Behavior Change

Behavior change can be a challenging but rewarding partnership between nurses and individuals in a variety of health care settings to modify cardiovascular risk factors. Modification of cardiovascular risk factors is vitally important for prevention of cardiovascular diseases and in the presence of disease important to promote the best quality of life for all individuals. Contemporary theories and theoretical models provide guidance in developing treatment plans for behavior change. Empathic communication techniques are important for nurses to engage patients in reducing ambivalence and resistance to change and develop a resilience mindset to maintain behavior change. This chapter addresses these concepts with examples of how to engage effectively with individuals to demonstrate these concepts in practice.