LEARNING OBJECTIVES
After studying this chapter, you should be able to:
• demonstrate knowledge of the underlying pathogenesis of cardiovascular conditions and their associated risk factors
• recognise the importance of health promotion and prevention in the management of chronic cardiovascular conditions
• understand the concepts of patient-centred care and care coordination in relation to chronic cardiovascular conditions
• identify the nurse's role in the care of chronic cardiovascular conditions
• identify the characteristics of the role of a nurse who practises at an advanced level in cardiovascular health.
Introduction
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is considered the main contributor of death and disease burden in Australia and New Zealand. In 2012, CVD accounted for approximately 30 per cent of all deaths recorded within both nations (Department of Health, 2015; National Heart Foundation of New Zealand, 2015). This is the result of increased longevity and advances in CVD treatments (Department of Health, 2015). The successful management of CVD requires a number of key strategies, including continuous monitoring, prevention, risk factor reduction and advanced clinical management (Mendis, Puska & Norrving, 2011). Patients suffering from CVD are found across a variety of care environments. The nurses who provide care to these individuals are required to possess skills and knowledge that will enable optimal patient outcomes.
The term ‘cardiovascular disease’ is used in reference to health conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. This includes coronary heart disease (also known as ischaemic heart disease), acute myocardial infarction, heart failure and cardiomyopathy, hypertension, peripheral vascular disease and stroke (Department of Health, 2015). It is important to realise that CVDs are largely preventable. Increasing and improving health care access, in conjunction with early identification and reduction of CVD risk factors, may lead to a decrease in the health burden to which this collection of chronic conditions contributes (Mendis et al., 2011).
This chapter focuses on several key issues relating to chronic CVD. The pathophysiology of the differing disease processes associated with CVD will be outlined. The importance of health prevention and promotion in CVD will be discussed, highlighting primary and secondary prevention.