Cancellations and Transfers Related to New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation: An Analysis of Survey and Patient Safety Reporting Data From Ambulatory Surgical Facilities

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a cardiac arrhythmia characterized by an irregular rhythm and often rapid heart rate. People with AF can be symptomatic or asymptomatic and are at increased risk for stroke. In this study, we used two data sources—a survey and Pennsylvania Patient Safety Reporting System (PA-PSRS) reports—to examine new-onset AF in Pennsylvania ambulatory surgical facilities (ASFs). The survey was developed and conducted to learn more about new-onset AF– related cancellations and transfers in Pennsylvania ASFs and to update the Patient Safety Authority ASF Cancellation and Transfer Tracking Tool. The survey response rate was 53.1%, with 50.9% of respondents indicating new-onset AF–related cancellations in the last year. A five-year review of PA-PSRS data revealed an increase in the number of new-onset AF–related cancellation and transfer events that occurred in the last two years. In 70.9% of the reports, patients were 65 years of age and older. A paucity of research on this patient safety issue led us to identify areas for future research.