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The development of cardiac rehabilitation in the UK, the evolution of the nursing role as a speciality, and the nursing role within the multidisciplinary team are briefly outlined. The potential impact of different professional backgrounds on the effectiveness of patient care is discussed, with particular reference to the differences between acute cardiac care and rehabilitation. Issues of professional competency are discussed, and core competencies for cardiac rehabilitation as specified by various professional associations are described. Current opportunities for preparation for practice in this field in the UK are outlined. Conclusions point towards the need for clearly specified competencies and an accredited programme of education and training to meet proposed standards for the management and rehabilitation of coronary heart disease (CHD) in the UK.

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