Nursing With Heart

Having heart surgery can be a scary experience for any patient. That’s why Allison Case, RN, cardiothoracic surgery nurse at Saint Joseph Hospital, knows her job is about more than assisting with the surgery itself.

“It is important to try to make patients feel as comfortable and safe as possible,” she said. “As a cardiothoracic surgery nurse, I act as their support system before they go under anesthesia.”

Turning an Interest Into a Career

Even before becoming a cardiothoracic surgery nurse, Case long had an interest in the heart and cardiology.

“The heart is the most fascinating organ of the body,” she said. “I knew cardiology nursing is where I needed to be.”

Case completed her education at Morehead State University in Morehead, Kentucky. After earning her degree in nursing, she joined the team at Saint Joseph Hospital, where she has worked since 2019. Two years ago, she became a cardiothoracic surgery nurse, assisting on many cardiac surgeries and caring for patients in recovery.

“The most challenging aspect of this job is seeing patients in their most critical and vulnerable state,” Case said, “but getting them through surgery and out of the operating room successfully is what makes all of the hardships of being a nurse worthwhile.”

Becoming a Family

For Case, another rewarding aspect of working on the cardiology team at Saint Joseph Hospital is the closeness she shares with the other members of the team.

“We are like family, and being in sync with one another really helps us on our jobs,” she said. “Being able to have the comfort of your close friends with you during tough surgeries is a wonderful feeling.”

Case spends a lot of her free time with her Saint Joseph Hospital family. She is also an active member of her church, helping members in need and teaching children’s Bible classes.

When she isn’t working or helping her community, Case loves to spend time with her husband, Peyton, and their dog, Tucker, either relaxing at home or taking walks around the neighborhood. They are also big college sports fans.

“My husband and I enjoy attending every UK football and basketball game that we can,” she said. “We love cheering on our Cats!”