The Cardiology ward at Juan Ramón Jiménez University Hospital, part of the Andalusian Health Service (SAS), has been renovated with the installation of decorative murals and images featuring educational messages for the promotion of cardiovascular health.
This initiative, promoted by the ward's Cardiology Humanization Commission, was officially inaugurated on World Heart Day. To enhance awareness about healthy lifestyle habits, a heart-healthy breakfast was offered to patients admitted to the Unit. It included whole wheat bread, extra virgin olive oil, grated tomato, Serrano ham or turkey, fresh fruit salad, and coffee with milk or orange juice, adapted to prescribed diets.
“"Adequate nutrition based on the Mediterranean diet, physical exercise (combining aerobic and strength training) to maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity; and not smoking (also avoiding the use of vapes and e-cigarettes), are three pillars that cardiologists consider fundamental for heart care."
“"Strongly related to the occurrence of both myocardial infarction and stroke are arterial hypertension, cholesterol, and diabetes, making it essential to frequently check blood pressure and monitor cholesterol and sugar levels through analytical control."
In addition to diet and exercise, the importance of adherence to prescribed treatment, health check-ups, symptom monitoring, adequate restorative sleep, and emotional stress management are highlighted, especially for patients with previous cardiovascular events.
These tips, illustrated with images, are displayed in the ward's corridor, serving as a visual reminder for patients and their families upon discharge, adding warmth to the hospital environment and reinforcing the recommendations from the attending medical team.
As every year on World Heart Day, the cardiac patient association Nuevo Camino para el Corazón Onubense (ANCCO) has set up an information booth at the entrance of the hospital's external consultations, as part of its awareness activities to emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyles in preventing heart disease.
The ANCCO association actively participates in the hospital's Cardiology Humanization Commission, chaired by the Unit's supervisor, Juan Suero. This commission, comprising cardiologists, nursing staff, auxiliary care technicians, administrative staff, ward assistants, and cleaning personnel, aims to create a comfortable environment for patients and their families by balancing high medical technology with emotional well-being. They promote workshops on physical exercise and healthy eating, as well as literary encounters and musical performances, to foster a positive outlook.
