Inherited cardiomyopathies: how nurses can facilitate holistic care for patients and their families

Abstract

This article is the second instalment of the British Journal of Cardiac Nursing's series on genetics, and will focus on inherited cardiomyopathies. Collectively, cardiomyopathies are the most common inherited cardiac condition. They affect the structure of the heart muscle, sometimes leading to heart failure or sudden cardiac death. Advances in genetic testing for cardiomyopathies mean that this can now be offered to more patients, influencing care and treatment options. This article looks at the contributions made by nurses to the care of people who have, or are at risk of, an inherited cardiomyopathy.