Question

A 64-year-old with atrial fibrillation of 60 hours' duration is hemodynamically stable. You plan electrical cardioversion. What is the safest anticoagulation approach?

Accepted Answer

Anticoagulate for ≥3 weeks pre- and 4 weeks post-cardioversion

Answer

Proceed now without anticoagulation

Answer

Start aspirin then cardiovert

Answer

Give single therapeutic LMWH dose and cardiovert; no post-anticoagulation

Answer

Cardiovert now if CHADS₂ ≤1, no anticoagulation

Practice question

A 64-year-old with atrial fibrillation of 60 hours' duration is hemodynamically stable. You plan electrical cardioversion. What is the safest anticoagulation approach?