A patient with atrial fibrillation may commonly experience what complication?

In the case of a patient with atrial fibrillation, the heart's rhythm becomes irregular, which can lead to ineffective contractions of the atria. This inefficiency results in stagnant blood flow in the atrial chamber, particularly in areas like the left atrial appendage. When blood remains stationary, it significantly increases the risk of thrombus formation, or blood clots, due to the potential for coagulation.

These clots can dislodge and travel to other parts of the body, particularly the brain, leading to serious complications such as stroke. Therefore, recognizing that B is the correct answer highlights the importance of monitoring and managing this risk in patients with atrial fibrillation. It illustrates a critical aspect of the condition that goes beyond just the irregular heartbeat itself or fluctuations in heart rate or blood pressure, emphasizing the need for preventive strategies in clinical practice.