We had a veteran who came in with new atrial fibrillation to the clinic. He was very elderly and was confused about his diagnosis. He needed to have a Holter monitor placed to monitor his heart rate, and also needed to start a new medication. Carmen spent over an hour with him, and did not take a lunch break so that she could be able to spend extra time counseling him about his diagnosis and treatment plan.

He did not understand the heart monitor, so she helped him set it up on his mobile phone and showed him how to report any symptoms. Carmen also provided education about the new medications and the blood thinner he would have to take. He reported that he was so scared and confused about the diagnosis, but Carmen made him feel comfortable and explained things to him in a way that he could understand.

He left feeling calm and understanding of his new diagnosis and the plan of care. Carmen also took him up to check out so that she could be sure that he made the appropriate follow-up appointments. Carmen is also a Veteran and goes above and beyond to help the Veterans here with their health issues.