Understanding atrial fibrillation (AFib), the benefits and risks of blood thinners, and the WATCHMAN device could help you make more informed decisions about your heart health!

On 2 Plus You Nevada, host Sarah Johns welcomes back Chelsea Steverman, Structural Heart WATCHMAN Nurse Navigator at Sierra Medical Center in Reno, Nevada, to discuss how blood thinners help reduce stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation, the challenges of taking these medications long term, and an alternative treatment option for eligible patients.

Chelsea explains how blood thinners work, why patients with AFib are at increased risk of stroke, and why bleeding complications, falls, and other health concerns can make long-term anticoagulation challenging.

Plus, discover how the WATCHMAN device works, how it is implanted through a minimally invasive procedure, and how it may help eligible patients reduce their need for long-term blood thinners related to AFib.

❤️ Segment Highlights:

🏥 Sierra Medical Center's Structural Heart Department

• Meet Chelsea Steverman, Structural Heart WATCHMAN Nurse Navigator

• Learn about Sierra Medical Center's specialized heart services

• Discover catheter-based procedures as alternatives to certain open-heart surgeries

• Explore treatment options for eligible patients with structural heart conditions

💓 Understanding AFib & Blood Thinners

• What is atrial fibrillation (AFib)?

• Why AFib increases the risk of blood clots and stroke

• How blood thinners help prevent dangerous blood clots

• Understanding the importance of stroke prevention

⚠️ Blood Thinner Risks & Long-Term Challenges

• Increased risk of bleeding and complications from falls

• Concerns involving aging, fragile skin, and chronic health conditions

• Medication costs and challenges with daily treatment

• Why patients should never stop prescribed blood thinners without medical guidance

🩺 Talking with Your Doctor About Treatment Options

• Questions to ask your primary care provider or cardiologist

• Understanding your individual stroke and bleeding risks

• Discussing medication side effects and long-term concerns

• Exploring alternative treatment options when appropriate

❤️ The WATCHMAN Device for Stroke Prevention

• What is the WATCHMAN device and how does it work?

• Understanding the left atrial appendage and its role in clot formation

• How the device is implanted through a catheter

• How WATCHMAN may reduce the need for long-term anticoagulation in eligible patients with AFib

🌐 Learn More About Sierra Medical Center:

❤️ TAKE THE NEXT STEP TOWARD BETTER HEART HEALTH!

Discover more about:

💓 Atrial fibrillation and stroke prevention

🩺 Structural heart treatment options

❤️ The WATCHMAN device

🏥 Specialized cardiovascular care in Northern Nevada

🌐 Sierra Medical Center:

https://www.nnmc.com/

📞 Structural Heart Department:

775-799-7633

Contact Sierra Medical Center's Structural Heart Department to learn more about the WATCHMAN device, treatment options, and whether you may be a candidate.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This segment is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Never stop or change prescribed blood thinners without consulting your healthcare provider. WATCHMAN is not appropriate for every patient, and medication may still be required following implantation.

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