Check here regularly for news and updates specifically for Cardiovascular Team Professionals. Be sure to bookmark this page as new content is added monthly.

Featured Updates: CV Team Journal Scans and Key Points

World

Inpatient Consult For Acute HF: The Opportunity

August 12, 2021   |   Kate Morgan, ACNP-BC, AACC

Feature Article

Hospital admission is our opportunity to influence management and improve the lives of patients with heart failure (HF). Clinical assessment of the patient's New York Heart Association functional classification, ACC and American Heart Association (AHA) staging, and echocardiographic findings guide our therapy.

Award, Trophy; Conceptual Image

Nominate Your CV Team Colleague For an ACC Distinguished Award!

August 12, 2021

Announcements

ACC's Distinguished Awards program is your opportunity to nominate a peer whose outstanding work and leadership is advancing the College's Mission. The Distinguished Associate Award recognizes outstanding individuals whose contributions to initiatives of the College and the field of cardiology have encouraged and nurtured ACC's team approach to cardiovascular care.

Melissa Easterday, BS

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Vaccination Clinic

August 12, 2021   |   Melissa Easterday, BS

Feature Article

When the Indiana University Health (IUH) Vaccine Clinics began to open across our system, I was eager to volunteer. Working remotely since the start of the pandemic, I felt my participation in this effort was one way I could give back to my peers who have been working tirelessly day in and day out on the front lines. I wanted to do my part to help keep my community safe.

Core Curriculum for the Cardiovascular Clinician Virtual Experience

Registration Now Open: Core Curriculum For the CV Clinician

August 10, 2021

Virtual Meeting

Are you an early career cardiovascular nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, physician assistant or pharmacist? If so, don’t miss the Core Curriculum for the Cardiovascular Clinician Virtual Experience, taking place Oct. 8 – 9.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Repeat TAVR Outcomes

August 10, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Outcomes of repeat transcatheter aortic valve replacement in the national Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services database are examined in this retrospective, observational study.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | The CONNECT-HF Randomized Clinical Trial

August 5, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

The CONNECT-HF trial was a cluster randomized clinical trial to improve hospital and post-discharge quality improvement intervention compared to usual care. The trial included 161 US hospitals and 5,647 patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Statin Use and Severe Disease Outcomes in COVID-19

August 5, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Investigators compared outcomes of statin users and non-users who presented to Detroit Medical Center with a confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 diagnosis during the early months of the pandemic. Main study endpoints were mortality, need for mechanical ventilation, and intensive care unit admission.

ACC Quality Summit

Registration Open For ACC Quality Summit Virtual

August 4, 2021

Virtual Meeting

Registration is now open for ACC Quality Summit Virtual! Join NCDR and Accreditation Services colleagues Sept. 29 – Oct. 1 to learn best practices through phenomenal education sessions, networking and posters.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Comparative Effectiveness of ACE Inhibitors and ARBs

August 3, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

Using 5 administrative claims databases and 3 electronic health databases of more than 2.3 million patients initiating antihypertensive agents, researchers compared clinical endpoints, safety, and adverse effects between angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers.

Mentor Mentee; Conceptual Image

Increase Your Knowledge on Cardiac Rhythm Monitors

July 12, 2021

Educational Opportunities

The ACC has created the Raising the Bar in Arrhythmia Detection: A Diagnostic Toolbox online course to increase awareness and knowledge on the growing number of cardiac monitors available for the detection of arrhythmias.

ACC.21

ACC.21 Refocus on the CV Team

June 10, 2021   |   Bailey Estes, RCIS, RN-C

Feature Article

What a year! Littered with phrases such as "unprecedented" and "new normal," we have come full circle. As the virtual ACC.20/WCC wrapped up, we had high hopes that we would be meeting in person in Atlanta, GA, for ACC.21.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Wearable Devices and Health Care Use

June 3, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

This retrospective, observational study analyzed characteristics of patients who use wearable devices capable of detecting atrial fibrillation and the devices' impact on pulse rate and health care use.

ACC.21

CV Team Section Virtual Networking Session at ACC.21

May 11, 2021

Virtual Meeting

Connect with colleagues, expand your professional network and engage in small group discussions at the CV Team Section Virtual Networking Session at ACC.21 on Saturday, May 15 from 6 – 7 p.m. ET.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | USPSTF Recommendations for Screening for HTN in Adults

April 29, 2021

Featured Key Points to Remember

In adults 18 years or older without hypertension (HTN), the US Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for HTN with office blood pressure (BP) measurement. Before starting treatment, BP measurements outside of the clinical setting should be obtained for diagnostic confirmation.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | HTN Treatment by Pharmacists in Black Barbershops

April 29, 2021

Featured Journal Scans

The Los Angeles Barbershop Blood Pressure Study proved the effectiveness of a novel intervention pairing trusted, non-medical community partners with pharmacists in improving hypertension. This study seeks to answer concerns about the long-term cost-effectiveness and scalability of this intervention.

Globe Image

ACC Launches EP Device Implant Registry, Expanding Scope of Former ICD Registry

April 11, 2021

Announcements

The ACC has changed the name of its ICD Registry to the EP Device Implant Registry, effective April 1. The EP Device Implant Registry will include data on ICD and CRT-D procedures previously captured in the ICD Registry, as well as provide flexibility to capture novel pacemaker procedures.

Jae Patton, MSN, CRNP, AACC

Hospitals in Baltimore Partner With Faith Leaders to Address Vaccine Inequity

April 8, 2021   |   Jae Patton, MSN, CRNP, AACC

COVID-19 Coverage

Early on in the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine in Baltimore, MD, officials began to sound the alarm that Black residents were receiving vaccines at a lower rate than white residents. Pastor Rodney Morton, a local faith leader, notes that initially there was a lot of reluctance to receive a COVID-19 vaccine due to the impression that it had been rushed to market, observing that calling the roll out Operation Warp Speed did not instill confidence.

Advocacy News

Action Alert: Ask Your Lawmakers to Support Access to CV Rehab

April 6, 2021

Advocacy at the ACC

The ACC-supported Increasing Access to Cardiac Rehabilitation Act of 2021 is moving through Congress. This bipartisan legislation would expand patient access to critical cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation (rehab) services during a crucial time when treatments for medical conditions have been delayed or avoided during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cardiology Magazine March 2021

What’s in a Name? Recognition and Respect

April 6, 2021

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

In the famous play, Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare wrote: "'Tis but thy name that is my enemy…" In the play, Juliet ponders, "What's in a name?" saying it is only Romeo's name that's the enemy.

NCDR

Last Call: NCDR Research Proposals Due April 9

April 5, 2021

Announcements

Don’t miss the April 9 deadline to submit an NCDR research proposal in 2021! Last year, NCDR changed its Research & Publications (R&P) cycle to offer one research proposal deadline annually, with one annual review meeting for all NCDR programs except the STS/ACC TVT Registry.

Mentor Mentee; Conceptual Image

New MedAxiom Resources For Advanced Practice Providers

March 23, 2021

Educational Opportunities

MedAxiom understands the important role of advanced practice providers (APPs) and is dedicated to providing tools and resources to propel them forward. Check out the new APP Hub on MedAxiom.com – a central location for consulting services, education and resources developed by MedAxiom experts to advance APPs and create sustainable care transformation initiatives.

FIT Section Conceptual Image

Cybersecurity During the COVID-19 Pandemic

March 11, 2021   |   Heba Sadaka, MSN ;  Elizabeth D. Lee, CNS ;  Veysel Erdag, PhD, CISM, CISA, CISSP, CCIE-Security

COVID-19 Coverage

Patients with cardiovascular disease are at an increased risk of severe illness from the COVID-19 virus (CDC, 2020). In the face of a pandemic, Americans had to change the way they live their lives by following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to mitigate the spread of the virus and protect the public.

Diverse Medical Professionals; Conceptual Image

New CardioSmart Infographics Highlight CVD in Women

March 1, 2021

Featured Infographic

Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S., causing more women's deaths than all cancers, including breast cancer. At the same time, women often ignore symptoms and are less likely to get optimal treatment for cardiovascular conditions.

New CardioSmart

Two New Infographics Illustrate Management of Cardiotoxicity From ICIs and BTK Inhibitors

February 5, 2021

Featured Infographic

In collaboration with Salim Hayek, MD, FACC, and the ACC Cardio-Oncology Clinical Topic Collection editorial team, the ACC CV Team Writing Group, led by Vicki L. Groo, PharmD, created infographics to illustrate how to manage cardiotoxicity induced by Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Medical Professional Signing Document; Conceptual Image

JACC Leadership Page Highlights Value of NCDR in Advancing Patient Care and Outcomes

January 11, 2021

JACC Family of Journals

"To improve patient outcomes, we must accurately measure, reliably compare and constantly improve the quality of care we deliver," write ACC President Athena Poppas, MD, FACC, and NCDR Oversight Committee Chair Frederick A. Masoudi, MD, MSPH, FACC, in a JACC Leadership Page highlighting the ways ACC’s NCDR registries are consistently delivering on this aspirational goal.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Adapting Cardiac Rehabilitation During the COVID-19 Pandemic

November 23, 2020

COVID-19 Coverage

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cardiovascular disease and being age 65 or older are high risk factors for developing severe illness from COVID-19. In the University of Southern California’s Understanding America Study, depression, anxiety and loneliness increased up to three-fold nationwide in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccination

Download the Latest Flu Tools

November 23, 2020

CardioSmart Patient Centered Highlights

Patients with cardiovascular disease have a ten times higher risk of heart attack within three days of getting the flu and are more likely to have a heart attack even weeks after the flu.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | Cardiac Amyloidosis

November 5, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

Cardiac amyloidosis is a frequently underrecognized cause of heart failure, particularly diastolic heart failure. This review explains the basic pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of the most common forms of cardiac amyloidosis.

Cardiology Magazine October 2020

Advancing Health Equity For Heart Failure Patients

October 22, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Caring for vulnerable populations presents some unique challenges. It also offers immense opportunities for innovation to effect positive change for many lives.

Cardio-Oncology Section Image

New Infographic Illustrates Management of Cardiotoxicity From Anthracyclines and HER2 AntagonistsNew Infographic Illustrates Management of Cardiotoxicity From Anthracyclines and HER2 Antagonists

October 20, 2020

Announcements

Salim Hayek, MD, FACC, in collaboration with ACC's Cardio-Oncology Clinical Topic Collection editorial team and the CV Team Writing Group, led by Vicki L. Groo, PharmD, created this infographic to illustrate how to manage cardiotoxicity induced by anthracyclines and HER2 antagonists.

Mobile Device, Apps; Conceptual Image

Multilingual ASCVD Risk Estimator App Now Available

October 16, 2020

Announcements

The ACC recently launched the Multilingual ASCVD Risk Estimator app, a simplified web-based version of the ASCVD Risk Estimator Plus app that provides clinicians with an efficient way to calculate a patient's estimated 10-year ASCVD risk, optimal risk and lifetime risk.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | EMS Use by Persons With HF 2009-2017

October 7, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Heart failure (HF) is associated with high rates of hospitalization, with patients transported to hospitals via emergency medical services (EMS), or ambulance. To evaluate EMS use among persons with HF, EMS data from a Midwestern city over an 8-year period were modelled to evaluate predictors of EMS use, including multiple EMS transports.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Insufficient Calorie Intake Worsens QoL and Increases Readmissions in Patients With HF

September 21, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Patients with heart failure (HF) are instructed to reduce sodium intake. This may inadvertently lead to insufficient caloric intake in patients with HF, including those who are obese. The authors found that insufficient calorie intake was associated with poor quality of life at discharge, increased risk for readmission, and longer rehospitalization days.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | State-of-the-Art Review on CCTA

September 21, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

This review summarizes contemporary use and emerging applications for coronary computed tomography angiography, which is positioned to become a leading modality in cardiac imaging.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | Genetic Testing in Dyslipidemia

August 27, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

According to these updated National Lipid Association guidelines, decisions regarding genetic testing of patients with dyslipidemia should be based upon clinical suspicion of a genetic basis, anticipated benefits/risks of testing, and patient preference.

JACC: Case Reports

COVID-19 Themed Issue of JACC: Case Reports

August 26, 2020

COVID-19 Coverage

Addressing the COVID-19 pandemic requires a coordinated plan that balances quality patient care with the safety of health care workers, all while maintaining consistent access to care for patients with and without COVID-19.

JACC: Case Reports

Call For Papers: JACC: Case Reports Procedural Complications Issue

August 11, 2020

JACC Family of Journals

JACC: Case Reports will publish a special themed issue on complications this December. Authors are invited to submit cases representing interventional, electrophysiology and transcatheter complications for consideration on or before Monday, Sept. 7.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Physical Activity is Higher in Patients With LVAD Compared With CHF

August 4, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Impaired exercise capacity (a hallmark symptom of chronic heart failure) improves after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, though it remains substantially below the exercise capacity of cardiac transplant patients and healthy same-aged individuals. This article examines whether LVAD implantation improves daily physical activity levels when compared to a group of patients with similarly advanced chronic heart failure but without LVADs.

Inquisative Man using laptop; Conceptual Image

Help Us Improve Your ACC.org Experience

August 4, 2020

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The College is working to improve the ACC.org homepage experience for all ACC members – and we need your help! Take two to three minutes to fill out a brief survey letting us know what information that matters most to you on ACC.org.

New CardioSmart

CardioSmart Debuts New Website For Patients, Clinicians

August 4, 2020

CardioSmart Patient Centered Highlights

ACC's new CardioSmart website is designed to emphasize the value of the patient and clinician partnership to personalize care. With the goal of better connecting patients with their clinicians to prevent or treat heart disease, the new CardioSmart.org, provides information on heart conditions and trusted resources and tools to support important health conversations and foster a strong partnership.

Cardiology Magazine July 2020 Web Edition

An Update on Acute Mechanical Circulatory Support in Cardiogenic Shock

August 4, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is an attractive and intuitive option when medical approaches to supporting a weakened heart are insufficient. But while the field is a growing one, it is also one that has produced a jumbled evidence base for a range of devices and a smattering of indications.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | The Role of PCI in SIHD

June 22, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

This article reviews important principles undergirding contemporary use of percutaneous coronary intervention and its limited role in the management of stable ischemic heart disease.

COVID-19 Global Pandemic; Conceptual Image

The CV Team and COVID-19: Lessons From the Frontlines

June 10, 2020

Feature Article

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a ripple effect across the globe and impacted our professional and personal lives. On one hand, the negative impact of the virus is very apparent. However, there is a silver lining in how it has pulled communities together. Our community, which was already close, has been drawn closer as the need for support has never been greater. Thus, the ACC and the Cardiovascular Team Section have been working to devise resources to support our membership.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | International Consensus Report on Drug-Coated Balloons

June 2, 2020

Featured Key Points to Remember

This state-of-the-art review and international consensus statement updates prior recommendations for drug-coated balloons and reviews efficacy and safety in in-stent restenosis, de novo small vessel disease, high-bleeding-risk patients, bifurcation lesions, and large vessel disease. There are minimal data that support the use of drug-coated balloons in patients with diabetes mellitus and acute coronary syndromes.

Navigation, Compass, Map; Conceptual Image

Patient Navigator Program Helps Identify AMI, HF Patients; Readmission Risk

May 19, 2020

Patient Centered

A coordinated quality improvement program like ACC's Patient Navigator Program may be associated with increased identification of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and heart failure (HF) patients who are at risk for readmission, according to a recent study in the American Heart Journal.

Nurse Appreciation; Conceptual Image

The ACC Celebrates Nurse Appreciation Month

May 8, 2020

Announcements

Nurses deserve the utmost gratitude and appreciation for their commitment to delivering the highest standards of cardiovascular care, especially in times like these.

Nurse Patient; Conceptual Image

Cardiovascular Clinical Competencies 2020: The Foundation

May 7, 2020

Feature Article

The new 2020 ACC Clinical Competencies for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in Adult Cardiovascular Medicine lead the way in laying down a foundation to build our practice and enhance our value within the cardiovascular team.

ACC.20/WCC

Virtual ACC.20/WCC: The Show Must Go On

May 7, 2020

Feature Article

The ACC Annual Scientific Session has been a staple for the latest in science, education and networking for cardiovascular professionals worldwide for the past 69 years. Years are spent planning and coordinating this global conference.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Lower Rates of HF and All-Cause Hospitalizations During PAP-Guided Therapy for Ambulatory HF

April 27, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

In the United States, the number of heart failure (HF) hospitalizations remains high despite efforts to detect HF decompensation earlier by telemonitoring surveillance of patients’ signs and symptoms. Because hemodynamic changes precede HF decompensation by several weeks, the ability to monitor pulmonary artery pressures by an implanted sensor can allow for the early detection of rising pulmonary artery pressures, earlier intervention, and the reduction of HF hospitalization.

COVID-19 Global Pandemic; Conceptual Image

NCDR, Accreditation Services Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic

April 21, 2020

COVID-19 Coverage

NCDR and ACC Accreditation Services recognize the incredible challenges hospitals and front-line health care workers are facing while providing lifesaving measures for their patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Points to Remember

Journal Scan | Takotsubo Syndrome

March 30, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This article provides a broad overview of the biological basis, clinical presentation, and management of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as broken heart syndrome.

JACC: Case Reports

Call For COVID-19 Clinical Cases

March 25, 2020

In an effort to help inform and educate our medical community on improved patient care related to the COVID-19 pandemic, JACC: Case Reports offers a publication avenue for sharing this knowledge with less preparation time than traditional manuscripts and fast-tracked review.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | DOAC Use in Obese Patients With Acute VTE

March 3, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

There is a paucity of clinical information regarding use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in obese patients. For this reason, current guidelines discourage use of DOACs in patients weighing over 120 kg or with a body mass index greater than 40 kg/m2.

Key Points to Remember

Journal Scan | Innovative HF Management Through EHRs

March 3, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This JACC Heart Failure State-of-the-Art Review discusses various innovative features of the electronic health record (EHR) that can support heart failure care. Throughout the review, the authors follow a hypothetical patient and contrast care using minimal versus optimal EHR tools.

ACC.20/WCC

RSVP For the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.20/WCC

February 18, 2020

Save the Date

Connect with ACC leaders and expand your professional network at the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception, taking place March 28 at 5 p.m. CT at the Marriott Marquis Chicago, at ACC.20/Together With World Congress of Cardiology (ACC.20/WCC).

Cyberbullying; Conceptual Image

Potential CV Risk With Cyberstalking and Cyberbullying

February 12, 2020

Feature Article

Adverse cardiovascular outcomes following traumatic events are well established, especially in the aftermath of tragedies that evoke intense or prolonged stress. Firefighters who arrived early or had prolonged exposure to the World Trade Center trauma had higher incident rates of myocardial infarction, stroke, unstable angina, and cardiovascular mortality.

The ACC Celebrates Rehabilitation Professionals in February

Acknowledge Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week During Heart Month

February 5, 2020

Announcements

Join the ACC in recognizing Cardiac Rehab Awareness Week from Feb. 9 – 15 as part of American Heart Month. Clinicians can easily explain the benefits of cardiac rehab with CardioSmart's Cardiac Rehab infographic.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Health Care Hotspotting

February 5, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This study looked at the impact of the Camden Core Model, a well-known and highly respected transitional care program, on a diverse group of medically and socially complex patients and their healthcare utilization, specifically their readmissions at 180 days after an index admission.

Key Points to Remember

Journal Scan | Racial and Ethnic Differences in AS

January 24, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

Most studies on the management and outcomes of aortic stenosis focus on black and white racial groups, with limited data on Asian and Hispanic populations. This article highlights the differences in underrepresented racial/ethnic groups in the management and outcomes of aortic stenosis.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Idiopathic Pericarditis

January 24, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

This review article provides an overview of the diagnosis and management of idiopathic pericarditis, incorporating recommendations from the 2015 European Society of Cardiology guidelines on pericardial disease.

ACC.20/WCC

Live Session at ACC.20/WCC: Improving How We Communicate CVD Risk to Patients

January 23, 2020

ACC20WCC

As clinicians, we spend a lot of time thinking and talking about risk. While risk-related concepts may seem clear to us, they can register with patients as a confusing assortment of jargon and numbers. Moreover, patients' comprehension of and reactions to risk are influenced by a host of factors that are not always well understood by clinicians.

Opioid Crisis; Conceptual Image

JACC Leadership Page: Opioid Crisis Impacting More Than Just Patients

January 23, 2020

JACC Family of Journals

In a new Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Richard J. Kovacs, MD, FACC; Jason H. Gilbert, PHD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC; and William J. Oetgen, MD, MBA, FACC, discuss the issues that clinicians, hospitals and practices are facing in light of the opioid crisis.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Estimated Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Risk of AF

January 22, 2020

Featured Journal Scans

High levels of measured cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality and may reduce the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). Less is known about estimated CRF and AF risk and if long-term changes in estimated CRF affects AF risk.

ACC Out in Front on Global Health

Global Paradigm of Care: Empowering Heart Failure Nurses Through Learn, Practice and Perform

January 8, 2020

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

In many low-and-middle income countries, there is evidence of suboptimal heart failure management. To address this issue and bring the quality of care available in the U.S. to other countries, the ACC launched an international training program for heart failure nurses in 2017. Cardiology magazine spoke with the two lead educators for the initiative, Sara Paul, DNP, FNP, CHFN, CCA, who directs the Heart Function Clinic at Catawba Valley Cardiology in Conover, NC, and Cynthia Bither, ACNP, MSN, AACC, chief nurse practitioner of the Advanced Heart Failure Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC, who have spent the past three years traveling the world to empower heart failure nurses.

Stargazing; Conceptual Image

Taking Time to Breathe

January 6, 2020

Feature Article

I recently read the obituary of one of my esteemed colleagues. It listed all his certifications, achievements, awards and invaluable contributions to our field – symbols of his pioneering vision. I thought to myself. I hope he had time to take a step back, look at all his achievements and life journey with a smile. I hope he took a walk in the rain. On a day so bleak and dreary, the rain-tipped leaves formed diamond crystals that sparkled.

Heart Failure; Conceptual Image

Take Advantage of New Multifaceted HF Curriculum

December 13, 2019

Educational Opportunities

The multi-faceted Improving Heart Failure Outcomes Through Personalized Education (HOPE) curriculum from the ACC and Haymarket Medical Education consists of 30 live and online certified education activities to help health care professionals improve heart failure (HF) patient care and outcomes.

2019 ACC Legislative Conference

Recap of ACC’s Legislative Conference

December 12, 2019

At this year's ACC Legislative Conference, the CV Team lobbied for important cardiovascular initiatives. Overall, the response from the House and Senate representatives were very positive and supportive of our concerns.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | National Lipid Association Scientific Statement on Icosapent Ethyl

December 3, 2019

Featured Key Points to Remember

This scientific statement from the National Lipid Association recommends icosapent ethyl for cardiovascular risk reduction in select patients and is largely based on results of REDUCE-IT (Reduction of Cardiovascular Events With Icosapent Ethyl–Intervention Trial).

ACC Annual Meeting Floor

Want to See Your Clinical Case Presented During ACC.20/WCC?

November 26, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

Submit to JACC: Case Reports by Dec. 31 and your case could be selected for presentation during the Journal's Best of 2019 session during ACC.20 Together With the World Congress of Cardiology.

Patient Education; Conceptual Image

Celebrate Caregivers During National Family Caregivers Month

November 8, 2019

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Join the ACC in recognizing National Family Caregivers Month. Caregivers are an important part of the care team; however, caregiving is a complex responsibility, and the stress of being a caregiver can strain your own health.

Volunteering; Conceptual Image

Sign Up For “Microvolunteer” Opportunities

October 28, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

There are a lot of big ways to get involved with the College – being on a Section Leadership Council, participating on a taskforce or committee, or serving as faculty for a live course, to name a few. However, we know that not everyone has the time for some of these larger-scale commitments. That's why the ACC is excited to announce the launch of our Microvolunteering Platform.

ACC Webinar

Webinar: Addressing Disparities in SHD

October 11, 2019

Featured Webinar

The ACC CV Team Section's Structural Heart Disease (SHD) Team Work Group will host the first in a series of two webinars this fall targeting members of the interdisciplinary SHD care team.

Physician at computer

Call For Articles: ACC CV Team Section Newsletter

October 7, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The ACC CV Team Section's Communication Committee needs articles from members for the upcoming issues of its newsletter. Consider submitting a short article on a topic of interest to you. Articles only need to be 250 – 500 words and ACC staff can help with copyediting.

Twitter Logo

ACC CV Team Members Promote Heart Health During World Heart Day

October 4, 2019

Feature Article

During this year’s World Heart Day, which took place on Sunday, Sept. 29, ACC CV Team members took to Twitter to show the world how they pursue heart health in their own lives. Below are some examples of how members continue to keep their heart strong, whether it’s exercising, hiking, playing with their kids or grandkids, walking a pet, or more!

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | CT-Derived FFR in the ED

September 23, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This retrospective study evaluated computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve for patients with acute chest pain presenting to an emergency department.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Missed Opportunities for EOL Decision-Making Discussions in ICD Recipients

September 23, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Patient and provider end-of-life discussions and decision-making are integral aspects of guideline-based care for patients undergoing cardioverter-defibrillator implantation. However, how health literacy is related to patient experiences, attitudes, and knowledge of the implanted cardioverter defibrillator at the end of life is unknown.

Doctor PA NP Patient Conceptual Image

ACC Seeks Comments on Clinical Competency Document For CV NPs and PAs

September 13, 2019

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The ACC is seeking comments on a draft competency statement describing the knowledge and skills of clinical cardiovascular nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs), including those in general cardiology practice and those working in focused areas of cardiovascular medicine.

Doctor Patient Conceptual Image

Empower Your Patients With ACC’s New HF Tools and Resources

September 13, 2019

Patient Centered

ACC's CardioSmart team recently developed a suite of tools and resources to help patients with heart failure begin managing their condition and know what to expect. Help your patients reach their goals with the "I Have Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction. Now What?" My Heart Failure Action Plan.

Heart Illustration

Celebrate World Heart Day With the College and Your Colleagues

September 4, 2019

Upcoming Event

Show your peers and the world how you pursue heart health in your own life on World Heart Day, taking place on Sunday, Sept. 29. Post a photo or video on Twitter of yourself exercising, hiking, playing with your kids or grandkids, or walking a pet – anything you do to keep your heart strong.

Cardiology Interventions Image

JACC: Case Reports Second Issue Now Live

August 29, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

The second issue of JACC: Case Reports is now online. Accompanied by a summary podcast from Editor-in-Chief Julia Grapsa, MD, PhD, FACC, the issue includes a mini-focus issue on interventional complications and their management, a heart care team/multidisciplinary team live case, clinical vignettes and more.

Heather Ross, PhD, DNP

An Open Letter to the CV Team: CV Rehab Legislation

August 2, 2019   |   Heather M. Ross, NP

Feature Article

For several years, our ACC worked together with other stakeholder groups and members of Congress to pass legislation that expands access to cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) services by allowing advanced practice clinicians – nurse practitioners, physician assistants and clinical nurse specialists – to supervise cardiac rehab services.

Cardiology Magazine; July 2019

Check Out the July Issue of Cardiology; Your Member Magazine

July 23, 2019

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

Cardiology is the ACC's flagship member magazine — your member magazine — providing cardiovascular professionals with a comprehensive source for clinical and professional news. Find links to all of the July issue's articles and share on social media!

Cardiology Interventions Image

JACC Leadership Page: Pharmacists and Cardiologists in the ACC

July 22, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

In a new Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Richard J. Kovacs, MD, FACC, president of the ACC; Kim K. Birtcher, MS, PharmD, AACC, ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines member; and James E. Tisdale, PharmD, FACC, ACC Electrophysiology Section Leadership Council member, reflect on the past, present and future of pharmacist involvement in the ACC and in cardiology.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Rivaroxaban in PAD

July 19, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

This brief article reviews a secondary analysis of the COMPASS (Cardiovascular Outcomes for People Using Anticoagulation Strategies) trial in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) treated with rivaroxaban and/or aspirin. The review suggests that treatment with rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily with aspirin 100 mg daily may represent a new and effective treatment for PAD.

ACC Oregon Cardiovascular Symposium

July 11, 2019   |   Alan Morasch, CAE

Feature Article

The 16th Annual ACC Oregon Cardiovascular Symposium, held in Portland, OR, was a resounding success. The CV Team was well-represented with 146 of the total 227 registrants.

Aspirin pills

Aspirin Therapy in Primary Prevention of ASCVD Infographic Now Available

July 3, 2019

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The use of aspirin in primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) has faced increasing controversy. To address this concern, the College created an infographic to explain a recently-published four-trial series evaluating the use of aspirin therapy in the primary prevention of ASCVD.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Inflammation and Its Associations and Influences in a Healthy Population

June 18, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Biomarkers of inflammation (such as C-reactive protein), low cardiorespiratory fitness (peak oxygen consumption), and poor endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation) are all associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk and vascular mortality and other cardiovascular risk factors such as metabolic syndrome, but their interdependence has not been established in a healthy population.

Chapters

ACC Rhode Island Chapter CV Team Meeting

June 13, 2019

On May 10, the ACC Rhode Island Chapter hosted its second annual cardiovascular team conference entitled, "Advanced Cardiology for the Cardiovascular Team." The program was jointly provided with the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and scheduled to coincide with Nurses Appreciation Week. For the second consecutive year, this conference was sold out.

conceptual image of CPR

CPR and AED Awareness Education in Middle Schools

June 13, 2019

Feature Article

With the rise in pediatric cardiac arrest cases across the country in recent years, CPR awareness and early implementation training is an essential component for best outcomes. Numerous efforts have been made across the U.S. to place automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools where first responders, including fellow students, can save precious minutes by executing basic life support (BLS) skills (CPR and AED) before emergency medical services arrive to provide advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) measures.

Key Points to Remember

The Leadless Pacemaker

June 11, 2019

Featured Key Points to Remember

The technology of the leadless pacemaker and its advantages, risks, and promise are explained in this review of the innovative device.

Key Points to Remember

Postcatheterization Femoral Pseudoaneurysms

June 4, 2019

Featured Key Points to Remember

This review describes the assessment and management of postcatheterization femoral artery pseudoaneurysms and techniques for ultrasound-guided thrombin injection and ultrasound-guided pseudoaneurysm compression.

Cardiology Magazine Stock Image

JACC Leadership Page: ACC.19, Primary Prevention and Elizabeth Kovacs

May 30, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

In a new Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, ACC President Richard J. Kovacs, MD, FACC, reflects on ACC.19; the new Primary Prevention Guideline; and his mother, Elizabeth M. Kovacs, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 99.

ACC Webinar

Recorded Webinar: How to Write a Case Report

May 23, 2019

Featured Webinar

JACC: Case Reports Editor-in-Chief Julia Grapsa, MD, PhD, FACC, and Associate Editor Mary Norine Walsh, MD, MACC, have recorded an informative webinar on how clinicians and members of the care team can develop a high-quality case report submission.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Morning Versus Evening Aerobic Training Effects on BP in Treated HTN

May 16, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

The hypotensive effect of aerobic training, due largely to an autonomic-modulated reduction in systemic vascular resistance, is well-established and appears to be additive to antihypertensive medications in hypertensive people. Multiple factors that enhance (e.g., weight loss) or diminish (e.g., genetics) this effect have been identified; however, it is unclear if time of day for aerobic training impacts its hypotensive effects.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Risk Stratification Post-MI With Preserved EF

May 16, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

The PRESERVE-EF (Risk Stratification in Patients With Preserved Ejection Fraction) study evaluated a protocol for identifying patients with ejection fraction ≥40% post-myocardial infarction who might benefit from implantable cardioverter-defibrillator due to a high risk of sudden cardiac death.

Chapters

The ACC Celebrates Nurses in May

May 2, 2019

Announcements

This May, the ACC is celebrating the important role nurses play in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health with a special membership discount.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Increased Mortality in Patients With HF Sedentary Lifestyles

April 25, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Compared with urban dwellers, rural community dwellers living with heart failure (HF) face higher rates of health disparities in terms of being uninsured and having poor access to medical providers, especially specialists, and tend to have lower socioeconomic status. Although the influence of demographic and clinical factors on high-impact HF outcomes such as death and rehospitalization was identified in the literature, little is known about the influence of lifestyle variables, and sedentary lifestyle in particular, among rural dwellers with HF.

Chapters

Patient Safety Heroes

April 11, 2019   |   Jill M Gall, BS

Feature Article

In 2018, Indiana University Health launched a Patient Safety Hero Program to recognize caregivers for creating a positive patient safety culture.

Chapters

Newest JACC Journal Provides Publication Vehicle For CV Care Team

April 4, 2019

Announcements

Researchers, early career cardiologists and members of the cardiovascular care team have a new publication vehicle for case reports, imaging vignettes, global health reports and voices in cardiology centered on clinical problem solving.

Key Points to Remember

Key Points | AHA 2019 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics

February 20, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

The American Heart Association, in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health and other government agencies, annually compiles into a single document the most up-to-date statistics regarding heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors. This statistical update presents the latest data on clinical heart and circulatory diseases and associated outcomes, including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | BP Response During Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in HF

February 12, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Measurements during cardiopulmonary exercise testing have well-established prognostic value for patients with advanced heart failure (HF). However, less is known about the predictive value of hemodynamic responses to cardiopulmonary exercise testing in advanced HF, such as changes in blood pressure.

Chapters

ACC Celebrates Cardiac Rehab Specialists

February 8, 2019

Feature Article

Throughout February, cardiac rehabilitation professionals who join the College as Associates of the ACC or CV Team members can save 30 percent or more on their first year of membership.

Chapters

Subscribe to ACC Update and Receive the Latest CV Team Content

February 8, 2019

Announcements

Are you subscribed to the ACC Update newsletter? Starting this month, on the second Friday of every month, ACC Update will provide a segmented, personalized newsletter with the CV Team-focused information you've come to expect, including member articles, upcoming events, clinical content, apps and tools, and more.

Chapters

ACC Washington State Chapter Meeting

February 7, 2019

ACC Chapters

In November 2018, the annual ACC Washington State Chapter meeting took place at the Bellevue Marriott Hotel in Bellevue, WA.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Impact of Early Follow-Up on Mortality and Readmissions After Emergency Care of HF Cohort

February 5, 2019

Featured Journal Scans

Each year, over 1 million patients with heart failure (HF) present to the emergency department and are often treated with diuretic therapy and discharged. Optimal timing of physician follow-up after an emergency department visit for HF is unclear, and investigators examined outcomes (i.e., hospital readmission and death) of early and late follow-up among patients with a primary diagnosis of HF who were treated and discharged from the emergency department.

Cardiology Magazine Stock Image

Society Presidents Offer Guidance on MOC in 2019 and Beyond

January 31, 2019

JACC Family of Journals

ACC President C. Michael Valentine, MD, FACC; SCAI President David A. Cox, MD, MSCAI, FACC; HRS President Thomas F. Deering, MD, FHRS, FACC; and HFSA President Randall C. Starling, MD, FACC, offer guidance to cardiovascular professionals seeking to navigate Maintenance of Certification (MOC) in 2019 and beyond as part of a joint Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

ACC.19 Update

CV Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.19

January 21, 2019

ACC20WCC

Network with nurses, PAs, clinical pharmacists, cardiac rehab professionals and other members of the cardiovascular team at ACC.19 during the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception, taking place Saturday, March 16, from 5 – 7:30 p.m. CT.

Chapters

Save the Date: CV Team Events at ACC.19

January 9, 2019

Announcements

ACC.19, which takes place March 16 – 18 in New Orleans, LA, offers CV Team professionals numerous opportunities to connect with peers, exchange ideas and gain knowledge.

Chapters

Workforce Wellness, Leadership Training and More at CV Summit 2019

January 9, 2019

Announcements

ACC's Cardiovascular Summit – taking place Feb. 14 – 16 in Orlando, FL – offers training across many nonclinical competencies with the goal of helping cardiovascular professionals survive and thrive in today’s health care environment.

Jean C. McSweeney, PhD, RN

Interview With Jean C. McSweeney, PhD, RN

January 8, 2019

Feature Interview

This month's ACC CV Team Newsletter features an interview with Jean C. McSweeney, PhD, RN, associate dean for research at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, AR.

Chapters

Self-Compassion Mantra to Ease Stress

January 8, 2019

Feature Article

The acute and prolonged stress of adverse events has been found to have undisputed negative effects on the heart and longevity. Stress-induced compassion fatigue is also increasingly blamed for the premature end to productive careers.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Prognostic Impact of PH After TAVR

December 13, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

Pulmonary hypertension in patients with severe aortic stenosis who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement can be reversed with an improvement in overall survival.

CV Team Image

Why I’m Grateful For the CV Team Section

December 4, 2018

Feature Article

In a recent Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Andrew P. Miller, MD, FACC; Eileen M. Handberg, PhD, ARNP, FACC; and George P. Rodgers, MD, FACC, discuss how expanding the College's membership in 2003 recognized cardiovascular medicine as a team sport.

CV Team Image

Professional Growth and Development Achieved Through State Liaison Experience

December 4, 2018

Feature Article

I became involved with ACC CV Team after a physician approached me to consider becoming state liaison for the ACC Indiana Chapter. Initially, I was overwhelmed and hesitant to add another professional responsibility on to my plate, especially one that was largely unknown to me.

Conceptual Image

Call For Applications For PharmD, PA ACC.org E-Learning Editors

December 4, 2018

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The ACC.org editorial board is looking for two team members – one PharmD candidate and one PA candidate – to join the certified e-learning team to expand educational offerings for PharmDs and PAs.

Conceptual Image

October’s PA and Pharmacist Appreciation Campaign

November 9, 2018

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The month of October gave the ACC the opportunity to celebrate the important contributions of PAs and pharmacists to transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health. As a result of the recruitment campaign the College ran during the month, 37 pharmacists and 39 PAs joined as members.

Conceptual Image

Earn CNE Credit With ACC’s Certified Patient Cases

November 9, 2018

Educational Opportunities

Did you know that several of ACC's Certified Patient Cases offer CNE credit at no cost? These challenging cases on a wide variety of important topics range from cardio-oncology and valvular heart disease, to hypertension and arrhythmias.

Chapters

Heart Failure Heath Literacy Workshop

November 6, 2018

Feature Article

Jessica Patel, PharmD, a medical science liaison for Novartis Pharmaceuticals, and Jennifer Fox, CRNP, heart failure nurse practitioner for Lankenau Medical Center, recently joined together to host a Heart Failure Health Literacy Workshop for Main Line Health Nurses and Advanced Practitioners.

Chapters

Highlights From ACC’s 2018 Legislative Conference

November 6, 2018

Feature Article

ACC's 2018 Legislative Conference recently took place in Washington, DC. It was the largest legislative conference to date with more than 470 attendees, 70 of which were ACC CV Team Section members.

CV Team Student

Earn CNE Credit With ACC's Certified Patient Cases

October 30, 2018

Educational Opportunities

The ACC continues to set the standards for lifelong learning for the entire cardiovascular care team. Did you know that several of ACC's Certified Patient Cases offer CNE credit at no cost?

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Higher Incidence of Ischemic Stroke With NOACs

October 26, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

The incidence of acute ischemic stroke and hemorrhage was determined retrospectively from an electronic database of >125,000 patients with atrial fibrillation on home novel oral anticoagulants or warfarin. The results seemed to contradict several recent studies.

Clinical Pharmacist

ACC Celebrates PAs and PharmDs in October

October 15, 2018

Announcements

October marks both American Pharmacists Month and National PA Week, and the ACC is celebrating the work PharmDs and PAs do through discounts on membership and educational products. Nonmember PAs and clinical pharmacists can save more than 35 percent on 2019 dues by joining the ACC in October using the code Thanks2018. Encourage your nonmember colleagues to visit ACC.org/Thanks2018 and get started on their application. (They will use the promo code on the payment screen.)

ACC Information Graphic

DOAC Dosing For AFib Infographic Now Available

October 15, 2018

Featured Infographic

Inappropriate dosing of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) is not uncommon in treating patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib). To that end, the College has created an infographic to provide information on how clinicians should appropriately dose DOACs.

Chapters

CV Team Member Spotlight: Holly Cook, BSN, RN-BC

October 2, 2018

Member Profile

Each month, the CV Team Section newsletter highlights the achievements of one CV Team member. This month features Holly Cook, BSN, RN-BC, manager of the cardiovascular level one emergency programs and chest pain center coordinator at the Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, IN.

Chapters

WA State Eastside CVT Meeting

October 2, 2018

Feature Article

The annual Washington State Eastside ACC CV Team Dinner was held on Sept. 5, in Spokane, WA, and was a wonderful gathering of registered nurses (RNs), advanced practice registered nurses (ARNPs), physician assistants and a few cardiologists. There were more than 45 attendees and 12 vendors who enjoyed an evening of networking, education, and delicious food and drink.

Chapters

CVD and the Coloring of America

October 2, 2018

Feature Article

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. and the world. Over 800,000 Americans die annually of cardiovascular disease, which equals to approximately one of every three deaths.

Cardiology Magazine, Sept. 2018

Cardiovascular Team Section | The September Issue of Cardiology, YOUR Member Magazine, is Live! Read it All Online!

September 21, 2018

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

The September 2018 issue of Cardiology, YOUR member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

ACC.19 Update

ACC Members, ACC.19 Registration is Now Open!

September 12, 2018

ACC20WCC

ACC.19 registration is NOW OPEN exclusively for ACC members. Nonmember registration will open Wednesday, Sept. 26. Register early for the lowest rates and best selection of hotel rooms!

ACC Member Section Thumbnail Image

JACC CV Health Promotion Series Address Top 8 Risk Factors

September 7, 2018

JACC Family of Journals

A series of eight state-of-the-art reviews is now publishing in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC). One review is publishing each week, examining the top risk factors affecting the cardiovascular health of patients: diet, tobacco, lipid control/cholesterol, blood pressure, psychological health, weight, physical activity and blood sugar.

CV Team Article Thumbnail

Feature | Celebrating Success: Idaho Requires Newborn CCHD Screening Using Pulse Oximetry

September 4, 2018   |   Lisa A Hom, RN

Feature Article

The ACC and other advocates celebrated a major victory for infants born with critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) with the adoption of IDAPA 10.02.12, a rule that adds CCHD screening to the uniform screening panel in Idaho. After successfully passing through several Senate committee hearings and closing the Idaho legislative session on March 31, this rule became effective in Idaho on July 1.

CV Team Article Thumbnail

Feature | Don't Go Breaking My Heart: Pharmacy Practice Models For CVD Prevention Programs

September 4, 2018   |   Katie Buehler Tellor, PharmD, FACC

Feature Article

A multidisciplinary team approach has long been advocated as a model to provide the best patient care. The Best Practices for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Programs: A Guide to Effective Health Care System Interventions and Community Programs Linked to Clinical Services, a publication by the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), further highlights a team-based care model for prevention strategies.

CV Team Article Thumbnail

Upcoming Event | Recognize World Heart Day on Sept. 29

September 4, 2018   |   Sharon M. Morgan, NP, AACC

Upcoming Event

World Heart Day is an international campaign held every year on Sept. 29 to inform people about cardiovascular disease — the biggest cause of death — and promote preventive measures to reduce the risk. The first World Heart Day was celebrated in 2000 as a joint initiative between the World Heart Foundation and World Health Organization. It is the world’s largest platform for raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Present Status of Brugada Syndrome

August 22, 2018

Featured Journal Scans

This Journal of the American College of Cardiology state-of-the-art review of Brugada syndrome conveys a comprehensive update and overall perspective on this rare but significant cause of sudden cardiac death.

CV Management Image

Team-Based Compensation in a Value World

August 22, 2018   |   Cathleen Biga, MSN, RN, FACC

Feature Article

There is nothing that strikes fear in an administrator’s heart more than their dyad partner saying, "Let’s add a compensation model review for our next group meeting!" Whether you work in a hospital-employed setting, academia, or private practice, an equitable and sustainable compensation plan is paramount to a successful work environment.

Twitter

Save the Date: Join ACC’s Next Twitter Journal Club

August 18, 2018

Save the Date

Save the date for the next ACC Twitter Journal Club on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 3 - 4 p.m. ET! ACC Journal Club faculty members Dipti Itchhaporia, MD, FACC, and John Ryan, MD, FACC, will be joined by Annabelle Volgman, MD, FACC, ACC, ACC Cardiovascular Disease in Women committee member; Andrew Freeman, MD, FACC, ACC Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Section council member; and Dave Dixon, PharmD, FACC, ACC Diabetes and Cardiometabolic Disorder sub-section member, to discuss some of the hottest topics from ESC Congress 2018 in Munich.

Cardiology Magazine August 2018

Cardiovascular Team Section | The August Issue of Cardiology, YOUR Member Magazine, is Live! Read it All Online!

August 16, 2018

Cardiology Magazine Highlights

The August 2018 issue of Cardiology, YOUR member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

CV Team Event Image

ACC Rhode Island Chapter CV Team Update

July 31, 2018

The ACC Rhode Island Chapter recently held its first ever CV Team Section educational conference at the Marriott Hotel in Providence, RI. Leanne M. Burke, MSN, APRN-CNP, ANP-BC, AACC, ACC Rhode Island Chapter CV Team representative, and David M. Donaldson, MD, FACC, ACC Rhode Island Chapter governor, organized this educational conference specifically for the CV Team Section members.

Twitter

Health Care Providers and Social Media

July 31, 2018

It has been shown that networking through social media benefits the professional careers of health care providers. While professionals in specialties such as cardiology may have limited peer support at their institutions, Twitter and Facebook can provide near-instantaneous support from professionals with similar backgrounds miles away. As support is readily available from online communities that face common problems, colleagues are able to share their experiences and help brainstorm solutions to workplace problems that improve patient outcomes.

Heather M. Ross, DNP, PhD

Member Spotlight: Heather M. Ross, DNP, PhD

July 31, 2018

Heather M. Ross, DNP, PhD, chair of the ACC CV Team Advocacy Committee, is running for U.S. Congress in Arizona’s 6th district. Combining her passion for cardiology and the personal conviction that nurses have a responsibility to participate in professional organizations, Ross was one of the first 100 nurses to join the ACC. She urges nurses to not be afraid to start with local chapter involvement, volunteer for state and national committees or work forces, and pursue political health care activities.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | EHR-Based and Nurse-Led Medication Support in HTN

July 26, 2018

NAMES (Northwestern University and Access Community Health Network Medication Education Study) was designed to test the effectiveness of an electronic health record-based medication management tool with and without nurse-led education in improving blood pressure and medication management in hypertensive patients.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Effect of Beta-Blocker Treatment on V O2peak in Patients With HF

July 26, 2018

Beta-blocker treatment of chronic heart failure (HF) has been shown to improve survival and reduce HF-related hospitalizations. Beta-adrenergic blockade blunts peak heart rate; however, less is known about the effects of prolonged beta-blocker treatment on peak oxygen consumption, an important functional index of exercise capacity, in patients with HF.

Cardio-Oncology

Recap of ACC's Advancing Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient Meeting

July 10, 2018

The ACC Cardio-Oncology Section recently hosted its second annual Advancing Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient meeting in Washington, DC. Hosted by Ana Barac, MD, PhD, FACC, and Bonnie Ky, MD, FACC, this course offered a general overview of the field of cardio-oncology care, with specific focus on current research and practical implications for clinicians.

Meetings

The 47th Society of Critical Care Medicine Annual Congress

July 10, 2018

The 2018 Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) Annual Congress was recently held in San Antonio, TX, with over 6,000 critical care practitioners from around the world who presented research, attended educational sessions and used the opportunity to network.

Chapters

ACC Ohio Chapter CV Team Update

July 10, 2018

The ACC Ohio CV Team Council held a successful 11th annual CV Team Update as part of the ACC Ohio Chapter Spring Summit in Cleveland.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Coronary CTA Versus Stress Echocardiography in Acute Chest Pain

June 27, 2018

This single-center comparative effectiveness trial provides a direct head-to-head comparison of coronary computed tomography angiography versus stress echocardiography in low- to intermediate-risk patients with chest pain in the emergency department on measures of clinical efficiency, safety, and resource utilization.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Home-Time After Discharge Among Patients Hospitalized With HF

June 8, 2018

Home-time, or the time spent out of a health care institution, was studied to among patients with heart failure. The researchers showed that more time outside of a health care institution, including a skilled nursing facility, correlated to time-to-event mortality and hospitalization outcomes.

Member Benefits

ACC Maryland CV Team Spring Networking Event

June 6, 2018

The Maryland CV Team Leadership Council recently welcomed a diverse group of professionals for the spring networking event at the Blue Hill Tavern in Baltimore.

Member Benefits

Indiana's CV Symposium

June 6, 2018

The Methodist Hospitals in Gary and Merrillville, Indiana held a terrific Cardiovascular Symposium this year. More than 120 members and clinicians from the Chicago-area and Northwest Indiana attended this program in Schererville, Indiana.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Vitamins and Minerals for CVD

May 30, 2018

Investigators reviewed evidence for vitamin and mineral supplementation in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease since 2012. The meta-analysis utilized studies prior to and including the US Preventive Services Task Force report, which published evidence and recommendations in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | CV Risk in Patients With FH on Optimal Therapy

May 29, 2018

Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia can develop cardiovascular (CV) events even when treated with stable lipid-lowering therapy. This study analyzes which patient factors and CV risk factors are associated with higher CV risk despite optimal or maximum tolerated lipid-lowering therapy.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Depression in Patients With CAD

May 21, 2018

Depression is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), but effective treatment of depression can improve cardiac outcomes, mortality, and quality of life. This article reviews current recommendations for the screening, diagnosis, and management of depression in patients with CAD.

Join Us

CV Team Travel Awards to the 2018 Legislative Conference

May 7, 2018

The ACC has a limited number of travel awards available to cover expenses for CV Team members to travel to the 2018 Legislative Conference, Sept. 30 – Oct. 2, in Washington, DC. The award provides reimbursement funding for airfare, lodging and other expenses up to $1,000 for travel to and from the conference.

Member Benefits

Submit Session Suggestions For ACC.19

April 4, 2018

Do you have innovative ideas for potential sessions at ACC.19? CV Team members are encouraged to submit ideas, including relevant CV Team speakers and topics, that address needs assessment gaps.

Member Benefits

Transcatheter Heart Valve Handbook: A Surgeons and Interventional Council Review

March 19, 2018

ACC’s Surgeons and Interventional Member Section Councils have created a transcatheter heart valve handbook to provide a single source of introductory information on aortic, mitral and pulmonary transcatheter valve technology, intended for residents and Fellows in Training in cardiovascular medicine and cardiothoracic surgery. 

Meetings

2018 Careers in Heart Failure & Transplant Symposium

February 28, 2018

Please join us for this year's Careers in Heart Failure & Transplant Symposium during ACC.18. The event will take place on Saturday, March 10th, 2018 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando, Regency Ballroom Q at 4:30pm-6:00pm.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Clinical Pharmacist Intervention and Risk of Readmission

February 8, 2018

On average, 45% of adverse drug reactions that lead to hospitalization are preventable. The transition from hospital to primary care settings may introduce errors in communication regarding patient medical treatment. Medication reviews led by pharmacists can provide some solutions to these issues.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Male Marathoners and Coronary Artery Calcium

February 8, 2018

Many male marathon runners have elevated coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores despite high levels of physical activity, which raises concerns that extreme endurance exercise may lead to increased atherosclerosis in men. This study sets out to reexamine the data on 50 male marathon runners to determine the relationship between CAC scores and coronary artery disease risk factors.

Meetings

CV Team Member Spotlight: Nancy L. Lundy, NP, AACC

February 7, 2018

How did you get started in health care?
In 1983, my then 3-year-old daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. I spent many years after the diagnosis learning how to care for her and navigate through the health care industry.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Gender and Racial Differences in Surgical Outcomes in Patients With HF

January 30, 2018

Differences in type, etiology, and treatment of heart failure between men and women and among ethnic groups might affect non-cardiac surgical outcomes. Gender and ethnic differences in 30-day surgical morbidity and mortality outcomes were characterized and compared in adults with new and acute, worsening heart failure.

Cardiology Magazine Jan 2018

Cardiology Magazine Special Section | The Evolution of the Physician Assistant Workforce in Cardiology

January 22, 2018

Physician assistants (PAs) are health care professionals who are helping to address the growing need for high-quality cardiovascular health care providers in the U.S. As the PA profession marks its 50th anniversary, a new survey reveals that as the profession has matured, so has the role of PAs who work in cardiology. Conducted by the ACC's PA Work Group of the Cardiovascular Team Council, the survey provides important insights into the experience, scope of practice and services provided in cardiovascular practice, as well as opportunities to enhance professional membership. More work experience in cardiology and greater autonomy in providing cardiovascular care are two notable findings among the current generation of PAs.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Childhood Adversity and Cardiometabolic Outcomes

January 22, 2018

This American Heart Association scientific statement summarizes the existing scientific literature on the impact of childhood and adolescent adversity on cardiometabolic health outcomes and suggests future directions for research and clinical interventions.

Meetings

Meetings and Conferences | Hear From the Experts on the Hottest Trials From AHA 2017

November 22, 2017

In the latest ACC Cardiology Hour, Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, MACC, is joined by Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC; Rachel J. Lampert, MD, FACC; Prediman K. Shah, MD, MACC; and Chadwick W. Stouffer, MD, in a roundtable discussion of the hottest trials from AHA 2017 in Anaheim, CA. Among the trials discussed are DACAB, CANVAS, EXSCEL, POISE-2 and more.

CV Team

Advocacy | Do Your Part

November 14, 2017

We are in a great time in health care; a time when individuals can share their voices, the voices of their patients and the needs of their practice. There are several ways to communicate ideas and concerns, and it begins with being aware of the ongoing problems.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Drug-Coated Balloon for Femoropopliteal ISR

October 24, 2017

The IN.PACT Admiral (Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) paclitaxel-coated balloon was evaluated for safety and effectiveness in treatment of de novo in-stent restenosis of the femoral and popliteal arteries. The trial was one of several cohorts in the much larger multi-continent IN.PACT Global Study assessing the performance of the drug-coated balloon in femoropopliteal disease.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | ICU Triage in the Elderly

October 13, 2017

The ICE-CUBII (Impact on Mid-term Mortality of Guidelines for ICU Admission of Elderly Patients Arriving in Emergency Departments) cluster randomized trial in France evaluated whether systematic intensive care unit (ICU) triage in critically ill elderly patients would affect mortality at 6 months compared with usual practice. Secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality, ICU admission rates, functional status, and quality of life at 6 months.

CV Team

CV Team Perspectives | ACC’s 2017 Legislative Conference

October 4, 2017

Cardiovascular Team members had a strong presence at the ACC's recent 2017 Legislative Conference that took place Sept. 10 – 12 in Washington, DC. Several Cardiovascular Team members shared their personal thoughts and takeaways from this important educational and immersive event.

CV Team

CV Team Spotlight | Chris Steelman, MS, RT(R)(CI), RCIS

October 4, 2017

Each month, the CV Team Section newsletter highlights the achievements of one CV Team member. This month features Chris Steelman, MS, RT (R)(CI), RCIS, program director at the School of Invasive Cardiovascular Technology at the Hoffman Heart and Vascular Institute of Connecticut in Hartford.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Food Deserts and CV Risk

October 2, 2017

Although associations between access to healthy foods and cardiovascular (CV) disease are well-established, the influence on CV risk of convenient access to healthy foods over personal and geographic area income remains elusive. To address this gap, data analysis was done to identify associations between persons in low income living areas and/or low healthy food access and CV risk using novel biomarker indicators of CV disease risk.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Safety of Simultaneous CABG and CEA Versus Isolated CABG

October 2, 2017

The CABACS (Coronary Artery Bypass graft surgery in patients with Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis) trial examined the outcomes of simultaneous coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with carotid endarterectomy versus CABG alone in patients needing coronary artery bypass surgery who also had asymptomatic, high-grade internal carotid artery stenosis.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Benefits of CTCA Using 2016 NICE Guidelines

September 22, 2017

This study retrospectively assessed the relative benefits of coronary computed tomography angiography in an anginal cohort versus a non-anginal cohort from SCOT-HEART (Scottish Computed Tomography of the HEART Trail).

Join Us

Get Involved | Apply for ACC’s Membership Committee by Sept. 22

September 12, 2017

In conjunction with the ACC Committee Nominations cycle, the College’s Membership Committee is now accepting applications through Sept. 22. The Membership Committee was established as part of the 2015 College’s governance transformation and serves as standing committee of the College, reporting directly to the Board of Trustees.

CV Team

CV Team Members: Get Involved With the ACC

September 6, 2017

2018 ACC and NCDR Committee Nominations: Nominations for spots on ACC's major operating committees and NCDR subcommittees are open now until Friday, Sept. 22.

Join Us

Membership Milestone For Cardiovascular Team

August 30, 2017

The ACC recently reached an important milestone: There are now over 5,000 Cardiovascular Team members in the College! Clinical guidelines, world-class education and networking opportunities are just some of the reasons these professionals have joined the ACC, but much of the credit goes to members like you, who have reached out to colleagues and friends to let them know about the benefits of ACC membership.

Cardiology August 2017

The August 2017 Issue of Cardiology, ACC's Flagship Member Magazine, is LIVE!

August 21, 2017

The August 2017 issue of Cardiology, ACC’s flagship member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Targeted Temperature Management for 24 vs. 48 Hours After OHCA

August 3, 2017

International guidelines recommend targeted temperature management for at least 24 hours at 33°C to 36°C in unconscious patients following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, but the optimal duration of targeted temperature management is unknown. This multicenter European randomized control trial assessed whether 48 hours of targeted temperature management results in improved neurologic outcome at 6 months compared with 24 hours of targeted temperature management.

CV Team

CV Team Spotlight: Constance A. Adams, MS, RN, CCNS, CCRN

August 2, 2017

The CV Team Section newsletter highlights the achievements of one CV Team member. This month features Constance A. Adams, MS, RN, CCNS, CCRN, the clinical quality director for the Heart & Vascular Institute at Methodist Hospitals, Inc. in Gary, IN, who is actively involved with heart failure and chest pain programs.

CV Team

HF in Northwest Indiana

August 2, 2017

Northwest Indiana is challenged with a disproportionate share of heart failure (HF) patients. HF is among the top diagnoses for admission and readmission, presenting the potential for huge financial penalties for hospitals.

Cardiology Magazine, July 2017

The July 2017 Issue of Cardiology, ACC's Flagship Member Magazine, is LIVE!

July 20, 2017

The July 2017 issue of Cardiology, ACC’s flagship member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

Meetings

Call For Applications: Annual Scientific Session Vice Chair

July 20, 2017

The ACC is seeking qualified candidates to serve as vice chair of the Annual Scientific Session for a two-year term of office for ACC.19 and ACC.20, moving on to assume another two-year term as chair of ACC.21 and ACC.22.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Cognitive Impairment and HF

July 17, 2017

Cognitive impairment and dementia can impact treatment, adherence, and ultimately clinical outcomes. Meta-analysis of evidence until May 2015 was analyzed to determine prevalence, incidence, and relative risk for cognitive impairment in patients with heart failure.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Outcomes for Cardioversion Performed by an Advanced Practice Provider

July 6, 2017

This study assessed the feasibility and quality outcomes of a series of 415 electrical cardioversion procedures performed autonomously by an advanced practice provider utilizing a guideline-directed protocol. Outcomes for both safety and efficacy were compared with those for 387 cardioversions performed by a medical doctor and were found to be equivalent.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Statin Trials Support the 2013 ACC/AHA Cholesterol Guidelines

July 6, 2017

This study shows that seven high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support statin efficacy in nearly all individuals with a Class I American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) indication for statin therapy for primary prevention. The HOPE-3 (Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation-3) trial provides missing RCT evidence to support the 2013 ACC/AHA guidelines on treatment of cholesterol.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Vascular Function and Structure in Veteran Athletes After MI

July 6, 2017

Regular endurance exercise imparts cardioprotection through not only improvement of risk factors but also direct effects on arterial walls, which enhance vascular function. However, lifelong athletes are not immune to coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction (MI). Previous studies have demonstrated that post-MI patients experience impaired vascular function and structure compared with healthy peers; the authors wondered if post-MI lifelong athletes had superior vascular function and structure compared with their post-MI sedentary peers.

CV Team

Learning to Optimize Quality: A Recap of NCDR.17

July 5, 2017

The energizing and ever-growing NCDR Annual Conference was held on March 13 – 15 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center located just outside Washington, D.C. and was attended by more than 1,600 health care professionals.

Heart

In Memoriam: Kay Blum, PhD, CRNP

June 30, 2017

It is with great sadness that I announce the loss of one of our ACC Cardiovascular Team leaders, professors and mentors, Kay Blum, PhD, CRNP. Dr. Blum was not only a role model to all Cardiovascular Team members, she was also my mentor, and as such, I would like to pay tribute to her life.

Cardiology

The June 2017 Issue of Cardiology, ACC's Flagship Member Magazine, is LIVE!

June 27, 2017

The June 2017 issue of Cardiology, ACC’s flagship member magazine, is now live! Cardiology provides cardiovascular professionals with comprehensive clinical, professional and health policy news; feature-length articles on the top trends and innovations in cardiovascular medicine; expert commentary from leaders in the cardiovascular field; quick-read summaries of the latest research from the JACC Journals and other major cardiovascular journals; profiles of ACC members, like you; and so much more!

Heart

JACC Leadership Page: What’s in a Name?

June 23, 2017

In a recent Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), ACC President Mary Norine Walsh, MD, FACC, discusses the shift from calling physicians “doctors” to “providers.”

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Prevalence of PAD Reduced With Increased Consumption of Fruits and Vegetables

June 9, 2017

This study of 3.7 million American adults evaluated the association between the prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and dietary intake of fruits and vegetables. The secondary analysis of clinical risk factors identified in whom the daily intake of ≥3 fruits and vegetables resulted in a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of PAD.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Inpatient HF Discharge Volume Predicts Readmissions

May 24, 2017

Using a model of structure, process, and outcome, 30-day all-cause readmission correlated to unit discharge volume. Units with high discharge volumes and patient-to-nurse ratios greater than 4:1 had higher all-cause 30-day readmission rates than units with lower discharge volumes and patient-to-nurse ratios of less than 3:1.

CV Team

Expanding the Traditional Patient Care Team Model

May 10, 2017

As patient care demands increase, so does the value of expanding the traditional patient-care team model. Our organization approaches cardiovascular quality improvements through a triad approach, including physician leadership, system cardiovascular quality data team and cardiovascular leadership from hospital operations.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Long-Term Marathon Running Is Associated with Low Coronary Plaque Formation in Women

April 18, 2017

It is well-established that cardiovascular health and longevity are improved by 20-30 minutes of vigorous physical activity multiple times per week. However, more extreme endurance exercise may not impart similar enhanced health outcomes and may actually be detrimental to overall coronary artery health, as has been demonstrated in male marathon runners. This study investigates several indices of coronary artery disease in women who run marathons (extreme endurance exercise) compared with sedentary controls and compares the results to a companion study on male marathon runners.

Member Benefits

Webinar: What Does the Move From Volume-to-Value Mean For Cardiac Rehab Programs?

April 6, 2017

Join the ACC at noon ET on April 20 to hear about the latest trends of value-based care and the role of cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) in an environment focused on the value of care from Tom Draper, MBA, and Todd Brown, MD, MSPH, president and president-elect, respectively, of the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

CV Team

JACC Leadership Page: Team Up!

April 6, 2017

In a recent Leadership Page published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), new ACC President Mary Norine Walsh, MD, FACC, discusses the importance of team-based care and making sure the patient is a member of that team.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | The Future of Telehealth in HF

April 4, 2017

Ten key points to remember from the review “Moving Beyond the Walls of the Clinic: Opportunities and Challenges to the Future of Telehealth in Heart Failure,” which is intended to provide an overview of the opportunities and challenges of telehealth in heart failure.

ACC.17

This Saturday: All-Section Meeting & Reception at ACC.17

March 14, 2017

Attending ACC.17? Join us for the All-Section Meeting & Reception at ACC.17! The event happening THIS Saturday, March 18, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Marriott Marquis will give you a chance to learn more about what ACC's 19+ Member Sections are working to accomplish and to connect with members in your specialty or interest areas.

ACC.17

This Friday: CV Team Section Meeting and Reception

March 14, 2017

Connect with colleagues, put your questions to Section leadership and discover how you can get involved this Friday at the CV Team Section Meeting and Reception. RSVP now, and we'll see you from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Washington Marriott Marquis on Friday!

CV Team

Member Spotlight: June Hart Romeo, NP, PhD, FACC, AACC

March 1, 2017

June Hart Romeo, NP, PhD, FACC, AACC, is the program manager, supervisor and cardiac nurse practitioner for the new Cleveland Clinic Regional Heart Failure (HF) Clinic, as well as their cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation (rehab) programs.

CV Team

The First APRN Cardiac Clinic in Arkansas

March 1, 2017

El Dorado, Arkansas is located more than 100 miles south of the capital city, Little Rock. This rural town is fortunate to have a lifelong resident serve as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) providing cardiac care to residents.

ACC.17

Cardiovascular Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.17

February 14, 2017

Join us from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 17 at the Washington Marriott Marquis for the Cardiovascular Team Section Meeting and Reception at ACC.17! Network with your peers, hear from Section leadership on accomplishments and initiatives, and learn about how you can get involved in the Section. RSVP here.

Journal Scan

Journal Scan | Impact of Continuous-Flow LVAD Implantation on Glycemic Control

January 11, 2017

Journal Scan | The interplay between diabetes and heart failure (HF) is significant because HF is associated with increased insulin resistance, which has been shown to worsen myocardial function. Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have been shown in small studies to improve glycemic control. This retrospective study sought to investigate the influence of LVAD implantation on glycemic control in a larger population with type 2 diabetes and advanced chronic HF.

CV Team

A Day in the Life: Andrea Price, MS, RCIS, CCA

November 2, 2016

I work for a hospital system with 15 facilities throughout Indiana. The health care system is comprised of a conglomeration of both academic and community based hospitals along with out-patient diagnostic facilities.

Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care For the CV Patient

October 5, 2016

It wasn’t too long ago that I equated consulting the palliative care team with consulting the hospice team. When a patient was not a candidate for a procedure, someone should have a ‘goals of care’ discussion including the possibility of hospice.

CV Team

Clopidogrel Adherence

September 16, 2016

Journal Scan | This study sought to identify factors that predict medication adherence to clopidogrel.

CV Team

High-Dose Unfractionated Heparin in Overweight and Obese Patients

September 14, 2016

Journal Scan | Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in overweight and obese patients presents several challenges due to potential changes in drug distribution and pharmacokinetics. Evidence to support the use of higher doses of anticoagulant therapies in the non-bariatric surgery population is lacking. This study sought to determine the safety and efficacy of high-dose unfractionated heparin in overweight and obese patients for prevention of venous thromboembolism.

Cardiology Magazine

Governance and the CV Team

July 6, 2016

The Spring issue of Cardiology magazine features an article written by Eileen M. Handberg, PhD, ARNP, FACC, examining the impacts on Cardiovascular Team (CV Team) members of ACC’s changes to the governance process. “First of all, [the changes] provides [the CV Team] an opportunity to have a bigger voice,” writes Handberg...

CV Team

Journal Scan: Cost-Effectiveness of High-Dose Edoxaban

June 15, 2016

Journal Scan | Edoxaban is one of several direct oral anticoagulants recommended by current guidelines for stroke prevention in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, yet a cost-effectiveness analysis from a U.S. perspective has not been performed. This study sought to determine the cost-effectiveness of high-dose edoxaban (60 mg daily) compared with adjusted-dose warfarin.

CV Team

Journal Scan: Older Women With Controlled ISH: Exercise and Blood Pressure

June 15, 2016

Journal Scan | The benefits of regular exercise are well-documented, but cardiovascular responses during exercise may provide a challenge for patients with hypertension, even if well-controlled. Activities of daily living and recreation involve both dynamic and static exercises that elevate systolic blood pressure (dynamic and static) and diastolic blood pressure (static). The goal of this study was to evaluate blood pressure responses in older women with isolated systolic hypertension during dynamic and static exercise and compare the responses with those of healthy, age-matched, normotensive women.

Nurse

Targeting Four Risk Factors May Help Reduce Premature Deaths From CVD

June 9, 2016

Aggressive strategies are needed to achieve targets set by the World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce the risk of premature non-communicable disease death by 25 percent by 2025. Notably, focusing on four main risk factors – high blood pressure, smoking, obesity and diabetes mellitus – may help meet this goal, according to a study published May 9 in Circulation.

CV Team

A Day in the Life: Sandy Perlmutter, MSN, ARNP, AACC

June 1, 2016

I work for a 10-physician, four advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) cardiology practice owned by a smaller community hospital. My day is filled with cardiac patient care. One day I may be hospital-based, doing inpatient rounds, stress echocardiograms and discharges.

CV Team

A Recap of NCDR.16

June 1, 2016

The NCDR.16 Annual Conference held in Chicago, IL, exceeded expectations and took those who attended to new levels.

CV Team

Journal Scan: Predicting HF Readmissions

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | The authors retrospectively examined the records of randomly selected patients with a discharge diagnosis of heart failure who were either subsequently readmitted or not subsequently readmitted to identify risk factors for readmission.

CV Team

Journal Scan: Analysis of Pharmacists’ Work in a Collaborative Model

May 2, 2016

Journal Scan | Team-based care models including pharmacists to manage hypertension have been highly positive, but the relative value of the pharmacists’ contribution is unknown. This study sought to evaluate the relative value of pharmacists involved in the CAPTION (Collaboration Among Pharmacists & Physicians To Improve Outcomes Now) trial.

CV Team

Role of KATP Channels in Beneficial Effects of Exercise in Ischemic Heart Failure

March 4, 2016

Journal Scan | Ischemic heart failure is associated with pathological remodeling that affects many intracellular elements, such as sarcolemmal ion channels, which results in disturbed intracellular calcium regulation. Exercise training has been shown to improve intracellular calcium handling by improving the functioning of several intracellular elements. This particular study demonstrates improved upregulation of KATP channel expression with exercise that improves calcium handling and cardiomyocyte tolerance to oxidative stress in ischemic heart failure.

CV Team

A Day in the Life: Marion McRae, ACNP-BC

March 2, 2016

Marion McRae, ACNP-BC, is a nurse practitioner in the Guerin Family Congenital Heart Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA.

Best of ACC.org

Best of ACC.org: Mentoring From FIT to Early Career

December 3, 2015

During the transition from training to practice and beyond, there is no step-by-step plan for success or formula for the perfect career. It is an exciting yet confusing time and it is important to have someone to lean on for support and give advice when needed. Scott Lilly, MD, PhD, FACC, a member of the College’s Early Career Section and an interventional cardiologist, and Arun Kamanthareddy, MD, a first-year fellow in training (FIT), are a good example of such a relationship.

Webinar Related

ACC SC Chapter Cultivates New Membership Opportunities

December 2, 2015   |   ;  Jennifer M. Lee, NP, AACC

Member Engagement Opportunities at the ACC

The joint ACC North Carolina/South Carolina Chapters Conference, held on Sept. 25 – 26 in beautiful Pinehurst, NC, brought together members of the cardiovascular care team who are making a distinct difference in the lives of others. There has been a concerted effort within the Chapter to attract other talented and resourceful professionals with the benefits membership to the ACC South Carolina Chapter.

Member Benefits

Highlights From ACC’s 2015 Legislative Conference

December 2, 2015   |   Jolin V. Honas, NP, AACC

Advocacy at the ACC

The 2015 ACC Legislative Conference was held October 18 – 20 in Washington, DC. The Colorado Delegation brought eight representatives, including five physicians, a fellow in training and a nurse practitioner, who represented six different institutions.

Clinical Pharmacist

Feature | Summarizing the Role of the Clinical Pharmacist in Cardiovascular Disease Care

December 2, 2015   |   John D Bucheit, PharmD, AACC

Feature Article

In November, a task force of physicians and pharmacists from the ACC published "The Role of the Clinical Pharmacist in the Care of Patients with Cardiovascular Disease" in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. In this document pharmacists are recognized as important yet underutilized members of the cardiovascular care team.

Clinical Pharmacist

ACC Councils Evaluate the Role of Clinical Pharmacists on the CV Care Team

November 9, 2015

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Clinical pharmacists play an important role for patients on the cardiovascular care team, according to a joint Council Perspective from the Cardiovascular Team Section and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Section published Nov. 2 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. The authors note that as a result of advanced training, clinical pharmacists have been associated with decreased costs of care, hospital mortality, drug costs, length of stay and medication error rates.

Healthy Eating Habits in Children

Feature | Talking to Kids About Heart Healthy Living

November 3, 2015   |   Sharon Levasseur, NP

Feature Article

After many years of working with patients post-cardiac surgery, and then cardiology, and even in cardiac rehabilitation, it became increasingly clear that at least part of the answer to heart disease is preventing it. We need to focus on teaching our communities those things that they can exert some control over, and we need to start early. Secondary prevention is important, but I would rather have less of it to worry about. Wouldn't you? Primary prevention needs to start in the primary grades. I have spoken to high school and junior high school students, and felt perhaps I influenced one or two to make better dietary choices or to quit (or not start) smoking. However, it wasn't until I spoke to students in 2nd, 3rd and 5th grade that I finally realized this.

Clinical Pharmacist

Cardiology Pharmacy Residency Programs

November 3, 2015   |   Brent N Reed, PharmD

Earlier this year, the ACC released a statement recognizing the importance of cardiovascular team-based care and the need for highly trained team members, including pharmacists. Highlighted in the manuscript was the role of postgraduate residency programs in helping meet this growing demand. Approximately one-third of pharmacists pursue postgraduate residency training, a process that has become highly competitive. In 2014, less than two-thirds of applicants entering the match successfully obtained positions.

Firefighter

Feature | Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Fire Fighters

October 7, 2015   |   Jolin V. Honas, NP, AACC

Feature Article

Ordinary people, extraordinary service. Fire fighters put themselves in harm's way to protect, rescue, and serve. Though they may appear impermeable to harm with a superhero like quality, fire fighters battle a disproportionate risk for cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is the most frequent cause of duty-related fatalities and for every one fatal on-duty heart disease event there are 17 non-fatal ones.

Nurse Practitioner

Feature | Creating the Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Nurse Practitioner Fellowship Program

September 9, 2015   |   Deborah S. Croy, RN, DNP, ANP-BC, AGPCNP-BC, AACC

Feature Article

Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program was recently accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as one of only four Practice Transition Programs and only one of two that addresses advanced practice nursing. The driving force behind the this program is one of ACC's Cardiovascular Team members, Marci Farquhar-Snow MN, ACNP-BC, CCRN, CMC, AACC.

Statin App

Download the ACC’s New Statin Intolerance App

June 30, 2015

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The ACC recently launched the Statin Intolerance mobile app to guide clinicians through the process of managing and treating patients who report muscle symptoms while on statin therapy. Clinicians can use the app to evaluate possible intolerance in a patient’s current statin prescription, follow steps to manage and treat patients who report muscle symptoms while taking statins, and compare statin characteristics and drug interactions to inform management of LDL-related risk.

Heart Valve

Heart Valve Disease CardioSmart Infographic Available

June 30, 2015

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Heart valve disease can be difficult to explain to patients. To help, ACC’s CardioSmart team has created an informative and vibrant visual to educate patients on the most common valve issues. The heart valve disease poster is available to download for free as a PDF, or CardioSmart can send you an 11” x 17” color copy.

Member Benefits

Don't Miss a Special Legislative Conference Pre-Session

June 30, 2015

Save the Date

You're invited to attend the Advocacy Workshop for CV Team Clinicians and Administrators pre-session on Oct. 18 as part of the ACC's 2015 Legislative Conference in Washington, DC. As Congress considers proposals that will shape the future of health care, it is a critical time to come to DC to personally deliver ACC's message.

Heart

ACC’s Quality Improvement Efforts Make Headlines

June 21, 2015

Quality Improvement for Institutions

A recent New York Times article titled “A Sea Change in Treating Heart Attacks” highlights the 38 percent decrease in coronary heart disease deaths from 2003 to 2013, a result “spurred by better control of cholesterol and blood pressure, reduced smoking rates, improved medical treatments — and faster care of people in the throes of a heart attack.”

Journal of the American College of Cardiology

JACC Holds Impact Factor Ranking as #1 CV Journal in the World

June 18, 2015

JACC Family of Journals

For the second year in a row, the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) was listed as the #1 cardiovascular journal in the world. According to the 2014 Impact Factors for Journals, JACC holds the top position among all 123 cardiovascular journals in scientific impact with an impact factor of 16.503 in 2014, which is up from 15.343 in 2013. These 2014 Impact Factor results are based on citations from the 2013 calendar year, when Anthony DeMaria, MD, MACC, was the editor of JACC.

Heart

PINNACLE Registry QI Program in India: A Model For Other Resource-Limited Countries?

May 20, 2015

Quality Improvement for Institutions

Programs designed to track and monitor the quality of outpatient care for patients with cardiovascular disease are feasible even in resource-limited environments, according to an analysis of data from the ACC's PINNACLE India Quality Improvement Program (PIQIP) – India's first national outpatient quality-improvement program focused on cardiovascular disease.

Clinical Pharmacist

Pharmacists Involvement in MI Care: Completing the Team

April 8, 2015   |   Craig J. Beavers, PharmD, FACC

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Through a variety of efforts (check out the toolkit here), clinical pharmacists can utilize their unique skills and advanced knowledge of pharmacotherapy, physical assessment and education to lead to positive outcomes. Data suggest pharmacists increase utilization of evidence-based therapies at proper doses and reduce medication errors and adverse events.

Chocolate

Dark Chocolate: A Cure for Stress?

November 28, 2014

Quick Reads and Recommendations

Beneficial effects of dark chocolate consumption (in moderation, of course) on cardiovascular health have been reported in several studies, with this effect linked to the high levels of polyphenolic flavonoids found in dark chocolate or cocoa. But how, exactly, does flavonoid-rich dark chocolate take a bite out of cardiovascular mortality?

Metabolic

Cardiometabolic Syndrome: A Problem Whose Time Has Come

November 28, 2014

Quick Reads and Recommendations

It's a problem whose time has come," said Scott Grundy, MD, PhD, in kicking off a special Cardiometabolic Think Tank focused on addressing cardiometabolic disease and its interdependencies and identifying a new care model that takes an integrated approach to treating risk factors across diverse populations.

Data

What Are You Doing With Your Registry Data?

November 28, 2014

Quick Reads and Recommendations

The ACC's IMPACT Registry is a vehicle to collect data on all pediatric patients and adult patients with congenital heart disease undergoing diagnostic and interventional catheterization procedures. First and foremost, its key objective is to collect data to identify variability in procedures amongst institutions and operators, link variability to outcomes, assess performance, provide benchmarks and implement quality improvement initiatives.