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TOM FEERST
Facility: Inova Fairfax Hospital
Specialty: Cardiac Care
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL, but "I consider myself
a Virginian!"
Favorite Color: "Green, because I like the woods."
School: Northern Virginia Community College (Annandale)
Favorite Movie: Braveheart
Age when he decided to become a nurse: 44
What do you do in your spare time?
Fishing, kayaking, gardening, raising vegetables.
What was the most important factor in your decision to
become a Nurse?
"I've always enjoyed science and helping people. I really
wanted a career where I could say that I have accomplished
something at the end of the day, that I have helped someone.
I wanted a career where every day is a new experience."
Why did you choose your specialty?
"I feel that the heart is an amazing organ, and with
the heart disease being one of the leading causes of death
in the United States, I feel that my contribution to cardiac
care can help significantly improve and lengthen the quality
of my patients' lives."
What do you think is the best thing about being a nurse?
"That I am an instrumental part of my patients' recovery.
The impact my work has on their families as well. It's job
satisfaction like none other. The flexible schedules mean
that my workdays are never boring, and I have time to do what
I enjoy. Also, not having to wear a suit and a tie to work!"
What do you think is the worst thing about being a nurse?
"Not having a regular schedule. On the other hand, it
makes the job less routine."
Who is your most memorable patient?
"There were two that comes to mind. One was a young patient
with acute coronary syndrome. I assisted in the opening of
his coronary artery, which helped him recover. The other happened
with the passing of one of my patients. Through compassionate
counseling, I was able to help the family through a very difficult
time, and to achieve closure. "
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