Emergency Heart Care for Jim

When Jim began experiencing severe chest discomfort, he reached out to his neighbor, Dr. Nevin Baker, concerned he might be having a heart attack. Upon arriving, Dr. Baker quickly recognized the seriousness of Jim’s condition and urged him to call 911 immediately.

Emergency medical services arrived promptly, and Dr. Baker alerted the emergency department in advance, warning them that a patient with a concerning chest pain syndrome was on the way and that the team should be on high alert. By the time Jim arrived at the hospital, he had gone into cardiac arrest and CPR was underway.

The emergency team acted swiftly, administering a life-saving shock to restore Jim’s heart rhythm and successfully resuscitating him. Follow-up testing confirmed he was experiencing a major heart attack caused by a completely blocked artery, often referred to as the “widowmaker.” Jim was taken for immediate intervention, where multiple stents were placed to reopen the artery. Thanks to the rapid response and coordinated care, he recovered remarkably well.

Dr. Baker credits Jim’s outcome to the collective strength of the care team at Westmoreland Hospital, part of Independence Health System. “This isn’t a village,” he noted. “This is an army.” And because of that army, Jim has a second chance at life.

Jim is deeply grateful for the care he received. He credits the doctors, nurses, and staff at Independence Health System with saving his life and allowing him to share his story today. His hope is that by doing so, others will recognize the warning signs of a heart attack, stay proactive with their health, and call 911 without hesitation if symptoms occur.