Prophylaxis for postoperative atrial fibrillation: A quality initiative study exploring adherence to NICE guidance in a UK tertiary cardiothoracic intensive care unit.

Our study identified a significant proportion of patients not being offered prophylactic rate control prior to cardiac surgery. It is clear that poor patient outcomes are associated with the development of POAF and therefore there is an important need to ensure preventative measures are implemented in guidance relating to the management of these patients. Our results also suggest that tight management of clinical and physiological risk factors prior and during cardiac surgery may improve outcomes in this group of patients and could be considered in future enhanced recovery after cardiac surgery protocols.