Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) have become the leading cause of death worldwide. "Continuing education in nursing contributes as profession's currency". Aim of the study: The study conducted to assess the knowledge and performance of nurses about cardiovascular diseases, develop, implement and evaluate an educational in- service training program for nurses working with cardiovascular patients. Subjects and methods: Quasi-experimental research design was used. The study included 60 nurses working in Cardiovascular Department at Assiut University Hospital. The study tools for data collection were self- administrated knowledge questionnaire sheet and observational checklist. The study was carried out on 3 phases: preparatory, implementation and evaluation phase. Results:The main results revealed that nurses’ total mean scores of knowledge and performance throughout intervention program phases have demonstrated an improvement from a pre-program. with highly statistically significant (p=0.005). Conclusion: It was concluded, that cardiovascular nurses who are working in Cardiovascular Department at Assiut University Hospital were improved their knowledge and performance related to caring of patient with cardiovascular diseases. Recommendations: Cardiovascular nurses should update their knowledge and performance through continued nursing education and training program. Newly employed nurses in Cardiovascular Department must complete a test of basic knowledge and skills before assuming independent responsibility for patient care.
Keywords: Cardiovascular disease, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Electrocardiogram.