Fundamentals for Cardiovascular Nursing

The purpose of this module is to equip the learner with the requisite knowledge to underpin professional development in the area of cath lab practice. This includes theory and its application to practice. This module will consider cardiovascular anatomy and common cardiovascular presentations.

Approaches to primary and secondary prevention of coronary illness with be explored. Content will consider the pharmacological management of common cardiac presentations and medications that are commonly used in the cath lab setting.  The thematic and indicative content of this module is drawn from that proposed in the publication A Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory Core Curriculum for the Continuing Professional Development of Nurses and Allied Health Professions, developed by the Education working group of the Nurse and Allied Professions committee for the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI) 2016.

1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the normal anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system.

2. Express advanced knowledge of cardiovascular risk determinants and management strategies.

3. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the pathophysiology and symptomology of common cardiovascular presentations.

4. Outline a critical understanding of the pharmacokinetics of pharmacodynamics of medication used in the management of cardiovascular patients in the cath lab.