Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management Guide for Nurses

Abstract

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a heterogeneous condition where sufferers often present with a variety of orthostatic and non-orthostatic symptomatology. The condition can result in significant functional limitations and reduced quality of life. Diagnosis is based upon patient history in combination with a simple test such as an Active Stand Test. Treatment is both pharmacologically and non-pharmacologically based, with most interventions demonstrating only modest efficacy. There is an urgent need for further research to enhance understanding of aetiology, diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Nurses are well placed to care for patients presenting with symptoms consistent with POTS, to undertake or recommend testing to facilitate diagnosis and to provide education and support as part of a multidisciplinary team to improve patient outcomes.