Congenital heart disease: diagnostics, treatment, and screening yesterday and today

Abstract

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality globally. CCHD can be identified at an earlier age due to the accessibility and availability of current screenings and medical advances. Through a review of relevant professional literature, it was determined that although there are many available screenings, CHD is not always identified during the neonatal period. Healthcare professionals need to understand that while these screenings cannot definitively detect every cardiac anomaly, they are important. This article reviews historical milestones in the diagnosis, treatment, prominent screening methods for CHD and their effectiveness, and implications for nursing practice.