Guest Editorial

Article Outline

• Copyright

This issue of Newborn and Infant Nursing Reviews covers the broad topic of “cardiac issues.” With the specialization and regionalization of many programs, neonatal and infant nurses are often “touched” by newborns and infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) and rhythm disturbances in different ways. Some of you may only see these populations intermittently, whereas others may live in a world of concentrated cardiac care. This issue was designed to give you a global snapshot from the early recognition and stabilization to outcome considerations for infants with CHD. The typical presentations of cyanosis, left heart obstruction, and congestive heart failure are reviewed and followed by in-depth discussion on current medical and surgical treatment strategies. This issue also addresses current controversies in care of the newborn ductus arteriosus as well as an in-depth look at pharmacologic considerations surrounding the use of prostaglandin. “Cardiac issues” are replete with challenges related to rhythm interpretation as well. Although many of us are simply challenged to ensure appropriate lead placement and security, the recognition of tachyarrhythmias is critical to ensuring safe and timely intervention for the most vulnerable of patients. This issue is intended to arm you with the tools to recognize CHD and tachyarrhythmias, and empower you with an understanding of the pathophysiology and current treatment strategies. As we learn more about the short- and long-term outcomes of this population, neonatal and infant nurses are poised to ask research questions and develop early practices that support optimal outcomes.