JUNE 2013 VOL. 29, NO.3 MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL & FAMILY OF CLINICS
Page 2
Climbing for cancer
Staff “steps up” to raise funds Page 3
Get moving Meghan Lucas beats “level one obesity” with exercise Page 5
Yoga and PT
Healing with “traditional” alternatives
Employees ‘climb high’ for cancer
Fourteen Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics employees and their families
and friends raised nearly $3,000 for Seattle’s “Big Climb,” that took place in March at the Columbia Center in downtown Seattle. The Washington/Alaska Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) hosted the event. All proceeds went towards the LLS mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
CNN spotlights Hospital’s Patient Navigator
The MGH&FC team was one of 720 teams, and nearly 6,000 people, who rose to the challenge of climbing 69 flights of stairs in the highest skyscraper in Seattle. Participants had the choice of either running up the stairwell (in a timed race) or walking up (untimed). The MGH&FC team – called Scrambled Legs and Achin’ was evenly split between those who chose to be either racers or walkers. In all, the team climbed 1,311 steps, or 788 feet of vertical elevation, to reach the top. Participating in the fun were: Team Captain Gus Perez, diagnostic imaging (DI); Jody Olsen, DI; Shannon Barnhart, central registration (CR); Kristen Sage, CR; Robert “Bob” Bellomy, DI; Andrea Beman, lab; Dee Ann Kline, lab; Nicole Eddins, pharmacy; Melinda “Mindy” Fisher, CR; Carol Blevins, CR; April Sweeney, DI; Tenielle Masteller, human resources; Heather Bradford, DI; and Darius Usman, DI. “We plan to make the climb next year,” said Tenielle Masteller. Anyone interested in doing it should go online for details (search for “Big Climb Seattle”). Registration is in November 2013 for the 2014 event.
On the cover:
Posing in the new stairwell at MGH after making “The Big Climb” to cure leukemia and lymphoma were: (Left row, bottom to top) -Team Captain Gus Perez, DI; Jody Olsen, DI; Shannon Barnhart, Registration Services (RS); Kristen Sage, RS specialist; and Robert “Bob” Bellomy, DI-CT tech. (Middle row, bottom to top) - Andrea Beman, lab; Dee Ann Kline,lab; Nicole Eddins, pharmacy; and Melinda “Mindy” Fisher, RS. (Right row, bottom to top) - Carol Blevins, RS; April Sweeney, DI; and Tenielle Masteller, HR. Not pictured - Heather Bradford, DI; and Darius Usman, DI. Cover photo by Cooper Studios.
2 S C O P E
What poor biomechanics can do As you are walking or running, your foot goes from supination to pronation and back to supination with each step you take. If you take 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day – as you should for good health – your foot is repeating this motion each time. And if you have a biomechanical flaw in your gait, the consequence can be repeated injuries. Running shoes are built to help compensate for those who pronate or supinate too much. For more serious problems, orthotic shoe inserts may be required. [SOURCE: Thomas P. Lyman, Tracey C. Vlahovic, “Foot care from A to Z,” Dermatology Nursing, 2010]
Karry Trout, Patient Navigator
It isn’t every day that a healthcare
facility like Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics finds itself in the national spotlight, but that’s what happened in early April, when MGH&FC Patient Navigator Karry Trout, BA, RT(R) (M), CBPN-IC, caught the eye of CNN Reporter Jackie Wilson. Wilson was googling information about Patient Navigators, a current trend at hospitals that are working to create an environment where patient care is more personalized, when she found MGH&FC’s web video story about Trout and her 14 year-old daughter Ella, who suffers from the effects of a brain tumor. The story intrigued Wilson and led to an over-the-phone interview with Trout,
continued on page 4...
get moving
Below: Weekly walks with son, Kayden help MGH Foundation Development
Meghan Lucas beats “level one obesity” with exercise MGH&FC’s Development Assistant
Meghan Lucas received the shock of her life when she had her body mass index checked and was told that, for her height and age, she was ‘level one obese’ – even though she felt trim and had only gained 15 pounds since high school. “My husband and I lead an active lifestyle that includes snowboarding, wake boarding, dirt bike riding, and golfing,” said Meghan. But these weekend activities weren’t keeping the weight off. Shortly after the surprising revelation, Lucas became pregnant and began to worry that her weight would increase even more, so she decided to add walking to her weekly routine. Now she weighs 15 pounds less than she did before she got pregnant. Today, Meghan’s walks include quality time with her son, Kayden, who enjoys the fresh air as she pushes him along in his stroller. To help keep her on track, she uses a cell phone app called ‘Map My Walk’. It measures the distance she walked, the calories burned, and the time it took to complete her walk.
I stopped using crash diets that were only a temporary fix. Eating healthy and staying active works long-term,” she said, adding that she wants to be a good example for her son. And as a bonus, she is feeling better about herself. Meghan also participates in the annual Goldsborough Creek Fun Run & Walk each June. The run is sponsored by Centennial Guild, a charter member of Mason General Hospital Foundation and another great activity she can enjoy with her son.
Assistant Meghan Lucas manage her weight and stay in shape. by myself. It all makes me feel a lot better,” she said. For those looking to start their own fitness routine, Meghan offers these words of advice: “Just get up, and get out. Go as much as you can and dump the excuses. If you do, you will feel and look better!”
Walking works for Meghan, but she’s not militaristic about it. “I do what I can, when I can, and add intense workouts at the gym on Saturdays when I can get away
“My pregnancy motivated me to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
SCOPE 3
caring MGH adds new open MRI
Patient Navigator
continued from page 2...
which later resulted in a story on CNN about Trout’s work as a Breast Cancer Patient Navigator for MGH&FC. MGH&FC’s Breast Cancer Navigation Program has operated for the past four years through funding from the Susan G. Komen Foundation - Puget Sound Affiliate, but the CNN story generated new interest in Trout’s work from viewers who commented about the story on Facebook and other social media. “It was surprising that out of all the Patient Navigators out there, my name was the one that caught Wilson’s attention. I think it’s my daughter’s story that captures people’s hearts,” said Trout about the national coverage.
Mason General Hospital has added an open MRI (magnetic resonance imagining) scanner to its Diagnostic Imagining department. This new, state-of-the-art unit is now located within the building in the newly remodeled DI area. “The MRI is a tremendous convenience to local patients and healthcare providers, increasing local access to the best in diagnostic imaging,” said Mike Gray, RT(R)CV, director of diagnostic imaging for Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics. “The patient is our priority, and that is why we will continue to invest in the best new technologies,” said Radiologist Kevin Roscoe, M.D., MGH&FC’s past chief of medical staff. “We believe that having this MRI locally will help our patients and providers get fast and accurate diagnoses.” The high field MRI boasts an almost 360-degree open design, meaning it is ideal for patients who would otherwise experience claustrophobia when undergoing an exam. It can accommodate patients of all sizes, and will take up to 550 lbs. The machine is referred to as “panorama open” in that it allows the patient lying on the table to have a view of all sides of the room. It also allows technologists to position patients in the center of the magnet, which creates the highest-quality images. MRI machines, which use magnetic fields rather than radiation to create images, are useful for many kinds of diagnostic imaging. MRI is extremely useful for imaging of the brain and spinal cord, as well as joints such as hips and shoulders. “I am personally very excited to be involved with the start-up of this new MRI,” said Dr. Roscoe. “I am so proud that the Hospital is providing the latest advanced-imaging technology available to our residents of Mason County.” 4 S C O P E
Trout answers women’s questions as they work through their cancer diagnosis and treatment options, and follows up after biopsies to make sure patients receive all the information and support they need to address cancer-related issues. “My work allows me to have a personal connection with these women. We talk a lot, and in the end, the women come out as stronger people, and that helps me know that what I do is making a positive difference,” she said. To view Trout’s personal story, visit www.MasonGeneral.com. To view the CNN story, do a search for “CNN Patient Navigator Karry Trout”.
Studies document sunscreen benefits
Studies conducted in the subtropical community of
Nambour, Queensland, Australia have documented the benefits of sunscreen in preventing various kinds of skin cancer. Subjects who applied sunscreen regularly had reduced numbers of squamous cell carcinomas and the actinic keratoses that often precede them. When these subjects were followed for an additional eight years, rates of squamous cell carcinoma declined by 40 percent. Another study by the same group found a lower rate of melanomas among subjects using sunscreen regularly.
[SOURCE: Emily Altman, M.D., “A response to the recent USPSTF updates on skin cancer prevention counseling guidelines,” Rash Decisions blog, January 9, 2012]
quality
What is Yoga?
Yoga and physical therapy help local woman heal MGH&FC Physical Therapist Assistant Robert Sheridan and patient, Renee Porter demonstrate Hatha Yoga stretches – just one of the many PT techniques available for MGH&FC.
After a car accident involving a head-on
collision with a drunk driver, Shelton resident, Renee Porter considers herself lucky to be alive. Following the accident, Porter experienced stiffness and soreness in her neck and shoulders and was referred to Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinic’s Physical Therapy department for treatment. That’s where she met Physical Therapist Assistant Robert Sheridan, who introduced Yoga stretches to help ease her symptoms. Porter said her chest was too swollen from contusions caused by her car’s airbags to lift any weight. Yoga stretches helped her regain strength and are helping to release tension and pain in the injured parts of her body.
MGH&FC’s Physical Therapy department is integrating Yoga postures into its therapeutic exercise programs because they work, as is evidenced by the growing popularity of Yoga for exercise and therapy. “There is a remarkable amount of research on the health benefits of this form of mind/ body exercise, but a common misconception is that Yoga is too difficult for many people. Yoga postures, however, can be modified for patients of any age and condition,” said Sheridan. continued on page 14…
This word can mean one thing to one person and something entirely different to another. You may take a class from one Yoga teacher, and experience something completely different from another Yoga instructor. Is Yoga a religion? Will practicing Yoga interfere with my own religious beliefs? These are all good questions, and often challenging to answer. First of all, Yoga is not a religion. There is no dogma, but there is a philosophy, and Yoga can be practiced with or without the understanding of a Yoga philosophy. The most popular type of Yoga in North America is Hatha Yoga. This can include Yoga breathing exercises known as Pranayama. Hatha Yoga’s popularity grows more each year, for a variety of reasons. One is that there are many different styles and types of Yoga to choose from. Another reason for its popularity is the tremendous amount of evidencebased research on the health benefits of this form of mind/ body exercise. Yoga is seen in advertising on television and in magazines all the time. How often do you see people of all ages carrying their colorful, rolled up Yoga mats on their way to the gym or class? Yoga gains popularity every year because it works! Whether you learn to safely practice Yoga postures for a specific rehabilitation or take Yoga classes at a health club or Yoga studio, the health benefits are well worth the effort. — PT staff SCOPE 5
giving
Easy way to donate! “Round up” your payment at the register.
Treasures Thrift Stores makes big appeal for the tiniest reasons... Mason General Hospital Foundation is
reaching out – through Treasures Thrift Stores – to fund a Bilirubin Meter for The Birth Center at MGH. Hyperbilirubinemia (jaundice) is a common problem in newborns that, if not detected and treated early, may lead to irreversible brain damage. The bilirubin meter is a tool used to
measure neonatal jaundice on every baby before leaving the hospital to detect dangerous levels and promote early treatment. It is a vital tool to help identify and treat babies at risk, for the prevention of excessive bilirubininduced mental retardation, learning and developmental disabilities, hearing loss, or eye movement problems.
Save the date... For Foundation’s Annual fundraiser
Fantasy Forest ., Mon18Nov. ., Sat 23 Nov.
2013
It’s never too early to start thinking about and reserving your tickets for Fantasy Forest. This year promises to be exciting, with a vintage 40’s theme, and plenty of events to choose from. There’s an event for everyone, including Wine Tasting Fashion Show Candy Cane Carnival Father-Daughter Night Out Sneak Peak
Circle the date on your calendar today! 6 S C O P E
The goal to fund the Bilirubin Meter is $7,277. If you would like to help, you can donate to Mason General Hospital Foundation through Treasures Thrift Stores; or make a secure, online donation at the Foundation’s website by visiting www.MasonGeneral.com/foundation. htm
Parentsto-be you’re invited to... The Birth Center at MGH
Get to know us. In preparation for the joyous event, The Birth Center at Mason General Hospital offers a pre-registration tour in “Getting to Know Us.” Meet the staff, tour the facility, and discuss your concerns about breastfeeding, labor, delivery, and pain management options – including epidurals. Working with board-certified obstetricians at Mountain View Women’s Health, our expert staff at the newlyremodeled Birth Center look forward to meeting you, and helping you feel great about the excellent care you and baby will receive. Get acquainted with us now. Call Mountain View Women’s Health at (360) 426-0955 to schedule your tour of The Birth Center at MGH.
Students donate Easter baskets
The 7th and 8th graders from St. Edwards Catholic Church, Shelton, recently delivered eight Easter baskets filled with “baby items” to The Birth Center at MGH. The baskets were given to the newborn babies in the nursery. Pictured with the baskets are Birth Center nurse, Hazel Ligman, R.N.; student, Patrick O’Shell and his mom, Stephanie Beatty; and nurse, Dulce Casal, R.N.
By 2014, 77% of the jobs in Washington State that pay enough for an individual to support a small family, will be held by people who have continued their education beyond high school. [Source: www.GearUp.wa.gov]
Lower stroke risk with medications Persons with atrial fibrillation, an abnormal rhythm in the upper chambers of the heart,
have an increased risk of suffering a stroke, and that is why they are usually prescribed oral anticoagulant medications such as Coumadin, Pradaxa or Xarelta. A Danish study found that patients taking anticoagulants not only had a decreased risk of stroke but less severe strokes, shorter hospital stays and lower 30-day mortality compared to subjects not taking anticoagulants. These patients also had more bleeds and a greater number of intracranial hemorrhage strokes; yet the researchers concluded that the overall picture showed a strong benefit for the use of oral anticoagulants. [SOURCE: Daniel M. Keller, Ph.D., “AF patients taking oral anticoagulants have milder strokes,” Medscape Medical News, December 11, 2012 (8th World Stroke Congress, Abstract 921, October 12, 2012]
Estate continues to donate to Hilburn Fund
Pictured with Mrs. Hilburn is Miss Jones’ niece, (right) Betty Temple. The Karen Hilburn Breast and Cervical Cancer Fund was presented – for the third year in a row – with a check for $25,000 from the Charitable Trust of Margery Jones, a former Shelton resident and cancer survivor. Miss Jones had left her estate to be donated to charitable non-profits, and this is the third consecutive year the Hilburn Fund has been a major recipient. Over the last three years Miss Jones’ estate has donated a total of $70,000. “We are so grateful for their continued support of our Fund,” said Founder Karen Hilburn. “This donation helps Mason County women that are underinsured or uninsured with their diagnoses and treatment of breast or cervical cancer. KHBCCF is a chapter of the MGH Foundation. SCOPE 7
giving
Eye emergencies: what to do Eye emergencies require quick medical attention and, sometimes, on-
the-site first aid.
Auxiliary Gift Shop holds grand opening
Chemical splash: Immediately flush the eye with water for 15 minutes. This could be done with a faucet, shower, garden hose or pouring water from a clean container. Don’t delay by taking a contact lens out; the flushing is likely to wash it out anyway. And don’t bandage the eye. Foreign objects: Don’t rub the eye. Instead, try to let your tears wash it out or use an artificial tear solution. Try lifting the upper lid out and over the lower lid. If the particle remains, keep the eye closed, bandage it lightly and seek medical help. Blow to the eye: Apply a cold compress or ice bag gently without pressure. If you have pain or impaired vision, seek medical care immediately. Cuts and punctures: If an object is stuck in the eye, don’t remove it and don’t wash out the eye. Cover it with the bottom of a paper cup and get immediate medical help. [SOURCE: American Optometric Association, “Protecting your eyes at work.”]
MGHF’s Auxiliary Gift Shop is now open in its new location – just off the Hospital’s new Main Entrance. Showing some of the items for sale at the new location are Auxiliary members, Carolyn Parker and Sara Watkins.
Mason General Hospital Foundation’s new Auxiliary Gift Shop held its Grand Opening in May in conjunction with the Campus Renewal and Construction Project’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. With the completion of the Construction Project, the Gift Shop moved to its new location by the Main (south) Entrance in April. According to Sue Glenn, president of MGHF Auxiliary, the Gift Shop is “like a spacious boutique which offers a variety of new items that are perfect for friends, family members, and loved ones.” Included in the design are new display cases that extend into the hallway. “We are excited about our new Gift Shop and location,” added Mrs. Glenn. “We can now offer one-stop shopping for patients, visitors, and staff, and we are so grateful to MGH&FC for giving us this beautiful, expanded Gift Shop.” All proceeds from the Gift Shop help support medically-related scholarships. 8 S C O P E
Maintaining good circulation Maintaining proper blood circulation is essential to good foot care. You
can keep blood flowing as it should by
walking, running, biking, or staying physically active keeping your feet up as much as possible when you are sitting or lying down doing a few stretching exercises after sitting for an extended period getting an occasional foot massage taking a warm foot bath, and avoiding shoes that are too tight. [SOURCE: Carol Eustice, “Guide to foot care and foot problems,” About.com Arthritis and Joint Conditions, updated May 25, 2006]
Plantar fasciitis is a pain in the heel One of the most common reasons for a visit to a foot doctor is plantar
fasciitis – first step heel pain. Sharp pain typically occurs when first getting out of bed each morning but subsides somewhat during the day. The condition can require months of healing, and high-level athletes frequently become seriously hampered and frustrated by what first appears to be a minor problem. Treatments include arch supports, taping, orthotic shoe inserts, stretching the Achilles tendon and, for persistent cases, steroid injections. [SOURCE: Thomas P. Lyman, Tracey C. Vlahovic, “Foot care from A to Z,” Dermatology Nursing, 2010]
MGHF contributors memorialized Mason General Hospital Foundation would like to acknowledge former contributors. Listed below are supporters, now deceased, 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. John Doherty Donald Myers Patricia A. Hanson Thomas K. Len Hunter Nordby Enid Manzo Betty Noll Andrew Roxielee Powers McDermott
Memorial contributions made to MGHF 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 between March 4 and May 2, 2013. Phyllis Ahlf In Memory of: Agnes Hamilton Andrew & Heidi Shepherd In Memory of: Agnes Hamilton Designated for our MGHF Auxiliary Scholarship Fund Kathryn Hamilton-Wang In Memory of: Agnes Hamilton 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.
Save the date for the Annual
MGHF
“Qualit y Care Open” Golf Tournament Friday, June 28, 2013
Title Sponsor:
Sponsors* Banquet & Catering Services Food Services of America Women’s Prize Sponsor Christmas Village Prize Sponsor Dynamic Collectors, Inc. Golf Course Sponsor IEI Security Golf Cart Sponsor OAC Services, Inc. Construction Management Co-Presenting Sponsor Manke Lumber Company Co-Presenting Sponsor Verizon Banner Sponsor Taylor Shellfish Company Putting Contest Sponsor Hiawatha Corporation Advertising Sponsor Falcon Financial, Investments 1st Place Handicap Prize Sponsor Hoffman Construction of Washington Tournament Patron Sponsor Inland Northwest Health Services 2nd Place Handicap Prize Sponsor Washington Casualty Company Registration Brunch Sponsor Betty A. Paulsen/VALIC Hospitality Cart Sponsor Network Hardware Resale
Hole-in-One Sponsors Arnold Smith Insurance Gillis Auto Center
Hole Sponsors – Level A Cerium Networks (sponsoring 2 holes) Direct Matters Edward Jones - Eric Thompson, Financial Advisor Gastroenterology Associates Peninsula Credit Union Shelton Dental Excellence Trebron Company, Inc.
Hole Sponsors – Level B
94.5 Roxy Allstate Insurance Company Marcy Johnson CellNetix Pathology & Laboratories Columbia Bank D.R. Gardner, CPA, PS DeMiero Enterprize Fidelis Communications First American Title of Mason County Green Diamond Resource Company Hackney Family Dentistry Heritage Bank Hood Canal Communications Joe L. Snyder and Andrea L. Huff, Attorney at Law (360) 426-9100 Los Sarapes de Shelton McCarty & Associates, “a marketing firm” Shelton Chiropractic Center Damon J. Ernst, DC Shelton Health & Rehabilitation Center Shelton Rotary Club Simpson Lumber Company The Flakus Family William J. Busacca, DDS, PS Wittenberg CPA, PS
All proceeds benefit MGH Foundation. For more information call (360) 427-3623 or go to www.MasonGeneral.com
*As of May 14, 2013
SCOPE 9
news briefs Employee focus
Live, learn and work at MGH&FC Suzanne Rudoll, R.N., BSN, lead patient care coordinator, has worked at MGH for 17 years.
in Olympia with her husband, two young daughters, her dog, 2 cats, and 3 parrots. She loves being a mom and enjoys spending time with her family and pets, remodeling her home, and being outdoors.
Wound Care Expanded
Suzanne’s primary job responsibility is to coordinate patient care from the time the patient is admitted to the Hospital until they are discharged. She works closely with physicians, house supervisors, nurses, hospitalists, discharge planners, and other ancillary departments. In addition, she provides clinical information to insurance companies, as needed. “The people I work with are the best,” Rudoll said. “We are like family, and since I don’t have any immediate family in Washington, it makes working at the Hospital extra special.”
Mason General Hospital has expanded its Wound Care Services to include ostomy and continence care. Pamela Lutter, MS, Certified Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse (CWOCN), joined MGH&FC bringing additional expertise in ostomy and continence treatment along with wound care. She obtained her designation in wound, ostomy and continence care from Emory University in 2006. MGH&FC’s Wound Care Services, launched in 2009, is now located in a larger treatment area in the Hospital’s new wing. Coordinating with area nursing homes, homecare facilities, and doctors’ offices, MGH&FC’s wound/ostomy/continence
Employees of the Month
Classes/Support Groups
Congratulations to MGH&FC “Employee of the Month” for May – Patricia Tiatia - Tuli, Oakland Bay Pediatrics, and June – Trevor Madison, materials.
New OT in PT The Physical Therapy Department has a new Occupational Therapist. Alisha Brannam received her Masters in Occupational Therapy from the University of Puget Sound, and completed Occupational Therapy affiliations with Providence South Sound Home Healthcare in Mason County and Inpatient Rehabilitation at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia. She earned a degree in Nutrition and directed a Child Nutrition Program in Mercer Island and Issaquah School Districts. Alisha lives 10 S C O P E
services are now able to offer patients a better continuity of care. “Continuity of care is vital to the healing process, and being close to home is important to the patients,” said Ms. Lutter. The Certified Wound, Ostomy, Continence specialty is for multi-disciplinary wound care, accredited by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society – an international professional nursing society. Ms. Lutter’s training brings the latest in evidence-based ostomy treatment to MGH&FC, making it possible for patients to start a course of treatment without having to travel out of the area. “Nobody in our community should have to suffer with a chronic wound that won’t heal or attempt to treat it themselves at home when professional treatment is so close by,” Ms. Lutter added. With a doctor’s referral, patients with a chronic wound or ostomy can begin treatment with Ms. Lutter immediately. For further information or to set up an appointment, call MGH&FC Wound Care Services at (360) 432-3285. News Briefs continued on page 14...
“CPR/First Aid class” in June The CPR/First Aid class size is limited to 16 per class, and an early, non-refundable registration fee of $25 (exact cash or check) is required. At the end of the class a “course completion card” will be available. It is open to the entire community, and a Spanish interpreter can be made available on request. Comfortable clothing is recommended. When: Thursday evening, June 13, from 5 to 9 p.m. Where: MGH&FC Learning Center, next to McDonald’s on Olympic Highway North. Registration: Advanced registration is required by June 10, by calling the Learning Center at (360) 427-3609. Note: Books will be made available prior, during, and after the course and may be purchased for an additional $20.
“Living Well with Diabetes” in September A two-day class in diabetes self-management. When: Tuesday and Wednesday, September 17 & 18 (6 - 9 p.m.) Where: Skokomish and Washington Meeting Rooms at MGH Registration: Advanced registration is required by calling Sue Barwick, R.N., C.D.E., at (360) 426-1611, ext. 28941 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614, ext. 28941). Note: Diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans.
community Local author unveils Hospital history book at National Hospital Week Renowned, local author Carolyn Maddux made an appearance during
the National Hospital Week celebration at Mason General Hospital in May to talk about her latest book, Care: A Hospital for Mason County – a 230page soft-cover book based on the history of local healthcare from the early 1900’s. She also had two book signings.
The inspiration for this book came from recently retired Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics Chief Executive Officer Bob Appel, whose mother-in-law showed him a small book from the hospital where she grew up in Desmet, South Dakota. Bob brought the book to his Board of Commissioners and asked if they thought a similar publication, to capture the rich history of Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics, and healthcare in general, had merit. The Board readily agreed. As MGH&FC neared completion of its Campus Renewal Construction Project, it seemed a fitting tribute to the many people who have contributed so much over the years to the success of our community’s healthcare.
Carolyn Maddux is a writer, teacher, and journalist. Virtually a lifelong County resident, she spent 25 years with the Shelton-Mason County Journal as a reporter and editor covering local government, health, and the courtsand-cops beat, before her stint as managing editor. She teaches creative writing at Olympic College in Shelton, writes poetry, and co-wrote Nita’s Cooking with local businesswoman, Nita Bariekman. She and her husband, a semi-retired Episcopal priest, have operated Very, Ltd. Antiques in Shelton for eight years. They enjoy travel, cooking, and gardening – and she blogs about evergreens and dahlias for Lynch Creek Farm. Mrs. Maddux also serves on the Board of Hypatia-in-theWoods, a small foundation supporting women in the arts, academia, and small business. From 1999 to 2007, she was co-convener of Write in the Woods, the Olympic College Shelton Writers’ Conference. Earlier, she spent eight years on the Shelton School District Board of Directors. Photos courtesy of Cooper Studios.
The main intent for the book was to write a story of healthcare in Mason County that would be a story about people: the patients who are served, and the teams of healthcare professionals who, through their patience, perseverance, and compassion, have laid the foundation for a sound and thriving healthcare network that serves the entire community. In addition, the Commissioners wanted the story of the people told in its context of time – encapsulating the history and evolution of healthcare, its development in Mason County – and in the context of the larger community served. “The desire was to capture the fabric of the community, of the Hospital District, and of the integral part that healthcare plays in the community,” said Mrs. Maddux. Her book is available for purchase at MGHF’s Auxiliary Gift Shop at a cost of $19.95 plus tax.
Chronic or severe wound?
Need Ostomy or Continence special care? Don’t suffer any longer. Stay close to home when your physician refers you to MGH&FC Wound Care Services. Call (360) 432-3285.
Heart attacks down, survival up
The incidence of heart attacks declined by 24 percent from 1999 to 2008, according to a study of data from 46,000 Kaiser Permanente Northern California members. During the same period, the number of patients alive 30 days after a heart attack increased by 24 percent. [SOURCE: “Heart attacks decreasing, survival increasing,” Coronary Heart Disease, Johns Hopkins White Papers, 2011 (NEJM, June 10, 2010] S C O P E 11
hola Emergencia de los Ojos: que hacer
Las emergencia de los ojos requieren
atención médica inmediata y a veces, primeros auxilios.
Químicos Enjuague el ojo inmediatamente con agua por 15 minutos. Esto se puede hacer en el lavabo o echándose agua de un contenedor limpio. No retrase hacer esto por quitarse los lentes de contacto; el enjuagarse hará que los lentes salgan. No se ponga vendaje en el ojo.
Manteniendo una buena circulación Es esencial para el buen cuidado de los pies el mantener una buena
circulación de la sangre. Usted puede mantener una buena circulación de la sangre hacienda lo siguiente; corriendo, caminando, andando en bicicleta, o manteniendose active. Subir los pies arriba lo mas posible cuando este sentado o acostado hacienda algunos ejercicios de estiramiento después de estar sentado por un periodo largo de tiempo. teniendo un masaje de pies algunas veces. tomando un baño tibio de pies y evitando zapatos apretados. . [SOURCE: Carol Eustice, “Guide to foot care and foot problems,” About.com Arthritis and Joint Conditions, updated May 25, 2006]
Objetos No se rasque el ojo. En vez de eso deje que las lágrimas del ojo saquen lo que tiene dentro o utilice una solución de lágrimas artificiales. Trate de levantar el parpado de arriba y el de abajo. Si todavía tiene la partícula ahí, mantenga los ojos cerrados, ponga un vendaje ligero y busque asistencia médica.
Las personas con fibrilación arterial, y ritmo anormal en la cámaras superiores del corazón, tienen un mayor riesgo de sufrir una embolia, y es por eso que se les receta un medicina anticoagulante oralmente como el Coumadin, Pradaxa o Xarelta.
Golpe en el ojo Ponga una compresión fría o bolsa de hielo ligeramente presionando. Aplicar una compresa fría o una bolsa de hielo suavemente sin presión. Si tienes dolor o visión deteriorada, busque atención médica inmediatamente..
Un estudio danés encontró que pacientes que tomaban anticoagulantes no solo tenían menor riesgo de embolia sino que además embolias menos severas, hospitalizaciones más cortas y una mortalidad menor de 30 días, comparado a las personas que no toman anticoagulantes. Estos pacientes también tenían más sangrado y un mayor número de embolias de hemorragia intracraneal; aun así los investigadores concluyeron que en general hay más beneficio en utilizar anticoagulantes.
Cortes y perforaciones Si tiene un objeto atorado en el ojo, no se lo quite y no se lave el ojo. Cúbralo con la parte de debajo de un papel cortado y busque ayuda médica inmediatamente.
[SOURCE: Daniel M. Keller, Ph.D., “AF patients taking oral anticoagulants have milder strokes,” Medscape Medical News, December 11, 2012 (8th World Stroke Congress, Abstract 921, October 12, 2012]
[SOURCE: American Optometric Association, “Protecting your eyes at work.”]
Estudios realizados en la comunidad sub-tropical de Nambour,
Bajo riesgo de embolia con medicinas
Estudios muestran los beneficios del bloqueador de sol Queensland Australia han documentado que los beneficios del bloqueador de sol en prevenir varios tipos de cáncer de piel.
We are proud to be a tobacco-free facility. Please – no smoking or chewing tobacco on our campus. Thank you! 12 12 SSCCOOPPEE
Las personas que utilizan bloqueador regularmente tenían un número más reducido de carcinoma de células escamosas y la queratosis actínica que usualmente le proceden. Cuando las personas fueron estudiadas por 8 años más, los niveles de carcinoma de células escamosas disminuyeron a un 40 por ciento. Otro estudio del mismo grupo encontró un rango bajo de melanomas entre las personas que utilizaban bloqueadores regularmente. [SOURCE: Emily Altman, M.D., “A response to the recent USPSTF updates on skin cancer prevention counseling guidelines,” Rash Decisions blog, January 9, 2012]
building Hospital’s two-year Campus Renewal and Construction Project completed included expanding the Diagnostic Imaging Department with the addition of an open MRI unit, and the upgrading and modernization of the Emergency Department. Patient rooms were also updated, the Auxiliary Gift Shop enlarged, new meeting rooms added, and the cafeteria was expanded to what is now called the “Bistro in the Basement”.
New Main (South) Entrance at night.
“The ground breaking in April 2011 was an exciting time for our community. With an extremely favorable economic climate for construction, we had an extraordinary opportunity to make these high-priority improvements through the Federal stimulus’ Build America Bonds program, and therefore did not need a voter-approved bond. The Campus Renewal Project was completed under budget and ahead of schedule, and this was because of our incredible team of staff members and physicians,” said Scott Hilburn, Hospital Board commissioner. “These continued on page 14…
New Main (South) Entrance interior.
During the month of May, the staff, physicians, and
administration of MGH&FC celebrated the end of the two-year “Campus Renewal and Construction Project”, which began in April of 2011. The first phase of the two-phase project was completed last August with the opening of a 20,000 square-foot, state-ofthe-art Surgery Wing comprised of Outpatient Services, a Post Anesthesia Care unit, three new operating suites, two endoscopy rooms, a central sterilization area, a lab draw station, and surgery support space. A new Main Entrance was also built, and upgrades were made to the nurses’ stations and inpatient rooms in the Medical/Surgical/Pediatrics unit and The Birth Center. To facilitate a healthy environment and promote activity, a mile-long walking path open to patients, staff, and visitors was added to the campus grounds, named the “Get Out and Go Trail”. Phase 2 of the Project was started in August 2012, and
President of the Hospital Board of Commissioners Scott Hilburn and MGH&FC CEO Eric Moll after cutting the ribbon celebrating the opening of the new Emergency Department.
Carolyn Maddux at the signing of her book, “Care: A Hospital for Mason County” at MGHF’s Gift Shop. S C O P E 13
Stents for symptoms, not protection If you have a narrowed coronary artery that’s causing chest pain and other symptoms, you are likely to get rapid relief after having balloon angioplasty plus insertion of a stent. If you’re more interested in protecting yourself from a future heart attack, though, you’re probably better off using prescribed medications and lifestyle changes, according to results of the COURAGE study. Among 2,287 subjects who had at least one coronary artery severely narrowed by cholesterol-laden plaque, those who had “optimal medical therapy” plus exercise and healthful eating showed results about the same as those undergoing angioplasty. The two groups had similar rates of heart attack, stroke and premature death. The medical therapy included drugs to relieve angina, lower cholesterol and blood pressure and reduce the risk of clotting. [SOURCE: “Medication vs. stents for heart disease treatment,” Harvard Health Publications, updated June, 2007]
Yoga & PT heals
continued from page 5...
For years now, Yoga postures have been incorporated into physical therapy to help injured patients like Porter heal. Physical therapists take classes from other PT’s around the country, or draw on their own personal experience with Yoga to determine what Yoga postures will work best in rehabilitation; although they don’t prescribe it for everyone. “Patients go through a comprehensive physical therapy evaluation to determine if Yoga stretches can be an effective part of their rehabilitation program,” said Sheridan, adding that when they are, modified Yoga postures can help patients reach their goals of decreasing pain, increasing strength and flexibility, and improving posture. Whether someone learns postures through MGH&FC’s Physical Therapy department as part of their personal treatment, or learns how to practice Yoga safely at a health club or Yoga studio, Yoga can be useful in a home exercise program to help maintain and prevent future joint and muscle-related problems. In Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics’ Physical Therapy department, the physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and occupational therapist work together to evaluate the patient’s condition to determine what treatment will be the most effective, and for many patients, that now includes Yoga postures.
News briefs
continued from page 10...
Mtn. View Women’s Health open Wednesday evenings MGH Mountain View Women’s Health (MVWH) is now open late on Wednesday evenings until 7 p.m. Daytime office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays. MVWH is a full-service medical clinic that provides medical treatment for women of all ages with gynecological and obstetrical needs, and is staffed by three board-certified gynecologist/obstetricians Lystra B. Wilson-Celestine, M.D.; Nkem Nwosa, M.D.; and Alford N. Vassall, Jr., M.D. To schedule an appointment call (360) 426-0955.
Campus renewal continued from page 13... improvements will give us the flexibility to respond to future changes in the delivery of local healthcare and assure our continued ability to provide high-quality services. More importantly, hospital services have changed dramatically in the past quarter-century, and MGH&FC is committed to investing in the future of quality healthcare right here, close to home in our community.” “I am overwhelmed and thrilled by the amount of collaboration, teamwork and esprit de corps demonstrated by the staff and physicians during this time,” said Eric Moll, CEO at MGH&FC. “Their support was instrumental in making the transformation of our hospital a reality for all of us. Their work was the absolute key to the success of the Campus Renewal and Construction Project.” To highlight the staff and physicians’ important role in this project, the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in May was held in their honor. “As a hospital district we are very proud of our services, equipment, facilities, and our Campus Renewal and Construction Project,” added Hilburn. “What sets MGH&FC apart from other hospital systems – larger and smaller – is the care provided by our dedicated physicians and staff members. MGH&FC regularly receives notes of appreciation from patients and their families about the high level of quality care they received.”
14 S C O P E
Surgery close OB/Gynecological, Orthopedic, Podiatric, Eye & General Surgery
to home... MGH Shelton Orthopedics (360) 427-0663
MGH Mountain View Women’s Health (360) 426-0955
Lystra B. WilsonCelestine, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
Stephen Ou, D.O. Frederick J. Davis, M.D.
CMYKN. Nkem Nwosa, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
(360) 427-0366
Alford N. Vassall, Jr., M.D. No
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John V. Rice, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S. James A. Wright, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S.
MGH Surgery Clinic (360) 426-4142
Eldie L. Cruz, M.D.
John Clayton, D.O.
Mason General Hospital 901 Mountain View Drive, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584 • Shelton (360) 426-1611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614 CMYK • TTY/TDD: (360) 427-9593 • Equal Opportunity Provider • Translation Services Provided Se habla español www.MasonGeneral.com / Approved by the Joint Commission • Healthcare’s Most Wired Hospital, 2012. S C O P E 15
CMYK
901 Mountain View Drive Shelton, WA 98584
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID OLYMPIA, WA PERMIT NO 78
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In Celebration of 2013 National Hospital Week... We’d like to thank those who have reached “years of service” milestones in 2013: Nwosa, Nkemdilim, MD – Five Years
Alanis, Paulina – LCS Anderson, Janine – Lab Baca, Nanette – HIM Baumgartner, Devra – BC Bennett, Karen – Lab Burbridge, Jill – RT Branscome, Eileen – Admin Bublitz, Logan – Lab Capps, Jennifer – Dev Coleman, Thalia – MSP Conklin, Tina – EH/IC/ Safety/DW Gipe, Robert, MD – Hosp Gonzales, Peggy – HIM Grounds, Kristina – MSP Hyland, Brittney – Ed Lindahl, Carol – PR Lopez, Elena – OBP Marks, Kathleen – ICCU McGinnis, Debbie – DW
MVWH Pizanti, Therese, ARNP – OBP Routson, Brenda – CR Sage, Kristen – CR
Ten Years
Aal, Jon – Pharm Baker, Dan – Lab Bales, Andrew – EVS Chambers, Karen – BC Conley, Rachel – HIM Garrett, Douglas – CNS Henderson-Pierce, Robynn – ICCU Mattson, Candace – NA Nielsen, Susan – MSP Olels, Michael – ER Peters, Rory – RT Peters, Shawn – DI Sherwood, Annette – DI Walker, Pamela – ICCU Waylett, Teena – Mats
Mason General Hospital 901 Mountain View Drive, Shelton, WA 98584 (360) 426-1611, Allyn (360) 275-8614 www.MasonGeneral.com
Forty Years Fifteen Years
Bina, Kathryn – BO Croft, Jeanie – RT Denison, Melanie – PR Olsen, Aliene – EVS Sandoval-Cox, Lisa – DI Strong, Sharon – MSP Watson, Wanda – MSP Webb, Jeannette – BC
Barwick, Susan – DW Stevens, Leila – MSP Williams, Jean – HIM
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Susan Barwick – 40 Years
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Twenty Years Curtis, Sherry – Ed Espino, Arnhild – ICCU Gushee, Terri – HSS Johnson, Tammy – DI Kline, Dee Ann – Lab Olels, Melody – ICCU
40 Samantha King – 25 Years Leila Stevens – 40 Years
King, Samantha – Surg
Thirty Years
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Bell, Geraldine – Lab
Department Abbreviations:
Admin ....Administration BC ..........Birth Center BO ..........Business CNS ........Culinary & Nutrition Services CR...........Central Registration Dev.........Development DI ...........Diagnostic Imaging DW .........Diabetes Wellness Ed ...........Education EH ..........Employee Health ER...........Emergency Room EVS.........Environmental Services HIM ........Health Information Management
SheltonLife ad: 10.25 inches wide x 10.5 inches tall
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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: Mason General Hospital & Family of 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 Mtn. View Drive, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001, (360) 4261611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614. Serving the medical needs of Mason County since 1968. Accredited by The Joint Commission. TTY/TDD: (360) 427-9593. Translation Services Provided. Se habla español. Equal Opportunity Provider. CMYK Administration: Eric Moll, chief executive officer; Dean Gushee, M.D., chief of staff; Scott Hilburn, commissioner/president; Don Wilson and Nancy Trucksess, commissioners.
40 Geraldine Bell – 30 Years Hosp.......Hospitalists HSS ........House IC............Infection Control ICCU .......Intensive Care Unit Lab .........Laboratory LCS .........Language & Cultural Services Mats .......Materials MSP........Med/Surg/Peds MVWH....Mountain View Women’s Health NA ..........Nursing Administration
Jean Williams – 40 Years OBP ........Oakland Bay Pediatrics Pharm ....Phamacy PR ..........Patient Resources RT...........Respiratory Therapy Safety.....Safety Surg .......Surgical Services
Professional Way