Abstract

This article describes the structure and function of the heart and the changes in circulation at birth to aid in the understanding of congenital heart disease. The commonest congenital heart diseases are briefly presented. As the nurse assists in diagnostic procedures and performs some independently, the most commonly performed procedures in children with congenital heart disease are described. Supervision and observation by the nurse are still indispensable qualities in the nursing care of these children.

Key words: child, congenital heart diseases, investigations.