This article is the third instalment of the British Journal of Cardiac Nursing’s series on cardiac genetic concepts. Inherited arrhythmias are a group of conditions that affect the cardiac electrical system, typically resulting from changes in the way sodium, potassium or calcium ions are handled in the cell. Inherited arrhythmias can cause sudden cardiac death, especially in people who are undiagnosed and untreated. Most inherited arrhythmias are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. This article provides an overview of the aetiology, diagnosis, risk-management and treatment of patients with inherited arrhythmias at different ages and stages of life. The focus will be on inherited arrhythmias, specifically long QT, Brugada and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. There will be a brief mention of idiopathic ventricular fibrillation and sudden arrhythmic death syndrome.

Advances in techniques and reduced costs have led to increased use of genetics in cardiovascular care and, in particular, the field of inherited cardiac conditions. While there are specialist services for the diagnosis and management of these conditions, patients and family members are seen across cardiovascular services. Therefore, all nurses need to be aware of the various aspects of care required by these patients and have confidence in engaging in discussions around their genetic healthcare needs. This article is the first in a series about genetics. It provides information about basic genetic concepts relating to inherited cardiac conditions, the process and uses of genetic testing, the potential psychosocial impact and the key role of the nurse in genetic healthcare for patients and their families.

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