Nursing times
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The current outbreak of avian influenza in South East Asia has resulted in a small number of human deaths. Avian flu can pass from birds to humans, although the number of humans infected is low. The fear is that the avian flu virus could mutate in a human who was also infected with a common flu virus, creating a new strain that could pass from human to human. Nurses, especially those working in travel health, should keep themselves informed of the latest developments.
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Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common arrhythmias encountered in the adult population. It can be an isolated event or a chronic lifelong rhythm disturbance. The common causes of AF and the presenting electrocardiogram characteristics are outlined. The risks to the patient in AF, the role of the nurse, and treatment options are also discussed.