Examination of A 40-Year-Old Woman With Palpitations course for GPs

This session uses a video clip to demonstrate how to perform a focused, problem-based physical examination on a patient presenting with palpitations in primary care.

This session was reviewed by Khyati Bakhai and last updated in September 2018.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Assess and demonstrate an appropriate physical examination in a patient presenting with palpitations
• Carry out a focused history attempting to elicit the potential diagnosis whilst trying to exclude more serious pathology
• Provide an appropriate management plan in a primary care setting
• Recognise when to refer to secondary or other specialist services

Palpitations account for 30-40% of referrals to cardiology clinics and, in most cases, there is no significant organic pathology. However, in some cases they can be a sign of serious and potentially serious disease; it is important to be able to assess whether further investigation or referral to cardiology is necessary.Common causes include sinus tachycardia and ventricular ectopic beats, but more serious causes include atrial fibrillation and ventricular or superventricular tachycardias.