Nursing Care at the Pediatric Cardiology Ward

Abstract

The pediatric cardiology ward has been evolving in complexity of care and patient acuity. The nurse caring for patients in this environment must have a decreased reliance upon technological monitoring with an increase in nursing assessment compared to other critical care areas. Nursing care on the ward encompasses both postoperative care and medical management of patients. Nurses optimize patient’s nutrition goals, pain management and prevention, psychological support, and family support. The ward is a place of transition for acutely ill patients and their families between home, procedural, and intensive care areas with the nurse facilitating successful patient transition by providing education and anticipatory support.