Gregory Brummett - Heart Valve Journal

My Journal

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2692 days ago

Phyllis Petersen, Lisa Guinan, Donghua Cai reacted to this

Christmas Eve should be my last day on Coumadin! Merry Christmas!

Susan Lynn Fantastic! A wonderful gift for Christmas! 🎄❤

Rob Sparling Awesome!

Jennifer McInerney Fabulous!

Dan Vechiola Woot woot Greg! Mine is tomorrow and its very exciting!

Judy S Merry Christmas for sure!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2718 days ago

Does the scar itch because it is in healing mode? or ??

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2718 days ago

Adam, here's a question for one of your future interviews: "What exactly is Grade 2 diastolic dysfunction, and what can be done to stabilize, or reverse it? ...Read more

Adam, here's a question for one of your future interviews: "What exactly is Grade 2 diastolic dysfunction, and what can be done to stabilize, or reverse it? " Anyone else here have "diastolic dysfunction" diagnosis??

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2719 days ago

Anybody know what this means? "Features were consistent with a pseudonormal left ventricular filling pattern, with concomitant abnormal relaxation and increased ...Read more

Anybody know what this means? "Features were consistent with a pseudonormal left ventricular filling pattern, with concomitant abnormal relaxation and increased filling pressure (grade 2 diastolic dysfunction)."

Catie B I don't, Gregory. I hope your surgeon or cardiologist can fill you in on what's going on.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2720 days ago

Meredith Geneja reacted to this

Anybody else have a "bump" about the size of a pellet on your neck where the Swan-Ganz was ?

Gregory Brummett https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulmonary_artery_catheter

Pulmonary artery catheter - Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulmonary_artery_catheter

Nancy LeClair Gottlieb Yes it shrunk. About the size of a pea now. My neck is a little sore still. Will be three weeks on ... Read more

Nancy LeClair Gottlieb Yes it shrunk. About the size of a pea now. My neck is a little sore still. Will be three weeks on Friday.

Susan Lynn I didn't have a bump in that area, but had a significant one where my femoral cannula was placed I ... Read more

Susan Lynn I didn't have a bump in that area, but had a significant one where my femoral cannula was placed If my memory serves me correctly, it took about six or eight weeks to dissipate. Since these are entries into major arteries, they can't take a chance of bleeding starting. They must put something in there that dissolves over time. I wouldn't worry as long as it continues to get smaller. You can also give a call to your surgeon's office if you're concerned. All the best, Gregory.

Meredith Geneja Have the same bump, Gregory Brummett! Trusting it will go down in time. There are a few areas enjoyi ... Read more

Meredith Geneja Have the same bump, Gregory Brummett! Trusting it will go down in time. There are a few areas enjoying their last Hurrah! :)

Gregory Brummett My doc said it is scar tissue & should go away in 3-6 months......thanks for your input...keep on tic ... Read more

Gregory Brummett My doc said it is scar tissue & should go away in 3-6 months......thanks for your input...keep on ticking!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2721 days ago

Superstar cardiac surgeon!...https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Justin-Schaffer-Plano-Texas.php#more-testimonials

Dr. Justin Schaffer - Heart Surgeon in Plano, Texas

https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/surgeons/dr-Justin-Schaffer-Plano-Texas.php

See patient reviews and physician biography of Dr. Justin Schaffer, heart surgeon, with phone number and address in Plano, Texas.

Gregory Brummett Dr. Schaffer says my echo and CT test results are excellent! I am cleared to start cardiac rehab and ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Dr. Schaffer says my echo and CT test results are excellent! I am cleared to start cardiac rehab and drive, but sternal precautions still in effect for three more weeks......surgery was on Monday, October 1st. I'm either a fast healer or I had one of the best surgeons ever! (I choose option 2).......Last day to take Coumadin will be Christmas Eve!

Gregory Brummettposted a journal

2738 days ago

1 person reacted to this

How much water should you drink per day after surgery OHS?

Bradley Dunn I don't consume any more or less than usually..

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2738 days ago

1 person reacted to this

How long does it take for the drainage tube sites to heal?

Terry Goin Hi Gregory - Sorry I don't have an answer for you, yet. But I am glad to see you posting and hope you ... Read more

Terry Goin Hi Gregory - Sorry I don't have an answer for you, yet. But I am glad to see you posting and hope you are recovering nicely.

Marie Myers They healed fairly quickly, but the marks were quite prominent for about a year. They are starting to ... Read more

Marie Myers They healed fairly quickly, but the marks were quite prominent for about a year. They are starting to really fade away now at 1 1/2 yrs past surgery.

Catie B Mine gapped open, but was told that was ok. Took awhile as had to fill from inside out.

Rob Sparling I had same issue as Catie on one of my two. I kept it dry during showers to help it scab up and heal ... Read more

Rob Sparling I had same issue as Catie on one of my two. I kept it dry during showers to help it scab up and heal from the inside out (which is what CC nurse instructed when I called for feedback). Am now into 4th week post-op and it has been fully closed, but heavily scabbed, for last 10 days.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2761 days ago

Mark Wilbur, Rob Sparling, Joey Hardee and 1 other reacted to this

Recovery ? how long?

Catie B Best to you, Gregory! You have an very very experienced surgeon and are in excellent hands.

Terry Goin I hope all goes well for you.

Joey Hardee Prayers for a smooth and quick recovery, Gregory!!

Doris Fowler The waiting is the hardest! Best of luck for a smooth surgery and rapid recovery.

Robert Machado You got this Greg.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2766 days ago

1 person reacted to this

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9m1zMWymn2U

Raymond Singer, MD, Describes Aortic Valve Replacement Options: Pig, Cow or Mechanical?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9m1zMWymn2U

Raymond Singer, MD, describes the variety of aortic valve options most widely used for aortic valve replacement surgery. He explains the advantages and disad...

Dan Baltazor Thanks for posting this. We are at the valve decision part of this and are struggling which one to p ... Read more

Dan Baltazor Thanks for posting this. We are at the valve decision part of this and are struggling which one to pick.

Meredith Geneja Gregory, thank you, for the educational posts. Much appreciated as a confirmation of some decisions m ... Read more

Meredith Geneja Gregory, thank you, for the educational posts. Much appreciated as a confirmation of some decisions made. Grateful!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2773 days ago

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_lTF2ozUY0&list=PLem9KqPa_LfYsYZOlSL6UTjIeji45f9Dr&index=3

Video #3 of 4 - What to expect as you are waking up from your OHS - An Open Heart Surgery Series

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_lTF2ozUY0

This video explains, step by step, the things that you can expect to be happening around you and the feelings you may experience as you are waking up from yo...

MARIE PICUN Thank you for sharing this.

Jennifer McInerney This was very helpful - thank you

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2775 days ago

Is nausea common after open heart surgery? Should I ask the anesthesiologist to give me something for nausea to prevent it? I'm not too concerned about pain, ...Read more

Is nausea common after open heart surgery? Should I ask the anesthesiologist to give me something for nausea to prevent it? I'm not too concerned about pain, but I dread nausea; I don't handle nausea very well....

Judy S The anesthesia can cause nausea depending on how your system reacts. Because I had abdominal surgery ... Read more

Judy S The anesthesia can cause nausea depending on how your system reacts. Because I had abdominal surgery many years ago, I feared nausea would happen again. I told the anesthesiologist of my previous experience. I don’t know if they did anything different this time but I was okay. I had a brief moment when I woke up and the nurse gave me something right away and it was gone.

Dan Vechiola I didn't have any nausea.

Jennifer McInerney I have the same issue do I plan to let anaesthetist know when we meet. According to my dr. Friend th ... Read more

Jennifer McInerney I have the same issue do I plan to let anaesthetist know when we meet. According to my dr. Friend they can give you drugs in your iv before you wake up.

Adam Boyadjis They’ll take care of you well in ICU. If you have nausea they work to get in front of it or they wo ... Read more

Adam Boyadjis They’ll take care of you well in ICU. If you have nausea they work to get in front of it or they work to fix it once you have it. Adivan ended up working for me.

Thomas Brusstar I felt a wave of nausea coming on when I was in ICU, immediately after they gave me some mineral pill ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar I felt a wave of nausea coming on when I was in ICU, immediately after they gave me some mineral pill (like magnesium or something, I should know that), I told the nurse and he shot some magic anti -nausea drug in my iv. All gone instantly.

Marie Myers I had one bout of nausea and vomiting. It did not last too long once they gave me phenergan (prometha ... Read more

Marie Myers I had one bout of nausea and vomiting. It did not last too long once they gave me phenergan (promethazine) for It. Zofran ( ondansetron) works for most people, but did not help me. I took minimal post op narcotics for pain due to the fear of nausea and voting.

Susan Lynn I asked the anesthesiologist about it before surgery and i believe he gave me something. Didn't hav ... Read more

Susan Lynn I asked the anesthesiologist about it before surgery and i believe he gave me something. Didn't have any nausea.

Louanna Miller The anesthesiologist will ask you if you have issues with nausea when given anesthesia. Tell them yo ... Read more

Louanna Miller The anesthesiologist will ask you if you have issues with nausea when given anesthesia. Tell them your history and they will provide necessary precautions so it’s not an issue.

Rita Savelis Oh, yes, definitely let the anesthesiologist know that you get nausea and he/she can put something in ... Read more

Rita Savelis Oh, yes, definitely let the anesthesiologist know that you get nausea and he/she can put something in your magic sleep potion to alleviate that. Here in France there is an obligatory meeting with an anesthesiologist at least one week before surgery and it's when you tell him/her all about yourself and he/she tells you all about the procedure. I used to always feel nauseated and vomit in ICU after surgery but this time I was vocal about my past anesthesias and so I had NO nausea after OHS (I had lots of other problems, but no pain at all and no nausea). Here's hoping that's how it will be for you.

Steve Farthing Zofran worked for me while in the hospital.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2775 days ago

Arterial line(s) and bladder catheter are inserted AFTER administration of general anesthesia, or BEFORE??

Judy S After in my case. Didn’t feel a thing!

Marie Myers Usually everything starts after anesthesia.

Catie B All after.

Susan Lynn I agonized over that question, too. It's absolutely AFTER. These medical professionals really know ... Read more

Susan Lynn I agonized over that question, too. It's absolutely AFTER. These medical professionals really know how to keep trauma and embarrassment to a minimum.

Thomas Brusstar After. The only thing they did while I was conscious was placing the IV in my forearm. They started ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar After. The only thing they did while I was conscious was placing the IV in my forearm. They started some sedation in that before they wheeled me into the operating room, and I barely have any images of even arriving in the operating room. The central arterial line in the neck must have been one of their first duties (after they shaved bald landing strips down the insides of my calves and thighs into the groin area, and drew with black markers where they would access veins and arteries if needed, even though I wasn't having any bypasses and didn't need any arterial or venous access down there for my open procedure -- I guess just in case?).
I wish I could say I don't remember getting the bladder cath out....

Adam Boyadjis I can vouch for the same experience as Thomas. Plus if you tell them your really anxious about he sur ... Read more

Adam Boyadjis I can vouch for the same experience as Thomas. Plus if you tell them your really anxious about he surgery they’ll set you up with versed so you think you’re getting wheeled into a party rather than an OR. The bladder cath and tube removal wasn’t bad... just not very fun.

Rita Savelis You'll be out before any of that happens. You'll just have an IV. No worries.

Marie Myers Adam is right. I asked the nurse anesthetist to keep the Versed coming, and I don't remember leaving ... Read more

Marie Myers Adam is right. I asked the nurse anesthetist to keep the Versed coming, and I don't remember leaving the preop area. Woke up later that afternoon with the surgery done!! So relieved!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2791 days ago

With my OHS scheduled for Oct 2, is it ok to get my flu shot in mid-September like I usually do ?

Susan Lynn I was required to get one before mine. You may want to check, though.

Anna Jones Ask your doctor. I had a pneumonia shot and a tetanus shot 2 months before surgery. I had wanted a ... Read more

Anna Jones Ask your doctor. I had a pneumonia shot and a tetanus shot 2 months before surgery. I had wanted a shingles vaccine but was told that it would overload my immune system prior to surgery,

Gregory Brummett Yikes! I got the shingles shot yesterday. My surgery is Oct 2. Maybe that's enough time in between?

MARIE PICUN I was told to get my flu shot

Kelly Stoll Ask the doctor. I was told to get all shots, etc. done a few weeks prior to surgery. They even gave m ... Read more

Kelly Stoll Ask the doctor. I was told to get all shots, etc. done a few weeks prior to surgery. They even gave me a deadline date to be sure.

MARIE PICUN Surgery October 9

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2792 days ago

Should I take antibiotics before my dental (teeth cleaning) appointment tomorrow? Yes or no?

Anna Jones Yes. I think most, if not all of us, have been told to take antibiotics prior to invasive procedures ... Read more

Anna Jones Yes. I think most, if not all of us, have been told to take antibiotics prior to invasive procedures ,including dental cleanings.

Adam Pick Yes.

Debbie Chatzky Yes!

Marjorie Murphy Definitely!

Kirk Bepler Yes, my dentist has had stents put in. He called me canceling a cleaning appointment I had saying it ... Read more

Kirk Bepler Yes, my dentist has had stents put in. He called me canceling a cleaning appointment I had saying it was too soon and his office has the antibiotics to take when I can have my cleaning.

Gregory Brummett I took the antibiotics & had thorough teeth cleaning, dental xrays, and exam.......got the works in p ... Read more

Gregory Brummett I took the antibiotics & had thorough teeth cleaning, dental xrays, and exam.......got the works in preparation for October 2. Thanks for your advice!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2797 days ago

Rita Savelis, Chris Bell reacted to this

Just curious, in ICU, how many and which drains, IV's, catheters, etc. were you attached to? I expect a throat tube, a neck tube (Swan-Ganz), one IV in each ...Read more

Just curious, in ICU, how many and which drains, IV's, catheters, etc. were you attached to? I expect a throat tube, a neck tube (Swan-Ganz), one IV in each arm, two chest drainage tubes, and a bladder catheter.....total of 7.......correct or not?

Gregory Brummett When they need lab work, can they just get the blood out of one of the IV's? Or do they have you stic ... Read more

Gregory Brummett When they need lab work, can they just get the blood out of one of the IV's? Or do they have you stick you multiple times for blood draws???

Adam Pick Hi Gregory, Great question. Way to think forward. Here's a post from awhile back. https://www.heart ... Read more

Adam Pick Hi Gregory, Great question. Way to think forward. Here's a post from awhile back. https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2009/09/01/tubes-waking-up-intensive-care-unit/

“When I Wake Up In The ICU, How Many Tubes Will Be Sticking Out Of Me?” Asks Gwen

https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2009/09/01/tubes-waking-up-intensive-care-unit/

I just received a fantastic question from Gwen about waking up in the intensive care unit after heart valve surgery. She writes, "Adam - Thanks so much for a

Lisa McLaughlin I remember they were able to get blood from the IVs for lab work. In fact, I was a little sad when th ... Read more

Lisa McLaughlin I remember they were able to get blood from the IVs for lab work. In fact, I was a little sad when the IV came out because I hate getting stuck for bloodwork.

Steve Farthing Depending on what type of incision you have, there could be 1, 2, or 3 chest drain tubes. In some c ... Read more

Steve Farthing Depending on what type of incision you have, there could be 1, 2, or 3 chest drain tubes. In some cases, the throat tube is removed before you become aware of it in the first place.

Thomas Brusstar I think you’re right on your estimate, but I think it was pretty much just the one arm IV, not both ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar I think you’re right on your estimate, but I think it was pretty much just the one arm IV, not both. The ventilator tube comes out first, then they yank the two chest drainage tubes later that first day. It didn’t really hurt, it was just disconcerting, I’d say. But it feels good getting less “connected.” And the two chest drainage tubes were kind of uncomfortable in there, as I think they were pressing under ribs, so I was glad to get them out. Every tube out is progress! The neck cath comes out later, and I couldn’t really even feel that. The bladder cath was the most uncomfortable coming out. And they still had to stick me a fair amount for later blood draws, for some reason.

AMIR SEGEV Yes! That's what I had when I woke up 5 weeks ago in ICU. The ventilator (throat) pipe was actually r ... Read more

AMIR SEGEV Yes! That's what I had when I woke up 5 weeks ago in ICU. The ventilator (throat) pipe was actually removed while I woke up, as was a third drainage tube.
(But frankly, whos counting???)

Steve Fauntleroy Gregory, I think it's entirely dependent on how the surgery goes and what needs to be done. I had 4 c ... Read more

Steve Fauntleroy Gregory, I think it's entirely dependent on how the surgery goes and what needs to be done. I had 4 chest tubes - I think the extra 1-2 resulted from needing a hemi-arch aortic graft. FWIW, it truly doesn't matter at all because it won't affect you any differently. Do your breathing exercises (!) and rest. You'll do great.

Rita Savelis When you meet with your surgeon or your anasthesiologist at least a week before surgery either one sh ... Read more

Rita Savelis When you meet with your surgeon or your anasthesiologist at least a week before surgery either one should explain to you exactly what tubes, drains, IVs etc you will have and the exact rundown on the surgery. When you wake up in ICU you will probably be rather unaware of the various tubes and they come out fast. I still got pricked a lot for various blood tests..... I don't remember the throat tube coming out - I was probably still groggy. Many patients worry about that but it's usually not an issue. I'm probably the only one here who had no complaints about chest tubes either. They were there and then they went about a week later, no problem. Sometimes you will have IVs in both arms so that if one fails the other one works. There are a lot of precautions like this that are taken. Wishing you a smooth ride!

Susan Lynn Two chest drains, one IV, one urinary catheter, one neck tube.... and a partridge in a pear tree! Ev ... Read more

Susan Lynn Two chest drains, one IV, one urinary catheter, one neck tube.... and a partridge in a pear tree! Everything came out on day 2. My main concern was the breathing tube, but that was out by the time I woke up. You will be so happy that surgery is over, you won't even think about the tubes. You're going to be just fine!

Willie Radl I had cathether, 2 ivs, swan, one drain tube, plus temporary pacemaker wires, also there was some sor ... Read more

Willie Radl I had cathether, 2 ivs, swan, one drain tube, plus temporary pacemaker wires, also there was some sort of vaccum pump suction on the chest incision. The vent tube came out so soon I wouldn't even count it, it didn't bother me at all but I know some people hate it. There were also some air bag pumps on my calves that were keeping my blood flowing through my legs.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2800 days ago

1 person reacted to this

After OHS, is it correct that you are told to not reach behind your back? If so, how long does this last? Seems like it would be almost impossible to "get clean" ...Read more

After OHS, is it correct that you are told to not reach behind your back? If so, how long does this last? Seems like it would be almost impossible to "get clean" without help. True or false?

Willie Radl Mostly true. I needed my wife to help me in the shower the first 2 weeks

Anna Jones I wasn't told that. I was told not to lift my hands above my head for any significant amount of time ... Read more

Anna Jones I wasn't told that. I was told not to lift my hands above my head for any significant amount of time.

Thomas Brusstar Both hands behind back at once was forbidden, but that’s easy. You just have to mind your habits o ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar Both hands behind back at once was forbidden, but that’s easy. You just have to mind your habits on tucking in shirts and threading your belt. One hand at a time is fine. They just didn’t want the skin in front and the sternum pulled apart. And why were the nurses bothered about how I would wash my back? Maybe I’m odd, but my back doesn’t really get dirty on a given day.

Judy S My physical therapist in the hospital said no reaching behind my back for six weeks.

Diane Maher Just came back from my pre op orientation and they said no to putting your hands behind your back or ... Read more

Diane Maher Just came back from my pre op orientation and they said no to putting your hands behind your back or reaching with any arm to the side for 6 weeks. This movement ‘pulls/stretches your sternum ‘apart’. Only arm movements that ‘push toward the sternum.

Marie Myers I was not told that restriction either. But if a specific movement felt painful or wrong, I just stop ... Read more

Marie Myers I was not told that restriction either. But if a specific movement felt painful or wrong, I just stopped. Learned the first week It was a bad idea to reach up to my higher kitchen shelves..

Rita Savelis No one told me not to do anything. However, I couldn't, so I didn't need to be told. My first shower ... Read more

Rita Savelis No one told me not to do anything. However, I couldn't, so I didn't need to be told. My first shower (with the help of a male nurse) was 2 weeks later. Obviously I am not a typical OHS patient, but all this is to say that it's okay to do whatever feels right. You'll know when it doesn't feel right. And it's okay to not be able to do everything immediately. And to let certain things slide for a few days, weeks. Like showers. Or washing your back. Take care.

Bob Fessler I was told you could use one hand behind the back but not two as that would stretch the chest. If it ... Read more

Bob Fessler I was told you could use one hand behind the back but not two as that would stretch the chest. If it feels funny, don't do it. You can also turn your body some to help getting clean.

David Brunkhorst The first time I had to, I couldn't do the paperwork. But It didn't take too long and I got it. Wifey ... Read more

David Brunkhorst The first time I had to, I couldn't do the paperwork. But It didn't take too long and I got it. Wifey was helpful in the shower. I was pretty stiff for a while.

Ruth Coleman I was not told I should not reach behind my back and am able to do that as well now as before surgery ... Read more

Ruth Coleman I was not told I should not reach behind my back and am able to do that as well now as before surgery nearly 6 mos ago. I was very encouraged to exercise after returning home. I am strong again!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2809 days ago

https://www.usnews.com/products/features/health-products-best-hospitals

Access Denied

http://www.usnews.com/products/features/health-products-best-hospitals

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2810 days ago

Trifecta™ Valve with Glide™ Technology (GT). (St. Jude)..............anybody else have this valve? Comments? It's the valve they plan to use for my aortic ...Read more

Trifecta™ Valve with Glide™ Technology (GT). (St. Jude)..............anybody else have this valve? Comments? It's the valve they plan to use for my aortic valve replacement in October.

Adam Pick Hi Gregory, Here's some information about the Trifecta that might help you learn more about the Trife ... Read more

Adam Pick Hi Gregory, Here's some information about the Trifecta that might help you learn more about the Trifecta and its Glide technology - https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2016/08/09/trifecta-gt-fda-approval/.

Technology Update: Exceptional Hemodynamics & More Earn Trifecta GT FDA Approval; 7 Facts You Should Know

https://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2016/08/09/trifecta-gt-fda-approval/

In case you missed it… The Trifecta Valve with Glide Technology (Trifecta GT) just received a U.S. Food & Drug Administration approval. This is really gre

LINDA ROBERTS Pretty impressive valve!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2812 days ago

Baylor St. Luke's Heart-Stoppingly Low Ratings For a hospital that bills itself as one of the top places to receive heart surgery in the country, their scores ...Read more

Baylor St. Luke's Heart-Stoppingly Low Ratings For a hospital that bills itself as one of the top places to receive heart surgery in the country, their scores are surprisingly low. In terms of overall bypass quality, Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center joined just 17 others -- out of 600 hospitals nationwide -- in earning a dubious one-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, reporting major complication rates of 19.3% for patients undergoing these operations. Their failure to have high-performing scores for even the most basic heart bypasses could be an indicator of system-wide atrophy, according to the latest installment in a series by the Houston Chronicle and ProPublica. But David Berger, MD, senior vice president and chief operating officer for Baylor St. Luke's, said those problems are in the past. "Currently we are providing safe and high-quality care, and we are continuing to improve our performance daily," he told the publications.

Anna Jones Where did you see this? Can you attach a link?

Gregory Brummett Houston Chronicle and ProPublica

Gregory Brummett https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/investigations/article/Heart-Failure-patients-suffer-at-St-Luke ... Read more

Gregory Brummett https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/investigations/article/Heart-Failure-patients-suffer-at-St-Lukes-Houston-12916224.php

At St. Luke’s in Houston, patients suffer as a renowned heart transplant program loses its luster

https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/investigations/article/Heart-Failure-patients-suffer-at-St-Lukes-Houston-12916224.php

How did a renowned heart transplant program fall to near the bottom of national patient-death statistics? An anonymous letter leads to a search for answers.

Anna Jones That is frightening. I am so glad I didn't go there. Thank you for posting this.

Susan Lynn You need to take statistics with a grain of salt. Some of these experienced surgeons get the most c ... Read more

Susan Lynn You need to take statistics with a grain of salt. Some of these experienced surgeons get the most complex cases. A patient is not a patient - all things are not equal. In addition, one surgeon I met with, who was very highly rated, was working with the joint commission to improve the accuracy of the way surgeons statistics and mortality rates are reported. It would be great if variables could be held constant to evaluate only the effectiveness of a surgeon, but ORs are not laboratories. Use statistics as part of your research, but not your only method of choosing a physician or facility.

Chris Purvis Agree with Susan. I’m a statistic of Baylor and can function at pre surgery levels before 7 weeks t ... Read more

Chris Purvis Agree with Susan. I’m a statistic of Baylor and can function at pre surgery levels before 7 weeks time period. That’s not happening at Plano or whatever that hospital is called. Most of those use a specific group of patients not the entire population.

Rita Savelis There are a lot of different calculations that go into those scores. Hospitals that take on more diff ... Read more

Rita Savelis There are a lot of different calculations that go into those scores. Hospitals that take on more difficult cases don't get the high scores. I'm not saying this is the reason here, but everything needs to be taken with a grain of salt. There is a lot of good care everywhere. And some hospitals will get the right statistics to score high. It's the same with universities....

Gregory Brummett " ON AUGUST 14, 2018, U.S. News will publish the 2018-19 edition of the Best Hospitals rankings"

Anna Jones Texas Heart Institute at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center dropped from National Ranking #16 last ye ... Read more

Anna Jones Texas Heart Institute at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center dropped from National Ranking #16 last year (tied with Houston Methodist) to #22 this year. Houston Methodist rose from National Ranking #16 last year to #14 this year.

Gregory Brummett Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital Plano is ranked at #21. I'm on the surgery schedule there for 7:3 ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital Plano is ranked at #21. I'm on the surgery schedule there for 7:30Am October 2 with Dr. William H. Ryan and Dr. Justin Schaffer. It's less than 30 miles from my house! Feeling very blessed & fortunate!

Anna Jones Sending prayers and best wishes.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2813 days ago

1 person reacted to this

Does anyone know when the new hospital and surgeon rankings in US News & World Report will be available?

Anna Jones Last year it was released 8/8/17. It should be coming out any time now.

Gregory Brummett Thanks, Anna. I'm curious to see where they rank The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano this time. I'm sched ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Thanks, Anna. I'm curious to see where they rank The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano this time. I'm scheduled for surgery there on 10-2-2018. also, wonder if Cleveland Clinic retains it's top spot; I bet it does...

Anna Jones I bet it does too. Cleveland Clinic never misses! You've picked a great surgeon and hospital. I w ... Read more

Anna Jones I bet it does too. Cleveland Clinic never misses! You've picked a great surgeon and hospital. I would have gone there too if my insurance had covered it. Instead I went to Houston Methodist ranked #16 in the Nation and to the top cardio-thoracic surgeon there. You're going to do great with the surgery. Once you start feeling better you wonder what you worried about! Best wishes at Baylor Plano.

Gregory Brummett I definitely considered going to Cleveland (Roselli) or Houston (Coselli).............still possibili ... Read more

Gregory Brummett I definitely considered going to Cleveland (Roselli) or Houston (Coselli).............still possibilities, I guess, but I'd rather not travel too far.....Plano is only 29 miles from my house............

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2815 days ago

1 person reacted to this

I get altitude sickness at about 7200 ft. above sea level. Might that go away when I get my leaky aortic valve and aneurysm fixed? Anybody know? I'd really ...Read more

I get altitude sickness at about 7200 ft. above sea level. Might that go away when I get my leaky aortic valve and aneurysm fixed? Anybody know? I'd really like to re-visit Estes Park someday......

Rick Holstein Well, I jump out of airplanes from 14,000 ft with a mechanical aortic valve, so you'll probably be OK ... Read more

Rick Holstein Well, I jump out of airplanes from 14,000 ft with a mechanical aortic valve, so you'll probably be OK!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2833 days ago

Susan Lynn reacted to this

Is this bone cement called kryptonite standard procedure now, or not? " Kryptonite bone cement as an enhancement to conventional wire cerclage for sternal ...Read more

Is this bone cement called kryptonite standard procedure now, or not? " Kryptonite bone cement as an enhancement to conventional wire cerclage for sternal closure is a safe, simple and quick procedure requiring no special technical skills and is associated with accelerated sternal healing, reduced postoperative pain, and improved quality of life. "

Darlene Smith Never heard of it. Sounds interesting.

Marie Myers Same here- never heard of it...
I hope "Superman" never needs open heart surgery...:-)

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2853 days ago

Chris Purvis, Kelly Stoll reacted to this

Surgery is scheduled for September 25, 2018. Hoping and praying to avoid a "John Ritter" incident before 9-25-18...

Marie Myers How large is your aneurysm? My understanding is that the risk goes way up at 6 cm. Mine was 4.8 cm, b ... Read more

Marie Myers How large is your aneurysm? My understanding is that the risk goes way up at 6 cm. Mine was 4.8 cm, but I am only 5'5 and 103 lbs. They recommended I get it done in a "timely manner"

Chris Purvis That’s how I felt. Waited 45 days from discovery and mine was measured at 5.3. Worried constantly.. ... Read more

Chris Purvis That’s how I felt. Waited 45 days from discovery and mine was measured at 5.3. Worried constantly..surgeons didn’t seem too concerned.

Steve Farthing In John Ritter's case, his cardiac issue was not known and they misdiagnosed him at the ER and lost t ... Read more

Steve Farthing In John Ritter's case, his cardiac issue was not known and they misdiagnosed him at the ER and lost too much time guessing at his problem. Otherwise, he may well have survived if he had been previously diagnosed.

Rose Madura My aneurysm was 5.4 and I didn't know about it until the surgeon told me at our initial consult. So ... Read more

Rose Madura My aneurysm was 5.4 and I didn't know about it until the surgeon told me at our initial consult. So my surgery was about 3-1/2 weeks later. I guess I didn't have too much time to worry. But the surgeon made it sound so routine, he calmed my nerves. I'm sure if it were dangerous the would schedule you for surgery on an emergency basis. Please keep us posted on your journey.

Catie B I don't believe Dr. Ryan would let things roll for another few weeks if he thought you were in danger ... Read more

Catie B I don't believe Dr. Ryan would let things roll for another few weeks if he thought you were in danger. I hope having a date scheduled gives you some peace of mind. It was time, but not urgent, for mine at 4.8/4.9 but only because of my relative, small body size--otherwise I'd have been counseled to wait.

Gregory Brummett It's at 5.2 at this time. I see Dr. Ryan again on 12 Sept for another CT. Then I have a pre-op appt o ... Read more

Gregory Brummett It's at 5.2 at this time. I see Dr. Ryan again on 12 Sept for another CT. Then I have a pre-op appt on 24 Sept with surgery on 25 Sept.

Gregory Brummett I'm wondering what they do at the "pre-op" (day before surgery) appointment besides blood tests? Ches ... Read more

Gregory Brummett I'm wondering what they do at the "pre-op" (day before surgery) appointment besides blood tests? Chest Xray? and ???

Gregory Brummett With my BP under control and knowing to avoid stress and heavy lifting, the doc is in no hurry & says ... Read more

Gregory Brummett With my BP under control and knowing to avoid stress and heavy lifting, the doc is in no hurry & says the risk of surgery is roughly equivalent to risk of rupture/dissection at this time. Apparently they prefer to get a CT as shortly before surgery as possible to have a fresh measurement.

Marie Myers The preop testing was much more extensive than I expected. I spent several hours getting Chest X-ray, ... Read more

Marie Myers The preop testing was much more extensive than I expected. I spent several hours getting Chest X-ray, pulmonary function test, blood gases, regular blood work, urinalysis, EKG, ultrasound of carotids and leg vessels, all done in different areas of the hospital... I had done the TEE and cardiac cath a month or so prior to this testing.

Gregory Brummett How do they do the "blood gases" exam?

Marie Myers Arterial stick in the wrist. I was dreading that, but it was not as painful as I expected even though ... Read more

Marie Myers Arterial stick in the wrist. I was dreading that, but it was not as painful as I expected even though the tech had to stick me several times to get it.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2854 days ago

1 person reacted to this

Heart cath via right wrist was 15 June, 2018. Wrist is still tender, bruised, and painful. Normal?

Chris Purvis Gregory my wrist hurt and it felt like I had a snag in my bi cep as well but that went away within 2 ... Read more

Chris Purvis Gregory my wrist hurt and it felt like I had a snag in my bi cep as well but that went away within 2 weeks. Thanks

Valerie Herndon-Vitarella My second heart cath was bruised and tender, but not actually painful for about that long. Can you fe ... Read more

Valerie Herndon-Vitarella My second heart cath was bruised and tender, but not actually painful for about that long. Can you feel your pulse there? Might be a good idea to check with the doctor.

Judy Shaw My heart cath was done in the right wrist on May 29th. It was bruised and tender at first. No bad pai ... Read more

Judy Shaw My heart cath was done in the right wrist on May 29th. It was bruised and tender at first. No bad pain though. I still have a red spot where the cath was placed and occasionally it will hurt when I turn my hand a certain way. The skin in that area feels sensitive sometimes.

Gregory Brummett Maybe I'm too impatient, but, after nearly two weeks, I thought the pain and bruising would resolve. ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Maybe I'm too impatient, but, after nearly two weeks, I thought the pain and bruising would resolve. I guess it's possible there was some nerve damage. I'll call my doctor again if it's not better tomorrow. Thanks!

Steve Farthing My entire right forearm was black for 2 weeks. They ended up pulling the cath wire and going in thru ... Read more

Steve Farthing My entire right forearm was black for 2 weeks. They ended up pulling the cath wire and going in thru the femoral artery instead because the radial artery went into spasm. But the wrist usually works and it is quicker and easier. But mine was on the mend after 2 weeks.

Marie Myers My wrist was black and midnight blue for a couple weeksor so, but I did not have a lot of pain with i ... Read more

Marie Myers My wrist was black and midnight blue for a couple weeksor so, but I did not have a lot of pain with it. The bruising was slow to disappear ....

Dan Vechiola I guess I was lucky. My right wrist healed nicely and was not a problem. Sorry you are experienced ... Read more

Dan Vechiola I guess I was lucky. My right wrist healed nicely and was not a problem. Sorry you are experienced this. Hopefully it will heal very soon.

Kirk Bepler Mine was sore for about a week and some bruising, but also more bruising showed up further up my arm ... Read more

Kirk Bepler Mine was sore for about a week and some bruising, but also more bruising showed up further up my arm about 4 days later. It's normal, just depends on how your body reacts.

Thomas Brusstar I have a cath in two days. I thought it would be easy, but maybe not! But it’s actually helpful ... Read more

Thomas Brusstar I have a cath in two days. I thought it would be easy, but maybe not! But it’s actually helpful to know it’s normal to have those problems, so I won’t freak out if it bruises up. Surgery is two and a half weeks later.

Barbara Maw My wrist was sore and bruised for 2.5 weeks. I was a also a little concerned about nerve damage becau ... Read more

Barbara Maw My wrist was sore and bruised for 2.5 weeks. I was a also a little concerned about nerve damage because I was having a hard time holding a pen. Was probably only stiffness from favoring it! Now 3 weeks, bruising gone and able to write again.

Gregory Brummett I should have at least requested they use the left wrist (I'm right handed), but I didn't think about ... Read more

Gregory Brummett I should have at least requested they use the left wrist (I'm right handed), but I didn't think about it at the time. I wonder:can they even use the left wrist? Anybody have it done using the left wrist??

Chris Purvis I think it’s onlt right side.

Marie Myers Mine was right side due to the setup of the room. The doc was on my right. Interestingly enough, at t ... Read more

Marie Myers Mine was right side due to the setup of the room. The doc was on my right. Interestingly enough, at the time of surgery, the anesthesia team tried to start the Arterial line in my left wrist, and they were unsuccessful. The line went back into my right wrist.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2873 days ago

Barbara Maw reacted to this

https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/new-aortic-bioprosthesis-designed-for-durability-makes-its-u-s-debut/?utm_source=marketo&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=heart+vascular+news+10-25-17&utm_content=story2+image&mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiT0RsaVpqazBNR1E1TVdKaSIsInQiOiJKQnVhSkpLdWlhSnkxQU00K3RsbHgrMUtsblJXd3FjWUhPVURIaG54ZDVHdVB1RXMzbTZaOVlBdjR6T1wvXC9LYTlvSGZkY3I2NWdjbkRjWXJPVzQ3WnFPUHp3MzlOUUtlTWNodTRjamJQd0hPK1RGeDRRK21hMXRxNTN3dVlLTjg5In0%3D ...Read more

New Aortic Bioprosthesis Designed for Durability Makes Its U.S. Debut

https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/new-aortic-bioprosthesis-designed-for-durability-makes-its-u-s-debut/?utm_source=marketo

Cleveland Clinic among first users of the Inspiris Resilia valve

Barbara Maw Hi Gregory, Where are you having OHS? This valve is not yet available at the hospital where my surgeo ... Read more

Barbara Maw Hi Gregory, Where are you having OHS? This valve is not yet available at the hospital where my surgeon ooerates. Can't decide to wait for it or go elsewhere.

Barbara Maw My surgeon doesn't ooerate! He operates!

Gregory Brummett Tentatively, surgery is set for 9-25-2018 at The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano, Tx with Dr. William Rya ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Tentatively, surgery is set for 9-25-2018 at The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano, Tx with Dr. William Ryan and Dr. Schaffer. My heart cath appt is next Friday. If travel is not an issue for you, then I suggest you go to Cleveland Clinic & ask for Eric Roselli, MD. I am hoping the valve will be available by September in Plano, but I'm fairly sure you could get it now at Cleveland Clinic. Good luck!

Barbara Maw Thank you Gregory! Travel is an issue for me.. With waiting being the hardest part of this journey., ... Read more

Barbara Maw Thank you Gregory! Travel is an issue for me.. With waiting being the hardest part of this journey., dont want to wait for the valve and leaning toward going with surgeon that will attempt minimum access. I had my cardiac catherization today and no additional complications were found. YAY. I will call Monday to schedule surgery. Anxious to be on the healing side.
Best wishes to you along this journey!

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2889 days ago

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/data-models-can-predict-best-cardiac-surgery-program/?_ga=2.84593433.1623788920.1527002541-336633589.1527002541

How to Find the Best Heart Surgery Hospital For Your Needs

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/data-models-can-predict-best-cardiac-surgery-program/?_ga=2.84593433.1623788920.1527002541-336633589.1527002541

Assessing outcome data helps assess your risks

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2889 days ago

More involved, interesting, and possibly deadly than I ever imagined......https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fear_of_needles

Fear of needles - Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fear_of_needles

Fear of needles, known in medical literature as needle phobia, is the extreme fear of medical procedures involving injections or hypodermic needles.

Gregory Brummett http://www.needlephobia.com/

Gregory Brummett https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/needle-phobia-panic-attack-0719126

Needle Phobia: A Potentially Deadly Diagnosis

https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/needle-phobia-panic-attack-0719126

Extreme fear of needles can pose real difficulties for people who are need of medical care. Hypnotherapy and counterconditioning can be used to help individuals reduce their fear response.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2906 days ago

If you do very well on the thallium stress (treadmill) test, does that mean they will probably not find coronary artery blockages when they perform the heart ...Read more

If you do very well on the thallium stress (treadmill) test, does that mean they will probably not find coronary artery blockages when they perform the heart cath?

Susan Lynn I am not an expert, but I don't think the stress test is an indicator of the status of your arteries ... Read more

Susan Lynn I am not an expert, but I don't think the stress test is an indicator of the status of your arteries. I suspect that's why some active people are caught by surprise with the diagnosis of blockages.

Marie Myers Even if the docs find blockages, the blockages have to be a certain % before they will bypass it. It ... Read more

Marie Myers Even if the docs find blockages, the blockages have to be a certain % before they will bypass it. It might be 70-80%, not sure. I know for carotid blockages without symptoms, some do not advocate surgery till 70-80 % blockage.

Gregory Brummettposted an update

2911 days ago

Wondering if there are any new procedures coming up soon which would be worth postponing OHS surgery for BAV and TAA 4.9cm with no symptoms?

Marie Myers What is TAV?

Michael Eichhorn I have a BAV with a 4.9cm Aortic Root and Ascending Aorta no symptoms either. Stumbled on this with a ... Read more

Michael Eichhorn I have a BAV with a 4.9cm Aortic Root and Ascending Aorta no symptoms either. Stumbled on this with a CT of my chest. Unaware of any upcoming new procedures. Been to two surgeons and both recommend OHS.

Marie Myers That is what I thought Greg meant. I, too, had a BAV, and was found to have an ascending aortic aneu ... Read more

Marie Myers That is what I thought Greg meant. I, too, had a BAV, and was found to have an ascending aortic aneurysm 4.5x 4.8 cm on a routine echo. Same story that 2 surgeons recommended surgery "sooner rather than later". I had no symptoms and was playing tennis and working, blissfully unaware. Fast forward to now...I had surgery 1 year ago and did well. I have heard something about "wrapping the aorta", but really don't know the full details. It is a load of unwelcome news to find out you need heart surgery, but it is done every day. The vast majority of patients do well. All the best to you in your heart journey!

Gregory Brummett Michael Eichhorn What restrictions are you on? My cardio says no heavy lifting, strict blood pressure ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Michael Eichhorn What restrictions are you on? My cardio says no heavy lifting, strict blood pressure control, and stress reduction. I'm taking Metaprolol which has my BP down into a very good range, usually about 105/60 (ish). Maybe it's giving me a false sense of security, but I'm in no hurry to schedule surgery. I'm concerned that I'll never get back to feeling as healthy as I do now.

Michael Eichhorn Hi Greg, no lifting,Mediterranean diet, walking 35 minutes a day and 50mg Metraprolol daily with baby ... Read more

Michael Eichhorn Hi Greg, no lifting,Mediterranean diet, walking 35 minutes a day and 50mg Metraprolol daily with baby aspirin. I also feel great and can’t believe I need this quite frankly. But I have spoken to two Cardioligist’s and two Surgeon’s and all believe I should have the surgery sometime in the next 6 months. So, I am scheduled May 15th. I chose to have the surgery while I feel good instead of waiting.

Marie Myers Everyone is different, but I can say that I feel physically back to normal since my AVR and ascending ... Read more

Marie Myers Everyone is different, but I can say that I feel physically back to normal since my AVR and ascending aneurysm resection. I actually was back at work part time in 8 weeks, and I have been back to tennis and bike riding.
I also felt disbelief that I needed such a huge surgery, but I trusted in the 2 docs that they knew what they were talking about when recommending surgery. BTW, I was placed on the same restrictions as you in the preop phase of my journey.

Gregory Brummett Marie, where did you have your surgery? Sounds like you had excellent care! I am in DFW TX & would ha ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Marie, where did you have your surgery? Sounds like you had excellent care! I am in DFW TX & would have surgery in Plano Tx at Heart Hospital Baylor Plano (HHBP). HHBP is rated #16 in the country by US News & World Report.

Gregory Brummett Is not having full range of movement one of the main annoyances in the first days and weeks after sur ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Is not having full range of movement one of the main annoyances in the first days and weeks after surgery? or what? Pain?

Marie Myers I had my surgery locally at a smaller hospital in Lake Worth FL. I was too overwhelmed with the idea ... Read more

Marie Myers I had my surgery locally at a smaller hospital in Lake Worth FL. I was too overwhelmed with the idea of traveling to a major center. But I feel because I am " in the business" (I am a nurse anesthetist) I could find out who had good results here in Palm Beach County. I also had worked with the anesthesiologist from 30 years ago, and I felt he would take good care of me. I also felt that being a healthy 63 yr old, I would do well anywhere.. I felt that complications can occur at any hospital, even at a big name place. So, I had the whole surgery here, and did well. Not to say that a major center is not good, but having worked in the OR for 40 years, I know there are good doctors everywhere. Just have to find them. You are close to a great major center in Tx, so I would say go for it.
As far as pain, I would say pain was very minimal in my sternum. My back and shoulders were very sore, and I could not wait to be able to get on my stomach for a massage. That took about 8 weeks. Could not stretch to use high shelves for a few weeks either. Took very few narcotic pain pills post op; Tylenol worked pretty well. fatigue was more of a problem than pain.
I hope that all makes sense. Feel free to ask any other questions. I got a lot of comfort and reassurance from this site, and I hope I can pass some on.

Gregory Brummett Marie, did you have a heart cath before your surgery? Can you suggest which sedation drugs I should ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Marie, did you have a heart cath before your surgery? Can you suggest which sedation drugs I should request for the heart cath procedure? I know they won't apply "deep" sedation, but I prefer to be as near as possible to "knocked out" for the heart cath. Thanks...

Marie Myers I got intravenous midazolam (Versed) for my sedation. I remember little bits of the procedure, but no ... Read more

Marie Myers I got intravenous midazolam (Versed) for my sedation. I remember little bits of the procedure, but no pain or anxiety. It was much easier than I thought it would be.
On the day of my surgery, the nurse anesthetist gave me the same drug as I was being taken to the OR. I remember absolutely nothing until waking up in ICU. It was great!

Gregory Brummett I've had Versed with Fentanyl for a colonoscopy & it worked great. Also had 2 Halcions for a dental p ... Read more

Gregory Brummett I've had Versed with Fentanyl for a colonoscopy & it worked great. Also had 2 Halcions for a dental procedure which was very effective. Probably better not to mix anything though.....I'll ask for versed only and see what they say.....I see my surgeon on Wedsnesday.....

Gregory Brummett Did you have your surgery right after the cath? or can you wait a while between cath and surgery? I w ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Did you have your surgery right after the cath? or can you wait a while between cath and surgery? I wonder how long you can wait before another cath would be required?

Gregory Brummett Which pain meds do they give you right after surgery? Morphine? or ?? Is the self-administered pain p ... Read more

Gregory Brummett Which pain meds do they give you right after surgery? Morphine? or ?? Is the self-administered pain pump standard now? or must the patient request it?

Marie Myers Versed and fentanyl is a great combo for the cath. I had my cath in February, and my surgery on March ... Read more

Marie Myers Versed and fentanyl is a great combo for the cath. I had my cath in February, and my surgery on March 28 2017. I was told the cath should be within 6 months of the surgery.
They tried to give me Dilaudid post op, and I was nauseated. I did not experience severe pain, and a hydrocodone 5 mg was enough. Then I switched to Tylenol, and that was sufficient. Once I was home, I took a hydrocodone 5 mg at night to get some better sleep.Only did that for a few days. Mostly took Tylenol or ibuprofen if I needed it during the day. I think a lot of hospitals have the "self-serve" pain pump, but honestly, I did not need it.

Marie Myers Forgot to add- it was difficult to sleep in the hospital. Even though I had ear plugs and eye mask, I ... Read more

Marie Myers Forgot to add- it was difficult to sleep in the hospital. Even though I had ear plugs and eye mask, I was awake the better part of 5 days. Should have asked for a sleeping pill, for sure. Also, I read someone on this site who requested not to be awakened at unGodly hours for weigh-ins, blood work, vital signs, ect. I sure would have done that if I knew it was possible...I had never been in the hospital as a patient before, and I just did not know!