A Retrospective Cohort Study Examines the Long-Term Risk of Ischemic

question 31

Multiple Choice

A retrospective cohort study examines the long-term risk of ischemic stroke in patients with perioperative atrial fibrillation following cardiac and noncardiac surgery.  The following data are reported: Which of the following best describes the study results?

• A)Cardiac surgery carries a lower risk of atrial fibrillation than noncardiac surgery
• B)Patients with perioperative atrial fibrillation following cardiac surgery should not receive anticoagulation
• C)Perioperative atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke with either type of surgery
• D)Perioperative atrial fibrillation is not predictive of stroke in patients undergoing cardiac surgery
• E)The risk of stroke after noncardiac surgery is significantly higher compared to that after cardiac surgery

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Definitions:

Non-programmed Decision Making

Non-programmed decision making involves tackling novel, unstructured problems requiring unique solutions, often in high-stakes or uncertain situations.

Well-structured Problems

Pertains to problems that have clearly defined parameters and solutions, often with known methods for solving them.

Routine Decision

Choices or judgments made during regular, day-to-day activities that are often repetitive and require minimal thought.

Ill-structured Problem

A problem that lacks a clear path to a solution, often requiring creative or critical thinking for resolution.