For Immediate Release

(March 24, 2014) This month, the Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association (PCNA) joins the American College of Cardiology (ACC) in Washington D.C. to present two joint scientific sessions. The sessions cover Interdisciplinary approaches to the prevention and management of Atrial Fibrillation and the “nuts and bolts” of patient lifestyle.

Both sessions take place on Monday March 31st at the ACC conference in Washington D.C. The event focuses on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease –causes central to the mission for both PCNA and ACC. The sessions will provide information on the latest discoveries and research impacting cardiovascular care.

“PCNA and ACC have long been liaisons in the fight against cardiovascular disease. We both understand the importance of collaborative care and the role that the nursing community plays in management and care of cardiovascular patients.” said Barbara Fletcher, RN, MN, FAHA, FPCNA, FAAN, and PCNA President-Elect. Adding, “These joint sessions for ACC 14 reflect some of our ongoing strategies and goals.”

The first session, An Interdisciplinary Approach to the Prevention and Management of Atrial Fibrillation will focus on a Team Approach to Management of AF, Sleep Apnea and other Predisposing Conditions, Detection of AF, AV Nodal Ablation and Pacing, and end with Maximizing Outcomes with a Team Approach. The session is co-chaired by Rhonda M. Cooper-DeHoff, Pharm D and Barbara Fletcher.

It Is Time to Think About Your Patient’s Life — the Nuts and Bolts About Lifestyle session will address practical approaches for cardiovascular risk. These include: quitting tobacco, enhancement and maintenance of daily activity, the role for supplements, diagnosis and management of depression, and choosing the proper diet for your patients cardiovascular risk profile. This session is also co-chaired by Barbara Fletcher along with Vera Bittner.

PCNA has established itself as the premier organization of nursing professionals dedicated to the prevention of cardiac and other vascular diseases throughout the lifespan. PCNA’s mission includes developing and promoting nurses as leaders in this field and supporting comprehensive risk reduction strategies for individuals and populations across the lifespan. PCNA takes pride in supporting leadership, advocacy, lifelong learning and empowerment of the nursing community. To learn more about PCNA and their continuing education, free nursing tools, Annual Symposium and more, visit PCNA.net or join them on facebook.com/heartnurses or twitter @heartnurses.