What is the Role of a Nurse Practitioner in Managing Coronary Artery Disease?
Nurse practitioners play a key role in managing the risks for coronary artery disease. Their advanced education and clinical training allow them to work with patients and educate them on lifestyle choices. The individualized care provided by nurse practitioners can be cost effective and relevant to a society that has high demands for risk intervention.
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Background
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Coronary artery disease can weaken the heart; thus, patients with this condition may have a high probability of heart failure or heart attack when the disease is not managed properly. According to the American Heart Association, coronary artery disease management and risk intervention programs are effective because they aim to control the risk factors that may endanger patients' lives. In most cases, a nurse practitioner becomes the case manager and overall coordinator of such programs.
Process
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A nurse practitioner begins a coronary artery disease management program by assessing the patient's risk factors, physical condition and psychological condition. Among the modifiable risk factors are diet, smoking, obesity, cholesterol level, exercise level, oral contraceptive use and stress. The nurse practitioner drafts a plan of action for the patient to follow for a certain period of time. Typically, the plan aims to educate the patient about the different risk factors and how they impact the patient's heart condition. Then, the nurse practitioner teaches the patient the steps to reduce or eliminate the risks factors, monitors the progress and evaluates the results. Ultimately, the goal is to motivate patients to take the necessary steps to manage the disease.
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Requirements
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Nurse practitioners who head these management programs must have medical and scientific expertise on coronary artery disease and other heart conditions. They must be knowledgeable in handling the assessment tools and medical equipment and skilled in setting realistic goals and problem solving. They should know how to interact properly with patients, be firm in decision-making and thorough in evaluating patients' progress.
Considerations
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In implementing a successful risk therapy or coronary artery disease intervention program, the nurse practitioner should consider important factors such as the patient's readiness and willingness to undergo the program. They need to take note of the patient's age and ability to learn. They also must be sensitive to clients' customs and cultural backgrounds as these affect how they react to proposals for lifestyle changes.
Strategies
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Nurse practitioners make use of several strategies to motivate patients. These include printed text and video materials and intermittent small and big group sessions. Some nurse practitioners fuse educational and personal counseling for a more holistic approach. Customized programs address individual clients' needs and differences.
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