The RACPC is a nurse led service offered by Darent Valley Hospital. During the clinic, the patient’s symptoms, medical history and risk factor profile are initially assessed by a member of the Cardiac Care Team (a group of senior nurses who specialise purely in Cardiology). From there on, an Exercise Tolerance Test (ETT) is performed with constant assessment of the patient’s symptoms and ECG.
After this test has been performed the nurse will discuss with the patient the possibility of them suffering from CAD and what further steps need to be taken (if any). These steps may involve a Myoview test, which is undertaken in nuclear medicine; or Coronary Angiography which is undertaken at the Heart Centre. If the possibility of CAD is likely then treatment with medication is commenced on the day of the clinic and is again reviewed after the further tests are completed.
Heavy emphasis is placed on health education and promotion during the clinic with advice tailored to their risk factor profile given to all patients presenting into the clinic. The importance of attending the Accident and Emergency department if symptoms worsen is always stressed to all patients awaiting further diagnostic tests as outpatients.