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Date of Graduation
12-16-2022
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Department
School of Nursing
Second Advisor
Kimberly Elgin
Third Advisor
Venkat Mangunta
Abstract
Postoperative atrial fibrillation remains one of the most common complications after cardiac surgery despite surgical and medical advances in the field. While generally transient, postoperative atrial fibrillation increases long-term morbidity and mortality, hospital length of stay, and financial obligation. The postoperative heart's unique chemical and physical properties make tactics for preventing and treating postoperative atrial fibrillation differ from classic atrial fibrillation management. This quality improvement project utilizes a care bundle for non-pharmacologic measures and early beta-blockade administration to reduce the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation. Implementation of this care bundle establishes a standard of care, increases clinician knowledge and accountability, and improves compliance with performance metrics while decreasing the overall incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation.
