Jessica Knight, APN

What are some of the specific conditions you treat?

As a Cardiac Surgery and CCU Advanced Practice Nurse, I manage patients with a wide range of acute and chronic cardiovascular conditions. These include pre and postoperative care for patients undergoing procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair or replacement, and aortic aneurysm repair. I provide comprehensive care for patients experiencing acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, arrhythmias, cardiogenic shock, and hypertensive emergencies. I am experienced in managing postoperative complications such as cardiac tamponade, low cardiac output syndrome, and postop arrhythmias. 

What techniques or procedures do you use in your practice?

In my practice, I utilize a variety of advanced clinical techniques and procedures to manage critically ill cardiac patients. These include the interpretation of invasive hemodynamic monitoring data from arterial lines, central venous catheters, and pulmonary artery catheters (Swan-Ganz). I perform and assist with procedures such as central line and arterial line placement, chest tube management, temporary pacemaker troubleshooting, and care of intra-aortic balloon pumps and other mechanical circulatory support devices such as LVAD Impella and ECMO. I am skilled in managing sedation, titrating vasoactive medications, and initiating advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols. Additionally, I interpret 12-lead ECGs, monitor for and manage arrhythmias, adjust pacemaker and defibrillator settings in collaboration with cardiology, and oversee ventilator settings in collaboration with respiratory therapy. I also perform wound care for post-sternotomy patients and provide education and support for patients and families throughout the perioperative and recovery process. 

Describe some of your professional highlights. 

I have been a nurse for 11 years here at Valley Hospital, starting as an RN on our cardiothoracic step-down unit and transitioned to a cardiac surgery ICU RN. I have been an APN for 4 years, working both inpatient cardiology and outpatient cardiology. Throughout my career, I have developed extensive expertise in both inpatient and outpatient cardiology settings. As an APN, I have managed complex cardiac patients in the Coronary Care Unit and cardiac surgery units, providing critical care and postoperative management. I have also practiced in outpatient cardiology, where I focused on chronic disease management, patient education, and coordinating care to optimize cardiovascular health. My broad experience across acute and ambulatory care settings has enabled me to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care, collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to imrpoved patient outcomes. 

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