5.1 Cardiovascular Introduction

The cardiovascular system consists of the heart and a complex network of arteries and veins to transport oxygenated and deoxygenated blood throughout the body. The heart serves as the main pumping mechanism to transport oxygenated blood throughout the body and deliver deoxygenated blood to the lungs. The healthy functioning of the cardiovascular system is foundational to the health of all other body systems because the transportation of oxygen directly impacts the cellular functioning of all tissues and organs. If oxygenated blood is not delivered to cells, they cease functioning and begin to die. The cardiovascular system is also responsible for removing waste products and by transporting blood to the kidneys and liver where the blood is filtered, and wastes are removed.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) refers to diseases affecting the heart or blood vessels. CVD accounts for over 19 million deaths annually throughout the world and is the leading cause of death.^[1],[2] Health care systems continuously strategize to treat and prevent cardiovascular alterations, and billions of health care dollars are spent on medications, diagnostics treatments, and medical interventions. Yet, some risk factors related to the development of cardiovascular disease remain aligned to lifestyle choices such as smoking, physical activity, and diet.^[3] Nurses play a critical role in effective health teaching to help prevent CVD.

This chapter will explore cardiovascular alterations and the interplay of medical interventions and holistic approaches to promoting cardiovascular health and optimal quality of life for those diagnosed with a cardiovascular disease.