Increasing Identification of Stroke Risk in Atrial Fibrillation Patients

Abstract

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is known to be a significant risk factor for ischemic stroke, as well as other thromboembolic events. Patients with (AF) are at increased risk of arterial thromboembolism. The DNP Quality Improvement (QI) project used the screening tool CHA2DS2-VASc to identify AF patients who are at low, moderate, or high risk for embolic disease and stroke at a North Carolina primary health care setting. This project directly impacted outpatient health care with achieving better care quality outcomes for the AF patient population. The nurse practitioner care model, which targets quality initiative care provision to patients with cardiovascular illnesses, provided the theoretical underpinning for this QI project in order to meet the goals of the Institute of Health Improvement Triple Aim. Using CHA2DS2-VASc as a screening tool in this QI project helped to identify risk factors for AF patients. Of the 50 patients with AF screened, 82% were at moderate to high risk for stroke and met eligibility for oral anticoagulation therapy. As a result, the CHAD2DS2-VASc screening tool is incorporated into the electronic health record ensuring adherence and sustainability.