48^th Global Nursing and Healthcare Congress

Cardiac Nursing

Cardiac nursing is a specialisation that focuses on preventing and treating heart diseases. Cardiac nurses work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, caring for medical and surgical patients and guiding them through acute sickness or chronic disease management. Patients with heart disease are cared for by cardiovascular nurses, who work with their families to improve and maintain their health.

"Cardiovascular nursing is integrated into every area of nursing because all of our patients have hearts," explains Joanna Dagenais, MSN, RN, CCRN-K, clinical education director for the Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association (PCNA). Cardiovascular nurses inform patients about their illness and the lifestyle modifications that are necessary for rehabilitation and long-term health. During a protracted hospital stay, they might act as a point person, offering assessments and updates to physicians, patients, and families.

A typical day for a cardiovascular nurse starts with an update on the patients who will be under their care. They'll then examine the patient's vital signs and test results to see if they require immediate medical attention. They'll keep an eye on patients throughout the day and notify their care team if anything changes. If a physician prescribes therapy adjustments, the nurse will oversee them.