AF Patient Management 3

Question 1

A patient with persistent AF has failed two antiarrhythmic drugs. What is the next recommended intervention according to current guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Catheter ablation targeting pulmonary vein isolation

Answer

Catheter ablation with pulmonary vein isolation is recommended when AF persists despite at least one antiarrhythmic drug failure.

Question 2

Which of the following is the most common identifiable trigger of AF?

Accepted Answer

Hypertension

Answer

Hypertension is the most prevalent modifiable risk factor and trigger for AF in the general population.

Question 3

A 65-year-old patient with AF and hypertension asks about stopping anticoagulation because they feel fine. What is the best response?

Accepted Answer

Explain that AF-related strokes can occur without symptoms and anticoagulation must continue

Answer

AF can be asymptomatic, yet still confers significant stroke risk; guidelines do not support stopping anticoagulation based on symptom status.

Question 4

Which rate control target is generally recommended for most stable AF patients?

Accepted Answer

Resting HR < 110 bpm

Answer

The RACE II trial demonstrated that a lenient rate control target of resting HR < 110 bpm is acceptable and not inferior to strict control in stable patients.

Question 5

What is the primary mechanism by which pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) treats AF?

Accepted Answer

Elimination of ectopic triggers that initiate AF from the pulmonary veins

Answer

PVI electrically disconnects pulmonary veins — the predominant source of AF-initiating ectopic beats — from the left atrium.

(AF) Atrial Fibrillation Certification Practice Test

(AF) Atrial Fibrillation Certification Practice Test

AF Patient Management 3