Cardiothoracic Sub Acute (7 South)

This 20-bed specialty unit is a part of a nationally recognized Cardiology program here at the University of New Mexico Hospital. Our program's voluntary participation in the American Heart Association's Get with Guidelines has triumphed as the Silver Medal Award recipient for 2008 in Heart Failure and Coronary Artery Disease. This unit provides progressive high quality care using evidence-based practice for the care and treatment of our patients. We have an interdisciplinary relationship with our physician partners in implementing new initiatives as we are constantly improving health outcomes.

Nurses on this fast-paced unit are dedicated to the care of patients undergoing a multitude of cardiac procedures including; Myocardial Infarction, Arrhythmias, Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting, Pacemaker/Defibrillator implants, Cardioversion, Coronary Artery Bypass, Heart Valve Repair or Replacement, and Valvuloplasty. As a SAC unit we are growing to improve the autonomy of our nursing staff with evidenced-based protocols and unit specific guidelines. Our nurses emphasize coronary rehabilitation, education, and lifestyle changes.

This unit has been the recipient of exemplary patient satisfaction awards for the last three years. The development of a Shared governance program has given a voice to all staff members to improve their professional practice and environment, making this specialty unit a truly great place to work.

Nurses here find this an outstanding environment to focus on critical thinking skills, assessment of critically ill patients, clinical intervention and family support techniques.