The understanding and management of stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation in Northern British Columbia

Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects one percent of the global population, and eight percent of Canadians over the age of sixty-five years. AF is a common predicting factor for ischemic stroke and can cause a five-hundred percent increase in stroke risk. This study aimed to fill a gap in the current literature by investigating a demographic that have not been studied and explored how healthcare providers can improve uptake of preventative measures against stroke. This study investigates the understanding and management of stroke risk in patients with AF living in northern British Columbia through the use of in-depth interviews, using a qualitative-descriptive design. Data was analyzed thematically using NVIVO 11 into three separate themes: Living with AF; Stroke Prevention and Decision-making; and Navigation. Results from this research highlight the importance of people diagnosed with AF taking oral anticoagulation and providing education about their increased risk of stroke.