The Rapid Access Atrial Fibrillation Clinic
Atrial fibrillation is when the heart beats with an abnormal rhythm which can result in significant problems including stroke and heart failure.
One of the long-term goals of the clinic is helping patients improve their lifestyle management so as to reduce the likelihood of needing additional or more complex medical treatment. The initiative is being trialled over two years as part of a Safer Care Victoria project and has already generated interest and praise from patients and staff.
Project Lead and ICU nurse Tamara Hayes welcomes referrals to the clinic for patients with new atrial fibrillation or patient who require specialist AF management who have come through the Emergency Department, from GPs or via other hospitals.
At the clinic, patients will be educated about atrial fibrillation, medication compliances and lifestyle choices and will work though a My Heart Care Plan with the cardiologist and Tamara. Follow up appointments, further tests and investigation will be arranged if needed. These tests and investigations will inform the treating team and help tailor an individualised treatment plan to the patient’s specific needs.
“On arrival to the clinic the client has an ECG to determine what rhythm they have,” Tamara said. “We look at the patient’s history and review precipitating risk factors such as sleep apnoea, hyperthyroidism, excessive alcohol consumption, valvular heart disease or coronary heart disease. Patients may also be referred to other allied health services such as cardiac rehabilitation and dietetics.
“Our objective is that patients are seen within 14 days of presentation which is in line with Safer Care Victoria objectives. It’s important the patient understands their diagnosis and goes away from their appointment with a better understanding of their condition.
“We hope that this initiative will help in better patient outcomes and prevent serious health issues such as stroke.”
For further information about the Atrial Fibrillation Clinic contact Tamara Hayes via email [email protected] or phone 5454 8017.