Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a cardiac conduction disorder that presents with potentially life-threatening consequences. Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome-induced dysrhythmias account for 20% of all supraventricular tachycardias that occur in the general population. Clinical presentations range from no symptoms to a sudden cardiac arrest. The risk of sudden death is always present with WPW syndrome, and it is the motivating force in the evaluation and treatment of this syndrome. Current diagnostic modalities are accurate in identifying patients with WPW syndrome, but lack the sensitivity to predict sudden cardiac death. This article reviews the history of WPW syndrome, as well as its general characteristics, diagnostic criteria, treatment modalities, and nursing implications.