Question

The nurse is caring for a patient who has atrial fibrillation. Sequelae that place the patient at greater risk for mortality/morbidity include which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

a. Stroke
b. Ashman beats
c. Pulmonary emboli
d. Prolonged PR interval
e. Decreased cardiac output

Answer 1

Atrial fibrillation can have serious consequences, including stroke, pulmonary embolism, and decreased cardiac output.

Step-by-step explanation:

Atrial fibrillation is a condition in which the heart beats in a wild, uncontrolled manner, leading to ineffective pumping.

Sequelae that place the patient at greater risk for mortality/morbidity include:

• Stroke: Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots forming in the heart and traveling to the brain, causing a stroke.
• Pulmonary embolism: A blood clot can break off from the heart and travel to the lungs, blocking the pulmonary artery and resulting in a pulmonary embolism.
• Decreased cardiac output: Atrial fibrillation can lead to decreased pumping efficiency of the heart, resulting in reduced cardiac output.