Cardiac Nursing

Heart disease often strikes without warning and can be an upsetting diagnosis. Harrison’s nurses are committed to combining advanced technology with the human touch. In our culture of excellence, family involvement is encouraged, and we support their presence at all but the most intense diagnostic or interventional procedures.

At your service

While working under your cardiologist’s supervision, cardiac nurses are a source of care, comfort and assurance around the clock. As primary-care planners, nurses coordinate lab tests and radiology exams to facilitate your rest and recovery. They also provide your doctor with the information needed for diagnosis and treatment.

The coordinated care team also includes:

• Respiratory therapists
• Physical therapists
• Occupational therapists
• Clinical dietitians
  
• Nursing assistants
• Pharmacists
  

Certified and experienced

Along with their dedication to personal care and your peace of mind, nurses in Harrison’s Progressive Care Unit (PCU) have advanced certification and skills.

• More than 30 of our staff of 49 have a national certification in cardiac care (PCC).
• 14 nurses have a BSN (Bachelors of Science In Nursing).
• One nurse has completed her Masters Degree (MSN).
• Many have worked for more than 20 years at Harrison PCU and are cross-trained to work in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)—enhancing an already sophisticated skill set.

Responsive to every need

One of our nursing team’s greatest strengths is the ability to rapidly and accurately assess clinical changes and alert physicians to any needed adjustments or care intervention. In cardiac emergencies there is no time to waste, and we move quickly to respond when a life-threatening emergency occurs.

Collaborative care

Continuity of care is a hallmark—and is key to optimum care giving. We work closely with our partners in the Heart and Vascular Center to provide smooth transitions. Patients can feel secure that all vital information about medical history, symptoms and any special needs are exchanged. The same collaboration informs the way we work with community providers outside of the hospital setting.

Dedicated to you—now and in the future

Attentive to your medical and personal needs in acute situations, we’re also committed to patient education about healthy choices and lifestyle changes, so you can look forward to a healthier heart—and an improved quality of life. We teach about medications, exercise, symptom management, checking your pulse, stress reduction, and smoking cessation. We encourage dialog and questions.

In the difficult situations facing patients with advanced disease, we also comfort and guide families through complex end-of-life decisions.

Single-minded about caring for patients and families in challenging times, Harrison cardiac nurses bring all their knowledge, skills and compassion to support the best outcomes—for each patient, every time.