Nurse-Based Models for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention From Research to Clinical Practice

BACKGROUND: The past 2 decades have witnessed a number of studies and reviews reporting on the development, implementation, and evaluation of nurse-based models of cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention, which are contributing to the growing evidence base of their effectiveness. Teams comprising healthcare professionals with expertise in nursing, dietetics, physical activity, and behavioral skills have shown high levels of success in preventive efforts, particularly in high-risk and vulnerable populations. PURPOSE: The purpose of this article is to highlight the research and successful models of nurse-based care in clinical practice including the main outcomes, challenges, and dissemination of these models. Highlights include the role of nurses in CVD prevention and the lessons learned from implementation. CONCLUSIONS: Used appropriately, collaborative, team-based, nurse-led models have the potential to effect positive change in both primary and secondary prevention of CVDs. Technology also has an increasingly important role to play. Considerations regarding the effectiveness of contemporary nurse-based models include their design features and content, and methods of implementation and dissemination, with the aim of organizing and delivering flexible CVD preventive healthcare, including training and administrative oversight, which is responsive to contemporary patient need, choice, and preferences. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The nurse's role in CVD prevention shows promise for enhancing both primary and secondary prevention of CVD worldwide. The research and dissemination of models shown to be effective in clinical practice will enhance the capability of individuals to ensure that appropriate methods are used to implement and extend these models in numerous settings from primary to tertiary care.