In preparation for your consultation with the surgeon, a nurse practitioner will contact you and advise you of any test report, such as cardiac catheterization, echocardiogram, etc. you will need to bring with you on your first visit. Many of our patients come from out of town. For those coming from out of state, our staff can provide information on nearby housing and assist you in making hotel reservations if necessary.
On your first visit, you will meet the surgeon and one of our nurse practitioners during the consultation. Our nurse practitioners will be familiar faces you will see throughout your hospital stay. They are a vital connection throughout the entire surgical process. After the surgeon determines the plan of treatment, the nurse practitioners can further help you and your family understand the process and answer questions regarding before, during and after your surgery.
You will also receive a Patient Handbook that has educational materials needed before surgery, during your hospital stay and when you return home. Bring this handbook on the day of surgery and keep it with you while you are in the hospital.