Heart & Vascular Services
Washington Hospital offers a full range of cardiac and vascular services
to meet patients’ varied needs. It has been designated as both a
“cardiac receiving center” and a “stroke receiving center”
for Alameda County. Hospitals with these designations must have demonstrated
that they have the facilities, technology and physicians needed to provide
immediate diagnostic tests and the interventions necessary to save lives.
Fast Treatment for Chest Pain
Washington Hospital is a designated STEMI receiving center. A ST Elevation
Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) is a severe heart attack which requires
immediate intervention.
- Washington Hospital is an early adopter of the standard to get heart attack
patients into the Cardiac Catheterization Lab for angioplasty to restore
blood flow to the heart within 90 minutes or less, which means faster
care and better outcomes for the patient. Today, we average 60 minutes,
as a quick response means more heart muscle is saved
- Washington Hospital collaborates with paramedics in the field who can perform
an electrocardiogram (EKG) and transmit the results to the Hospital and
treating cardiologist. The goal is to enable the doctor to make a diagnosis,
have the cath lab team and room ready even before the patient is transported
to the hospital.
- After the procedure, patients are carefully monitored on the nursing unit,
specifically for heart patients, for various complications that could
prevent a secondary heart attack.
- After discharge, Washington Hospital works with patients and their families
to reduce the odds of further heart attacks. Two examples of prevention
are Mended Hearts and Cardiac Rehabilitation.
From leading edge diagnostic equipment and interventional services, to
the latest in surgical procedures and cardiac rehabilitation, Washington
Hospital's Heart and Vascular Services program provides patients with
a full continuum of quality care.