Cardiac Arrhythmias: Analysis, Interpretation & Management

Recognise cardiac arrhythmias and what they mean, and why immediate and effective treatment is essential. Learn how to prevent harm to the patient. Explore different cardiac arrhythmias, and how to perform and interpret them using electrocardiograms. Understand the investigations and strategies used to diagnose and manage cardiac arrhythmias.

This module provides nurse practitioners with the skills they need to recognise cardiac arrhythmias, understand their significance, and take appropriate actions to reduce their harmful effects. You’ll learn about different cardiac arrhythmias and how to undertake analysis and interpretation. You’ll explore a range of common cardiac arrhythmias, the mechanisms, the haemodynamic effects upon patients, investigations and contemporary strategies for the management of cardiac arrhythmias.

This module provides the opportunity to explore and develop the knowledge and skills required to meet the diverse acute and chronic needs of cardiac patients. The knowledge acquired through this module will assist health care professionals to analyse the most appropriate interventions and treatments for managing their clients’ needs. This will enable you to understand why “you are doing what you are doing”. In relating the theory to your practice, you can compare and contrast different perspectives on treatment and management which is imperative for safe and effective clinical practice. This module is suitable for nurses working in areas such as coronary care units, cardiac (medical and surgical) wards, investigational units, catheter labs and critical care areas. However it would also be applicable for practitioners working within A&E, admission assessment units, paramedics and operating department practitioners (ODPs). In addition it is also useful for health professionals working in non-cardiac areas but who want to gain insight into the care and management of patients with cardiac arrhythmias.

The achievement of learning outcomes will be assessed at Level 6 by a 3000 word assignment. This consists of two sections: Part 1 Rhythm strip analysis and interpretation and explanation of symptoms in scenario; Part 2 involves management of patient with cardiac arrhythmia. This is a theory only module.