Percutaneous LAA closure is a promising alternative for stroke prevention in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation patients unable to tolerate lifelong anticoagulation, requiring specialized nursing knowledge for optimal care.
Nurse education on LAA closure supports periprocedural care for anticoagulation-intolerant AF patients; leaves open questions on long-term outcomes versus anticoagulation.
Atrial fibrillation is an important risk factor for thromboembolic stroke and it significantly increases the risk of stroke. The left atrial appendage (LAA) is the most common site of thrombus formation in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, and the recent applications of percutaneous LAA closure devices offer a promising alternative for patients who are unable to tolerate lifelong anticoagulation. Critical care nurses who understand the procedures and are familiar with the various devices used for LAA closure will be well prepared to provide optimum care and appropriate education for these patients.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Nair et al. (2015) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: