Arrhythmias

A heart arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat or rhythm. These rhythm problems occur when electrical signals that coordinate the heartbeat don’t function properly, frequently with aberrant electrical conduction originating above or within the ventricles of the heart with a high disease burden and negative impact on the quality of life for those with the disease.

Heart arrhythmias and their complications cause a great strain on healthcare costs. Studies show that patients with arrhythmias cost Medicare an estimated $20,000 more per person per year than those who do not have arrhythmias. Nurses are often the first point of contact and are poised to improve patient outcomes by preventing, treating, and monitoring arrhythmias.