Nantahala News

Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital have introduced a new initiative to recognize staff excellence with the Cardiac and Stroke Champion Program. This program acknowledges clinical team members each month for their exceptional care in treating patients experiencing chest pain or stroke symptoms.

Harris Regional Hospital holds accreditation as a Chest Pain Center, while Swain Community Hospital also applies rigorous standards for managing cardiac symptoms. These include quick patient evaluation and activation of care pathways to improve outcomes in heart-related emergencies. Staff performance metrics include timely completion of EKGs, prompt lab results, and efficient transfers for advanced care when required.

Cardiac Champions are chosen monthly based on patient data. Kevin Fischer, PA-C, Ted Moore, RN, Christopher Jenkins, RT, Levi Weigland (Lab), Eric Acheff (Lab), Beth Gentry, CNA, and Brad McAbee, MD were recognized in March for their teamwork and swift action in a cardiac arrest case.

At Harris Regional Hospital, a certified Acute Stroke Ready Hospital, Stroke Champions are also recognized. This monthly recognition is based on cases where patients show stroke-like symptoms and require prompt, coordinated care. Benchmarks include timely CT scans and effective use of clot-busting medication. The March Stroke Champions were Amanda McNabb, RN, Kaylee Campbell, RN, Jason Coggins (Radiology), Grace Myers (Lab), Beth Gentry, CNA, Dr. Reed, Michael Winchester (Radiology), Zeb Gentry, RN (House Supervisor), Virginia Wolff, RN, and Katherine Whitfield, MD.

Ashley Hindman, CEO of Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals, stated, "At both of our hospitals, time matters. Every second counts when someone is experiencing a heart attack or stroke. These champions represent the best of what we do—putting patients first through rapid, coordinated, and compassionate care."

The Cardiac and Stroke Champion Program highlights the hospitals' dedication to clinical excellence and the importance of teamwork in emergency care. For more information regarding the hospitals' certifications, visit MyHarrisRegional.com.