 34505352 PMCID: PMC8712920 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
While the interplay between heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) has been extensively studied, little is known regarding HF and atrial flutter (AFL), which may be managed differently. We reviewed the incidence, prevalence, and predictors of HF in AFL and vice versa, and the outcomes of treatment of AFL in HF. A systematic literature review of PubMed/Medline and EMBASE yielded 65 studies for inclusion and qualitative synthesis. No study described the incidence or prevalence of AFL in unselected patients with HF. Most cohorts enrolled patients with AF/AFL as interchangeable diagnoses, or highly selected patients with tachycardia‐induced cardiomyopathy. The prevalence of HF in AFL ranged from 6% to 56%. However, the phenotype of HF was never defined by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). No studies reported the predictors, phenotype, and prognostic implications of AFL in HF. There was significant variation in treatments studied, including the proportion that underwent ablation. When systolic dysfunction was tachycardia‐mediated, catheter ablation demonstrated LVEF normalization in up to 88%, as well as reduced cardiovascular mortality. In summary, AFL and HF often coexist but are understudied, with no randomized trial data to inform care. Further research is warranted to define the epidemiology and establish optimal management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Diamant
- Division of Cardiology, Royal Columbian Hospital, New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jason G Andrade
- Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sean A Virani
- Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Pardeep S Jhund
- BHF Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Mark C Petrie
- BHF Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Nathaniel M Hawkins
- Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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14
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Mendoza PA, McIntyre WF, Belley-Côté EP, Wang J, Parkash R, Atzema CL, Benz AP, Oldgren J, Whitlock RP, Healey JS. Oral anticoagulation for patients with atrial fibrillation in the ED: RE-LY AF registry analysis. J Thromb Thrombolysis 2021; 53:74-82. [PMID: 34338944 DOI: 10.1007/s11239-021-02530-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Oral anticoagulation (OAC) reduces stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). We sought to determine predictors of OAC initiation in AF patients presenting to the emergency department (ED). Secondary analysis of the RE-LY AF registry which enrolled individuals from 47 countries between 2007 and 2011 who presented to an ED with AF and followed them for 1 year. A total of 4149 patients with AF as their primary diagnosis who were not already taking OAC and had a CHA2DS2-VASc ≥ 1 for men or ≥ 2 for women were included in this analysis. Of these individuals, 26.8% were started on OAC (99.2% vitamin K antagonists) in the ED and 29.8% were using OAC one year later. Factors associated with initiating OAC in the ED included: specialist consultation (relative risk [RR] 1.84, 95%CI 1.44-2.36), rheumatic heart disease (RR 1.60, 95%CI 1.29-1.99), persistence of AF at ED discharge (RR 1.33, 95%CI 1.18-1.50), diabetes mellitus (RR 1.32, 95%CI 1.19-1.47), and hospital admission (RR 1.30, 95%CI 1.14-1.47). Heart failure (RR 0.83, 95%CI 0.74-0.94), antiplatelet agents (RR 0.77, 95%CI 0.69-0.84), and dementia (RR 0.61, 95%CI 0.40-0.94) were inversely associated with OAC initiation. Patients taking OAC when they left the ED were more likely using OAC at 1-year (RR 2.81, 95%CI 2.55-3.09) and had lower rates of death (RR 0.55, 95%CI 0.38-0.79) and stroke (RR 0.59, 95%CI 0.37-0.96). In patients with AF presenting to the ED, prompt initiation of OAC and specialist involvement are associated with a greater use of OAC 1 year later and may result in improved clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo A Mendoza
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - William F McIntyre
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Emilie P Belley-Côté
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jia Wang
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Ratika Parkash
- Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | - Jonas Oldgren
- Department of Medical Sciences and Uppsala Clinical Research Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Richard P Whitlock
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff S Healey
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
- Population Health Research Institute, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
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15
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Al-Busaidi IS, Clare GC, Joyce LR, Pearson S, Lainchbury J, Than M, Troughton RW. Presentation, Treatment and Long-Term Outcomes of a Multidisciplinary Acute Atrial Fibrillation Pathway: A 12-Month Follow-Up Study. Heart Lung Circ 2021; 31:216-223. [PMID: 34210615 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2021.05.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM Atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF/AFL) is associated with high rates of emergency department (ED) visits and acute hospitalisation. A recently established multidisciplinary acute AF treatment pathway seeks to avoid hospital admissions by early discharge of haemodynamically stable, low risk patients from the ED with next-working-day return to a ward-based AF clinic for further assessment. We conducted a preliminary analysis of the clinical outcomes of this pathway. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed clinical records of all patients assessed at the AF clinic at Christchurch Hospital over a 12-month period. Data related to presentation, patient characteristics, treatment, and 12-month outcomes were analysed. RESULTS A total of 143 patients (median age 65, interquartile range: 57-74 years, 59% male, 87% European) were assessed. Of these, 87 (60.8%) presented with their first episode of AF/AFL. Spontaneous cardioversion occurred in 41% at ED discharge, and this increased to 73% at AF clinic review. Electrical cardioversion was subsequently performed in 16 patients (11.2%), and 16 (11.2%) ultimately required hospital admission (eight to facilitate electrical cardioversion). At a median of 1 day, 83.9% were discharged from the AF clinic in sinus rhythm. During 12-month follow-up, there were 25 AF-related hospitalisations (20 patients, 14%) and one patient underwent electrical cardioversion; additionally, one patient had had a stroke and eight had bleeding complications giving a combined outcome rate of 6.3%. CONCLUSION Utilising a rate-control strategy with ED discharge and early return to a dedicated AF clinic can safely prevent the majority of hospitalisations, avert unnecessary procedures, and facilitate longitudinal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim S Al-Busaidi
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Department of Cardiology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.
| | - Geoffrey C Clare
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Department of Cardiology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Laura R Joyce
- Department of Surgery, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Department of Emergency Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Scott Pearson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - John Lainchbury
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Department of Cardiology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Martin Than
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Richard W Troughton
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Department of Cardiology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
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16
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Scheuermeyer FX, Atzema CL. Converting emergency physician management of patients with atrial fibrillation or flutter. CAN J EMERG MED 2021; 23:267-268. [PMID: 33959930 DOI: 10.1007/s43678-021-00128-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Frank X Scheuermeyer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, St Paul's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- Center for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Clare L Atzema
- Division of Emergency Medicine and Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, ON, Canada
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17
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Kea B, Warton EM, Ballard DW, Mark DG, Reed ME, Rauchwerger AS, Offerman SR, Chettipally UK, Ramos PC, Le DD, Glaser DS, Vinson DR. Predictors of Acute Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter Hospitalization across 7 U.S. Emergency Departments: A Prospective Study. J Atr Fibrillation 2021; 13:2355. [PMID: 34950330 PMCID: PMC8691349 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.2355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION International rates of hospitalization for atrial fibrillation and flutter (AFF) from the emergency department (ED) vary widely without clear evidence to guide the identification of high-risk patients requiring inpatient management. We sought to determine (1) variation in hospital admission and (2) modifiable factors associated with hospitalization of AFF patients within a U.S. integrated health system. METHODS This multicenter prospective observational study of health plan members with symptomatic AFF was conducted using convenience sampling in 7 urban community EDs from 05/2011 to 08/2012. Prospective data collection included presenting symptoms, characteristics of atrial dysrhythmia, ED physician impression of hemodynamic instability, comorbid diagnoses, ED management, and ED discharge rhythm. All centers had full-time on-call cardiology consultation available. Additional variables were extracted from the electronic health record. We identified factors associated with hospitalization and included predictors in a multivariate Poisson Generalized Estimating Equations regression model to estimate adjusted relative risks while accounting for clustering by physician. RESULTS Among 1,942 eligible AFF patients, 1,074 (55.3%) were discharged home and 868 (44.7%) were hospitalized. Hospitalization rates ranged from 37.4% to 60.4% across medical centers. After adjustment, modifiable factors associated with increased hospital admission from the ED included non-sinus rhythm at ED discharge, no attempted cardioversion, and heart rate reduction. DISCUSSION Within an integrated health system, we found significant variation in AFF hospitalization rates and identified several modifiable factors associated with hospital admission. Standardizing treatment goals that specifically address best practices for ED rate reduction and rhythm control may reduce hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bory Kea
- Center for Policy and Research in Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - E Margaret Warton
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Dustin W Ballard
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, San Rafael, California
| | - Dustin G Mark
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Oakland, California
| | - Mary E Reed
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Adina S Rauchwerger
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Steven R Offerman
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, California
| | - Uli K Chettipally
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center, South San Francisco, California
| | - Patricia C Ramos
- Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center, Northwest Permanente Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland, Oregon
| | - Daphne D Le
- University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - David S Glaser
- Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth St. Joseph Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - David R Vinson
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, California
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, California
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18
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Niaz S, Kirwan C, Clayton N, Mercuri M, de Wit K. Anticoagulation for newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation and 90-day rates of stroke and bleeding. CAN J EMERG MED 2021; 23:325-329. [PMID: 33959927 DOI: 10.1007/s43678-020-00054-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke, which can be mitigated by anticoagulant prescription. We evaluated local emergency physician anticoagulation practice for patients discharged from the emergency department with atrial fibrillation, along with 90-day incidence of stroke and major bleeding. METHODS This was a health record review of patients diagnosed with new onset atrial fibrillation in two emergency departments between 2014 and 2017. We collected data on CHADS65 scores, contraindications to direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) prescription and initiation of anticoagulation in the ED. Patient charts were reviewed for the diagnosis of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), systemic embolism or major bleeding within 90 days. RESULTS We identified 399 patients, median age 68 (IQR 57-79), 213 (53%) male. Only 299/399 patients had an indication for anticoagulation (CHADS65-positive). Of these 299, 27 had a contraindication to or were already prescribed anticoagulation. 45/272 (17%, 95% confidence interval 12-22%) patients eligible for initiation of anticoagulation left the emergency department with a prescription for anticoagulation. During 90-day follow-up, seven patients had stroke or TIA. Four stroke/TIA patients had been eligible to start an anticoagulant but were not started, two left the emergency department with prescriptions for an anticoagulant and one patient had a contraindication to initiating anticoagulation in the emergency department. There were no major bleeding episodes. CONCLUSION Few eligible patients were prescribed anticoagulation and the 90-day stroke rate was high. Physicians should become familiar with the CAEP Acute AF Best Practices Checklist AF which offers guidance on anticoagulation prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saghar Niaz
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Chris Kirwan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Natasha Clayton
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Mathew Mercuri
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Kerstin de Wit
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. .,Department of Emergency Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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19
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Evaluación del tratamiento de la fibrilación auricular valvular y no valvular y su relación con eventos adversos en pacientes hospitalizados en el servicio de urgencias de un hospital de tercer nivel. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE CARDIOLOGÍA 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rccar.2019.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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20
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Hong KL, Babiolakis C, Zile B, Bullen M, Haseeb S, Halperin F, Hohl CM, Magee K, Sandhu RK, Tian SY, Kennedy A, Lobban T, Mariano Z, Dorian P, Angaran P, Evans M, Leong-Sit P, Glover BM. Canada-wide mixed methods analysis evaluating the reasons for inappropriate emergency department presentation in patients with a history of atrial fibrillation: the multicentre AF-ED trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e033482. [PMID: 32303514 PMCID: PMC7201301 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this study was to ascertain the reasons for emergency department (ED) attendance among patients with a history of atrial fibrillation (AF). DESIGN Appropriate ED attendance was defined by the requirement for an electrical or chemical cardioversion and/or an attendance resulting in hospitalisation or administration of intravenous medications for ventricular rate control. Quantitative and qualitative responses were recorded and analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis, respectively. Random effects logistic regression was performed to estimate the OR of inappropriate ED attendance based on clinically relevant patient characteristics. PARTICIPANTS Participants ≥18 years with a documented history of AF were approached in one of eight centres partaking in the study across Canada (Ontario, Nova Scotia, Alberta and British Columbia). RESULTS Of the 356 patients enrolled (67±13, 45% female), the majority (271/356, 76%) had inappropriate reasons for presentation and did not require urgent ED treatment. Approximately 50% of patients(172/356, 48%) were driven to the ED due to symptoms, while the remainder presented on the basis of general fear or anxiety (67/356, 19%) or prior medical advice (117/356, 33%). Random effects logistic regression analysis showed that patients with a history of congestive heart failure were significantly more likely to seek urgent care for appropriate reasons (p=0.03). Likewise, symptom-related concerns for ED presentation were significantly less likely to result in inappropriate visitation (p=0.02). When patients were surveyed on alternatives to ED care, the highest proportion of responses among both groups was in favour of specialised rapid assessment outpatient clinics (186/356, 52%). Qualitative content analysis confirmed these results. CONCLUSIONS Improved education focused on symptom management and alleviating disease-related anxiety as well as the institution of rapid access arrhythmias clinics may reduce the need for unnecessary healthcare utilisation in the ED and subsequent hospitalisation. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03127085.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Lauren Hong
- Department of Cardiology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Brigita Zile
- Department of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Milena Bullen
- Department of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sohaib Haseeb
- Department of Cardiology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frank Halperin
- Department of Cardiology, Interior Health Authority, Kelowna, Province of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Corinne M Hohl
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kirk Magee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Province of Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Roopinder K Sandhu
- Department of Cardiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Western Canada, Canada
| | - Simon Yu Tian
- Department of Cardiology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashley Kennedy
- Wilkes Honors College, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida, USA
| | - Trudie Lobban
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zana Mariano
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul Dorian
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul Angaran
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marilyn Evans
- Division of Cardiology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Leong-Sit
- Division of Cardiology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benedict M Glover
- Department of Cardiology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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21
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22
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Botto GL, Tortora G. Is delayed cardioversion the better approach in recent-onset atrial fibrillation? Yes. Intern Emerg Med 2020; 15:1-4. [PMID: 31834587 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-019-02225-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained arrhythmia encountered in primary care practice and represents a significant burden on the health care system with a higher than expected hospitalization rate from the emergency department. The first goal of therapy is to assess the patient's symptoms and hemodynamic status. There are multiple acute management strategies for atrial fibrillation including heart rate control, immediate direct-current cardioversion, or pharmacologic cardioversion. Given the variety of approaches to acute atrial fibrillation, it is often difficult to consistently provide cost-effectiveness care. The likelihood of spontaneous conversion of acute atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm is reported to be really high. Although active cardioversion of recent-onset atrial fibrillation is generally considered to be safe, the question arises of whether the strategy of immediate treatment for a condition that is likely to resolve spontaneously is acceptable for hemodynamically stable patients. Based on published data, non-managed acute treatment of atrial fibrillation appears to be cost-saving. The observation of a patient with recent-onset atrial fibrillation in a dedicated unit within the emergency department reduces the need for acute cardioversion in almost two-thirds of the patients, and reduces the median length of stay, without negatively affecting long-term outcome, thus reducing the related health care costs. However, to let these results broadly applicable, defined treatment algorithms and access to prompt follow-up are needed, which may not be practical in all settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Luca Botto
- Department of Electrophysiology and Clinical Arrhythmology, ASST Rhodense, Rho and Garbagnate M.se Hospitals, C.so Europa 250, Rho, 20017, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Tortora
- Department of Electrophysiology and Clinical Arrhythmology, ASST Rhodense, Rho and Garbagnate M.se Hospitals, C.so Europa 250, Rho, 20017, Milan, Italy
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23
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Rush KL, Burton L, Ollivier R, Wilson R, Loewen P, Janke R, Schaab K, Lukey A, Galloway C. Transitions in Atrial Fibrillation Care: A Systematic Review. Heart Lung Circ 2019; 29:1000-1014. [PMID: 32094081 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2019.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) commonly transition between care settings and providers. These transitions are often points in the health care system where errors and clinical deterioration can occur. Anticoagulation interruption or discontinuation and sub-optimal follow-up post-emergency department (ED) discharge are considered major transitional issues. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to synthesise the evidence examining the impact of transitional care interventions on patient, provider, and health care utilisation outcomes. METHODS This systematic mixed studies review examined citations from four databases Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL) using relevant search terms. Fourteen (14) moderate to high quality articles were selected. RESULTS The available evidence reporting impacts of transitional interventions on health care utilisation, provider, and patient outcomes in AF patients is mixed and of variable quality. The stronger evidence revealed improvements in patient outcomes including knowledge, quality of life, and medication adherence and increased provider anticoagulant prescriptions resulting from transitional interventions. Hospital admissions and ED visits were not significantly affected by any interventions. CONCLUSIONS Apps and educational toolkits improved patient knowledge. Pathways increased patient quality of life and provider prescription rates. There is a need for more research to determine the AF transition interventions which maximise patient, provider and health care outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy L Rush
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada.
| | - Lindsay Burton
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Rachel Ollivier
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Ryan Wilson
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Peter Loewen
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Robert Janke
- Library, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Kira Schaab
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Alexandra Lukey
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Camille Galloway
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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24
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Interventions to Improve Emergency Department-Related Transitions in Care for Adult Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter. J Emerg Med 2019; 57:501-516. [PMID: 31543438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients presenting to emergency departments (EDs) with acute atrial fibrillation or flutter undergo numerous transitions in care (TiC), including changes in their provider, level of care, and location. During transitions, gaps in communications and care may lead to poor outcomes. OBJECTIVE We sought to examine the effectiveness of ED-based interventions to improve length of stay, return to normal sinus rhythm, and hospitalization, among other critical patient TiC outcomes. METHODS Comprehensive searches of electronic databases and the gray literature were conducted. Two independent reviewers completed study selection, quality, and data extraction. Relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model, where appropriate. RESULTS From 823 citations, 11 studies were included. Interventions consisted of within-ED clinical pathways (n = 6) and specialized observation units (n = 2) and post-ED structured patient education and referrals (n = 3). Three of five studies assessing hospital length of stay reported a significant decrease associated with TiC interventions. Patients undergoing within-ED interventions were also more likely to receive electrical cardioversion. Two of 3 clinical pathways reporting hospitalization proportions showed significant decreases associated with TiC interventions (RR = 0.63 [95% CI 0.42-0.92] and RR = 0.20 [95% CI 0.12-0.32]), as did 1 observation unit (RR = 0.54 [95% CI 0.36-0.80]). No significant differences in mortality, complications, or relapse were found between groupings among the studies. CONCLUSIONS There is low to moderate quality evidence suggesting that within-ED TiC interventions may reduce hospital length of stay and decrease hospitalizations. Additional high-quality comparative effectiveness studies, however, are warranted.
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Ptaszek LM, Baugh CW, Lubitz SA, Ruskin JN, Ha G, Forsch M, DeOliveira SA, Baig S, Heist EK, Wasfy JH, Brown DF, Biddinger PD, Raja AS, Scirica B, White BA, Mansour M. Impact of a Multidisciplinary Treatment Pathway for Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department on Hospital Admissions and Length of Stay: Results of a Multi-Center Study. J Am Heart Assoc 2019; 8:e012656. [PMID: 31510841 PMCID: PMC6818017 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.012656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Variability in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the emergency department (ED) leads to avoidable hospital admissions and prolonged length of stay (LOS). In a retrospective single‐center study, a multidisciplinary AF treatment pathway was associated with a reduced hospital admission rate and reduced LOS. To assess the applicability of the AF pathway across institutions, we conducted a 2‐center study. Methods and Results We performed a prospective, 2‐stage study at 2 tertiary care hospitals. During the first stage, AF patients in the ED received routine care. During the second stage, AF patients received care according to the AF pathway. The primary study outcome was hospital admission rate. Secondary outcomes included ED LOS and inpatient LOS. We enrolled 104 consecutive patients in each stage. Patients treated using the AF pathway were admitted to the hospital less frequently than patients who received routine care (15% versus 55%; P<0.001). For admitted patients, average hospital LOS was shorter in the AF pathway cohort than in the routine care cohort (64 versus 105 hours, respectively; P=0.01). There was no significant difference in the average ED LOS between AF pathway and routine care cohorts (14 versus 12 hours, respectively; P=0.32). Conclusions In this prospective 2‐stage, 2‐center study, utilization of a multidisciplinary AF treatment pathway resulted in a 3.7‐fold reduction in admission rate and a 1.6‐fold reduction in average hospital LOS for admitted patients. Utilization of the AF pathway was not associated with a significant change in ED LOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon M Ptaszek
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | | | - Steven A Lubitz
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Jeremy N Ruskin
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Grace Ha
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Margaux Forsch
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | | | - Samia Baig
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - E Kevin Heist
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Jason H Wasfy
- Cardiology Division Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - David F Brown
- Department of Emergency Medicine Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Paul D Biddinger
- Department of Emergency Medicine Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Ali S Raja
- Department of Emergency Medicine Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Benjamin Scirica
- Heart and Vascular Center Brigham and Women's Hospital Boston MA
| | - Benjamin A White
- Department of Emergency Medicine Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Moussa Mansour
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff S Healey
- From the Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - William F McIntyre
- From the Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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27
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Parkash R, Magee K, McMullen M, Clory M, D’Astous M, Robichaud M, Andolfatto G, Read B, Wang J, Thabane L, Atzema C, Dorian P, Kaczorowski J, Banner D, Nieuwlaat R, Ivers N, Huynh T, Curran J, Graham I, Connolly S, Healey J. The Canadian Community Utilization of Stroke Prevention Study in Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department (C-CUSP ED). Ann Emerg Med 2019; 73:382-392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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28
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Baugh CW, Clark CL, Wilson JW, Stiell IG, Kocheril AG, Luck KK, Myers TD, Pollack CV, Roumpf SK, Tomassoni GF, Williams JM, Patel BB, Wu F, Pines JM. Creation and Implementation of an Outpatient Pathway for Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department Setting: Results of an Expert Panel. Acad Emerg Med 2018. [PMID: 29524340 DOI: 10.1111/acem.13410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation and flutter (AF) is a common condition among emergency department (ED) patients in the United States. Traditionally, ED care for primary complaints related to AF focus on rate control, and patients are often admitted to an inpatient setting for further care. Inpatient care may include further telemetry monitoring and diagnostic testing, rhythm control, a search for identification of AF etiology, and stroke prophylaxis. However, many patients are eligible for safe and effective outpatient management pathways. They are widely used in Canada and other countries but less widely adopted in the United States. In this project, we convened an expert panel to create a practical framework for the process of creating, implementing, and maintaining an outpatient AF pathway for emergency physicians to assess and treat AF patients, safely reduce hospitalization rates, ensure appropriate stroke prophylaxis, and effectively transition patients to longitudinal outpatient treatment settings from the ED and/or observation unit. To support local pathway creation, the panel also reached agreement on a protocol development plan, a sample pathway, consensus recommendations for pathway components, sample pathway metrics, and a structured literature review framework using a modified Delphi technique by a technical expert panel of emergency medicine, cardiology, and other stakeholder groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carol L. Clark
- Department of Emergency Medicine Beaumont Health System Royal Oak MI
| | - Jason W. Wilson
- Department of Emergency Medicine Tampa General Hospital Tampa FL
| | - Ian G. Stiell
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Ottawa Ottawa Hospital Research Institute Ottawa OntarioCanada
| | - Abraham G. Kocheril
- Department of Cardiology Presence Medical Group and University of Illinois Urbana IL
| | | | - Troy D. Myers
- Department of Emergency Medicine CarolinaEast Medical Center New Bern NC
| | - Charles V. Pollack
- Department of Emergency Medicine Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia PA
| | - Steven K. Roumpf
- Department of Emergency Medicine Indiana University Health IndianapolisIN
| | | | | | - Brian B. Patel
- Department of Emergency Medicine Sturdy Memorial Hospital Attleboro MA
| | - Fred Wu
- Department of Emergency Medicine UCSF Fresno Fresno CA
| | - Jesse M. Pines
- Department of Emergency Medicine George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences Washington DC
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30
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Vinson DR, Warton EM, Mark DG, Ballard DW, Reed ME, Chettipally UK, Singh N, Bouvet SZ, Kea B, Ramos PC, Glaser DS, Go AS. Thromboprophylaxis for Patients with High-risk Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter Discharged from the Emergency Department. West J Emerg Med 2018; 19:346-360. [PMID: 29560065 PMCID: PMC5851510 DOI: 10.5811/westjem.2017.9.35671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Many patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter (AF/FL) who are high risk for ischemic stroke are not receiving evidence-based thromboprophylaxis. We examined anticoagulant prescribing within 30 days of receiving dysrhythmia care for non-valvular AF/FL in the emergency department (ED). Methods This prospective study included non-anticoagulated adults at high risk for ischemic stroke (ATRIA score ≥7) who received emergency AF/FL care and were discharged home from seven community EDs between May 2011 and August 2012. We characterized oral anticoagulant prescribing patterns and identified predictors of receiving anticoagulants within 30 days of the index ED visit. We also describe documented reasons for withholding anticoagulation. Results Of 312 eligible patients, 128 (41.0%) were prescribed anticoagulation at ED discharge or within 30 days. Independent predictors of anticoagulation included age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.89 per year, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.82–0.96); ED cardiology consultation (aOR 1.89, 95% CI [1.10–3.23]); and failure of sinus restoration by time of ED discharge (aOR 2.65, 95% CI [1.35–5.21]). Reasons for withholding anticoagulation at ED discharge were documented in 139 of 227 cases (61.2%), the most common of which were deferring the shared decision-making process to the patient’s outpatient provider, perceived bleeding risk, patient refusal, and restoration of sinus rhythm. Conclusion Approximately 40% of non-anticoagulated AF/FL patients at high risk for stroke who presented for emergency dysrhythmia care were prescribed anticoagulation within 30 days. Physicians were less likely to anticoagulate older patients and those with ED sinus restoration. Opportunities exist to improve rates of thromboprophylaxis in this high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Vinson
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente, Division of Research, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente Sacramento Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Sacramento, California
| | | | - Dustin G Mark
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente, Division of Research, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Oakland, California
| | - Dustin W Ballard
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente, Division of Research, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, San Rafael, California
| | - Mary E Reed
- Kaiser Permanente, Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Uli K Chettipally
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, San Francisco, California
| | - Nimmie Singh
- Mercy Redding Family Practice Residency Program, Redding, California
| | - Sean Z Bouvet
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Walnut Creek, California
| | - Bory Kea
- Oregon Health and Science University, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland, Oregon
| | - Patricia C Ramos
- Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center, Northwest Permanente Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland, Oregon
| | - David S Glaser
- Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth St. Joseph Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - Alan S Go
- The Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California.,Kaiser Permanente, Division of Research, Oakland, California.,University of California, San Francisco, Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Medicine, San Francisco, California.,Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Health Research and Policy, Palo Alto, California
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