21st century nurse’s role in decreasing the rising burden of cardiovascular disease
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of morbidity and premature mortality in man worldwide. Developing countries contribute a greater share to the global burden of cardiovascular disease. About one third of all deaths in Pakistan are caused by cardiovascular diseases.
Purpose: The purpose of this review article is to identify and highlight the roles of nurse in decreasing the burden of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. The critical barriers to nurse roles are also discussed.
Methodology: The literature search was done using key words and statements; cardiovascular diseases, prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in Pakistan and worldwide, roles of nurse, current roles of nurse in cardiovascular diseases prevention and management, from HEC digital library, Google Scholar and PubMed.
Results: Nurses represent the largest body of health care professional. A socially responsible nurse having civic sense is a key for applying public health interventions in the community. Being round the clock at patient bedside, nurse is in best position to initiate the resuscitation process whether witnessed or/and un-witnessed cardiac arrest. Nurse role in cardiac rehabilitation is identified as having a ‘spider-in-the-web’ like character. A trained nurse could effectively deal with CVS emergencies including rhythm recognition, early defibrillation and emergency medication administration. The nurse role as educator could meet the needs of patients through education, support, supervision and reinforcement. Need for specialized knowledge, shortage of nurses, work overload and role confusion are barriers to nurse roles.
Implications: Critical health care problems from CVD cannot be alleviated without the involvement of nursing workforce. The emerging roles of nurse can significantly contribute to counteract the growing cardiovascular problems.
