by Kathy Whitney
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has recognized Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain.
The hospital, which was acquired by Vanderbilt University Medical Center in January, was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation based on rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 730,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have atypical symptoms. Other heart attack symptoms include, but are not limited to, tingling or discomfort in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw, shortness of breath, cold sweat, unusual tiredness, heartburn-like feeling, nausea or vomiting, sudden dizziness and fainting.
“Receiving the American College of Cardiology Chest Pain Accreditation is a major accomplishment for our team,” said Rich Ellis, president, Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital. “To receive and maintain this distinguished clinical status is a huge effort involving our doctors, nurses, clinical technicians and many others. The Chest Pain Accreditation reflects our shared commitment to our patients and to reducing the prevalence and effects of cardiovascular disease in our community.”
Hospitals that have earned ACC Chest Pain Center Accreditation have proven exceptional competency in treating patients with heart attack symptoms. They have streamlined their systems from admission to evaluation to diagnosis and treatment, all the way through to appropriate post-discharge care and recommendations and assistance in patient lifestyle changes.
To receive Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the ACC Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital took part in a multi-faceted clinical process that involves: completing a gap analysis; examining variances of care, developing an action plan; a rigorous onsite review; and monitoring for sustained success. Improved methods and strategies of caring for patients include streamlining processes, implementing of guidelines and standards, and adopting best practices in the care of patients experiencing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack.
Facilities that achieve accreditation meet or exceed an array of stringent criteria and have organized a team of doctors, nurses, clinicians and other administrative staff that earnestly support the efforts leading to better patient education and improved patient outcomes.