Cardiovascular disease risk factor reduction and the occupational health nurse

Abstract

In summary, CVD risk is multifactorial. Occupational health nurses should use a multifacted approach in assessing employees for risk factors, planning intervention programs aimed at risk reduction, and in evaluating the effectiveness of interventions which are implemented. Occupational health nurses are in a unique position to assist employees with risk factor modification. For those employees in the predisease stage in which CVD is not yet detected, primary prevention strategies can be used. These strategies include screening programs to detect risk factors and education to alert employees to their individual risk profile and the importance of a healthful lifestyle in reducing risk. For employees in whom clinical signs of CVD are already evident, secondary prevention strategies can assist them to adhere to therapies designed to slow disease progression, prevent complications, and minimize morbidity.