[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]Attracta is a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Heart Failure, working in Sligo University Hospital. When asked why she chose to specialise in heart failure, she answered “I’ve always been interested in the heart. I was working in coronary care, and decided to specialise in heart failure.”
She continued “I understand it can be very worrying for people living with heart failure – but in my experience, if people get the right support – and there is support out there – patients can live full lives. It’s so important for heart failure patients to have that outlet. There are support groups people can join, and we also have a support line where patients can ring into the clinic if they have any questions. We’ve been running the support group in Sligo for around four years now, and this has been hugely advantageous to our patients.”
“I’m raising the flag this May to let people know there is a lot of help and support out there – don’t be afraid to ask for it.
If you are experiencing any symptoms, don’t wait. Go and get checked immediately. It’s important to get diagnosed in order to receive the right package of care. It’s important once you have your diagnosis to reach out for support– join a support group, find out what’s available in your area. A lot of our patients also do modified exercise classes, and this can make a big difference to how you’re feeling.”[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]
Attracta Madden was interviewed as part of the Global Heart Hub ‘Red Flag Campaign’. This project aims to highlight the signs and symptoms of heart failure – and encourage those experiencing these symptoms to go to their GP and ask “Could it be heart failure?”
Croí is joining The Global Heart Hub and other organisations across 15 counties in this campaign to help raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of heart failure. The campaign can be followed online at #raisetheflag and www.globalhearthub.org.
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It’s important to get diagnosed in order to receive the right package of care.
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