“I called my professor and told him I have some bad news! I am changing my major,” said Jordan Mitchell, NP, who facilitates the Cardiac Rehab unit at the WTH-Camden Hospital. “My professor wasn’t even surprised. He knew I had a heart for people. I have always enjoyed helping others. My mom was a nurse too. I was afraid she would be disappointed that I would be adding 3 more years to my college education, but she was so excited for me,” smiles Jordan.
Cardiac Rehab is for patients who have suffered a heart attack, open-heart surgery, aortic valve replacement, angioplasty, or are suffering from chronic heart failure. The program is comprised of 18 or 36 sessions, with most patients choosing the 36-session option. “Most patients are hesitant to start the program and as it progresses, they don’t want it to end,” laughs Jordan. Patients come to rehab 2 or 3 times per week. Jordan places a 3-lead heart monitor on each patient that allows her to monitor their cardiac rhythm. She also keeps track of her patients’ weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart rate and rhythm.
“I’m a big hometown person,” Jordan shares. “I love this town and the people here and this community.” Jordan feels that Cardiac Rehab is important for a small town like Camden because medical resources can be somewhat limited. The WTH-Camden Hospital Cardiac Rehab program serves Benton, Decatur, Carroll and Humphreys counties. “I am blessed to offer a flexible schedule,” shares Jordan. “I encourage my patients to return to work when they are able, so I am available to accommodate the working population’s schedule.”
Jordan works with each individual to attain their personal goals when starting rehab, whether they are big goals or small ones. Many patients start out very weak and are unable to perform all the activities of daily life. She is so encouraged to watch patients progress through the program and regain function, start driving and perform daily tasks such as going to the grocery store. “They usually call me as soon as they get home,” recalls Jordan. “They are so proud of themselves, and I am so excited and proud for them! I try to make sure none of my patients leave this program in a wheelchair. If they must start in a wheelchair that is just fine, but none of them leave here having to wheel out.”
Jordan points out that Cardiac Rehab is not just a physical rehab, but also an emotional rehab. She explains that there is a legitimate connection between the “blues” and open-
heart surgery. It’s something she keeps a close eye on with her patients. “Usually after a few weeks of exercising it gets better, encourages Jordan. “If it doesn’t get better after about 2 weeks, I suggest that they talk about it with their primary care provider.”
Jordan wants to get to know all her patients. Relationships are very important to her. “When you get to know your patients,” shares Jordan, “you realize you do not treat every open-heart patient the same or every stent patient the same.” Jordan considers their home life, how much assistance they will need, if they have the financial means to get the medicine they need, if they are able to continue exercising and if they can maintain a cardiac diet.
Most importantly, Jordan wants her future patients to know that WTH-Camden Hospital Cardiac Rehab is a family. We care about each other. She wants future patients to talk to someone who has completed the program and let them share their personal experience. Three of Jordan’s recent graduates were eager to share their insight.
“I couldn’t wait to call Jordan with my good news,” shared Jennifer, a recent graduate of the program. “I took my grandchild to a show in Gatlinburg. When we got to the venue I had to climb six flights of stairs. Not only did I climb those stairs, but I did it with my grandchild in my arms! I never would have been able to do that prior to completing the cardiac rehab program.” Another patient, Anthony, was skeptical of the program at first. “My wife found out about the program and that I could complete it close to home. I had to work hard, but as the program progressed, I just wanted to work harder. Jordan motivated me and I kept going. The results were wonderful.”
Mark, another recent graduate from the rehab program, shared his heartfelt experience. “I didn’t trust my heart anymore, he explained. “Jordan watched me so closely and was so encouraging during every session. I didn’t want it to end. I really miss Cardiac Rehab. I know trust my heart again and I am back working and doing everything I was doing before!”
I would say to all cardiac patients, “Take a chance!” expresses Jordan. You may not think you need cardiac rehab, but this program can help you with lifestyle medication education. We can help you with an exercise regime to do at home, give you dietary guidance and medication education. I welcome any new cardiac patient into our program with open arms!”
To reach the West Tennessee Healthcare Camden Hospital Cardiac Rehab program contact Jordan
Mitchell, NP, at (731)593-6135 or email her at Jordan.Mitchell@WTH.org
