Nursing care of the elderly person with an acute cardiovascular problem

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality of the older person. It is the disease that most frequently causes hospitalization. Patients with cardiovascular dysfunction are generally admitted to an acute care setting, the cardiac care unit. These units provide excellent care to the patient. However, the unique environment poses many potential problems for the older patient. It is very important that careful nursing assessment of needs is made and that a plan of care is individualized for each patient. Throughout the period of immediate care and rehabilitation, it is essential that one nurse be responsible for assuring that all needs are met and that provision is made to assure continuity of care from the hospital to the community. This professional nursing approach will promote successful outcomes and reasonable styles of living for the older cardiovascular patient.