Care for Vulnerable Elderly in Cardiology: A Program for Daily Practice.

Background: The percentage of cardiac patients aged ≥75 has increased considerably over the past decades. To optimize multidisciplinary care for these frail elderly, a program of intensive medical and nursing care was started at Noord West Ziekenhuisgroep department of cardiology.

Methods: Patients over 70 years of age, admitted to the department of cardiology, were included and treated by the advanced practice nurse according to a redesigned care process that focused on expedite mobilization and care by an advanced practice nurse-headed team including the first outpatient visit.