|
Helping patients with heart or lung disease live healthier, more fulfilling lives is the primary focus of Regional West’s Cardiac/Pulmonary Rehab department.
When patients are diagnosed with heart disease, lung disease, or have surgery following a cardiac event, Sheree Verbeck, RN, BSN; Kelsey Judy, RN, BSN; and Rachel Hutchinson, RN, BSN, are some of the friendly faces who help them get back on their feet. The trio works alongside respiratory therapists, dietitians, physicians, and pharmacists to create individualized plans for each patient, which includes medically supervised exercise, disease and lifestyle education, and risk factor management. The program is nationally certified by The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) and goes through a rigorous process to meet and exceed the essential standards of care for patients.
Experiencing a life-changing health event, such as a heart attack, can bring fear and anxiety about what life looks like afterward. Verbeck said it’s rewarding to see patients build confidence in their new routines.
“Some of these patients are scared to get up and make a meal, let alone get on a treadmill and exercise,” Verbeck said. “We get to see them start at that point and then, over the next weeks or months, go from being apprehensive to saying, ‘I can do this, I’ve got a plan, and I’m good to go.’”
Click here to read more!
| 
