This review summarizes the NSF and NICE guidelines for the individualized case management of atrial fibrillation to improve quality of life and cost-effectiveness.
Effective AF management may improve QoL and reduce costs; leaves open optimal implementation of guideline-directed care.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, increasing mortality and impairing quality of life (Khaykin, 2007). The publication of chapter 8 of the National Service Framework for Coronary Heart Disease (DH, 2005), and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines (NICE, 2006) have highlighted the importance of individualized case management in the treatment of AF. This article will summarize recommendations in the management of AF in relation to the NSF and NICE guidelines and assess the implications for practice. The associated symptoms, risk factors and classification of each type of AF will be defined. Different investigations will be discussed in relation to symptoms of AF, highlighting treatment options specific to each presentation. Consistent and effective management of AF can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life and be cost-effective for health care providers.
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Sarah Chalkley (2008) studied this question.
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