Cardiovascular Pharmacology: Open Access

Integrating the role of a child health nurse in the management of cardiovascular disorders in children: A case of a rural based hospital

Joint Event on Heart Failure, Pediatric Cardiology & Nursing Education

February 18-19, 2019 | Amsterdam, Netherlands

Ruth Busenga Tendai

Chama District Hospital, Zambia

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Cardiovasc Pharm Open Access

Abstract:

   The prevalence of cardiovascular disease is an increasing problem in Chama district. It stern from the fact that there is poor perinatal care in pregnant women in order to determine anomalies affecting their unborn children, poverty, unhealthy life styles, lack of awareness of the modifiable and non-modifiable risks, long distance to the next level of care or hospital, poor geographical location of health facilities and lack of diagnostic equipment. Because these diseases have their origin in the early stage of life, there is need for early detection and prevention in order to reduce under five mortality and morbidity. This study was aimed to identify the risk factors, the role of the child health nurse, midwife, radiographer, and the impact of the disease on the growth and development of the child, what interventions exist in the prevention and how the Nola Pender health promotion model can be used in the management of the disorder. A cross sectional study was conducted at Chama District Hospital’s children’s ward. All children that attended the Out-Patient department and those admitted to the In-Patient Care were randomly selected for screening, investigation and care through a systematic random sampling. Five hundred and thirty four (534) children between the age of 4 months to 14 years where screened and treated for different conditions. Out of this number, children with anemia, downs syndrome, pneumonia, dental carrier and those failing to thrive were each screened for cardiovascular disorders. Health history, growth and development, weight, height, pulse, blood pressure and hematological screening were done. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire and comparison of past years of case detection. From the study, the majority of people have no understanding of cardiovascular diseases. Congenital anomalies associated with heart diseases are not prioritized too. Challenges with infrastructure and diagnostic equipment, geographical location of the hospital and no specialized personnel to manage heart diseases make it hard for proper and definitive diagnosis. Most children with cardiovascular were missed, while others died in their first year of life, some died as a result of heart failure associated with anemia. Currently, there are seven children that have reached 11 years; they are surviving with only medication and modification of lifestyle. Diagnosis is basically symptomatic, a role which the health care staff have adopted as they deliver care. In conclusion, there is need to include cardiovascular diseases in children a notifiable disease and special emphasis of increasing perinatal care in pregnant women. Despite the fact that well child visits are done and reported, including elements of cardiovascular symptoms on children, well child form should be a priority. With the help of the Nola Pender health promotion model, increasing the role of nurses and other clinicians, and understanding the challenges that affect parents and their child could prove to be a lasting solution to managing heart diseases in children. Lastly, a family centered approach is the right way for the wellbeing of the child’s growth and development.

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