Scott Arkwright, CNP
After spending 25 years collaborating with the Heart Center while working for a different hospital system in Ohio, Scott Arkwright was drawn to the environment of working with pediatric patients.
“It was emotional to leave an organization that was a big part of my life. I am grateful for the opportunities, colleagues and friendships developed through the years. Those positive experiences and career growth helped lead me to the decision to start a new chapter at Akron Children’s,” said Scott.
What attracted you to be a part of the Akron Children’s Heart Center team?
I was fortunate to be able to work with Dr. Robert Stewart, anesthesia, PICU and OR staff over the past few years as a visiting contractor in the operating room. The atmosphere was very different, and I was enthused with each visit to Akron. I was always impressed as I walked through the doors. The spirit, decor, friendly greetings, and smiles made it clear that this was a place I wanted to call my new home.
My passion has always been working in the operating room. The idea of corrective care, whether it be fixing a broken bone or an abnormal heart, has always appealed to me. I love having the opportunity to be hands-on and assist the surgeon throughout the procedure.
What inspired you to become a CNP in cardiac care?
My mother was an operating room nurse. I had the chance to shadow her at work when I was in high school, and I liked the operating room environment. Witnessing the collaboration required to execute a successful outcome and the integral teams needed throughout the perioperative course all contributed to a quality experience for the patient and family during a stressful time. Being a small part of that is very rewarding.
I began at Youngstown State, earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing. I then attended Kent State University for my pediatric nurse practitioner degree. I then began working in the department of pediatric and adult congenital heart surgery for the Cleveland Clinic.
How do you deal with the emotional impact of being a provider?
Being surrounded by a great team is a big part of dealing with the emotional rollercoaster that we ride. Knowing that I show up each day and give nothing less than my best effort, and that I am surrounded by so many others with the same goal, is probably the most helpful.
Family time, watching my sons play sports, and golfing are all top ways that I relieve stress. I also enjoy fishing, hunting, and spending time landscaping in our yard.
Who makes up your family, including pets and their names.
Scott with his family celebrating Drew’s graduation this spring.
I am married to my wife Niki, and we have two sons. Drew is 18 and recently graduated from high school and is attending The Ohio State University. Nate, 15, entered his sophomore year at Westlake High School. We also have a dog, Coco. She is a 4-year-old English Springer Spaniel that is full of energy and loves all the attention she can get.
What is the last adventure you went on?
The Arkwright family at the Colosseum in Rome, Italy.
To celebrate my son’s graduation our family took a trip to Italy in July. It’s an amazing adventure for our family to explore all the history, culture, and food. And mostly a lot of gelato.
