International Journal of Nursing

An Evaluation of a Comprehensive Cardiovascular Disease Risk Reduction Program in an Appalachian Free Clinic
Angela D. Settle, Alice L. March

Abstract
Effective cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction challenges healthcare clinicians in spite of scientific advances. Managing CVD is more challenging in specific populations(Appalachian, high risk, impoverished, served by charitable clinic).Purpose: This study evaluated if a comprehensive CVD risk reduction program was effective in reducing risk factors in this population. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 125 records of participants of the CVD risk reduction program and a matched sample of 125 records from non-participants was conducted. Variables included hemoglobin A1C, body mass index, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Results: There was an overall reduction in CVD risk factors in both the education and non-education groups. However, he results could not be attributed solely to the risk reduction education program. Conclusions: Confounding variables (voluntary participation, incentives, patient/clinician relationship dynamics, self-motivation) may have contributed to outcomes. Future study may illuminate processes of self-care that encourage patient self-care efforts. Clinical relevance: Advanced nurse practitioners in busy primary care settings are expected to find ways to invite and engage impoverished, disadvantaged, patients in the effective self-management of CVD. This article provides insights into the challenges that clinicians face.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijn.v2n1a15