Staff Report
Do you know your “heart health numbers”? How do you measure up compared to “120 over 60” and “total cholesterol 200”?
Find out what these numbers mean at Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital’s free heart health event on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2018, from 12-2 p.m. In celebration of National Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation department is promoting heart health with free screenings, tours and an opportunity to meet heart health experts.
“This time of year, around Valentine’s Day, we are all focused on matters of the heart. It’s the best time to make sure you are SMART about your heart health,” explained Marsha Griggs, RN-BC, CCRP, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation coordinator at Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital.
“It’s important to know your heart health numbers for blood pressure and cholesterol and to identify your personal cardiac risk profile. Then you can make SMART changes. SMART stands for changes that are specific, measurable, adjustable, realistic, and time-based,” Ms. Griggs added.
The free event will be held at the cardiac rehabilitation facility adjacent to the hospital at 2030 Viborg Road, Suite 108, in Solvang. Free blood pressure readings and free cholesterol checks will be available. Reservations are required for the cholesterol tests and space is limited. Please call toll-free at 1-888-999-8262 to secure a test time.
Attendees will be able to tour the facility as well as meet with staff, including Ms. Griggs. The hospital’s registered dietitian, Stacey Bailey, will be available to give nutrition advice for optimum heart health.
Since 1988, the SYVCH cardiac rehabilitation department provides a medically supervised outpatient program to assist those who have had heart attacks, stroke, cardiac procedures, or other heart issues. SYVCH provides medical supervision, assessment and counseling by registered nurses and dietitians, EKG and blood pressure monitoring, and support with managing stress and healthy diets. The cardiac rehabilitation program requires a doctor’s referral. For more information, please call 805-686-3990.
