Issuu

December 2010

Where caring counts. Feel the difference.

La Niña May Produce This …Be Prepared! ‘T

Vol. 26 No. 6

It’s Flu Season... Outsmart It!

is the season to avoid the flu. People can spread the flu to others up to six feet away. Experts believe flu viruses spread mainly through droplets from a nearby person coughing, sneezing, or talking; or by touching the mouth or nose after hand-contact with a surface carrying the flu virus. Healthy adults may be able to infect others as early as one day before symptoms develop, and for five to seven days after becoming sick. Children can remain contagious for even longer. Symptoms appear one to four days after the virus enters the body, so people could potentially spread the flu to others before they even know they are sick. About half of the people who become infected with the flu virus may have only mild symptoms. Some can have no symptoms, yet still possibly spread the virus to others.

The snow storm of 2008 left our County in at least a foot of snow. Everything closed down due to the weather – except Mason General Hospital. If this happens again, we hope you are prepared (see story below). And if it does come, rest assured MGH and its clinics will be open to care for you.

Winter’s Coming – Are You Ready?

To avoid spreading or catching the flu: d Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand rub to clean your hands. Also wash linens, eating utensils, and dishes of those who are sick.

d Obtain a flu shot, which is an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) administered with a needle.

d Or try a nasal spray flu vaccine, consisting of live, weakened

flu virus that does not cause the flu (sometimes called LAIV for “Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine”).

Please open your mail… Mason General Hospital mails many different types of billing statements from the Hospital and/or its Clinics. To ensure that you will not receive a late notice, make sure you open ALL MAIL from MGH. Thank you!

Ready or not, another winter is about to follow a very mild summer. “By taking a commonsense approach and starting now, you can protect yourself, your family, and others, and minimize the impact of this season’s storms,” said Martin Best, director of the Mason County Department of Emergency Management. Best claims the National Weather Service predicts a colder and wetter winter, reminiscent of one we had in the mid-1990s due to the onset of La Niña – including ice storms, snow, and flooding problems. He recommends local residents prepare to be isolated during a winter storm for up to a week – due to Mason County’s rural nature. Besides winterizing homes and vehicles, a few preparation tips include: d Adding rock salt, sand, and snow shovels to a disaster supplies kit d Keeping a week’s supply of food, water (for drinking, cleaning, and bathing), prescription medications, and warm clothing on hand d Stocking up on extra batteries, matches, and flashlights d Maintaining supplies for an emergency heat source, such as a wood stove For more information, call the Mason County Division of Emergency Management at (360) 427-9670, extension 811, or go to http://www.fema.gov/hazard/ winter/wi_before.shtm.

About two weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop to protect against influenza virus infection. Flu vaccines will not protect against flu-like illnesses caused by non-influenza viruses. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the three influenza viruses research indicates to be the most common. Continued on page 2….

Please enclosed enuse the velop make your tax-free do e to nation to help Mason Gensupport eral Hospit al. To make a secured don ation onli www.Masone go to nGeneral.co m.

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Moving Toward Completion of Design Development Phase

Staff Promotes Local Women’s Event

From the desk of Bob Appel, CEO at MGH

I am pleased to report that the District’s finance committee brought forward the recommendation, after six months of careful research, planning, and development, of a financing package that would meet the needs of the District. Our bond received an “A” rating, which reflects the District’s stable financial performance; this rating, combined with the current marketing conditions, enabled us to sell the bonds at very favorable rates. We can now continue our construction plans with the knowledge that our financing is secure. We have successfully completed the design development phase of the construction project, and our plans are on schedule. The construction document phase has begun and we plan to submit a set of documents to the city of Shelton for review this month, and expect to receive permit comments from the City after the first of the year for incorporation into the construction documents. The District received State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) approval from the City of Shelton and Washington State Department of Ecology last month, and we have started assembling the remaining governmental agency required permits for our construction project. We anticipate obtaining all permits by early 2011, which will allow us to break ground for the construction project in the spring. We anticipate requesting bids in February and March of next year. Currently, the construction project team is developing phasing plans for construction that will occur over the next three years. Items such as temporary parking, mobile MRI location, and construction site access are being discussed in these early stages to minimize impact on our community members, patients, staff, and physicians. Please join me in thanking the members of our construction team, finance committee members, community, physicians, and staff who are working together to make this major endeavor a success. I am excited about moving forward to the final design stage of the construction and campus renewal project, and anticipate having final drawings and views of what the entrance will look like displayed for viewing before the end of the year. I look forward to sharing more updates with you in the next issue of SCOPE.

eta Peppers and Stacey Hernandez, registration specialists at MGH’s Central Registration Department, hosted a booth at the Shelton Farmer’s Market in September to promote MGH’s FREE Women’s Health Event that was held in October. They also had information on MGH’s Patient Navigator Program – a program designed to help women with breast cancer.

Flu

Continued from page 1….

It’s not too late to receive a flu vaccine. In fact, flu season lingers throughout December, so even after Christmas comes and goes, it still might be a good idea to get a flu shot.

Welcome Dr. Davis, New Orthopedic Surgeon Frederick J. Davis, M.D., Board Certified, Orthopedic Surgery

Now taking appointments!

Dr. Frederick Davis joined MGH Shelton Orthopedics

this fall and enjoys making a difference in the lives of his patients, and believes the best part of orthopedics is “working together with the patient to overcome a physical challenge”. He is very solutions-oriented, no matter what the condition he is treating, and finds it very rewarding to set and meet goals with his patients. Dr. Davis obtained his medical degree from Dalhousie Medical School, Halifax, Nova Scotia; and did his internship at Victoria General Hospital, Halifax, Nova Scotia; and residency at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He is board-certified in orthopedic surgery, and specializes in joint replacement, fracture care, and general orthopedics.

(360) 427-0663 939 Mtn. View Dr., Ste. 130 Shelton, WA

www.MasonGeneral.com

Surgery Soon?

MGH Ankle & Foot (360) 427-0366 MGH Eye Clinic (360) 426-8717 MGH Shelton Orthopedics (360) 427-0663 MGH Surgery Clinic (360) 426-4142 Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic Operated by MGH (360) 426-0955

Take Comfort in Our Care.

Thinking of having your surgery at Mason General Hospital? It could be the best decision you make… An award-winning hospital that’s right here at home – Mason General Hospital is widely known for excellence of care and highly qualified physicians… and the Surgery Department at Mason General strives for perfection. Board-certified surgeons provide joint replacement, general orthopedics, and fracture care… cancer surgeries… surgeries of the eye, thyroid, hernia, breast, and colon… laparoscopic procedures… gynecological, ankle and foot, and more! All this in a comforting, compassionate environment that is family-friendly and close to home. Make the decision to have your surgery at MGH.

Women’s Health Event Exceeds Expectations

MGH Patient Navigator Program Saved Her Life A support program designed to help women navigate through their breast cancer treatment.

Karry Trout (center), patient navigator at MGH, and Meta Pepper (right), central registration specialist, help register an Olympia woman for services offered during the Women’s Health Event.

MGH’s annual Women’s Health Event held in Oc-

tober, was a tremendous success according to Karry Trout, BA, (RT)(RM), coordinator of the Event, where free mammograms were offered to uninsured or underinsured women between the age of 40 and 65. “We had close to 70 women participate in the community outreach program, 44 of whom were screened for breast cancer,” said Karry. “Of those 44 women, 17 were Hispanic, and over half of them had never had a mammogram.These are the two groups in our main target population.The numbers are encouraging, as we have been offering this Event every October and May and the participation keeps growing.” Only one woman was diagnosed with breast cancer. The Women’s Health Event was financially supported by Washington Breast, Cervical & Colon Health Program; Susan G. Komen Puget Sound Affiliate; and the Karen Hilburn Breast and Cervical Cancer Fund.

Two Tell-Tale Signs of Sleep Apnea Obstructive sleep apnea is usually detected through its two most prominent symptoms: d Snoring – typically loud and persistent and punctuated by pauses followed by choking or gasping sounds. Snoring does not necessarily occur every night, and not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. The pause in breathing that characterizes sleep apnea occurs after the snoring stops. d Daytime sleepiness with sleep coming on rapidly and sometimes at inappropriate times, such as at work or while driving. Other symptoms include headaches (particularly in the morning), poor memory and concentration, mood swings, frequent urination at night, and a dry throat when awakening. [SOURCE: National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, “Sleep apnea”]

Dana Shehan truly enjoys her work at Shelton’s 40 & 8 Veteran of Foreign Wars establishment. Here she proudly shows one of the many displays 40 & 8 has to honor our military veterans.

When you look at Dana Shehan you see a very strong and confident business woman who appears to be ready to face anything… but looks can be deceiving. Dana was so afraid of a breast cancer diagnosis that when she got the call from MGH’s Patient Navigator, Karry Trout, BA, (RT)(RM) to schedule more tests for her, she hung up the phone. In her mind, Dana knew she had cancer, but she also knew she didn’t have health insurance to pay for treatment. But that didn’t stop Karry from reaching out to her – several times, until Karry got a response. “If Karry hadn’t been so persistent, I don’t know where I would be today,” said Dana, who eventually answered one of Karry’s many phone calls. Months before, Dana had detected a lump in her breast, but tried to put it out of her mind. It is something a lot of women in Dana’s position will do – because they don’t have insurance to pay for a mammogram or for treatment if the results indicate breast cancer. One day last summer, while talking with Yvonne Jorgensen in MGH’s business office, Yvonne encouraged Dana to get a mammogram, and told her financial resources were available to help with the diagnosis and treatment. “I said, okay, I’ll check it out,” remembers Dana. From there, the mammogram revealed a suspicious mass, possibly indicating breast cancer. After several attempts by Karry over the phone to convince Dana to come in for further tests (necessary to confirm cancer), Dana finally agreed to have an ultrasound and biopsy. Karry wisely scheduled these two tests on the same day so Dana could be diagnosed as soon as possible. “She wanted to make sure she got the diagnosis while she had me there,” Dana said, with a chuckle. Dana’s worst fear became a reality. “At that point, everything moved very fast. I got a lumpectomy, and as soon as the incision healed, I began radiation. Since my lymph nodes were negative, I only needed radiation therapy for four weeks. My cancer was a Stage 1 invasive carcinoma caused by estrogen,” said Dana, rolling the words out of her mouth as if she was a specialist. Another surprise to Dana was the Susan G. Koman Puget Sound Affiliate, a financial supporter of MGH’s Patient Navigator Program, helped with some of Dana’s living, medical, and traveling expenses during her treatment. “Karry is wonderful, and I can’t say enough about how she has helped me,” Dana said, two weeks into her radiation treatment. “She has been there for me all along -- persistent, supportive, and understanding.” When asked if Dana had any advice for other women facing what she had, she immediately exclaimed, “Call Karry! She will help you get through this ‘bump’ in the road.” To contact Karry Trout at MGH, call (360) 432-7706.

Three Generations Enjoy Close-to-Home Quality Care

Need help paying for your prescription medicines?

Thousands of people in Washington State have found programs that provide them with extra help in paying for their prescriptions. If you want help finding or managing a program for a medicine you need, please call MTG Meds. This assistance is FREE and offered through the Prescription Drug Assistance Foundation. There are hundreds of prescription assistance programs already being offered by pharmaceutical companies. They will walk you through the program to help you find the best option. So make a list of your prescription medicines and give MTG Meds a call today at (360) 463-2981.

Protecting Your Baby from a Cold Josh Whitener and his daughter, Eden. represent two of three generations born at Mason General Hospital. His father, David Whitener Jr. was also born at Mason General. Josh and his wife, Debbie, shown here with Eden, really appreciated the quality care they received from staff at Mason General Hospital and Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic when their daughter was born this summer.

Expecting parents don’t have to look far to find quality prenatal care and delivery. Just ask Debbie Whitener. When her daughter, Eden, was born at Mason General Hospital in August, she became the third generation of Whiteners to be born at the Hospital. Debbie’s husband, Josh Whitener, and his father, David Whitener Jr. were also born at Mason General. “I would highly recommend The Birth Center at Mason General and Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic to anyone who wants excellent care throughout their pregnancy. I think it’s great that we can have that in our own communzity, rather than having to go to a larger city. We are so blessed! I had excellent care, as well as direction and encouragement from the very start, on how to best care for myself during my pregnancy. As a result, I consider my birthing experience to be one of the most beautiful moments of my life,” Debbie said. “The fact that my husband and I met at Mason General made having our baby there even more special to us. “Being my first child, I had a lot of questions and concerns. There was no question too small, and every one was answered. The entire staff really care about their patients and work very hard for them. Coming away from the whole experience – they feel just like family,” she said.

So close to home. We care about your birthing experience. (360) 426-1611

The

Infants have a high risk for colds and other viral infections, particularly during their first two months when their immune systems are functionally immature. To boost immunity and reduce the risk: d consider breast feeding your baby d sterilize bottles and nipples by boiling them or running them through the dishwasher d Discard uneaten formula or bottled breast milk since the baby’s saliva contains germs that can multiply rapidly d keep formula or breast milk in the refrigerator, then warm it and feed it to the baby immediately d wash your hands before and after feeding and before and after changing a diaper d avoid exposing your baby to crowds, public transportation and anyone who is ill [SOURCE: “What puts you at risk for the common cold?” WebMD Medical Reference, reviewed by Jonathan L. Gelfand, M.D., September 25, 2009]

Pre-Schoolers at Risk for Croup A pre-school child who has a seal-like “barking” cough, difficulty breathing, and a high fever, up to 104 degrees, probably has croup. It usually affects children under age five during the Fall or Winter months, accompanying a viral infection such as influenza, respiratory synctial virus, measles or adenovirus. The infection causes the upper airways to become swollen, making breathing difficult. Whether it’s croup or not, any illness that complicates a child’s breathing is reason for a doctor’s visit. In the meantime, don’t allow anyone to smoke in your home, and give your child plenty of rest and fluids. Cough medicines are not helpful and should never be given to children under age four. [SOURCE: “Children and colds,” WebMD Medical Reference, reviewed by Jonathan L. Gelfand, M.D., February 21, 2010]

nicest peop e h t le! et e m u o y e r Whe

Birth Center at Mason General

r you ! k Mar endar cal MGH’s Centennial Guild

Goldsborough Creek Fun Run & Walk 7-mile Walk or Run... 2-mile Walk or Run… Quarter-mile Junior Jog All proceeds benefit Mason General Hospital. Have fun with family & friends and at the same time – support MGH!

Saturday, June 4, 2011 Title Sponsor: Regence Blue Shield Sponsors: Mason County Forest Festival Association McCarty & Associates, “a marketing firm” South Sound Radiology Gillis Auto Center • Arcadia Drilling Hiawatha Evergreens • Lynch Creek Farms Simpson Lumber Company Don Small and Sons, Oil Distributors Armstrong and Armstrong Christmas Trees

Please consider giving the gift of healthcare this holiday season. A message from Jennifer Capps, chief development officer, MGHF

Dear Community, Your support of MGH and Clinics is needed now, more than ever before. Special events such as Mason General Hospital Foundation’s (MGHF) Annual Fantasy Forest event and our annual Quality Care Open Golf Tournament raise funds to help purchase medical equipment for Public Hospital District No.1. Our community’s involvement in the fundraising efforts of the Foundation is vital to the mission of MGHF as we continue our work to support Mason General Hospital and its Clinics. With our community’s support, the Foundation has purchased items such as:

d Digital Mammography Equipment d Infant Warmer d YAG Eye Surgery Laser d CMAX Surgical Table d EKG and Ultrasound Machines d Lifepak Defibrillator

We encourage you to help save lives by making a financial contribution to Mason General Hospital Foundation. To make a gift to MGHF, please send a check to Mason General Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 1668, Shelton WA 98584-5001. The Foundation accepts multi-year pledges, Visa and MasterCard gifts, securities or mutual funds, matching gifts from a company, and planned estate gifts. You may also call Jennifer Capps, chief development officer at (360) 427-3622,or send an email to jcapps@MasonGeneral.com. To make a gift donation online and learn more about our annual fundraising efforts, visit us on the web at www.MasonGeneral.com.

Healthy kids mean a MGH Eye Clinic (360) 426-8717 MGH Family Health (360) 426-3862 Oakland Bay Pediatrics Operated by MGH (360) 426-3102 Shelton Family Medicine Operated by MGH (360) 426-2653

healthy community. So start them on the road to health at one of our Clinics. • From birth to 18 years of age • Well baby/student check-ups • Immunizations • Sports/back to school physicals • Comprehensive medical record-keeping between Clinics & Hospital • Plus more

News Briefs...

Classes/Support Groups

…Congratulations to MGH “Employee of the Month” for November – Deb Hartley, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, anesthesia; and for December – Carol Lindahl, Patient Resources.

…If diabetes is a part of your life, plan to attend Mason General Hospital’s next two-day session entitled, “Living Well With Diabetes” on February 15 and 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Ellinor Room at MGH. To register, call Sue Barwick, R.N., certified diabetes educator at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 (Allyn (360) 275-8614, ext. 3301). Diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans.

…Diabetes/Congestive Heart Forum Well Attended…The combined support group luncheon meeting for MGH’s Diabetes Support Groups, and the Congestive Heart Failure Support Group held in October had more than 74 participants. “It was a huge success,” said Sue Barwick, R.N., C.D.E., coordinator of the diabetes support groups. “We congratulate all the participants for their commitment to gaining more skills for selfmanagement!” Barwick said “kudos” to the dietary staff, Toni Caglia, Nancy Samples, and Marcie Smith for the “fabulous salmon luncheon!!” In addition, Barwick pointed out MGH registered dietitian and faculty member of the Living Well with Diabetes class, Candy Mattson, R.D., C.D.E., led the interactive group in eating the low-salt way!! Michelle Merrin, diabetes wellness assistant, provided the festive decorations, door prizes, and an efficient check-in process, while Debbie McGinnis, R.N., diabetes educator, along with Barwick, did the set-up and group facilitation!!

…“Low-Sodium: Part 2” Topic at December Shelton Diabetes Support Group Meeting – The importance of maintaining a low-sodium diet in diabetes self-management will be the subject at Mason General Hospital’s next Diabetes Support Group meeting set for Thursday, December 16, 2010 from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Ellinor Room at the Hospital. MGH’s Registered Dietitian, Candy Mattson, will speak on this topic, which she began to cover in October’s annual luncheon meeting. In “Low Sodium: Part 2” Ms. Mattson will elaborate on shopping locally for low-sodium foods, and low sodium cooking, again with time set aside for questions and answers. For more information call Sue Barwick, R.N., C.D.E. at (360) 427-7332 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614, and ask for the Diabetes Wellness Center).

…This year’s “Denim and Diamonds” Masked Affair at Steven’s On Railroad in October was the most successful in seven years. “The community just overwhelms us each year with their support,” said Karen Hilburn, founder and president of the Karen Hilburn Breast & Cervical Cancer Fund. “This year I need to say a BIG thank you to all the volunteers who worked so hard to put it on again. The generosity of the community and volunteers make it possible for us to help more Mason County women with the medical expenses associated with their breast and cervical cancer diagnoses and treatment.” …Safely get rid of medications you don’t use… Our County has set up a drop box to help you to “drop off unwanted prescription drugs and non-prescription drugs” no longer used. The box, provided by Public Hospital District No. 1, is located in front of the Mason County Sheriff’s Office in the County Court House, 322 N. 3rd Street, Shelton. Drop boxes help to ensure that unused drugs can be safely and appropriately disposed of, keeping them out of our waters, and out of the hands of children and others who seek to use them inappropriately and dangerously.

Employee Focus: Live, Learn, Work at MGH Shane Faford, a certified CT technologist in the Diagnostic Imaging department at MGH... …has been at Mason General Hospital since 2002, when he came to the Hospital as a student intern. He spent the next 15 months working towards his radiology certification from the Pima Medical Institute, Tacoma, and Shane Faford, CT tech interning at MGH. In 2003, while nearing the end of his studies, Shane was hired for weekend work at MGH as an x-ray technologist. He later became a CT tech, and simultaneously became the PACS administrator at MGH – overseeing the department’s digital filing of images and reports. The 2002 North Mason High School graduate grew up in Tahuya, and finds working at MGH to be “the best”. “Everyone is so supportive and nice to work with,” he added. “We are a team that cares about our patients and how we can help them get better.” In addition to being the PACS administrator, Shane is now also the lead CT tech.

Volunteers Play a Very Important Role at MGH Kemberly Michaels, volunteer coordinator at MGH, joined the Hospital staff in September with 17 years’ experience working with volunteers in the nonprofit sector. “Volunteers are priceless because they represent the heart an organization,” said Kemberly. She has also worked at United Way of Pierce County (UWPC) as an AmeriCorps volunteer, then as a staff member working on community solutions in the Community Building and Investment Department. From there, Kemberly went on to work at University Place Presbyterian Church (UPPC) as their Missions Director. While on staff at UPPC, Kemberly founded a nonprofit called Families Unlimited Network, and served as the Board’s president for the first five years from its inception. In addition, she has served as the Executive Director of a nonprofit called Sound Youth Counseling. If you are interested in volunteering at MGH, please call Kemberly at (360) 427-3621. Volunteers are needed hospital-wide in all departments.

New Diet Lightens Up Alvie’s Life At age 47, Alvie Munro already felt as if his body was quickly falling apart. In May he was diagnosed with diverticulitis and found himself facing surgery at Mason General Hospital. Before then, very strong medications had been controlling his hypertension for a few years. “For me, it was a real eye-opener,” said Alvie, a long-time local resident and employee in Mason General’s Diagnostic Imaging department. Candy Mattson, a registered dietitian at Mason General Hospital, advised on some necessary changes to Alvie’s diet, including eating at least 25 grams of fiber a day, no more Alvie Munro, who works in diagnostic imaging at than 2,000 calories a day, and no more than 2,400 Mason General Hospital, is enjoying a healthier grams of sodium. So Alvie, along with Reno, his life these days, thanks to advice he received from wife of 25 years, began closely examining the a registered dietitian at the Hospital. nutritional information and serving sizes of their food and beverages. Their lifestyle changes have paid off. Since he was admitted into the hospital, Alvie has gradually managed to lose 39 pounds, dropping his weight from 215 to 176 pounds – just one pound away from his 175-pound goal. His blood pressure medicine has also been significantly decreased. “I feel lighter, stronger, and fitter,” Alvie said. Being the lead guitar player for the local classic rock band, TDY (Temporary Duty), he notices his new condition most when he’s performing – or chasing his grandchildren around the house. “I’m not sure what wears me out more,” he quipped. Mr. Appel, Dr. John to u yo k an “My next challenge is learning to th a ve I’d like to gi ved my sa ly ab maintain my weight. It will be easier as ob pr e H ). Rice, (podiatrist arteries y this diet just becomes part of your life. m ve ha to e m life by sending obIt gets easier to shop, cook, and track him with a foot pr checked. I went to your daily intake,” he said. He now eats re he w or e to my doct six times a day, substituting junk food t lem, and he sent m ar he d a very serious with fruit and whole-grain crackers, I found out that I ha rger y, where they su t ar he and has acquired a taste for high-fiber d ha defect. I heart; all due y m to s cereals over high-sugar cereals. “It in ve e re repaired th feet. y m of really doesn’t taste like cardboard,” s si no ag di to Dr. Rice’s he admitted. y ro Le ry ar H Sincerely,

MGH and St. Peter Providence Team Together in Treating Stroke Patients T

his past summer, Mason General was invited to present its work with St. Peter Providence Hospital, Olympia, on its improvement of stroke care during the Washington State 2nd Annual Stroke Symposium. Their report highlighted how the two hospitals and local emergency medical services work together to ensure there is collaboration in treating stroke patients. MGH Emergency Department physicians, in conjunction with neurologists at St. Peter, work together in real-time to make a joint diagnosis – which then decides the treatment options that will provide the best care for the patient. The diagnosis determines whether the patient will be treated at Mason General or transferred to St. Peter. The joint efforts of MGH and St. Peter have resulted in the development of care standards that are initiated upon the patient’s admission to MGH’s ER. In addition, MGH nurses attended an advanced Stroke Training Academy offered by St. Peter. According to Bob Appel, CEO at MGH, “This program is considered a model for our State. In fact, the team that presented in June has been asked to share this model at the Trauma Conference in Wenatchee. “This type of collaboration between hospitals like MGH and St. Peter has streamlined the care of stroke patients and makes it possible for them to receive the same level of care at MGH as they would at a larger facility,” said Appel.

Need a Healthy Solution? Add Fiber, Subtract Sodium Concerned about high blood pressure, or heart and colon health? Diets high in fiber and low in sodium can help prevent or decrease these problems. To reduce sodium intake, try these simple tips: d Keep track of the sodium content in your

food. Pay attention to serving sizes, for example, if you eat two servings you will need to double the amount of sodium. Every food package lists nutritional facts, including sodium quantities, on its label. d Aim for less than 2,400 milligrams of sodium each day (about 1 teaspoon of salt per day).

d Avoid high-sodium canned foods, pro-

cessed foods, lunch meats, fast foods, and restaurant meals. Look for low-sodium canned foods, vegetables, soups, meats, and crackers. d Cook with salt-free seasonings. Meanwhile, doctors recommend diets consisting of 25 to 35 grams of fiber every day. Packaged foods and fiber supplements state the amount of fiber content in their nutritional information. Because adding too much fiber too quickly may upset your stomach, try slowly adding fiber to your diet, in order for your stomach to adjust to the change.

To eat adequate fiber: d Choose whole-grain breads, cereals, and pastas, and opt for brown rice, bulgur, or millet instead of white rice. Gradually start to eat 6 to 11 servings of whole d grains every day. d Eat several servings of fiber-rich fresh fruits and vegetables each day, such as raspberries, apples, figs, oranges, pears, prunes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, corn, peas, and beans. d Drink plenty of fluids every day to help keep your body working properly.

MGH Foundation Contributors Memorialized

Local Specialist Shares Advice on Wound Care

Mason General Hospital Foundation would like to acknowledge former contributors. Listed below are supporters, now deceased, that the Foundation would like to recognize 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. Mary H. Brammer Robert H. Fletcher Neil L. Harmon Agnes E. Neth

Tom W. Ogden Terry Olson John C. Preston Richard Woodall

Memorial Contributions 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 September 14, 2010 and ending November 3, 2010. Sydney Anderson Norman and Norma Gray James and Lois Kent

Blanche Boggs Norman and Norma Gray

Joyce Karsh James and Lois Kent

Please be advised that every effort has been made to ensure the integrity of this listing. 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.

For the high quality of care your family deserves –

MGH Wound Care Coordinator, Lena Bruns, BSN, RN, CWCN, cares for a patient’s wound.

ena Bruns, BSN, RN, CWCN and wound-care coordinator at Mason General Hospital, passed the national board exam to become a Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) in 2009. 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. Ms. Bruns has worked at Mason General for 5 years and enjoys trying to encourage her patients through treating their wounds. She recently took the time to answer a few questions involving wound care.

Q. Who needs wound care?

People suffering from an unusual wound, a wound requiring daily care, or one that just won’t heal need wound care. Mason General Hospital offers advanced wound care services for both inpatients and outpatients in its Ambulatory Care Clinic. Mason General’s inpatient care in the Hospital works to prevent wounds such as pressure ulcers.

Count on Our Experience.

Q: How can I be seen for wound care?

Call to make an appointment (360) 426-2653, (800) 824-8885 939 Mountain View Dr., Ste. 100, Shelton

Mason General offers a variety of out-patient services. Anyone who needs wound care in or out of the hospital may come and see a wound care coordinator in the Ambulatory Care Clinic. Clinic staff consists of a referring physician, a board-certified wound care nurse, registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses. To schedule an out-patient appointment, call (360) 432-3271, then have the referring physician send a prescription for “Wound Care, Evaluate and Treat,” by sending a fax to (360) 432-7700.

Q: Are there only certain patients that can be seen for wound care?

John V. Butler, Kimberly Elliott, Michael Keep, Timothy J. Weber, Doris H. Wilson, M.D. M.D.** M.D.* D.O.** M.D.* *Board Certified, Family Practice **Board Eligible, Family Practice

Resa Delany, PA-C

Hours: M-F: clinic opens at 8 a.m. Call for evening & weekend hours.

Our Ambulatory Care Clinic provides wound care services and offers care for patients of any age with chronic wounds, acute wounds, burns, and diabetic wounds, as well as diabetic ulcers, venous ulcers, arterial ulcers, and infected wounds. The Clinic also specializes in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers.

Q: May I do a self-referral?

Yes, but you will need an order/prescription from a physician. (See above question, “How can I be seen for wound care?”)

Dos síntomas que muestran que tiene apnea El apnea obstructiva presente durante una persona está durmiendo puede ser detectada con estos dos síntomas: d Ronquidos–persistentes, fuertes y con pausas seguidas por ruidos de obstrucción en la garganta. El ronquido no ocurre necesariamente todas las noches y no todas las personas que roncan tienen apnea. La pausa en la respiración es característica del apnea y ocurre cuando se detiene el ronquido. d Somnolencia durante el día en donde la persona se queda dormida rápidamente y en momentos inapropiados como en el trabajo o conduciendo un auto. Otros síntomas incluyen dolores de cabeza (particularmente en la mañana), mala memoria y concentración, cambios de temperamento, frecuencia en ganas de orinar en la noche y garganta seca cuando despierta. [SOURCE: National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, “Sleep apnea”]

¿Que está detrás de esa tos que no se cura? Los fumadores usualmente entienden porque tienen tos, pero se cree que el 40 por ciento de las personas que no fuman también reportan tener una tos crónica – definida como una tos que dura de por 8 semanas o mas- durante su vida. En 2006 un estudio realizado en mujeres que tenían una tos persistente, 39 por ciento tenían asma; 11 por ciento tenían obstrucción crónica pulmonar; 9 por ciento goteo posterior nasal; y 9 por ciento enfermedad de reflujo. [SOURCE: M. Ribeiro, et al, “Adult patients with chronic cough,” International Journal of Clinical Practice, 2006;60(7): 799-805]

Cuando hay que llamar al doctor Una tos que persiste por ocho semanas o más es una razón para llamar al doctor y averiguar que puede estarla causando. Otras razones para ver a un doctor: d Pérdida de peso repentina d Tos con flema d Sudores fuerte en la noche d Respiración con silbido d Tos con sangre d Temperatura de 101 F o mas [SOURCE: American Academy of Family Physicians, “Chronic cough: causes and cures,” FamilyDoctor.com, reviewed/updated December, 2009]

Razones para quedarse en casa con un resfriado Si se tiene estornudos, se siente cansado y adolorido probablemente esta por darle un resfriado. Como los primeros 2 días del resfriado son los que usted puede contagiar el virus a otros entonces debe considerar quedarse en casa y no ir al trabajo. Como quiera se va a sentir mal y no podrá trabajar bien. Si tiene flujo nasal y estornudos sin ningún otro síntoma o si le da alergias en ciertas temporadas del año, entonces sus síntomas están probablemente relacionados con su alergia y no son contagiosos. Pero también puede sentirse enfermo, si puede ir a trabajar pero debe asegurarse que si está tomando medicina que no le de sueño. [SOURCE: “Common cold: too sick to work?” WebMD Medical Reference, reviewed by Jonathan L. Gelfand, M.D., September 25, 2009]

Proteja a su bebe de la gripa Los bebes tienen un riesgo alto de enfermarse de gripa, particularmente los primeros dos meses de vida cuando su sistema inmune todavía no ha madurado. Para reducir el riesgo y aumentar su inmunidad: d Dele el pecho a su bebey d Esterilice las botellas poniéndolas en agua a hervir o en la lavadora de platos d Tire a la basura formula o leche materna restante de la botella que no se ha comido el bebe d Mantenga la formula o leche materna en el refrigerador, antes de darla al bebe caliéntela d Lave sus manos antes y después de darle de comer al bebe y antes y después de cambiarle el panal d Evite llevar a su bebe a lugares con mucha gente, en transporte público o con gente enferma [SOURCE: “What puts you at risk for the common cold?” WebMD Medical Reference, reviewed by Jonathan L. Gelfand, M.D., September 25, 2009]

Pre-escolares con riesgo de enfermarse de garrotillo (crup) Un niño de pre-escolar que tiene una tos que suena como un ladrido, dificultad para respirar, fiebre alta hasta de 104, probablemente tenga crup. Afecta usualmente a niños menores de cinco año durante los meses de otoño e invierno, acompañados por una infección de virus como influenza, virus respiratorio sinctal, paperas o adenovirus. La infección causa que las vías respiratorias superiores se inflamen y hagan difícil respirar. Sea crup o no, cualquier enfermedad que complique la respiración de su hijo requiere una visita al doctor. Mientras lo lleva al doctor, no permita que nadie fume en la casa, deje que su hijo descanse y tome muchos líquidos. Las medicinas para la tos (jarabes) no ayudan y no se le deben de dar a niños menores de cuatro años. [SOURCE: “Children and colds,” WebMD Medical Reference, reviewed by Jonathan L. Gelfand, M.D., February 21, 2010]

Clinics

1 Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic 2 MGH Eye Clinic 3 Shelton Family Medicine 4 MGH Shelton Orthopedics 5 MGH Ankle & Foot 6 MGH Family Health 7 MGH Surgery Clinic 8 Oakland Bay Pediatrics

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 and Clinics. Published six times per year. Editor: McCarty & Associates, Inc. “a marketing firm”. Business Office: Office hours: 8 a.m. – 5:30 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; Roy G. Belville, M.D., chief of staff; Scott Hilburn, commissioner/president; Nancy Trucksess and Don Wilson, commissioners.

Thank you, to these sponsors & event chairpersons for another successful Fantasy Forest! Sponsors

Steering Committee

Gala and Auction Co-Sponsor Hiawatha Corporation Program & Advertising Christmas Village Dance Fever Gib and Sharon Johnston, in loving memory of our parents, Fred and Lillian Peste Fashion Show Finninsula Foundation & Fred Finn Fantasy Laugh Factory Dynamic Collectors, Inc. Candy Cane Carnival Co-Sponsor South Sound Radiology Gift Shop Heritage Bank Senior Tea Alpine Way Retirement Apartments, Inc. Volunteer Village Co-Sponsor Taylor Shellfish Farms, Inc. Memorial Tree Co-Sponsor Mickey Goodwin & Kippy Dalton Raffle Co-Sponsors Skookum Rotary Foundation - Oysterfest Peninsula Credit Union Event Poster John L. Scott Foundation Forest Star Bob and Melanie Appel Robert W. Johnson PLLC Providence St. Peter Hospital Dr. Steven Bowers Wittenberg, CPA, PS Fantasy Forest Supporters Cardiology Associates, PLLC Twin Totems Convenience Store Gas Card Masco Petroleum

MGHF President Janis Byrd Event Chair Merlyn Flakus Family Game Night Shelton Health & Rehabilitation Center Senior Tea Beth Johnston Father-Daughter Dance Michele Crow Deck The Halls A Holiday Bazaar Marty Brooks Dance Fever Robin Williams Candy Cane Carnival Future Generations Guild Gala Sherwood Guild Live Auction MC Jack Stark & Stokes Auction Group Silent Auction In-Kind LaRinn Ferrier Sarah Stevens Live Auction In-Kind Peg Stock Jim Penney MGHF Board Members Catering John Cruse & Robin Williams Set Up/Tear Down Denis Leverich Linens Darryl Cleveland Tree Designer Sharon Dok & Aimee Coleman Memorial Tree Karen Anderson & Karen Hilburn

As of 11-02-10

Gift Shop Beth Gregg & Joanne Jurin Raffle Tickets Adele Dupont Banking & Cashiering Stacey Scoles On Loan From Richard D. Thornbrue, CPA Volunteers Peggy Cleveland Sallie Faughender & Mary Anne Munson Event Tickets Meghan Lucas No-Host Cash Bar Sponsored By Centennial Guild Publicity McCarty & Associates, Inc. “a marketing firm” The Shelton-Mason County Journal Hood Canal Communications Coffee News Shopper’s Weekly Centerpieces & Greenery Hiawatha Corporation Fantasy Laugh Factory Kathy Howe Fashion Show Ginger Brooks & Marian Greenberg Espresso Sunny Day Espresso Vickie Grabicki Distribution MGHF Board Members and Volunteers

Approved by The Joint Commission MGH Ankle & Foot (360) 427-0366 MGH Eye Clinic (360) 426-8717 MGH Family Health (360) 426-3862 MGH Shelton Orthopedics (360) 427-0663

MGH Surgery Clinic (360) 426-4142 Mountain View Women’s Health Clinic Operated by MGH (360) 426-0955 Oakland Bay Pediatrics Operated by MGH (360) 426-3102 Shelton Family Medicine Operated by MGH (360) 426-2653

901 Mountain View Drive PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001 (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614 TTY/TTD: (360) 427-9593 Equal Opportunity Provider. Translation Services Provided. Se habla español.