Università degli studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia

Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia
Corso di laurea in infermieristica - Sede di Modena

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases constitute, in Italy and in the world, one of the most important health problems. They are among the main causes of death in the adult population, given by components such as non-modifiable factors (age, male gender, genetics) and mostly by lifestyle changes, also called modifiable risk factors (smoking, hypertension, sedentary lifestyle, stress, nutrition). For this reason, the nurse plays a fundamental role in preventing and slowing the progression of these diseases, through counseling, leading the patients and family members towards a more correct lifestyle. If this does not happen, a series of worsening events will occur which can lead the patient to pathologies such as Angina Pectoris and Acute Coronary Syndrome, up to sudden cardiac death. When we talk about coronary syndrome we refer to a total or partial occlusion of the coronary vessel due to atherosclerotic plaque breakage – this is the mechanism underlying the acute coronary event. The main therapeutic approach to this syndrome is percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. This reperfusion treatment is the most effective and is considered the therapy of choice performed within 90 minutes. An additional key of great importance for the nurse following an angioplasty is individualised care because each patient has their own experience of illness with unique emotions and sensations. Also, it is essential that the nurse is able to recognise these pathologies, also through diagnostic methods (ECG and blood tests) and prevent their complications.