Pathology
Atrial fibrillation is a common dysrhythmia characterized by disorganized atrial activity without discrete atrial contractions. Extremely rapid impulses bombard the AV node, causing an irregular ventricular response. The heartbeat in atrial fibrillation can range from 100-175 beats per minute (Mayo Clinic, 2015). Atrial fibrillation may occur suddenly and recur, or it may become chronic. It is common in patients with heart failure (Burke, 2016). Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include: increased age, heart disease, hypertension, other chronic conditions, drinking alcohol and/or binge drinking, obesity, and having a family history of atrial fibrillation. Manifestations of atrial fibrillation include irregular pulses