Stroke and Atrial Fibrillation

Summary

This three-hour nursing CE course offers a comprehensive exploration of atrial fibrillation (A-Fib) and stroke management. Through focused modules, participants will delve into the pathophysiology, risk factors, and CHADs stroke risk scoring system. Engaging case studies provide practical application, while discussions on oral anticoagulants enhance treatment understanding. Nurses will leave equipped with invaluable insights to optimize patient care in these critical areas.

Course Overview

This 3-hour nursing CE course offers an in-depth examination of key aspects surrounding the management of atrial fibrillation (A-Fib) and stroke. In the initial segment, participants will delve into the fundamental pathophysiology underlying both conditions, gaining a comprehensive understanding of their mechanisms and interrelationships. Subsequently, the course navigates through a thorough exploration of the various risk factors contributing to the onset and progression of A-Fib and stroke, delineating between modifiable and non-modifiable factors and identifying at-risk patient populations.

Building upon this foundation, the curriculum shifts focus to the practical application of the CHADs stroke risk scoring system, empowering nurses to effectively evaluate stroke risk in A-Fib patients and strategize tailored prevention plans. Moving forward, case study analyses provide a dynamic platform for participants to synthesize their knowledge and apply it to real-world scenarios. Through interactive discussions, attendees will refine their analytical skills, assess CHADs scores, and craft individualized management approaches for A-Fib and stroke patients.

Furthermore, the course delves into the complexities of oral anticoagulants, comparing and contrasting their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and monitoring requirements. Participants will explore the nuances of anticoagulation therapy and gain insights into optimizing treatment strategies for patients with A-Fib and stroke. Ultimately, nurses will emerge equipped with practical insights and resources to enhance their clinical practice, providing optimal care for patients affected by A-Fib and stroke.

Author:  NIHE Faculty

CE Hours:  3

Course Created on:  2/26/24   Course Expires on:  2/26/27

Target Audience:  

• Registered Nurses (RN)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN/LVN)

Completion Requirements:

1. Enrollment in the course by the learner
2. Read and learn all course materials
3. Complete the course evaluation
4. Attest and testify learning of the course materials

Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest and Relevant Financial Relationships

Neither National Institute for Healthcare Education nor any authors, planners, content experts, or contributors have any relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Accreditation Statement:  

National Institute for Healthcare Education, the parent company of TopNurseCE.com, is a CA Board of Registered Nursing CE Provider #13886. In this course, we will discuss nursing for Stroke and Atrial Fibrillation.  It will take the average learner 3 hours to complete. 

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this course is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for the independent medical judgment of a healthcare provider in considering diagnosis and treatment options for a particular patient’s medical condition. Copyright © 2024: All rights reserved. No part of the materials may be reproduced without the express written consent of TopNurseCE.com Professional Educational Institution. The content of this course is intended to provide general information on the topics covered. This information has been prepared by experts with practical experience in the subject matter. This should not be considered medical, legal or professional advice. TopNurseCE.com recommends that individuals contact a licensed medical, legal or professional provider in their respective state. While TopNurseCE.com uses reasonable efforts to ensure that all content provided in this course is accurate and current at the time of publication, TopNurseCE.com makes no representations as to its applicability to your particular situation. No guarantees are given and reliance on them does not constitute liability. Material. Testimonials are collected from feedback surveys submitted by customers. The model presented is for representation purposes and is not intended for actual customers.

Course Outline

Module 1  Introduction to Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib) and Stroke 

1. Understanding the Impact of A-Fib and Stroke on Patient Health 

1. Role of Nursing Assessment in A-Fib and Stroke Management

Module 2  Understanding the Pathophysiology of A-Fib and Stroke 

1. Defining A-Fib: Underlying Mechanisms 
2. Exploring Stroke Pathophysiology: Mechanisms and Variations 
3. Explaining the Interconnection Between A-Fib and Stroke I

Module 3  Identifying Risk Factors Associated with A-Fib and Stroke 

1. Modifiable Contributors to A-Fib and Stroke Development 
2. Non-Modifiable Factors Influencing A-Fib and Stroke Risk 
3. Recognizing At-Risk Patient Populations 

Module 4  Applying CHADs Stroke Risk Scoring System in A-Fib Management 

A. Deconstructing the CHADs Score Components 

B. Integrating CHADs Score in Clinical Decision-Making 

C. Understanding the Implications for Tailored Stroke Prevention Plans 

Module 5  Case Study Analysis: A-Fib and Stroke Management 

1. Presenting a Clinical Scenario 
2. Evaluating CHADs Score and Risk Assessment 
3. Crafting Individualized Treatment Approaches 

Module 6  Exploring Oral Anticoagulants in A-Fib and Stroke Care 

1. Overview of Anticoagulation Therapy 
2. Comparing Oral Anticoagulant Options: Warfarin vs. DOACs 
3. Monitoring and Adapting Anticoagulant Treatment Strategies 
4. Case Studies

Module 7  Conclusion and Clinical Applications 

1. Recapitulating Key Insights 
2. Clinical Applications

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying atrial fibrillation (A-Fib) and stroke, including the interrelationship between these conditions.
2. Identify modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors associated with the development of A-Fib and stroke, and recognize populations at high risk for these conditions.
3. Explain the components of the CHADs stroke risk scoring system and its application in clinical practice for assessing stroke risk in patients with A-Fib.
4. Analyze case studies involving patients with A-Fib and stroke to evaluate CHADs scores, assess stroke risk, and develop individualized management plans.
5. Compare and contrast different oral anticoagulants, including warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), in terms of their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and monitoring requirements.
6. Reflect on the key concepts covered in the course, including the role of nurses in managing patients with A-Fib and stroke, and identify resources for further learning and professional development in this area.