Background: Studies have shown that P-wave dispersion (PWD) and left atrial volume index (LAVi) are predictors of cardiovascular events (CE).

ABSTRACT:Audience: The audience for this classic team-based learning (cTBL) session is emergency medicine residents, faculty, and students; although this topic is applicable to internal medicine and family medicine residents. Introduction:A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a mechanical circulatory support device that can be placed in critically-ill patients who have poor left ventricular function. After LVAD implantation, patients have improved quality of life.1 The number of LVAD patients worldwide continues to rise. Left-ventricular assist device patients may present to the emergency department (ED) with severe, life-threatening conditions. It is essential that emergency physicians have a good understanding of LVADs and their complications.