Improving compliance in your dyslipidemic patient: An evidence-based approach

PURPOSE: To synthesize the evidence from landmark clinical studies of lipid-lowering pharmacotherapy and nurse management of hyperlipidemia, discuss issues related to nonadherence, and proposes strategies for achieving long-term cholesterol control. DATA SOURCES: All publications of lipid-lowering clinical trials related to pharmacotherapy for dyslipidemias were accessed from a thorough Medline Search and reviewed by two nurse experts. CONCLUSIONS: Randomized controlled studies provide compelling evidence that reduction of blood cholesterol with pharmacotherapy reduces both first and subsequent coronary events. Nonetheless, inadequate provider and patient adherence to guidelines for lipid lowering remains prevalent. Studies show that nurses provide safe and effective care for patients with abnormal lipids. IMPLICATIONS: This article assists nurse practitioners in playing an active role in the implementation of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III Report to be released in Spring 2001, where a strong emphasis will be placed on multidisciplinary approaches and adherence.