Rapid Atrial Fibrillation Treatment 50% of patients with new AF spontaneously convert within 48 hours AF > 48 hours --> chances of spontaneous conversion decreases and chance of embolization increases significantly Most EM texts and lecturers still recommend diltiazem as first line medication for early rate control Patients in whom beta blockers are preferred: AMI, thyrotoxicosis, or if patient is already on BBs NEVER combine IV beta blockers and IV calcium channel blockers --> synergistic effect will cause hemodynamic compromise; start with one type of medication and stay with it
