Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to Lynne T Braun.
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Current data and guidelines recommend treating abnormal blood lipids (ABL) to goal. This is a complex process and requires involvement from various healthcare professionals with a wide range of expertise. The model of a multidisciplinary case management approach for patients with ABL is well documented and described. This collaborative approach encompasses primary and secondary prevention across the lifespan, incorporates nutritional and exercise management as a significant component, defines the importance and indications for pharmacological therapy, and emphasizes the importance of adherence. Use of this collaborative approach for the treatment of ABL ultimately will improve cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality.
Elders participate in limited exercise, leading to reduced fitness and deconditioning. Regular moderate-intensity exercise/activity provides significant health benefits. As elders become more physically active, the health care burden on society will decrease. Because nurses often counsel patients on lifestyle changes, such as exercise, for improving cardiovascular health, it is important for them to be knowledgeable about the specific program modalities and benefits/risks of exercise for older patients with cardiovascular disease.
The Heart Protection Study (HPS) results were presented shortly after the National Cholesterol Education Program released the third report of clinical practice guidelines for the evaluation and management of elevated cholesterol in adults. Both the guidelines and the HPS results support an aggressive approach to managing high-risk individuals. The HPS showed that cardiovascular events and mortality were reduced in high-risk patients taking simvastatin regardless of baseline low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Some of these patients would not have met criteria for drug treatment according to the guidelines. The conclusion was that all high-risk patients with LDL > or = 100 mg/dL should be treated with drug therapy with the goal of reducing LDL to < 100 mg/dL.