This course has been approved for 8 clock hours by the Commission on Case Manager Certification from January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008.

The purpose of this home study course is to provide nurses with important information about the incidence of heart disease in women, its etiology and risk factors. Because healthy lifestyle choices are vital to the prevention of heart disease, issues related to diet, exercise, weight control, and smoking cessation will be emphasized. The course will also cover the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. Armed with this knowledge, nurses can help prevent and treat heart disease in women.

When you complete this course, you will be able to:

1. Identify the role of heart disease as a cause of death for women.
2. List two risk factors for heart disease that can't be changed and five that can be.
3. Identify normal and abnormal blood lipid levels.
4. Explain the value of exercise and weight control in preventing heart disease.
5. Discuss the role of hypertension in heart disease.
6. Describe how diabetes affects heart disease.
7. Describe psychological factors that contribute to heart disease.
8. Explain common procedures for diagnosing heart disease.
9. Describe common medical and surgical treatments for heart disease.
10. Identify the role of the government in heart-related research.