Multidisciplinary Management and the Role of Heart Failure Nurses in the Recognition and Treatment of Cardiac Amyloidosis.

BACKGROUND

Cardiac amyloidosis is a life-limiting disease with poor prognosis if not identified and treated early. Heart failure related to amyloidosis carries high mortality, necessitating timely intervention.

PURPOSE: This review provides an overview of recent American College of Cardiology guidelines regarding the multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and managing cardiac amyloidosis, highlighting the essential role of nurses in early recognition and differentiation from other heart failure types.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Heart failure nurses-whether formally designated as navigators or not-effectively connect patients with specialized amyloid centers and advanced therapies. By coordinating appointments, treatments, genetic testing, insurance, and education, nurses enhance care delivery and outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnosis and referral to specialized amyloidosis centers is crucial. Heart failure nurses or nurse navigators facilitate evaluation, make appropriate referrals, and coordinate care to improve treatment and reduce outcome disparities.