October 2009
Local Physician Wins Gold Medal
Where caring counts. Feel the difference.
TM
Vol. 25 No. 5
What to Do About H1N1 Flu By Diana Yu, M.D., public health officer for Mason and Thurston Counties
W
e have seasonal influenza every winter, but the novel H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) is a new virus, so few people have immunity against it. I urge everyone to take extra steps to protect themselves from getting or spreading the flu. H1N1 influenza, like seasonal flu, is spread when an infected person sneezes or coughs on another person. Symptoms include sudden onset of fever of more than 101 degrees, severe body aches, a cough, and a sore throat lasting three to four days. Coughing and fatigue might last a week or two. Some individuals also might have headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea. The sudden high fever and cough are key. A person can start showing symptoms one to four days after being exposed to influenza. Sick people are contagious from the day before they have symptoms up to a week after – perhaps as long as three weeks in young children or people with immunity problems.
How to Keep From Getting the Flu
Training with the shot put is local physician and senior track athlete, Christopher Penoyar, D.O. He recently won a gold medal at the 2009 National Senior Games, and is planning to compete at the 2010 World Masters Indoor Track and Field Championships in the spring.
Who says age will prevent you from stay-
ing active? Not Christopher Penoyar, D.O. This board-certified family physician recently won a gold medal at the 2009 National Senior Games. He has practiced family and osteopathic medicine at his clinic in Shelton for 20 years. However, medicine isn’t the only thing he enjoys practicing these days. At 57, Dr. Penoyar also has fun practicing throwing events. Back in high school, he competed in the shot put on the track team. Then, just five years ago, he picked up the sport again. The following year he started throwing the discus, too. In 2005, torn tendons in both legs got in his way of competing in the 2005 and 2007 National Senior Championships, which only take place every other year. Still, he didn’t let this hurdle slow him down. All those years of training paid off this summer. In early August, Dr. Penoyar earned a gold medal at the 2009 Continued on page 6…
Influenza is spread from person to person. Coughing and sneezing releases thousands of droplets, exposing persons within 3 to 6 feet to the virus. The best protection is to avoid exposure. Examples of things you can do: 1. Avoid people who are ill. 2. Stay more than 3 feet away from someone who might be sick. 3. Wash your hands frequently. If you are at high risk of severe illness due to influenza, your healthcare provider can prescribe medicine that may prevent you from getting the flu after exposure. The best protection for those at risk for complications from influenza is for people who are around them to be vaccinated. Individuals most at risk for severe illness or possible death due to influenza are people with pre-existing chronic diseases such as those that affect the heart, lungs, liver or kidneys; people who are immune compromised; people with neuromuscular disease, diabetes, or asthma; and people who smoke, especially those younger than 50. Pregnant women and children younger than 5 also are at high risk.
If You Get the Flu
If you have influenza, stay home from work or school for at least 24 hours after your last fever. Always cover your coughs and sneezes. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Continued on page 2….
34% of Common Cancers Preventable If all Americans would agree to 1) eat a nutritious diet, 2) exercise, and 3) keep body fat under control, 34 percent of the most common cancers could be prevented, according to a report from the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Cancer Institute for Cancer Research. Those three lifestyle changes, according to the study, would prevent 38 percent of breast, 45 percent of colorectal, 36 percent of lung, 39 percent of pancreatic, 69 percent of esophageal, 63 percent of mouth and throat, 70 percent of endometrial, 25 percent of kidney, 21 percent of gallbladder, 15 percent of liver, and 11 percent of prostate cancers. The above figures refer to the effect on the population of the lifestyle changes and not an individual’s risk. [SOURCE: Miranda Hitti, “1 in 3 common cancers may be preventable,” WebMD Health News, February 26, 2009]
Where Care “Feels Like Family”
Donna Cruse found MGH “tops them all” in patient care. Here, she is joined by her two children who work at MGH – Executive Chef, John Cruse; and Marie Gofigan, executive assistant, nursing administration.
Even though Donna Cruse had been looking forward to going home, by the time she left Mason General Hospital, she felt a bond with her attending healthcare providers. Last January, she spent 11 days at MGH recovering from an operation. Mrs. Cruse thought the nurses and nursing assistants at Mason General gave her more personal care and attention than she’s ever encountered at any other hospital. And she’s been in hospitals all across the country, from as close as the University of Washington to as far away as Guam. “And as far as the treatment that I received and the kindness, Mason General tops them all,” she said. “Others treated me well, but at Mason General – they treated me as someone special.” Incidentally, Mrs. Cruse does have a family connection with Mason General: two of her children, John Cruse, Jr. and Marie Gofigan have enjoyed working at Mason General for several years. John, who is MGH’s director of culinary and nutrition services and an executive chef, was proud to be able to offer his mother the Hospital’s extensive menu, which carefully matches patients’ individual dietary needs with the available meal options. “By the time I left there, I felt they were all (the entire staff) part of my family,” Mrs. Cruse recalled. John and his sister, Marie, who is executive assistant for the chief operations officer, both agree they love working at Mason General. “It’s a great place. I tell you what makes it, is the people,” John said.
Dear Administration at Mason General Hospital, I am happy to write to you about my experience at Mason General so you may inform our county how wonderful our hospital is!! First of all, I did not grow up in Mason County, so I did not have any preconceived ideas about the hospital or the staff. I simply looked at it as a small hospital in a small town. I had surgery there (MGH) about six years ago. Mason General was the hospital my doctor recommended. I went in that morning to have my surgery and I was assigned a nurse. From that moment, until the day after I came home, she looked out for me. My surgery went well, and she was the first person I saw when I woke up. She cared for me, making sure any pain was under control, and she had a wonderful, gentle bedside manner. Periodically, other nurses would check on me, also. Of course, all I wanted to do was sleep, and at one point I thought they were bothering me too much!! But they were doing their jobs, taking care of me. I was pleasantly surprised with all the care that I received. I’ve been in larger hospitals in the past, back east and in Seattle. I do not believe I received the one-on-one care that I received at Mason General. When I got home, I was surprised that my nurse called me at home to check on me the following day. After my insurance paid their portion of the bill, your accounting department called me at home to ask me if I would like to apply the hospital tax that I have paid out of my property taxes to my bill. That was another pleasant surprise. I did do that, which only left me with a small portion to pay. I support my tax dollars going to Mason General Hospital. I would rather my money go to a hospital than an Urgent Care. Although having an Urgent Care in North Mason is wonderful, it is not a hospital, and nor will it grow up to be one. Urgent Cares have their place, as do hospitals. I currently live approximately 20 minutes from Mason General, probably less if being transported by ambulance. If something happens to someone in my family, I want to get to the hospital as fast as we can. I will ask them to take us to Mason General Hospital!! Let’s just hope we don’t need to do that for a while, though. Respectfully, Jean Farmer, Allyn resident
H1N1 Flu …continued from page 1 Home care, rest, fluids, and cold and fever remedies work for symptom relief. Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe dehydration, or changes in mental status indicate the need to seek professional care.
The New Vaccine
A new vaccine against H1N1 influenza will be available in the fall of 2009. This vaccine is different from a regular seasonal flu shot. The recommendation for getting the H1N1 vaccine is strongest for: pregnant women, children age 6 months to 5 years, persons of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, and persons who live with or care for persons at high risk. Healthcare workers and emergency responders also are a group that should receive the vaccine. Vaccinating school children is the most effective way to decrease the spread of influenza, decrease illness and death among high-risk groups, and protect the community.
Certified Wound Care Nurse Now Treats Acute, Chronic Wounds
Hospital Adds Wound Care Service
Treatment for acute and chronic wounds
is now closer to home. Mason General Hospital’s Lena Bruns, R.N. recently became certified as a wound care nurse and wound care coordinator. “This particular wound care certification brings to Mason General the latest evidencebased practice for healing wounds as well as creating a “stamp” of high quality patient care. We believe, to help our community, it is important to discover what our patients need, and bring it to the bedside where healing starts. Certified Wound Care nurses are rare and hard to find and we are proud to have Lena bring her talents to Mason General Hospital,” said Kelly Nettle, R.N., director of the Post Anesthesia Care Unit/Outpatient Surgery/Ambulatory Care Center/Wound Care Services for Mason General. Previously, local patients had to travel to Olympia, Tacoma, or sometimes even as far as Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, for certain kinds of wound care. In January, Ms. Bruns passed the national board exam to earn her certification, which involved 120 hours of didactic study plus 120 additional hours of clinical work, through the University of Washington. The Certified Wound Specialist credential is for multi-disciplinary wound-care, accredited by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society – an international professional nursing society.
Every dollar you spend local other local for other (or for MGH (or at MGH at healthcare) creates healthcare)
$2.40 inin
activity. business activity. local business local
Lena Bruns, R.N., MGH’s certified wound care nurse and wound care coordinator, with patient, Rolland “Warren” Heber.
R
olland “Warren” Heber’s doctor didn’t expect him to be able to find specialized treatment for his wound in Shelton, but he did. About five months ago, Rolland underwent skin graft surgery on his leg after having a hematoma with blood clots removed. He was down in Arizona at the time. Just recently, Heber completed his final appointment at Mason General Hospital, where Lena Bruns, R.N., MGH’s certified wound care nurse and wound care coordinator, had been treating him for the last two months. In January, Ms. Bruns passed the national board examination to become a Certified Wound Care Specialist. This is a multi-disciplinary wound care credential accredited by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society – an international professional nursing society. She studied for the specialization through a program at the University of Washington. Previously, local patients had to travel to Olympia, Tacoma, or sometimes even as far as Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, for certain kinds of wound care. Heber certainly appreciated the convenience of finding treatment so close to home, instead of having to travel out of town twice a week for his treatments. “I feel comfortable with the fact that we have a nurse here in Shelton,” he said. “I would describe her as 100 percent. She’s very good on the job... She knows what she’s doing. She’s kind and helpful and she’s a very nice person. A nice professional person,” he added, of Bruns’ performance. “She gets the job done.” Ms. Bruns, who has worked at Mason General for five years, enjoys trying to encourage her patients through treating their wounds. “Wounds can be very, very discouraging,” she noted. “I think it’s fascinating the way the body heals. And there’s been an amazing amount of progress in knowledge of how wounds heal in the last five years. And there’s a lot more we can do to speed up wound healing,” she explained. Besides finding the wound care treatment “very beneficial” to his recovery, Heber also found Mason General’s pleasant, hospitable atmosphere quite impressive. It’s a nice hospital community. I’ve been to a couple of larger ones in Arizona and they’re just not as welcoming,” he said. Heber called Mason General Hospital’s helpful staff “a feather in their cap.”
Steven’s Fine Dining presents the
6th Annual Masked Affair to benefit the
Karen Hilburn Breast & Cervical Cancer Fund MGH Foundation
Casual or Formal Attire (masks are optional)
Heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, live and silent auction, and live music
Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 6 p.m. Steven’s Fine Dining 203 W. Railroad Ave. Shelton, Washington
Tickets: $50 per person, reservations required as space is limited
Call (360) 427-3623 for reservations
A F U ND R AI SE R OF M GH FOUNDATIO N
Plan to Join in the Fun @ Fantasy Forest 2009
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” Proceeds help purchase medical equipment for MGH and it’s Clinics.
MGH Foundation’s annual Fantasy Forest “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” event will take place Tuesday to Saturday, November 17 to 21, 2009 at The Pavilion at Sentry Park in Shelton. The annual event will be immersed in a setting of sparkling, beautifully decorated Christmas trees and holiday accoutrement, all built around this year’s theme of nostalgia − “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”. The five-day event offers something for everyone − with food and refreshments, entertainment, games, crafts, raffles, live and silent auctions, and much more. This year’s event will kick-off with a repeat of last year’s new addition − “Fantasy Laugh Factory,” an evening of live comedy entertainment for adults. The children’s event − Candy Cane Carnival, which sold out last year − will feature Santa and other surprises for the children. In addition, there will be the usual free events and activities the entire family can enjoy, including Open House Gift Shops, A Holiday Bazaar, and beautiful tree displays. “Fantasy Forest showcases the overwhelming support MGH has for its outstanding group of healthcare providers and staff in our community,” said Sarah Stevens, 2009’s event chair. “As a result of money raised at Fantasy Forest 2008, we are pleased to say Mason General Hospital is now 100%
Help Decorate the MGH Foundation
‘09 Memorial Tree Each year, during MGH Foundation’s Fantasy Forest event, there is a special memorial tree dedicated to people who passed away during that current year whom had been loyal supporters of the Foundation, Mason General Hospital, and the Hospital’s mission to provide quality healthcare in Mason County. This year’s memorial tree is dedicated in the memory of Robert Goad, M.D., Sharon Davison, Stan Ingraham and Mary Penney. Purchase an ornament for YOUR friends or loved ones To purchase a memorial ornament for your loved one or friend, complete the order form found on MGH Foundation’s web page located at www.MasonGeneral.com. The deadline for accepting orders is Monday, November 9, 2009. You can order three ways: 1. Mail the form to MGHF, PO Box l668, Shelton, WA 98584 2. Fax to the Foundation office at (360) 427-4448 3. Drop off the completed form to the Foundation Office located in Gateway Center (behind McDonald’s) on Olympic Highway. The cost per ornament is $30. On Monday, December 7, 2009, after Fantasy Forest, the ornaments may be picked up at the Development/Foundation Office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you have any questions, please contact the Foundation at (360) 427-3623.
digital in diagnostic imaging (ultrasound, MRI’s, etc.) with the addition of our new stateof-the-art digital mammography.” “The Hospital District’s strategic plan fully supports Mason General’s endeavors as a state and regional leader in providing quality healthcare, and Fantasy Forest reflects this commitment to serving the citizens and patients within Mason County,” said Jennifer Capps, chief development officer for Mason General Hospital. “As Mason General continues to be a front-runner in healthcare, we need to come together annually to raise funds for much-needed medical equipment,” stated Stevens. “Fantasy Forest is a great avenue for raising funds to ensure MGH has the equipment it needs to provide our community with the best healthcare services possible.”
Volunteer t one of the m o work at any events! Call (360) 4273623.
Golf Tournament Purchases Laser for Eye Clinic
Celebrating MGH Foundation’s 2009 Quality Care Open Golf Tournament’s
donation to MGH Eye Clinic are (front, holding check) Monica Vuong, M.D., ophthalmologist; and Terry Megiveron, chief of clinic operations. The $26,163 donation was used to purchase a new YAG Laser, which treats secondary cataracts and glaucoma. Jack Stark, (back, right) is chairman of the Golf Tournament which raised the money in June. Joining Stark are Foundation President, Janis Byrd (center); and Jen Capps, chief development officer.
News Briefs .... ...Congratulations to MGH “Employee of the Month” for September - Rob Bennington, R.N., C.C.R.N., ICU, and education department; October - Conni Covert, R.N., house supervisor. ...Treasures Thrift Store recognized “Volunteer of the Month” for July - Chris Zumwalt; August Bob Kimbel. Congratulations! ...Tom DiDonna, R.N., director of education at MGH was recently re-appointed to the National Faculty for the American Heart Association for resuscitation and emergency care training. It is the highest Tom DiDonna, R.N. leadership voluntary position in the AHA. DiDonna also represents the state of Washington on the national level with American Heart Association activities. In this role, DiDonna is responsible for providing voluntary activities to support the AHA, such as teaching regional faculty in evidence-based resuscitation skills for advanced life support and pediatric advanced life support. The appointment is for two years. DiDonna, a volunteer for the AHA for the past 18 years, was recently honored as a “Health Care Champion” in Mason and Thurston counties. ...MGH’s Education Department has moved its “Learning Center” and offices to the Gateway Center (near McDonald’s) on Olympic Highway, Shelton. This move was necessary to accommodate the many classes and training Tom DiDonna, R.N., director of education, and staff offer. ...Olympic Physicians to work on Medical Home model... In the spirit of bolstering primary healthcare, Olympic Physicians, P.L.L.C. will participate in a new collaborative partnership. Olympic Physicians (OP) recently qualified, among several clinics across the state, to participate in a twoyear collaborative program partnering with the Washington State Department of Health and with Qualis Health, a private, nonprofit healthcare quality improvement organization. This, the clinic’s fourth collaborative effort, will focus on developing a Medical Home model. “This innovative model for care delivery focuses on patient-centered care. It is an honor for the clinic to be selected as one of the pilot test sites,” said Bob Appel, chief executive officer of Mason General Hospital. “We extend our congratulations to OP for the honor of being selected for this learning collaborative to develop new patient-centered ways of providing care. The Medical Home concept is receiving a great deal of attention as a model for future care delivery and there were many clinics interested in participating in this learning collaborative. It is a testament to OP’s hard work and commitment that they were selected.” For more information call (360) 426-2500.
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Classes/Support Groups
...The Shelton and Allyn Diabetes Support Groups – both sponsored by Mason General Hospital – will be combined in October for the annual Diabetes Support Group Luncheon, to be held on Thursday, October 15, 2009 from 1 to 2 p.m. in Mason General’s Ellinor Room. The luncheon’s main entrée will be salmon with a citrus glaze, accompanied with baby red potatoes, green beans with slivered almonds, spinach salad, and a low-sugar pumpkin pie, prepared by MGH’s Executive Chef, John Cruse, and staff. A non-salmon option is also available, if requested in advance. The cost is $5 per person. Reservations must be made by Friday, October 9 by calling Michelle at (360) 426-1611 ext. 3301. There will be a fun interactive learning opportunity with prizes, and the winning team from the “Hooked on Activity - Cabo Walk” will also be announced and awarded. ... Free CPR Class at Hospital It is time to learn CPR – FREE at MGH’s next Adult, Child, and Infant CPR class on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Learning Center near McDonald’s at Gateway Center. Everyone attending the class is asked to wear comfortable clothes. There will also be a Spanish interpreter on site. Advanced registration is recommended, as class size is limited. Pre-registration is required by Thursday, October 15 by calling (360) 427-3609. ...Free Congestive Heart Failure Forum MGH’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is offering a FREE Community Health Education Forum luncheon on Monday, November 9, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Ellinor Room at Mason General Hospital. The Forum is to help patients understand “Congestive Heart Failure” (CHF) and teach them about self-management of the disease, and all area CHF patients are invited to attend – whether they are treated at MGH or not. The Forum will cover: What is congestive heart failure? The causes and treatment, medication, beneficial low-impact exercise, and low-salt/low-fat diet guidelines. In addition, critical care nurses, physical therapists, dietitians, pharmacists, and a chef will be a part of the educational team. The Forum will end with a free, low-salt/low fat gourmet lunch prepared by MGH’s Executive Chef, John Cruse, and staff. There will be time for questions and answers. To make a reservation, call (360) 427-9596 ext. 3512 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614). ...Next “Living Well With Diabetes” 2-day class is set for Tuesday and Wednesday, November 17 and 18, from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. each day in the Ellinor Room at MGH. Advanced registration is required. Diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans. To register call (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 (Allyn (360) 275-8614, ext. 3301). ...Congestive Heart Failure Support Group to meet. As part of MGH’s strategic initiatives to ‘develop and offer programs that maximize health and independence for those with chronic healthcare needs,’ and in conjunction with the ‘Transforming Care at the Bedside Institute for Healthcare Improvement,’ MGH created a new support group – Heart Healthy Club – to meet January 7, 2010 from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Ellinor room at MGH. Snacks will be provided.
Gold Medal …continued from page 1 National Senior Games in the San Francisco Bay area of California. He threw the shot put 13.65 meters, beating out 14 competitors between the ages of 55 and 59 from across the country. He also placed eighth in his age division in the discus event. Now that he’s won the gold, what is his next goal? “World domination (in shot put),” Dr. Penoyar quipped. The 2010 World Masters Indoor Track and Field Championships will take place this March in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. Stay tuned for the results.
Employee Focus: Live, Learn, Work at MGH Bill DeRoche, R.N., preadmission dept. “I enjoy working here (at MGH) as everyone is a team player. We work well together and help each other when needed. Patient care is so important to all of us.”
Local Oncologists Share Patient Care Values They met six years ago while
Sinai Medical Center, at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, working for an oncology clinic Ohio, and her fellowship training in in the Olympia area, and quickly hematology/oncology at University learned they shared the same Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western orientation for patients – detailed Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio. care, holistic approach in the care After her training she came to the of their patients, compassion, Olympia area to work for a local and placing the patient first (not oncologist group. It was there she to mention their claim of being met Dr. Ye. self-defined “workaholics”). It “We have the same orientation was this love of patient care and toward patients,” she said. “We helping their patients succeed in are very similar in how we work treatment that brought these two with and treat our patients.” She is board-certified oncologists, Linli quick to add that for fun they play Xuan (Zwan), M.D. and Joseph ping-pong. “And I can really beat Z. Ye (Yee), M.D. together to form Board certified oncologists, Linli Xuan, M.D. and Joseph Z. Ye, M.D. him,” she said, with a smile. Doctor their own practice – Vista OncolXuan loves the beautiful scenery of the area and admits the weather ogy – that now serves the Shelton area and Mason General Hospital. is the same here as in Shanghai. Her spare time is taken up with her Dr. Ye, who received his medical degree from Wenzhou College of husband, Eric, also a registered nurse who now manages Vista OncolMedicine, China, and did his post graduate training at Yale University, ogy, and two very active children, ages 15 and 20. “I am so busy during Bridgeport Hospital, Bridgeport, Connecticut, and at he National Canthe week; so my weekends are spent doing things with my children cer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, comes from a farming background and husband,” she explained. “Our patient care keeps us very busy in Peking, China. He was 28 years old when he came to the United – serving Mason General Hospital and two other hospitals – so the States to further his studies in oncology. He is an avid fan of “anything weekends are family times.” outdoors” – hiking, camping, fishing, skiing – even a good steak on the barbecue. He and his wife, Janice, who heads up the financial department of Vista Oncology, have two children, ages 17 and 10. “I have been in the area for six years and love coming to Shelton because of the hospital, people, community, and the natural beauty Shelton has to offer,” said Dr. Ye. “The people in this area are so nice.” Dr. Xuan was also born and raised in China (Shanghai) and spent many educational years in a boarding school. She then went on and graduated from Shanghai Medical University. From there she came to the United States to work on her doctorate degree in hematology and oncology, though she saw herself, “too shy to talk to patients.” After one year in the program she changed to nursing and received her Bachelor of Science Nursing degree from Rush University, Chicago Illinois . “It was while I was working (as a nurse) on the medical/oncology floor I realized I could be an oncologist,” she said. And that is what she did. She went on to do her post graduate training at Mt.
We still need your support. Give the gift of healthcare today MGH Foundation still needs your help to fund the new state-of-the-art digital mammography unit now in service at Mason General Hospital. Your support of mammography services at Mason General is needed now − more than ever. We also welcome contributions made in honor or in memory of loved ones. To make your tax-deductible contribution, please call Jennifer Capps, chief development officer, Mason General Hospital Foundation at (360) 4273623; or send an e-mail to jcapps@MasonGeneral.com. Gifts of pledges, multi-year commitments, appreciated stock, and major credit card payments are accepted.
901 Mtn. View Drive, Shelton, WA For information: (360) 427-9590
Backpacks Donated to Foster Children
MGH Welcomes New General Surgeon, Dr. Eldie Cruz M
ason General Hospital and its family of Clinics is pleased to welcome Eldie L. Cruz, M.D., board-eligible general surgeon, to its surgical staff. He joins board-certified physician, Vanni C. Manthiram, M.D. at the Mason General Hospital Surgery Clinic, 1710 N. 13th Loop Rd., Shelton. His interests are Eldie L. Cruz, M.D. in surgery of the gastrointestinal tract, colon, hernia, thyroid; cancer surgery; men’s and women’s breast issue surgeries; and laparoscopic procedures. Dr. Cruz received his medical degree from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine in 2004, and completed his internship and residency there in 2009. He is trained in general surgery and is experienced in taking care of a variety of surgical problems. He is especially interested in laparoscopy and gastrointestinal surgery. “Dr. Cruz has the personality and commitment to caring that MGH is known for,” said Bob Appel, CEO at MGH. “Patients appreciate Dr. Cruz’s ability to communicate complex medical problems into words they can understand.” When not in surgery or at the office, his interests include reading, fishing, and watching movies.
M
E mployees of Mason General Hospital recently donated more than 25 backpacks and “tons” of school supplies to the Shelton office of the Department of Social and Health Services to help equip the children in licensed foster care homes with backto-school supplies. Pictured here with the supplies are (from left) Hospital Board of Commissioners President, Nancy Trucksess; DSHS employees, Kristin Hart and Carol Smith; and MGH CEO, Bob Appel. The backpacks were distributed at the annual DSHS “Back to School Picnic” at Kneeland Park. “Everyone was so generous in their donations,” said Shelley Dunnington, executive assistant at MGH and the coordinator of the back-to-school drive at the Hospital. “Our staff is always very responsive to drives like these.”
Diagnostic Imaging Receives National Accreditation
ason General Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging department was recently awarded another three-year term of accreditation as the result of a recent survey by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The survey is based on a peer-review evaluation of the department that is conducted by boardcertified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field of radiology and diagnostic imaging. They assess the qualifications of the healthcare personnel and the facility’s equipment, and report this to the ACR’s Committee on Accreditation, which then provides a comprehensive report of the facility based on the survey’s findings. “We are honored and proud that our Diagnostic Imaging department is receiving this award again,” said Bob Appel, CEO at MGH. “It reflects a standard that we encourage all the Hospital departments to work towards.” The ACR is a national organization serving more than 32,000 radiologists, radiation oncologists, and nuclear medicine and medical physicists with programs that focus on medical imaging and radiation oncology, and the delivery of comprehensive healthcare services.
…Oct …Nov …Dec …Jan …Feb …Mar …Apr …May
……… Circle the date! For Mason General Hospital’s
Centennial Guild ‘Goldsborough Creek – Fun Run and Walk’ – a Forest Festival event. Saturday - June 5 - 2010 ……… “A Vision for the Family”
(360) 426-8717
• Eye surgery (cataracts, eye lid, internal eye) • Diagnoses and treatment of eye diseases • Treatment of Glaucoma, Cataracts, and Diabetes • Emergency care @ MGH • Routine eye exams
Monica Vuong, M.D. Board Certified Ophthalmologist
Keren Yang, O.D. Optometrist
2300 Kati Court, Suite C • Shelton, WA 98584 • www.MasonGeneral.com ShoppersWkly - 4” wide x 2” high
ShoppersWkly - 4” wide x 2” high
Fuerza del Centro del cuerpo: No solo abdominal Los entrenadores físicos de su club deportivo pueden haberle dicho sobre los beneficios de la fuerza en el centro del cuerpo. Una investigación australiana de fisioterapia realizada en los 1990s se concentraba en la importancia de los músculos abdominales y otros músculos del centro del cuerpo para mantener una espalda saludable. Su concepto sobre acondicionamiento físico basado en el centro del cuerpo fue lo que dio inicio a la introducción de las clases de Pilates, pelotas para el equilibrio y las instrucciones meter el abdomen y empujar su ombligo hacia su espalda mientras realiza ejercicios. Algunos científicos del deporte opinan que se le da mucho énfasis a los músculos del abdomen sin embargo no niegan los beneficios de la fuerza del centro del cuerpo. Estos entrenadores opinan que lo principal para mantener una espalda saludable es el mantener un equilibrio apropiado entre todos los músculos del tronco y la columna vertebral.
[SOURCE: Gretchen Reynolds, “Is your ab workout hurting your back?” New York Times, June 17, 2009]
Cuando ir a ver al doctor si tiene una torcedura La torcedura de una rodilla, tobillo, muñeca u otra parte del cuerpo puede ocurrir por una caída, cuando se gira repentinamente o cuando un esfuerzo desgarra a los ligamentos que apoyan a las articulaciones y los esfuerza a salir de su posición normal. Necesita visitar a su doctor si: • Mucho dolor • No puede mover la articulación o poner peso en ella. • Nota que su extremidad esta chueca o tiene bultos o bolas anormales cerca del área donde se lastimo, • Si no puede caminar más de 4 pasos sin que tenga mucho dolor • Si siente el área adormecida • Si esta enrojecida el área donde se lastimo • Tiene dolor, hinchado o esta enrojecida la parte del pie cerca del hueso • Si antes se ha lastimado en la misma área • Si tiene duda sobre si su lesión es seria o como debe de remediarla.
Los estudiantes deben quedarse en casa si tienen influenza (gripe) Si hay un brote de influenza H1N1 (porcina) durante este otoño, como se proyecta, se ha pedido a muchos de los estudiantes de universidad que regresen a sus casas y dejen que sus padres los cuiden en vez de contagiar a otros estudiantes. En comparación a la influenza común, la H1N1 parece atacar a los adultos jóvenes; aproximadamente 60 por ciento de los casos hasta ahora han sido en personas de 24 anos o menores. Normalmente este grupo es saludable, el riesgo de complicaciones serias es bajo. Pero algunos adultos jóvenes son inmunes a este tipo de virus así que es posible que se esparza rápidamente a menos que se tomen las medidas necesarias y se separen los enfermos de los sanos. [SOURCE: Donald G. McNeil, Jr., “Universities across the country prepare for back-to-school swine flu outbreaks,” New York Times, August 23, 2009]
Por cuánto tiempo puedo ser contagioso La infección del virus de la influenza normalmente ocurre un día después de que los síntomas aparecen. Una persona puede pasar el virus a otros durante ese día y hasta 1 semana después de que se presentan los síntomas. Para evitar infectar a otras personas los pacientes enfermos de influenza deben quedarse en casa durante el periodo infeccioso y mientras tengan fiebre u otros síntomas de influenza como dolor de cabeza, dolor de garganta, tos y dolor muscular. Personas que viven con un paciente pueden ir a la escuela o trabajar pero deben de ser muy cuidadosos y siempre lavarse las manos. [SOURCE: Susan B. Yox, R.N., EdD, “Swine flu: guidance and resources for clinicians,” Medscape Infectious Diseases, April 28, 2009]
Yoga ayuda a aliviar el dolor de espalda baja Según un estudio de Medicina Interna en Annals (2005) se encontró que 12 semanas de clases de yoga era un tratamiento más efectivo para el dolor crónico de espalda que el ejercicio convencional o el uso de una guía de cuidado a la salud. Después de 26 semanas las personas que estaban en el grupo de yoga tenían menos dolor y tomaban menos medicina que aquellos que realizaban un ejercicio más convencional o seguían una guía. Los investigadores encontraron que el viniyoga, yoga integral o yoga integrativo eran efectivos y seguros. Pero advierten que los tipos de yoga bikram o vinyasa pueden ser más difíciles para algunos pacientes con dolor de espalda. [SOURCE: Janis Kelly, “Yoga more effective than exercise for low back pain,” Medscape Medical News, December 19, 2005; K. J. Sherman et al, “Comparing yoga, exercise, and a self-care book for chronic low back pain. A randomized, controlled trial,” Annals of Internal Medicine, 2005;143:849-856]
Caring for women in all stages Now accepting new patients!
(360) 426-0955 2300 Kati Court, Suite A • Shelton, WA 98584
[SOURCE: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, “Sprains and strains,” NIH Publication No. 09-5328, April 2009]
www.MasonGeneral.com
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Approved by the Joint Commission Our Mission: We take every possible action to protect and promote the health of the people in Mason County while extending respect and compassion as we serve each individual. Published by: Public Hospital District No. 1 for Mason General Hospital. Published six times per year. Editor: McCarty & Associates, Inc. “a marketing firm”. Business Office: Office hours: 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Spanish Translator Available. Located at Gateway Center, 2505 Olympic Hwy N., Suite 460, (360) 427-9547 Mason General Hospital: Visiting hours: 8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., daily. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) visiting hours: special hours on a patient-by-patient basis, call for Unit hours. Located at:
901 Mountain View Drive, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001, (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614. Serving the medical needs of Mason County since 1968. Accredited by the Joint Commission. TTY/TTD: (360) 427-9593. Translation Services Provided. Se habla español. Equal Opportunity Provider. Administration: Bob Appel, chief executive officer; Eric Moll, chief administrative officer; Saad Al Alou, M.D., chief of staff; Nancy Trucksess, commissioner/president; Scott Hilburn and Don Wilson, commissioners.
There is a “Culture of Safety” throughout Hospital & Clinics
MGH Foundation Contributors Memorialized
Patient safety has always been of major importance to Mason General leadership,
The Mason General Hospital Foundation would like to recognize the following former contributors, now deceased, for their past support of our mission and work in the community. Please join us in acknowledging their support of the Foundation during their lifetimes. Florence Cady Jack Fellman Gladys Mohrmann Sharon Davison Mary Helen Gortz Myrtle Parker Leona Einarsson William Mallows Betty Swift Rosemary Martinez
physicians, and hospital staff. Patient safety encompasses all aspects of your experience at the hospital and the Mason General Clinics. From the moment you arrive at the facility, your safety is on our mind: • Parking and public areas are kept clean and walkways safe • Floors are spotless and special precautions are taken to prevent falls • Signs are constantly evaluated to inform and provide accurate safety information • Equipment is inspected and tested at regular intervals to ensure proper operation • All staff takes annual safety training and testing • Fire and disaster drills are performed regularly to increase preparedness • Providers of care have specialized training in all aspects of safe care • Doctors’ orders are checked and re-checked to minimize the possibility of error • Special precautions are taken to ensure that the proper procedure is performed in the right place on the right patient and at the right time • Patient identification is checked and re-checked for tests, medications, and treatment • Constant vigilance by all staff is used to minimize the possibility of spread of infection • Most importantly, all hospital staff work together to ensure a safe and secure place for the community to receive quality, safe care and to provide a safe environment in which to work. Employees are recognized and encouraged to report any possible unsafe condition to the Quality Improvement department or Hospital leadership, as ‘prevention’ is key to our culture of safety.
Mason General Hospital Foundation has received generous donations in memory of the individuals listed below. Donors and memorialized individuals listed in this report reflect contributions made to the Foundation beginning June 30, 2009 and ending September 4, 2009. Leona Einarsson Mike Meshke Leland & Cathie Washington State Jean McCumsey Rhodes Theresa Smiley Funeral Directors Frank Smith Don & Bonnie Wilma George Vern & Ruth Leland & Cathie Wilson Tooley Rhodes Chuck Walton Betty Swift Kathy Hagen Allen & Penelope Pat & Shirley Byrne Norma Taylor Yonge Norman & Marian Christl Lalle LaWandaWatters Eveleth Elizabeth Stricklin Elmo & Beverly Lewis Sharon Thomas Bruce & Gina Munro Floyd Watters
Mason General Quality Improvement department is currently conducting an extensive employee survey so we can learn from staff where we can improve safety in all areas of the Hospital and Clinics, and to give us honest information about how we are doing. Candid input from the community and hospital staff is important in helping us to ensure safety for all. If you have comments or suggestions about safety at MGH, please call the Quality Improvement director at (360) 432-7715.
Note: Every effort has been made by the Foundation to ensure the integrity of this list. If we have inadvertently omitted any names, please accept our apologies and most sincere thanks for your generosity and continued support of Mason General Hospital Foundation.
Memorial Contributions