Kristen Lewellen, APRN-CNP, specializes in cardiovascular and thoracic (CVT) surgery at Oklahoma Heart Institute (OHI). Her professional areas of interest include general cardiology, critical care and heart failure.

Kristen’s journey into health care came at an early age with a close influence in her life. “My mom is a retired nurse, so I grew up in a health care environment, learned the medical terminology and even attended the daycare at the hospital. It just seemed natural to me,” she said.

Her inspiration continued to grow throughout her childhood as she gained more exposure to the medical field. She said, “Growing up, I would see the helicopter land on the helipad at the hospital and I wanted to become a flight nurse. I obtained my RN and then paramedic license to fly but moved and started a family instead. I like the fast pace and intellectually challenging world of the ER and ICU, so I chose to become an acute care nurse practitioner.”

When it comes to connecting and building relationships with patients, Kristen said, “I build relationships with my patients by greeting them with a smile, listening to them and keeping them informed of the next steps in their plan of care.”

Outside of work, Kristen enjoys sailing and spending time with friends and family.