Analysis of the concept of cardiovascular risk: contributions to nursing practice

Abstract

Objectives: to analyze the concept of cardiovascular risk to support nursing practice. Methods: this is an analysis to define the concept of cardiovascular risk, through the use of eight steps of Walker’s and Avant’s framework, using a literature review in indexed scientific journals. Results: cardiovascular risk is defined in a broad and original way as a context of health and nursing care that makes it possible to identify modifiable (cardiometabolic, behavioral, psychosocial, cultural and occupational) and non-modifiable (biological) risk factors for cardiovascular diseases that act as early and interrelated markers, of multiple and heterogeneous etiology, predisposing to cardiovascular vulnerability. Conclusions: with the analysis and definition of the concept of cardiovascular risk, we realized that it will be possible to base nursing practice, with implications in clinical practice for identifying and reducing risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, with nursing relevance in the care of these subjects.

Prevalence and factors associated with metabolic syndrome in elderly attended in primary health care / Prevalência e fatores associados à síndrome metabólica em idosos atendidos na atenção primária em saúde

“…The adoption of simple and easy--to-use methods, such as the measurement of anthropometric measurements, besides the interpretation of laboratory tests, are tools that professionals should use to promote the quality of life of the elderly. Moreover, nurses must know the diagnostic criteria and components of MS, as well as the diseases that increase the chance of onset of MS. 28 The results of this study point to the importance of the nurse's intervention in the modifiable factors of the elderly, such as adopting a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition and regular physical exercise, which can precede favorable results in the control of MS, eating patterns that prioritize fruits, vegetables and low-fat foods, as they have a protective effect in diseases with a chronic inflammation pattern, thus being benefits in reducing lipid levels. 2 The nurse is inserted in the process of identifying the need for monitoring the individual with MS and has the role of promoting, encouraging, and talking about health education aimed at changing lifestyle.…”

“…In this context, nursing consultations and home visits stand out as essential in PHC for the health care of people with NCDs, which require special strategies because they put the individual at risk of health. 28 Finally, a limitation of the study was the cross-sectional design, which does not allow establishing cause and effect relationships. It should also be considered that the variable sedentarism was self--reported, thus not allowing an evaluation of the level of physical activity.…”