ESC Textbook of Cardiovascular Nursing

Abstract The ESC Textbook of Cardiovascular Nursing is the official textbook of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions. It aims to provide in-depth learning for nurses specializing in caring for patients with coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, arrhythmias, congenital heart disease, and inherited cardiovascular conditions. The textbook builds on the ESC Core Curriculum for the Continuing Professional Development of Nurses Working in Cardiovascular Care. The pathology of these conditions is described as well as the normal anatomy and physiology of the heart. While tailoring nursing assessment and interventions to the care of patients with heart disease, the textbook emphasizes high-quality holistic care taking account of the needs of patients with complex comorbidities, as well as their families. The imperative of prevention and rehabilitation in terms of both primary and secondary prevention is confirmed as well as educational, behavioural, and therapeutic interventions. The epidemiology of cardiovascular disease is covered including disease burden and inequalities across European regions. Chapters devoted to education and communication and pharmacology are also included. The textbook concludes with a chapter which looks into the future challenges and opportunities for nurses and the evolution of nursing in cardiovascular care. The hope of the editors is that the textbook inspires readers to ask questions, search for answers, and become the best cardiovascular nurses they can be, especially given the strong body of evidence showing that educational provision for nurses increases patient safety and saves lives.