LLUMC–Murrieta Progressive Care Unit treats its first EKOS patient

A revised Level of Care policy has enabled LLUMC—Murrieta to expand its Progressive Care Unit (PCU) capabilities and provide more extensive treatment options. The PCU team offers care to cardiac patients, pre- and post-procedures, stroke patients, neuro-surgery patients, and more.

PCU nurses began training in November, studying didactic materials and participating in multiple training sessions led by Pam Castillo, PCU educator, and company vendors to ensure the team was ready for additions that included home ventilators and EKOS. Finally, after vigorous education, the unit went live with the changes in March.

In April, the Progressive Care Unit had its first EKOS® (EkoSonic Pulmonary Embolism System) patient. EKOS uses a combination of drugs and ultrasound waves to break up or dissolve major blood clots that cause pulmonary embolism. Due to the new treatment options, the patient, who typically would require an ICU admission, could be treated in the PCU instead. Nurses are incredibly proud to be doing their part in PCU, delivering this type of care to patients in our community.

Congratulations to Mae Uy, RN, for being the first nurse to care for this new type of patient in PCU.

Join us in thanking Staff Development and Pam Castillo for their tremendous support and hard work in making this day a reality!