The nursing process in vascular surgery: challenges, care, and perspectives for clinical practice

Abstract

Introduction: The Nursing Process (NP) is a methodological tool that guides nurses' clinical practice, consisting of five stages: history, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Regulated by COFEN Resolution No. 358/2009, the Systematization of Nursing Care (SNC) organizes professional work and makes the NP feasible. In the perioperative context, the SAEP allows for the planning of individualized care, the prevention of complications, and the promotion of patient safety. Despite its relevance, challenges persist in the application of the NP in complex surgeries, requiring scientific research and systematized practices for ethical and quality care. Objective: to address these challenges when applying the PE, as well as to demonstrate the main Nursing Diagnoses for vascular surgeries, mainly regarding the following procedures: Myocardial Revascularization; Heart Valve Repair and Replacement; Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Surgery; and Carotid Endarterectomy. Methodology: Integrated literature review, collecting and summarizing the scientific knowledge already developed. Analysis and discussion of results: Cardiac and vascular surgeries, such as myocardial revascularization, valve replacement, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and carotid endarterectomy, require specialized nursing care. Early identification of nursing diagnoses, clinical monitoring, and emotional support are essential to prevent complications, promote effective recovery, and improve patients' quality of life, safety, and survival. Conclusion: Cardiac and vascular surgeries, such as coronary artery bypass grafting, valve replacement, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, and carotid endarterectomy, require complex care. Nursing identifies early diagnoses, prevents complications, provides physical and emotional support, and promotes safe and effective recovery.