Tabitha Hunt Cousart-Hutchens

As a student in the Forsyth Technical Community College's medical office administration, I was assigned to do clinicals at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital. During my time spent with clinicians, I found I was in awe of the nurses. It was inspiring to see how they cared for patients and that, aside from bedside skills, their advocacy for patients' needs in the interest of good patient care was inspiring to me. They were collaborating with physicians, and their opinions and feedback were valued. It was admirable how they were on the front lines of patient care and, despite the demands, were humble to the patients and their families. That clinical experience sparked my interest in pursuing a nursing career. \n My goal is to make each patient feel as though they're visiting a trusted friend when they come to see me. I feel I have a special ability to relate to my patients and their families. Having lived my entire life in Yadkin County, I appreciate local values while understanding the …struggles our community faces. \n Prior to my work as an advanced practice nurse, I spent 10 years as a registered nurse at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center's inpatient oncology unit, as well as a nurse navigating inpatient discharge planning for case management. \n I earned my master's degree in nursing, with a concentration in the nurse practitioner discipline, in 2008 from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Later that year, I earned dual board certifications as an adult and geriatric nurse practitioner. In 2012, I was certified as a wound specialist. Through that certification, I demonstrated my skill and knowledge in treating diabetic foot ulcers, venous and arterial ulcers, and acute trauma wounds. \n In 2016, I earned my doctoral degree in nursing from the University of Alabama. My thesis, Implementation of Diabetic Footcare in the Primary Care Setting, was published in 2017. Preventive footcare can help patients with diabetes avoid the development of diabetic foot ulcers, which, in turn, can prevent amputations. In addition to primary care services, I look to incorporate routine foot care services to patients with diabetes to meet this need that otherwise is unavailable here in Yadkinville. \n I enjoy all things fitness-related, including running and weight training. One of my favorite places to run is at Walt Disney World, and I usually travel there twice a year during marathon weekends. I practice what I preach and strive to live an active lifestyle. Having lost my first husband unexpectantly to a heart attack, I strive to prevent heart disease and take interest in preventive care. \n I was blessed to find love again. My husband, Kendal, is also committed to staying healthy and active. We enjoy anything outdoors and traveling with our children. My goal is to travel with our children at least once a year to a place in the U.S. of historical significance. When we aren't traveling, we enjoy running in local races, visiting local establishments and kayaking.