Nurse-based models for cardiovascular disease prevention from research to clinical practice

The past 2 decades have witnessed several studies and reviews reporting on the development, implementation, and evaluation of nurse-based models of cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention, which are contributing to the growing evidence base of their effectiveness. Teams comprising healthcare professionals with expertise in nursing, dietetics, physical activity, and behavior skills have shown high levels of success in preventive efforts, particularly in high-risk and vulnerable populations. Used appropriately, collaborative, team-based, nurse-led models have the potential to effect positive change in both primary and secondary prevention of CVDs. Technology also has an increasingly important role to play. Considerations regarding the effectiveness of contemporary nurse-based models include their design features and content, and methods of implementation and dissemination, with the aim of organizing and delivering flexible CVD preventive healthcare, including training and administrative oversight, which is responsive to contemporary patient need, choice, and preferences.