Introduction. The knowledge of cardiovascular diseases is important because of an increasing number of patients suffering from this group of diseases. It is expected that nurses will not only provide professional health care, but will also educate patients and shape their healthy habits. Aim. of the research was to assess the knowledge of nurses about cardiovascular diseases. The research was focused on the main risk factors and methods of prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Material and Methods. In the research an individual survey was conducted among a group of nurses, who were working in their profession. People interviewed were asked a series of open and closed questions concerning correct biochemical and physiological parameters of the human body and cardiovascular diseases. Results. The results present that 64.49% of respondents know modifiable factors influencing development and course of cardiovascular diseases. People surveyed have shown poor knowledge of the correct cholesterol level in blood and blood pressure, there were respectively 28.80% and 20.80% of correct answers. The Pearson correlation coefficient has shown a moderate correlation (-0.44) between the place of residence and finished courses. There has been a weaker correlation between the age, seniority and place of residence and correct answers. Conclusions. Results show that it is needed to constantly refresh and deepen nurses’ knowledge. The Surveyed group had knowledge about risk factors and cardiovascular diseases, acquired their knowledge from proven sources – lectures, laboratories and practical classes. It is still needed to refresh the knowledge about biochemical and physiological parameters of the human body.

Key words: cardiovascular diseases, nurses, prevention, knowledge.