Ramsay Newsroom

After completing his master’s degree, Mr Sewell plans to use his new qualifications, combined with his more than 15 years cardiac nursing experience, to speed up, streamline and support the health care experience for cardiac patients in the region.

“As a nurse practitioner I am able to take on some of the work traditionally performed by a cardiac specialist, reducing the wait time for these services and procedures,” Mr Sewell said.

“I can diagnose patients and determine their treatment and care plans including prescribing medications, ordering scans and radiology and providing referrals to the necessary specialists and other health providers. I can also perform a range of minor surgical procedures, allowing these patients to be treated without delay.

“My main goal is to streamline care for local patients, supporting them through their transition to and from cardiac surgery. I can guide patients through their cardiac care journey from diagnosis, to preparing and undergoing surgery, followed by secondary prevention strategies in cardiac rehabilitation.”

Mr Sewell said as an Illawarra local who studied nursing at the University of Wollongong, he feels incredibly proud to now work as a nurse practitioner within cardiothoracic surgery in the Illawarra region.

“It’s a big role but the satisfaction of guiding local patients through their surgical journey makes it worth it,” he said.

“I hope I can use my new, expanded skillset to improve the service we provide and make it the safest, most efficient, most pleasant experience possible for our patients.

“I also look forward to teaching and mentoring other advanced practice nurses looking to grow their skills.”

Wollongong Private Hospital CEO, Adrian Bautista, said he was thrilled to be able to further expand the hospital’s leading cardiac care team for the benefit of local patients.

“It’s wonderful to have David onboard to support local patients on their journey through cardiac surgery,” Mr Bautista said.

“We’re proud to have a wonderful cardiac care program here in Wollongong, offering the Illawarra community the heart health support they need, close to home. I’m excited to add David, as a nurse practitioner, to our experienced team of cardiac specialists, nurses, support and allied health staff here at Wollongong Private Hospital.”