Practical Cardiology for Veterinary Nurses

This concise textbook provides a comprehensive, practical guide for veterinary nurses and technicians who wish to develop their knowledge, confidence and skills when nursing the cardiac patient. Presentation of dogs or cats with heart disease is common, and it is vital that nurses understand how to look after these patients appropriately and support owners through what can often be challenging times. The book:

• Begins with basic anatomy and physiology, foundations required to understand the disease processes explained in later chapters
• Covers diseases seen in small animal practice, including congenital disease, heart failure and treatment options
• Gives the nurse a sound understanding of electrocardiography, thoracic radiography and cardiac ultrasound: how to perform these, and what they are seeing
• Covers the hands-on requirements of the veterinary nurse, such as heart auscultation and feeling patient pulses
• Lists cardiac drugs, explaining when and why pharmacology would be used, as well as side effects
• Has a dedicated chapter on first aid
• Discusses chronic nursing management of heart conditions, including remote monitoring, support and care planning.

The book is packed with learning features including a Glossary, diagrams, illustrations and tables in full colour, concise end of chapter Key Points and Further Reading lists. Essential reading for student nurses and technicians, as well as those in practice who need a quick reference ’on the ground’, this is the book that general practice veterinary nurses have been waiting for.

Charlotte Pace qualified as a veterinary nurse in 2003, whilst working in practice in London. In the same year she moved to the Royal Veterinary College to work as a medicine nurse. In 2006 she became the dedicated cardiology nurse for the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals. In 2010 she passed American veterinary technician exams and became the first nurse to hold the Cardiology qualification outside the US. From 2012 to 2015, Charlotte taught veterinary nurses on both degree and diploma programmes. In 2015 she returned to veterinary practice, is a visiting lecturer, and continues to write and lecture on veterinary cardiology. She is an active clinical coach and is a member of the editorial board for the Veterinary Nurse, a position she has held since 2012. She is a member of the BVNA council and will be President in the year 2022-2023.