ATLANTA, Texas - The American College of Cardiology has recognized CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital-Atlanta for its expertise in treating patients with chest pain. The hospital was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation in November based on an on-site evaluation of the staff's ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing heart attacks.
"ACC Accreditation Services is proud to award CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital-Atlanta with Chest Pain Center Accreditation for the second time," said Dr. Phillip D.Levy, chair of the ACC Accreditation Management Board.
According to Heather Biddy, the Atlanta program manager, hospitals receiving this accreditation must take part in a multi-faceted clinical process. Improved patient care strategies include streamlining processes, implementing of guidelines and standards and adopting best practices in the care of patients.
"Facilities that achieve accreditation meet or exceed an array of stringent criteria and have organized a team of doctors, nurses, clinicians, and other administrative staff who earnestly support the efforts leading to better patient education and improved patient outcomes," said Micah Johnson, the administrator/chief nursing officer at the Atlanta hospital.
CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital-Atlanta, located along U.S. Highway 77 and South William Street in Atlanta, Texas, provides general and medical care for inpatient, outpatient, and emergency department patients.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 730,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to have atypical symptoms. Other heart attack symptoms include, but are not limited to, tingling or discomfort in one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw, shortness of breath, cold sweat, unusual tiredness, heartburn-like feeling, nausea or vomiting, sudden dizziness and fainting.