Abstract
Psychiatric patients are now known to have disproportionately high cardiovascular disease mortality rates. Today's nurse needs more knowledge to manage the care of the psychiatric-cardiac patient. This paper uses a case scenario to cite essential components of care. Psychiatric-cardiac events are explained using a conceptual model. The model provides the nurse with a template for identifying needs and mapping the changes observed through therapy. The paper serves as an organizing tool for clinical practice and a case presentation for continued education of nurses.