Cardiac disease and stroke: Practical implications for personalised care in cardiac-stroke patients. A state of the art review supported by the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions

Abstract

Cardiac and stroke conditions often coexist because of common risk factors. The occurrence of stroke may have significant consequences for patients with cardiac conditions and their caregivers and poses a major burden on their lives. Although both cardiac and stroke conditions are highly prevalent, primary stroke prevention in cardiac patients is crucial to avert disabling limitations or even mortality. In addition, specific interventions may be needed in the rehabilitation and follow-up of these patients. However, healthcare systems are often fragmented and are not integrated enough to provide specifically structured and individualised management for the cardiac-stroke patient. Cardiac rehabilitation or secondary prevention services are crucial from this perspective, although referral and attendance rates are often suboptimal. This state of the art review outlines the significance of primary stroke prevention in cardiac patients, highlights specific challenges that cardiac-stroke patients and their caregivers may experience, examines the availability of and need for structured, personalised care, and describes potential implications for consideration in daily practice.

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The need for knowledge and skills in the care of post-stroke patients

“…A state of the art review supported by the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Profession," outlines the significance of primary stroke prevention in cardiac patients. 9 The authors emphasize that global healthcare systems are not sufficiently integrated to allow them to provide individualized care for cardiac-stroke patients. Moreover, the authors highlight the necessity of healthcare providers having significant knowledge about stroke and being aware of challenges faced by patients suffering from both cardiac disease and stroke.…”

Yoga: A Potential Adjunct Therapy to Current Rehabilitation Pathways in Cardiac Conditions and Stroke

“…Traditional cardiac rehabilitation strategies primarily focus on physical recovery, as well as secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease through lifestyle behaviour modifications. Nonetheless, attendance at traditional outpatient-based cardiac rehabilitation programs is poor, particularly amongst those who are older [18][19][20][21]. Indeed, older age and the presence of comorbidities reduce the likelihood of referral to exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programs [17].…”