SN to instruct patient/caregiver regarding self-management of atrial fibrillation, is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can increase your risk of strokes, heart failure and other heart-related complications, to prevent atrial fibrillation, it's important to live a heart-healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk of heart disease. A healthy lifestyle may include:eating a heart-healthy diet, increasing your physical activity, avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting or avoiding caffeine and alcohol, reducing stress, as intense stress and anger can cause heart rhythm problems, using over-the-counter medications with caution, as some cold and cough medications contain stimulants that may trigger a rapid heartbeat. Patient verbalized.