Renal Capsule 2021 3rd Quarter

Level II 2015 ISSUE 3

JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

NKTI Celebrates Online Urology Week Dr. Art Castro Jr. Research Coordinator, Department of Urology

This year, despite the extended pandemic and its corresponding lockdowns, the Department of Urology of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute celebrated Urology week through hosting four online activities. With the able leadership of Dr. Apolonio Lasala, overall chairman of Urology Week 2021, two symposia and two industry webinars were successfully organized.

The first symposium was held last August 18, 2021. It was a webinar on focal therapy for prostate cancer. The event was conceptualized by Dr. Jose Benito Abraham who laid down the framework for the scientific meeting.

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WHAT'S INSIDE?

HEMB at the Helm, p.3

Nutrition Month Celebration, p.4

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Renal Throb. p.5 NKTI Spotlight, p.6

Health and Wellness p.7 JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

THE RENAL CAPSULE ISSUE 3

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NKTI Celebrates Online Urology Week Dr. Jose Vicente Prodigalidad and Dr. Arturo Castro Jr. invited world renowned experts on this treatment modality. Our country’s pioneer on cryotherapy and MRI-fusion biopsy of the prostate, Dr. Jason Letran spoke on the the role of MRI fusion biopsy as a spring board to focal therapy of the prostate. Dr. Murugesan Manoharan, Chairman of Miami Cancer Institute’s Section of Urologic Oncology talked about the selection criteria for focal therapy, evaluation of treatment success and failure, and limitations of focal therapy.

Professor Samuel Yee of the Chinese University of Hong Kong talked about the different modalities of focal therapy.

Our very own Chief of Urologic Oncology, Dr. Rudolfo De Guzman delivered an industry sponsored lecture on treatment of castrate resistant prostate cancer. The symposium was moderated by our Uro-Onco alumnus Dr. Marlo Vir Batucan who adeptly controlled the lively discussion, navigating between the audience and the speakers. It was graced by the present President of the Philippine Urological Association, Dr. Ernesto Gerial, Jr. This activity garnered 196 attendees from all over the Philippines and from 6 other Countries: USA, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Australia.

The second symposium was held on August 20, 2021. The event was coordinated by Dr. Glen Santok. The topic of the second scientific meeting was multimodality imaging and genomics in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Local experts were invited to share their knowledge on the topic. Dr. Jamilla Gomez talked about the role of PSMA PET CT scan in the primary diagnosis of prostate cancer.

These events proved that our local speakers can be at par if not better than their foreign counterparts.

Despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic the Department of Urology under the guidance of their chairman, Dr. Genlinus Yusi, is proving its resilience and adaptability by holding activities that celebrate the art and craft of Urology in a safe and effective manner using online platforms. These activities were made freely accessible to all attendees with the help of industry sponsors. Proceeds of the funds raised from the sponsors will also be used in the assistance of our indigent patients.

We hope to celebrate Uroweek next year in a COVID free world. But for the meantime, let us all be vigilant, get vaccinated, wear masks and observe social distancing.

NKTI is now PGS Compliant (Stage II)

NKTI's Commitment to Performance Excellence

The second stage of the Performance Governance System (PGS) centers on strategy execution.

By attaining the Compliant Stage, NKTI has been able to secure its performance commitments by way of cascading and harmonizing deliverables to a performance incentive mechanism and managed these activities through the Strategy Management Division.

Sustained ISO - Integrated Management System The NKTI was able to maintain its International Accreditation, ISO - Integrated Management System by successfully merging the components of business into one system which includes ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management, ISO 14001: 2015 Environment Management, and OHSMS 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management. The integration of these internal management practices into one system is a testament of the Institute’s commitment on performance excellence.

HR PRIME Level II Accredited As a result of the Level II assessment, NKTI has satisfactorily implemented the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Human Resource Management Systems / Program. With this mechanism, it will continuously capacitate NKTI in the performance of its human resource management functions; recognize best practices in the various areas of human resource management; and serve as a venue for exchange and development of expertise in human resource management aligned with the Philippine public service. Notably, the NKTI is now authorized to take final actions on appointments.

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JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

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HEMB at the Helm: 2021 Disaster Awareness Month

by Dr. Aldwin A Yaneza,Head / HEMB

The month-long celebration of this year's Disaster Awareness Month began with the Monday Flag raising ceremony last June 28, 2021, hosted by the HEMB unit. The theme for this year was “Tamang Pamamahala’t Kahandaan at Pagtutulungan sa Sakuna at Pandema’y Kalasag ng Bayan.” During this kick-off ceremony, the HEMB unit showed a short video of all its activites since I assumed as head last 2015.

Also, the Asst. Coordinator Tet Bautista also announced the activities lined up for the month.

We started with a Public Health Emergency Preparedness zoom online lecture last July 8 2021 entitled “Are You Prepared?.” This was delivered by Dr. Duds Raymond Santos, a Medical officer from PNP. In his lecture, the following objectives were addressed: 1] To understand and prepare for possible disasters and 2] To be able to plan, mitigate the effect of potential disaster incidents. Dr. Santos also shared the Survival Kit Bag or Go-Bag and its essential contents.

Last June our Building Administrator, Engr AJ Sonza, initiated several sessions of Fire Extinguisher Use Drill at the Eden Garden, which was attended by Operating Room staff. We plan to hold these drills until we have taught not only the healthcare workers but also the office employees and ancillary services personnel. Remember HEMB’s thrust: Prevention is better than cure. We are here to remind that we need to further equip ourselves with best practices on how we survive and how we can

Always Prepared: NKTI HEMB Team help others in times of needs most especially during this pandemic.

In July, DOH also commemorated the Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation ( CPR ) Week. In line with this event, the IANAHP conducted a Mass CPR/BLS update last July 16 2021 with Dr. Bernadette Velasco, HEMB of East Avenue Medical Center, as resource speaker.

Dr. Velasco demonstrated the new guidelines for Mass CPR.

After her zoom lecture, this was proceeded by the Mass CPR for BLS renewal of our healthcare workers (nurses, nurse aides, and doctors) which was well participated.

This event was headed by Asst.

Coordinators Tet Bautista and Darlynn del Rosario and ably assisted by the BLS Nurse Trainors.

HEMB shirts were raffled to 30 lucky participants.

Prevention is the key: some of the HEMB activities include Fire Extinguisher Use Drill and Mass CPR for HCWs.

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JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

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ISSUE 3

2021 Nutrition Month Celebration

by Francesca Kae C. Santiago, RND

This year's theme for the 47th Nutrition Month Celebration is "Malnutrisyon Patuloy na Labanan, First 1000 days Tutukan!"

The month-long activity began with a flag-raising ceremony last July 5, 2021, with a recorded video presentation for this year's Nutrition Month theme.

The celebration continued with an exhibit/ panel board display and televised video presentations at the Atrium.

A Nutrition Pantry was also held where various food items such as vegetables, fruits, canned products, biscuits, beverages, and even oral nutritional support (ONS) were made available to a limited number of NKTI employees.

Free teleconsultations were also offered on all Tuesdays of the month as part of NDD's community outreach program and promotion of proper nutrition.

NKTI employees also actively participated in the Nutri-Quiz that was done through the Roundcube. The questions were sent via the Roundcube system and employees sent their answers to the NDD official mobile phone. The first one who sent the correct answer won the round, all while following the provided instructions.

The closing ceremony for the celebration was held at the Claver P. Ramos Auditorium with a "Nutrition Pantry." NDD provided food donations (ayuda) for NKTI employees. An Ayuda Cook-off, a video cooking contest, was held via Zoom. This activity was carried out by the NKTI employees, and the judges included Registered Nutritionist Dieticians from East Avenue Medical Center and University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Medical Center.

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As part of the NDD's thrust to improve their services this pandemic, they now also offer telenutrition services for our outpatients.

JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

THE RENAL CAPSULE ISSUE 3

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Renal Throb

The Renal Throb is a space where NKTI employees share lessons they've learned about life, love, and other important matters. In this issue, nine of our healthcare workers share their struggles and realizations during this pandemic.

As a healthcare worker, this pandemic created lot of day-to-day challenges which I needed to overcome. As an example, I need to ensure to follow strict health protocols from wearing a facemask and faceshield everyday wherever I go, hand sanitizing and practicing physical distancing ultimately for everyone's safety. In addition, I can no longer do the things I previously did to enjoy and unwind such as travelling with family and friends. Lastly, there is that feeling of anxiety a family member might get sick.

What were the challenges you have experienced in the workplace as a healthcare worker during the pandemic?

Saul B. Suaybagu io, MD IM- Resident

Mary Joyce Fernandez Clerk III

The challenges stemmed mostly from one thing: the need for social distancing . Due to this necessity, much was affected ranging from being able to comm unicate with patients to learning from our consultants. Both work and educ ation was compromised, and we've had to look for ways to compensate. Rarely do we see to cases directly in line with our fields since most of our time is spent caring for CoVid patients. Although we do our best, I do worry what lies in store for us in the future. It goes without sayin g the emotional burden has also been heavy.

People from your different circle s contract the illness and, unfortunately, some do succumb to the virus. Those who you've once talked to in person you now see as a name adding to a long list of casu alties. It can be disillusioning how things are barely getting better despite everyone exerting everything, sacrificing as much as they can, to improve the situtation . But it's also haunting how, if we stop now, things would only get worse.

Caliboso SG Menardo m co th or N Nagkacovid po ako, moderate noong Sept

2020

Rowena Maniquiz Philcare

pinaiwas ko ang aking mga kamag anak na makipagkita muna upang maiwasan ang pagkahawa hawa, nagsakripisyo sa pinasyal na aspeto pero sinuportahan naman ako ng aking aking kapatid dahil almost 1 month ako naconfine at naquarantine

Nagkaron po ako ng takot sa bawat araw para sa sarili at sa pamilya ko.

Despit e all uncer the taintie s a unex nd pecte d chang es w e fa now, ce let us try to kind be to ea ch ot her.

Payo ko po sa kanila, dapat nandun parin ang pag iingat, huwag magpupuyat, magpahinga ng maayo s at wasto, kumain ng maayos. Kung dumating ang punto na may nararamdaman na sila, huwag mahihiyang lumapit sa ospital para maagapan at mabigyan ng wasto ng gamot at pag aalaga.

iguez, MD Hazel Rodr hrologist ep N lt du A

What would you like to say to your fellow health workers who are going through challenges this pandemic?

z Daisy Lope OPS , se ur N d Hea

Buenafe Dela Cruz IPCC Nurse My fellow NKTI, we being a family working and striving together, facing this Pandemic is far from over.

Please don't forget to smile and thank God for the life we have.

Sander S. Sa ntos NKTI-EAHW Keep safe and inform OSH if they have symptoms of COVID-19.

Joel Majuk nician Radiologic Tech Always follow the safety protocols, Stay Safe always and PLEASE PRAY for our GUIDANCE!

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Lanie Za rate Nursing Attenda nt

We have to be united and fight as one to win this battle against this unseen enemy

As the slogan says ”We Heal As One” This means we have to protect one another. knowing today will never come again. Let's all be a blessing, be a friend, and Let's all take time to care.

JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

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NKTI SPOTLIGHT The NKTI Spotlight showcases the story and journey of leaders and employees at the NKTI which will serve as a source of motivation and encouragement to others to develop a strong commitment to public service.

Dr. Concesa Casasola:

THE NKTI’S “RESEARCH” GATEKEEPER We all know her as “Dra. Connie” or “Dra. Con” since 1998 when she entered the NKTI as an Adult Nephrology Fellow alongside with her batch-mates, Dr. Ernesto Gerial, Dr. Joben Abraham, and Dr. Sergio Simangan. Notably, her entry, as a first year fellow could be traced back during the time when part of the Lung Center of the Philippines has caught fire and the NKTI was gravely affected.

Research has been very close to her heart. This is rooted when she became the Chief Fellow of Adult Nephrology and chosen to be the research assistant of former Executive Director, Dr. Enrique T. Ona. Back then, the NKTI was the only hospital in the Philippines to do research on the immunosuppressive drug in kidney transplantation.

Since then, Dr. Casasola has been engaged with the research activities of the NKTI. In 20012002, she was designated as a Research Associate to help Dr. Romina Danguilan in the Institute’s Research Committee and was concurrently assigned as the Industrial Clinic Physician.

Later on, she formally joined the NKTI workforce as an Active Consultant of Adult Nephrology.

She also became the Head of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Education and Counseling Clinic

of the Adult Nephrology, and together with her mentors, crafted a program to improve the outcome of CKD patients by providing planned educational pathways, which will enable patients to comprehend the disease process and treatment.

Dr. Casasola continues doing research as well as supervising the conduct of the Institute’s researches as a Research Associate from 2002 to 2007, and during this time, the Technical Review Board (TRB) and Research Ethics Committee (REC) were created with the aim of ensuring quality research output and of course, in further realizing the mandate of the Institute as a research institution.

With these continuous developments, in 2009, the Clinical Trial and Research Unit (CTRU) was institutionalized until it officially became a Division, with its own human resource complement and budgetary provisions in 2018. Her passion and commitment have become vital in developing the NKTI’s research arm alongside with her mentors.

In her 23 years of service, Dr. Casasola has seen and experienced the progress of the Institute and its journey of becoming the premier hospital for kidney and urologic diseases, and organ

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transplantation. She considers NKTI as her “second home” because since her fellowship training, this is the only hospital where she practice and grew professionally and personally.

Most of her time are spent a lot at the NKTI. She even jokingly expressed that “maybe NKTI is my first home because I stayed more here than in my house and considered the proximity of my workplace in buying our house.”

Dr. Casasola witnessed and experienced the story of NKTI from its lowest point to its rising to the top as she went through six (6) leadership, from the time of Dr. Filoteo Alano to the present Executive Director, Dr. Rose Marie O. Rosete-Liquete.

Dr. Casasola is looking forward to the future of NKTI and very proud to be part of this excellent and innovative team.

JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

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Health and Wellness: Creating an Ergonomic Workplace

by Physical Medicine and Rehab Section

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Section (PMRS) sees and treats employees who experience various musculoskeletal pains (eg: upper back pain, low back pain, knee pain, etc.). More than 50% of them are diagnosed with low back pain and undergo rehabilitation. Among the causes of their low back pain are poor body posture and improper body mechanics.

Body mechanics is the use of one’s body to produce motion that is safe, energy conserving, anatomically and physiologically efficient. Proper body mechanics helps maintain good balance and control. Good posture is an easy and very important way to maintain a healthy mind and body. When you practice correct posture, your body is in alignment with itself. This can alleviate common problems such as back or neck pain, headaches, and fatigue. In addition, being in good general health and standing (or sitting) tall will also boost your bearing and self confidence.

Let's get physical: The Lifestyle Medicine Program sends through NKTI roundcube their exercise videos weekly to encourage employees live a healthy and fit lifestyle.

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JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2021

THE RENAL CAPSULE

ISSUE 3

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IN MEMORIAM The Renal Capsule pays tribute to them through the words of those whom they have worked with at NKTI. They left an indelible mark at the hearts of those who knew and treasure them most-- their families, friends, and co-workers.

Dr. Ferdinand Caguete May 10, 1960 - September 14, 2021

General and Interventional Radiologist.

Dr. Caguete lived an admirable and adventurous life. He was a faithful family man, a doting husband to his wife and father to his children, keen on sharing life’s joys and adventures through his many travels. He was a compassionate physician, and a generous soul who likes to experience happiness by sharing with others. We are thankful for the time he spent with us, and are grateful for his service and commitment since the early years of the department. He has been with us through many accomplishments and challenges alike, and we will always be thankful for his influence and impact to both our professional and personal lives. He will be greatly missed, and never forgotten.

Edwin P. Marcelo Nov 12, 1964 - May 4, 2021

Storekeeper IV Edwin rose from the ranks as Nursing Attendant in 1993 to Storekeeper IV assigned at the Property Division. He served with dedication in NKTI for 26 years.

mission

We are a healthcare institution that provides compassionate and quality care for all patients with renal and allied diseases, urologic conditions, and transplantation.

vision

To be the premier center for renal health and transplantation adhering to the highest standards of patient care, training, and research.

core values

Excellence Visionary Service with Integrity and Compassion

National Kidney and Transplant Institute

nkti.gov.ph

Sakit sa bato, sagot nandito...NKTI kaagapay mo!

East Avenue, Quezon City 1101, Philippines

8-981-0300/ 8-981-0400

pro@nkti.gov.ph

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