Cardiac case study –

Mr S is 49 years old and works full time. He developed chest pain whilst at work and was admitted to hospital and diagnosed with a heart attack. It was a huge shock for him and his young family; they have three children aged 15, 11 and the youngest 6.

The RED ARC Personal Nurse Adviser telephoned him 4 weeks after he was discharged from hospital.

The first call allowed both husband and wife to discuss their fears with the PNA. He had previously thought himself very fit. They talked about lifestyle changes: diet, smoking and alcohol intake.

Pressure of work was also discussed as he felt his workload had increased; he did a lot of driving and had to stay away from home on a regular basis. He realised this was a wake up call and he needed to make certain changes.

Resources were sent: British Heart Foundation booklets on healthy eating, recipes, blood pressure and cholesterol.

He was on a waiting list for Cardiac Rehabilitation but wasn't keen, he thought that it would be full of old men but admitted that he needed some ‘one to one’ advice.

The PNA identified that, in the meantime, he would benefit from a Home Visit from our RED ARC specialist cardiac nurse Karen, who was able to visit one evening at a pre arranged time when the youngest child was in bed.

Mr S and his wife had lots of questions – Karen was able to answer many of them and also help compile a list of further questions to ask the cardiologist on their next hospital visit. She was able to offer tailor made advice and give information and reassurance to them both.

They also spoke about the children and how it had affected them and their relationship to their father.

The PNA is keeping in touch and providing a much needed listening ear, along with further advice and encouragement.

Both Mr and Mrs S felt happy that they had been supported throughout this crisis and had gradually gained their confidence back. He is now back at work but has re-evaluated his work and lifestyle, has lost weight and exercises more. He also spends precious time with the family. They thanked both the specialist nurse and the PNA for their constant support.



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