A randomized controlled trial examined patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The study compared a nurse-led lifestyle intervention with routine usual care. The intervention team managed exercise, diet, medication adherence, and psychological support tailored to each patient. Researchers followed participants at baseline, six months, and 12 months to track outcomes.
The nurse-led group showed significant improvements in quality of life measures including physical functioning, vitality, and social functioning compared to the usual-care group. At 12 months, fewer patients in the intervention group experienced a recurrence of atrial fibrillation. The recurrence rate was 12.5 percent in the intervention group versus 26.3 percent in the usual-care group.
Postoperative complications were also reduced in the nurse-led group. The study suggests that nurse-led care models may provide a valuable approach to optimizing postoperative outcomes for patients with atrial fibrillation. This trial offers hope for better recovery and long-term rhythm control through structured lifestyle support.