Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 1, 2019

Just call on us. To learn more about heart services at Kootenai Heath, visit KH.org/heart . To find a cardiologist, call (208) 625-5250 . Tom Tamm knew for over 10 years that someday he would have to undergo open-heart surgery. After being diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve and a patent foramen ovale, or PFO (a hole between the upper chambers of his heart), Tom worked diligently over the next decade to maintain his heart health for as long as he could. “Finally, about two years ago, my doctor said it was time to consider surgery to replace my heart valve and repair the hole,” Tom said. “To be honest, I was scared to death. I was worried about not being able to ride bikes in the way that I do now. I’m not a sedentary person.” Navigating thepath An avid cyclist, Tom rides his bike to and from work daily, even through the winter as long as the roads are clear. He spends his free time mountain biking and enjoys the freedom that comes with being out in nature. “Biking keeps me motivated, moving forward,” he said. “There’s nothing like being out in the forest at first light with the animals running around—just me on my bike and the forest.” To help patients like Tom navigate the surgical process, Kootenai Health created an open-heart surgery program coordinator position. The role of the program coordinator is to prepare patients for the surgery experience by being their patient advocate, educator, liaison, and point of contact throughout their hospital stay. This person also helps coordinate pre-op testing, medications, patient education, and follow-up. “It’s rewarding for both me and the patients, because we get to know each other and work very closely together throughout the process,” said Cheri Ward, RN, program coordinator. “It makes for more effective, streamlined care and provides a friendly face that patients and their families can trust and turn to when they have questions or need something.” Aheart carequarterback As a 35-year heart services veteran, Cheri has seen firsthand the difference her new role makes in relieving the stresses that come with major surgery. “Knowing that everything was taken care of because Cheri had already arranged everything took away a huge amount of stress going into surgery,” Tom said. “Having her as my quarterback no matter what my emotional state made everything easier. I didn’t have to worry about all the little details. In fact, the entire team treated me like I was the only patient they had to care for—I couldn’t ask for a better experience.” KH . ORG 7