Included in the cutting-edge healthcare services at San Simeon by the Sound’s Greenport facility is a multi-disciplinary team that specializes in left ventricular assist devices (LVAD).
An LVAD is a mechanical pump implanted in the chest to help weakened hearts pump blood. The LVAD directs blood from the left ventricle to the ascending aorta. A heart transplant is the optimal course of action for patients; however, LVAD’s have become increasingly popular as a destination therapy.
The San Simeon by the Sound staff evaluates nutritional status, end-organ function, right ventricular function, and signs or symptoms of infection. Blood pressure and mean arterial pressure (MAP) are also continuously monitored.
Our medical personnel performs regular care and routine system checks such as power-source changes, daily self-tests and driveline dressing changes. Patients are monitored and assessed for fluid levels to sustain adequate volume and pressure for proper flow and dehydration prevention. Infection control is also key, as patients with LVAD’s are at high risk for infection.
The loving and caring team at San Simeon helps patients develop various coping skills such as journaling, meditation, art therapy and prayer to assist with their condition. Additionally, patients are screened for depression and other psychological issues.
