Cardiovascular Nursing — A Complete Study Guide
A structured walkthrough of cardiovascular anatomy, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical nursing interventions. Designed for NCLEX preparation and clinical rotation readiness.
Topics Covered
Written By
Learning Objectives
- Describe the cardiac cycle and normal conduction pathway
- Identify key dysrhythmias on a 12-lead ECG
- Outline nursing priorities in acute MI management
- Apply pharmacological knowledge to patient scenarios
- Educate patients on lifestyle modifications
Chapters
8 Notes · ~6 hrs totalThe Heart: Structure, Function & the Cardiac Cycle
Chambers, valves, great vessels, and the sequence of events that make up one complete heartbeat — from systole through diastole.
Cardiac Conduction: The Electrical System of the Heart
SA node to AV node, Bundle of His, Purkinje fibres — tracing the impulse that coordinates every heartbeat and what happens when it goes wrong.
ECG Interpretation: Reading the 12-Lead
A systematic approach to interpreting ECGs — rate, rhythm, axis, intervals, and recognising key patterns like STEMI, LBBB, and AF.
Coronary Artery Disease & Acute Myocardial Infarction
Atherosclerosis to plaque rupture — the pathophysiology of CAD and the cascade of events in an acute MI, including STEMI vs. NSTEMI differentiation.
Nursing Management of the Patient with Heart Failure
Assessment priorities, fluid management, medication administration, and patient education for HFrEF and HFpEF in acute and chronic settings.
Dysrhythmias: Recognition, Causes & Nursing Response
AF, SVT, VT, VF, heart blocks — classification, haemodynamic consequences, and the nurse's priority actions including when to reach for the crash cart.
Cardiovascular Pharmacology: Drugs You Must Know
Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, antiarrhythmics, anticoagulants — mechanisms, nursing considerations, and common exam scenarios.
Patient Education & Discharge Planning in Cardiac Care
Teach-back technique, medication adherence, lifestyle modification counselling, red-flag symptoms, and safe return to activity after a cardiac event.
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