Vicki R. Leist, APRN-CNS, RNFA, specializes in cardiovascular and thoracic (CVT) surgery at Oklahoma Heart Institute. Her professional areas of interest include nutrition and glycemic control in cardiothoracic patients.

Vicki’s inspiration to pursue a career in medicine was to simply help people. It was at the beginning of her career in 1996 when she became a licensed practical nurse (LPN) that she knew CVT surgery would be her specialty for years to come. “The majority of my career has been focused on cardiothoracic surgery and I enjoy the challenge and complexity of this life-changing specialty,” she said.

Vicki focuses on building relationships with her patients by treating each person as an individual with unique needs and respecting their wishes. Advice that Vicki passes along to her patients is to listen to your body.

When Vicki isn’t working, she enjoys medical mission trips and outdoor activities.