Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Definition: Narrowing and hardening of arterial lumen resulting in decreased coronary blood flow and decreased delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the myocardium. Incidence: Most common type of heart disease and leading cause of death for both men and women in U.S. Onset: Can start in childhood and progress with age. Etiology: Buildup of fatty fibrous plaque or calcium plaque deposits on inner walls of coronary arteries causes atherosclerosis (thickening and hardening of inner walls of coronary arteries). Clinical Findings: Most common symptom is angina, although some individuals remain asymptomatic. Nursing Focus ■ Monitor vital signs and document response to prescribed therapies. ■ Monitor and maintain cardiopulmonary function and enhance myocardial perfusion by implementing prescribed therapies. ■ Document nursing and medical interventions and their outcomes. Patient Teaching ■ Provide Pt and family with literature about CAD. ■ Explain lifestyle modifications necessary to control CAD. ■ Review dietary restrictions and stress importance of reading food labels to avoid foods high in sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol. ■ Explain actions, dosages, side effects, and adverse reactions of prescribed meds. ■ Provide information about resumption of sexual activity acceptable for Pt’s medical condition. ■ If surgery is to be performed, provide preoperative teaching to prepare Pt and family for procedure, ICU, postoperative care, and cardiac rehabilitation.