The nurse is caring for a patient with refractory atrial fibrillation who underwent the maze procedure several months ago
The nurse reviews the result of the patient's most recent cardiac imaging, which notes the presence of scarring on the atria. How should the nurse best respond to this finding?
A) Recognize that the procedure was unsuccessful.
B) Recognize this as a therapeutic goal of the procedure.
C) Liaise with the care team in preparation for repeating the maze procedure.
D) Prepare the patient for pacemaker implantation.
Ans: B
Feedback:
The maze procedure is an open heart surgical procedure for refractory atrial fibrillation. Small transmural incisions are made throughout the atria. The resulting formation of scar tissue prevents reentry conduction of the electrical impulse. Consequently, scar formation would constitute a successful procedure. There is no indication for repeating the procedure or implanting a pacemaker.
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