The Journal of cardiovascular nursing
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Caring for the cardiac surgery patient includes intervening with the patient's family members. It is important for the nurse to acquire the knowledge base to implement appropriate interventions with family members. ⋯ A visiting intervention checklist was given to each nurse to initiate for each family member at all visits. Family members who received the intervention program reported higher satisfaction of needs and lower anxiety levels than those family members who did not receive the program.
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Mediastinitis is a serious complication following cardiac surgery that requires early diagnosis and expert care. This article describes normal and impaired wound healing. Risk factors in the development of sternal wound infections are also discussed. Diagnosis, surgical management, and nursing management of mediastinitis are described, with emphasis on the nursing diagnoses Potential for Infection, Ineffective Coping, and Potential Alteration in Home Health Management.