Author

Joanne Rios, RN, MSN, is a clinical nurse specialist with a focus on cardiovascular health and education. Joanne works with patients at Sonora Regional Medical Center’s Anticoagulation Clinic and Cardiac Rehabilitation. She is also an adjunct professor at Columbia College where she teaches cardiac rehabilitation. Joanne received her two-year degree from Chabot College in Hayward, Calif., and four-year degree in nursing from Pacific Union College in Angwin, Calif. She then earned her master’s degree in nursing from the California State University at Dominguez Hills. She has worked as a nurse since 1971. Prior to starting the Medical Center’s Anticoagulation Clinic in 1997, Joanne managed the Intensive Care and Critical Care Units for 18 years before moving into home infusion and ultimately to anticoagulation. In her current role, Joanne helps patients live with heart disease by providing education and support.