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ANZSVS Conference 2026
The Hidden Backbone of the Vascular Unit: The Value of the Vascular Clinical Nurse Consultant – A Registrar’s Perspective
Verbal Presentation

Verbal Presentation

9:24 am

11 September 2026

Drift Room 1

Peaks, Pathways & Possibilities

Disciplines

Vascular Nursing

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Presentation Description

Institution: Canberra Hospital - ACT, Australia

Purpose: Contemporary vascular surgery manages a complex patient population defined by advanced CLTI, diabetic foot disease, frailty, multimorbidity and recurrent interactions. Care increasingly relies on multidisciplinary (MDT) models integrating surgical, medial, allied health and nursing expertise. The vascular Clinical Nurse Consultant (CNC) provides continuity, coordination and specialist knowledge throughout the patient journey; however, the broader contribution of the CNC is often under-recognised. This review examines the evidence supporting specialist vascular nursing roles and the contribution of the CNC to patient outcomes, MDT function and vascular service performance. Methodology: A focused literature review was undertaken examining vascular nursing, MDT limb-preservation services, CLTI management, vascular surveillance programmes and nurse-led models of care. Particular attention was given to care coordination, patient education, wound management, discharge planning and continuity of care. Results: The literature consistently identifies specialist vascular nurses as essential MDT coordinators, facilitating interdisciplinary communication, streamlining patient pathways, supporting outpatient surveillance, providing patient education, and enabling timely escalation of care. Structured nursing involvement contributes to more standardised clinical pathways, improved discharge planning, enhanced continuity of care and more efficient use of healthcare resources. As vascular services become increasingly complex, specialist nursing roles have expanded beyond direct bedside care to encompass leadership, service development, quality improvement, and MDT coordination. Conclusion: The vascular CNC plays a critical role in modern vascular practice. Available evidence suggests that specialist vascular nursing contributes to improved patient experience, supports MDT function and enhances the delivery of high quality vascular care.
Speakers
Authors
Authors

Dr Paulina Bruessel -