The WATCHMAN procedure is helping eligible patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) reduce their risk of stroke while offering an alternative to long-term blood thinner medication. Sierra Medical Center, part of Northern Nevada Health System, is celebrating a major heart care milestone: 500 WATCHMAN procedures performed in just three years!

On 2 Plus You Nevada, host Sarah Johns welcomes Chelsea Steverman, BSN, RN, WATCHMAN Nurse Navigator at Sierra Medical Center, to explain how the WATCHMAN device works, who may qualify, what patients can expect during the minimally invasive procedure, and why this achievement is significant for heart care in Northern Nevada.

Discover how the WATCHMAN implant helps prevent blood clots from forming in the heart's left atrial appendage, what recovery involves, and how Sierra Medical Center's structural heart team supports patients from referral through follow-up care.

🚨 Segment Highlights:

❤️ Understanding WATCHMAN & AFib

• What the WATCHMAN device is and how it works

• Why atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke

• How the implant helps prevent certain blood clots

🩺 An Alternative to Long-Term Blood Thinners

• Why some AFib patients may consider WATCHMAN

• How bleeding and fall risks affect treatment decisions

• Why eligibility requires an individualized heart evaluation

🏥 500 WATCHMAN Procedures at Sierra Medical Center

• Celebrating 500 procedures in three years

• How the structural heart team serves Northern Nevada

• The importance of specialized care and patient follow-up

💓 WATCHMAN Procedure & Recovery

• How the device is implanted through a catheter

• Why the implant is designed to remain permanently

• Hospital stays, recovery and temporary activity restrictions

👩‍⚕️ Patient Support & Getting Started

• How nurse navigators guide patients through treatment

• What patients report during long-term follow-up

• Where to learn more about WATCHMAN eligibility

🌐 Learn More About WATCHMAN:

Visit: https://www.watchman.com/

Sierra Medical Center Structural Heart Department:

📞 775-799-7633

Talk with your cardiologist about whether WATCHMAN may be appropriate for your individual medical needs. Do not stop prescribed blood thinners without medical guidance.

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