Electronic Clinical Decision Support System (eCDSS) for Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation-related Stroke

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of premature mortality in people with serious mental illness (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder) and dementia. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with fivefold increased risk of stroke also contributing to heart failure and death. Electronic clinical decision support systems (eCDSS) are computer based programs that analyse data within electronic health records (EHRs) and provide prompts to assist health care providers in implementing evidencebased clinical guidelines. Adoption of an eCDSS to address the risk of stroke in people with AF and co-morbid mental illness presents a unique opportunity for research but requires evidence of acceptability and feasibility. This study aims to establish the feasibility and acceptability of an eCDSS (Cogstack@Maudsley) for AF-related stroke prevention in Mental Health of Older Adults inpatient wards. First, we will conduct surveys and interviews with clinicians on inpatient wards to scope experiences of managing atrial fibrillation in secondary mental healthcare settings and attitudes towards use of digital technologies to aid in clinical decision making. A feasibility study will then be run to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of implementing eCDSS on inpatient wards. Finally, participating clinicians will be invited to take part in a survey and interview which will explore their experiences and attitudes towards using the eCDSS.