Atzema CL, et al. - In this study, experts sought to investigate the use of beta-blockers (BB) vs. non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (CCB) in emergency department (ED) patients from 24 sites, and the associated hospital admission rates. Compared to BBs, CCBs were used more frequently for rate-control in this study of 24 EDs, and complications were rare and easily managed using both agents. Variation between hospitals in BB vs. CCB use was predominantly because of hospital characteristics like teaching status and atrial fibrillation (AF) volumes, rather than different case-mix. Use of a BB for rate control was correlated with a lower rate of hospitalization among patients who did not receive attempts at rhythm control.