Atrial flutter Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is atrial flutter?
A rhythm in which an atrial impulse fires at a rate too rapid for the ventricles to keep up.
What are the atrial complexes in atrial flutter called?
Flutter waves or F waves.
Describe the shape of F waves in atrial flutter.
They have a distinctive saw tooth shape resembling a picket fence.
What happens to F waves in atrial flutter regarding the AV node?
One or more of the F waves is blocked by the AV node, generating several flutter waves before each QRS complex.
What is the usual rhythm characteristic of atrial flutter?
The rhythm is usually regular, with a constant (usually 2:1) conduction.
How can the rhythm of atrial flutter become irregular?
If the conduction of atrial impulses to the ventricles varies.
What is the maximum duration of a QRS complex in atrial flutter?
0.11 seconds (110 milliseconds) or less.
List some conditions associated with atrial flutter.
- Hypoxia
- Pneumonia
- Chronic lung disease
- Endocrine disorders
- Ischemic heart disease
- Valvular heart disease
- Other conditions
What can atrial flutter degenerate into?
Atrial fibrillation (AF).
Is it common for atrial flutter and AF to coexist in the same patient?
Yes.
Why are patients with atrial flutter often prescribed anticoagulant medications?
Because they are thought to have the same risk of thromboembolism as patients with AF.
What is considered an irregular tachycardia in atrial flutter?
Atrial flutter accompanied by a rapid ventricular response.
What medication may be administered if a patient with atrial flutter is stable but symptomatic?
A beta-blocker or calcium channel blocker.
What may be necessary if a patient with atrial flutter is unstable?
Synchronized cardioversion.
Is prehospital treatment of atrial flutter common in stable patients?
No, it is uncommon.
