Where there is a confirmed diagnosis of a new ischaemic stroke / TIA the patient’s cardiac rhythm should be determined.
- An ECG will determine the presence of an abnormal cardiac rhythm such as atrial fibrillation (AF)
- Prolonged cardiac monitoring may be required for some patients
- A patient in sinus rhythm would normally be prescribed antiplatelet drugs
- A patient in AF or paroxysmal AF should be considered for anticoagulant drugs
- Where there is a risk of bleeding a patient in AF or paroxysmal AF may be prescribed antiplatelet drugs
Page last reviewed: 18 Jan 2021
