Atrial fibrillation (AF) can lead to the formation of a blood clot in the left atrial appendage of the heart, which may embolize to the brain and cause an ischemic stroke. Anticoagulation with a Vitamin K antagonist or direct oral anticoagulant reduces stroke risk by 60% to 80%! Understanding atrial fibrillation and stroke prevention is critical, especially in senior care.

“Inappropriate aspirin use in AF is quite common,” said Dr. Darae Ko, MD, MSc, assistant scientist II at the Hinda and Marcus Institute for Aging Research. “Using aspirin as an alternative to oral anticoagulant in patients with AF will not prevent AF-related stroke and will increase bleeding risk.”

The 2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of AF recommends early rhythm control with antiarrhythmic drugs or catheter ablation to restore and maintain sinus rhythm. “As the population ages, the number of patients with AF and the associated complexity of managing these patients are expected to increase,” said Dr. Ko. “Lifestyle and risk factor modification, combined with prophylaxis and rhythm control in appropriate patients, are critically important to improve quality of life and health outcomes in millions of patients with AF.”

The primary goal of treating AF is to prevent issues related to blood clots, like strokes. While anticoagulation therapy is effective, it isn’t without risks. As more residents are diagnosed with AF, our responsibility to monitor their care increases. Ensure your staff are trained to recognize adverse reactions to anticoagulation therapy and the signs and symptoms of stroke. This awareness may be the key to preventing negative outcomes.

Stay well and stay informed!

For more information on atrial fibrillation and stroke prevention:

newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2024/05/10/be-fast-knowing-the-signs-of-a-stroke

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