CARDIAC

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): CAD is the most common cardiac disorder, characterized by a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries that supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients. Nursing students should understand the risk factors, such as smoking, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, as well as the importance of lifestyle modifications, medication management (e.g., antiplatelets, statins), and patient education for prevention and management of CAD.
2. Myocardial Infarction (MI): MI, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when there is a prolonged blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle. Nursing students should be knowledgeable about the signs and symptoms of an MI, emergency interventions (such as administering aspirin or nitroglycerin), the use of thrombolytic therapy or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and the critical role of cardiac rehabilitation in the recovery process.
3. Heart Failure (HF): HF is a chronic condition characterized by the heart’s inability to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s demands. Nursing students should understand the different types of HF (systolic and diastolic), the signs and symptoms of fluid overload (e.g., dyspnea, edema), medication management (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors), and lifestyle modifications (e.g., sodium restriction, weight management) for HF patients.
4. Arrhythmias: Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can range from mild to life-threatening. Nursing students should be familiar with common arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia), understand the use of antiarrhythmic medications, interventions such as cardioversion or ablation, and the importance of monitoring cardiac rhythms and vital signs.
5. Valvular Heart Disease: Valvular heart disease involves abnormalities or damage to the heart valves, impairing blood flow. Nursing students should learn about different valvular disorders (e.g., mitral stenosis, aortic regurgitation), recognize signs and symptoms (e.g., murmur, dyspnea), and understand the indications for valve repair or replacement.
6. Hypertension: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common cardiac disorder that increases the workload on the heart. Nursing students should understand the risk factors, management strategies (e.g., lifestyle modifications, antihypertensive medications), and the importance of ongoing monitoring and patient education for hypertension control.
7. Cardiac Arrest: Cardiac arrest is a sudden loss of cardiac function, requiring immediate intervention. Nursing students should understand the chain of survival (CPR, defibrillation, advanced cardiac life support), recognize early warning signs, and be prepared to respond in a rapid and organized manner.