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Nutrition for Nurses

Chapter Summary

Nutrition for NursesChapter Summary

  • The nurse should assess the cardiovascular system, a life-sustaining system in the body containing the heart and blood vessels, by checking both the mechanical (physical) function and the electrical function of the heart, as well as assessing how effectively the vessels allow the movement of blood around the body after it is pumped by the heart.
  • If the electrical conduction of the heart is not working properly, the mechanical function will not work at all.
  • The biggest dietary considerations in the health of the cardiovascular system include cholesterol, potassium, trans fats, saturated fats, sugars, magnesium, calcium, and sodium.
  • Dietary changes need to be implemented with healthy lifestyle changes to see adequate outcomes from nutritional plans.
  • When evaluating risk factors for cardiovascular disease, BMI, waist size, and blood pressure are major considerations, along with specific comorbidities such as diabetes.
  • Even those without cardiovascular disease should have a heart-healthy diet.
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