December 2025 Vital Signs

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December 2025 VITAL

In This Issue:

Committee Updates:

Dietician's Corner: Holiday Tips

December Wellness Challenge

Safety Committee Update

Mental Health Minute

Outpatient Schedule/Providers

Provider Spotlight: Dr. Adams Programs/Department Updates

HCMH Teammates:

Employee EAP Options

Current Available Positions

REACH Program

New Teammate Spotlight

Calendar of Events

Shout Outs/Anniversaries

HCMH Café Menu

Join Us For The Employee Recognition Banquet on December 9th! (We will serve both lunch and dinner and be handing out longevity & WOW awards)

Healthy Plate Meals

Dec 2nd: Mediterranean Power Bowls

Dec 16th: Big Mac Salad

Dec 23rd: Spaghetti Squash Ramen

Dec 30th: Avocado Toast

Dietician's Corner

Follow: @TheBalancedEatingRD APPROACHING THE HOLIDAYS WITH HEALTH IN MIND

A lot of people get stuck between wanting to enjoy the holidays and all the delicious food they bring and also wanting to continue to pursue their health goals…and they don’t know how to find that balance or what it looks like.

I have 3 tips for people who are wanting to approach the holidays with health in mind. I find most success with focusing on gentle changes around eating and not being restrictive with food during the holiday

1. Continue to eat consistent, balanced meals leading up to the holiday meal That can be challenging if you are used to cutting out meals/snacks to save calories for your big feast It’s normal to want to leave a little more room than normal to enjoy all the delicious food and desserts but we want to avoid going into the meal too hungry. When we wait too long between eating, and we go into that meal hangry and physically uncomfortable with our hunger, we eat in an urgent matter because our body is literally starving for energy. And when we eat in an urgent matter, we overshoot our fullness and end up overeating by the end of the day

2. Think about what nutrients will be abundant at your holiday meal and fill in the gaps at the meals leading up to your feast. We usually get lots of delicious carbs with potatoes, cookies, rolls and we get rich fats in gravy, butter, and cooking oils Fiber and sometimes protein can be limited Fill your plate at breakfast and lunch with protein foods and foods with fiber and color (AKA fruits and veggies) so by the end of the day, you’ll have all of your nutrition covered

I’d love to help you weed through the nutrition pseudoscience and get to the answer

Reach me at the hospital at

3. Set realistic expectations for how your day with eating is going to turn out. Don’t expect that any holiday is going to be your healthiest day. Overeating a little is normal. Enjoying special food at a holiday is normal. Intentionally shift your mindset so you can feel comfortable with the choices you’re making and don’t end up disappointed by the end of the day. Your holiday meal is 1 out of 1,095 meals you eat in a year. It’s perfectly acceptable to relax your health goals for that one meal or day and pick them right back up again the next time you eat.

Wishing you a Happy Holiday Season!

Wellness Challenge update

December Wellness Challenge

December’s wellness challenge will focus on journaling or reflecting on 2025. At least once per week during the month of December take a few minutes and write or think about how your year went or what you want for today.

Need a Few Prompts?

Gratitude:List three things you are grateful for today

Self-reflection:Describe a moment when you felt truly alive or proud of yourself. Goal-oriented:What is one thing you can do today that you couldn't do a year ago? What new habits have you formed?

Self-compassion:How do you handle setbacks? How can you be kinder to yourself?

Mindfulness:What activities bring you joy that also support your health?

Reminder: When you complete your Wellness Challenge email Jen DeWinter at jenniferd2@humboldthospital.org. Thank you to all of you for your support during the November Wellness Challenge!

We raised over $790 and donated much needed items to the Humboldt County Food Pantry.

Code Alert - How To Guide

Different codes happen throughout the hospital on any given day, these are unplanned events so knowing what to do “in the moment” is vital.

In the event of a Code Alert

1. Push the button on your phone for OVERHEAD PAGE

2.Announce the code three times with “Code Alert” only at the beginning

Say

“Code Alert” > [the code that is needed] > [location of the code]

Examples

“Code Alert” > Clinical Assistance Needed > 2nd Floor Therapy

“Code Alert” > Fire > Long Term Care

CODE ALERTS

Fire Emergency

Clinical Assistance Needed

Code Blue

Thunderstorm Warning

Tornado Watch

Tornado Warning

All Clear

Disaster Alert

Missing Adult/Child/Infant

Trauma Alert

Bomb Threat

Hazardous Chemical Alert

Active Shooter Assistance Needed

MEANING

Fire

Clinical Help Needed

Cardiac/Resp Arrest

Thunderstorm Warning

Tornado Watch

Tornado Warning

All Clear

Disaster

Missing Person

Trauma Activation

Bomb Threat

Decon Team Needed

Person with Weapon

Men/Security Needed

Mental Health minute

Steadying Yourself Before the Holidays Begin

As the year winds down, many people feel their stress rise. Schedules tighten, daylight decreases, family demands surface, and routines get disrupted. Before stepping into the intensity of the holiday season, November offers a quiet window to pause and stabilize your mental health.

Why November Matters

Shorter days can affect mood and energy

Seasonal stressors begin to build

People often slip out of healthy routines

Early planning reduces emotional overload in December

Three Ways to Stay Grounded This Month

1. Set One Non-Negotiable Boundary

Identify one limit that protects your time or mental energy Examples:

“I won’t take on extra commitments after 6 pm”

“I will only attend gatherings that feel supportive” Small boundaries prevent major burnout.

2. Create a ‘Holiday Plan’ for Your Well-Being

A simple 5–10 minute plan can make a significant difference. Consider:

Who drains versus who supports you

What financial, emotional, or time pressures you need to moderate

Which activities genuinely matter—and which can go A plan reduces the reactionary holiday scramble.

3. Lean Into Light

With shorter daylight hours, purposefully add brightness to your routine:

Morning light exposure for 10 minutes

Keep blinds open during the day

Use warm indoor lighting in the evening

Light has a direct impact on mood regulation.

A Thought for November

You don’t need to over perform this season. Protect your energy now so you can enter the holidays with clarity, steadiness, and room to breathe.

Our Promise

- Accurate information you can trust

- Real voices from local professionals

- Content that encourages connection, not comparison

Connect

With Us

Follow us on TikTok for professional, practical, and positive mental health content straight from the experts who live and work right here in Humboldt County

TikTok: @hcmhmentalhealth

HCMH – Mental Health & Wellness Phone: 515-332-7672

OUR TEAM

Dr. Ryan C. Lee (Psychiatrist)

Candace Trenary

Laurie Dobrinich (Telehealth Services)

Because your mental health deserves more than viral trends — it deserves trusted support, right here at home.

Lee MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC (Med. Management)

Megan Douglas
Brittany Allen
Nicole
Emily Anderson

Congratulations Dr. Ryan C. Lee

HCMH Psychiatrist, Dr. Ryan C. Lee, Achieves ABPN Board Certification

Humboldt County Memorial Hospital (HCMH) is proud to announce that Psychiatrist Dr. Ryan C. Lee, has successfully passed the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) board certification examination in Psychiatry.

Board certification through the ABPN is a rigorous, nationally recognized credential that demonstrates a physician’s advanced expertise, commitment to evidence-based practice, and dedication to delivering the highest standard of mental health care.

Dr Lee provides comprehensive psychiatric care for adults ages 18 Mental Health & Wellness Center, where he is currently accepting new patients He treats the full spectrum of mental health conditions, including:

Depression

Anxiety disorders

Bipolar disorder

Schizophrenia

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

And other mental health and mood disorders

“Achieving board certification is an important step in ensuring my patients receive the very best care,” said Dr Lee “I’m honored to serve the Humboldt community and to support individuals in their mental health journeys with compassion and evidence-based treatment”

HCMH leadership commended Dr. Lee on his accomplishment, noting that his expertise strengthens the hospital’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality behavioral health services in the region

Patients interested in scheduling an appointment with Dr. Lee may contact the HCMH Mental Health & Wellness Center at 515-332-7672.

In an effort to provide specialized health care locally, HCMH offers patient access to many traveling healthcare providers. Many of the tests and procedures ordered by these providers can be done right here in Humboldt for your convenience

BenBecker, MSMSc,PA-C

Emile Li, MD

MicheleKoerner,

Starr Banwell, HIS Audiology/Hearing

SarahTofilon,MD

Gastroenterology

Lacy Halsrud, ARNP OB/GYN

Ericha Worple, DO

Darren Croo, MD

DR. ADAMS

GASTROENTEROLOGIST

In an effort to provide specialized health care locally, HCMH offers patient access to many traveling healthcare providers. Just ask, “Can I be seen in Humboldt?”.

Acid

Chronic

Abdominal

Colonoscopy

Constipation

Crohn's Disease

Dysplasia

Endoscopy

Hepatitis Treatment

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

IBS

Liver Disease

Swallowing

Disorders

HCMH Team Updates

HCMH

Receives 2 National Awards:

Excellence in Patient Experience and Rural Health Performance

Humboldt County Memorial Hospital has received two major national recognitions, reflecting the exceptional work each of you do every single day

Excellence in Patient Experience Award – NRC Health

Out of 190 eligible critical access hospitals across the country, HCMH—along with only two other hospitals received the 2025 Excellence in Patient Experience Award This recognition highlights our outstanding performance in patients’ “Would Recommend Facility” ratings and Real-time Net Promoter Scores between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025

This award directly reflects what our patients experience when they walk through our doors: compassion, respect, communication, and trust

2025 Performance Leadership Award – The Chartis Center for Rural Health

I am also proud to announce that HCMH has earned a 2025 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Quality / Outcomes / Patient Perspective from The Chartis Center for Rural Health

This award recognizes hospitals performing in the top quartile nationwide (75th percentile or above) in key areas that influence patient care and operational excellence The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX® an objective, industry-respected framework used nationwide to measure rural hospital performance

These achievements belong to all of you

Thank you for living our promise and for the meaningful work you do for our patients, residents, and community Your commitment to exceptional care is the reason HCMH continues to be recognized on a national level

Thank you for all you do!

HCMH Team Updates

A Meaningful Last Wish Fulfilled

Earlier this month, our Long Term Care team had the privilege of helping fulfill a very meaningful last wish for one of our hospice residents His request was simple, heartfelt, and deeply connected to his life story: he wanted to get back in a plane one more time

With the teamwork of our compassionate HCMH staff and the generosity of a local pilot, that wish became a reality. Not only did he return to the sky—he even had the chance to take the controls one last time. The flight took place on Veterans Day, making the moment even more significant.

Following the experience, we received a message from his family that beautifully captures what this meant to them:

“My heart is so full of gratitude and joy for this amazing gift that you and your staff gave to my dad! My nephew said the pilot let him take the controls for a bit! This is such a special memory that all us kids and grandkids and great grandkids will remember forever. Truly, I can’t thank you enough. And to think this took place on Veteran’s Day!! I have no more words… just so grateful for this memory!”

Thank you to everyone involved for showing what compassionate, patient-centered care truly looks like Moments like these remind us why our mission matters and how powerful it can be to honor the people we serve.

Radiology Expansion Update

As we get closer to bringing on vascular ultrasounds, we need to make some temporary adjustments to create additional space.

Our regular ultrasound patients will now be seen across the hall from Radiology in one of the offices This temporary move will allow the maintenance team to complete internal construction in Radiology to accommodate both ultrasound machines We anticipate this work taking approximately 4–5 weeks.

Patients will continue to register as usual and wait in the Radiology waiting room. Kelly will escort them from the waiting room to the temporary ultrasound space.

Please keep in mind that patients will now be seen closer to the main hallway, so we ask everyone to limit conversations and noise in that area whenever possible

Additionally, Nicole Hoag (Social Worker) will be moving one office to the east (toward the front). Her current office is slightly larger and will provide the needed space for the ultrasound setup.

PROGRAM

Thank you for your patience and flexibility as we continue to grow and enhance the services we provide to our community.

CATCH

GO

Great Catch Award!

Congratulations to Kristi Stein, Pharmacy Technician, on receiving the HCMH Good Catch Award!

D

Kristi’s proactive review and attention to detail led her to identify and correct an error, taking important steps to enhance safety for our patients. Her quick thinking and initiative truly embody our values making patient safety our number one priority.

Thank you, Kristi, for your dedication to excellence and for always going above and beyond for our patients and team!

A CULTURE OF SAFETY

Enhancing a culture of safety is a priority for HCMH. This new program will highlight opportunities for improvement in the delivery of patient care and place a positive connotation to reporting and investigating “near misses”.

A “Good Catch” is the recognition of an event that could have been harmful to a patient, but was prevented.

NEARMISSEXAMPLES

CAUTION: WET FLOOR!

An employee notes that the hallway floors have just been mopped, but there is no wet floor sign They locate one and place it in the hallway

LAB TEST

An employee notices ink smears on the label of a specimen, making it difficult to read She replaces it with a legible label before sending it to the lab

RESPONSE TO A GOOD CATCH

CATCH GO D PROGRAM

MEDICINE INFO

A nurse is preparing to administer an injection, but prior to administration, sees that the medication has expire

PRIVACY CONCERN

A set of EKG strips with a patient’s private information is lying on a worktable An employee spots and conceals it before harm occurs

Events that are classified as “near misses” may not routinely be reported because of time restraints and the belief that they are not of value when, in fact, they are opportunities to learn, implement safer practices, and celebrate

All “Good Catches” or “Near Misses” should be reported in QSTATIM alyssar@humboldthospital.org

QSTATIM reminder

Here is a reminder of a few things to report in QSTATIM...

ADMISSIONS

Report in QSTATIM if you have a patient leave AMA (Against Medical Advice)

EMPLOYEE

INJURY

Report in QSTATIM if an employee is injured while working.

MEDICATION

Medication incident (not following the 5 right). Right patient, time, dose, medication, or route.

SERVICE RECOVERY

If you utilized service recovery - make sure to report in QSTATIM..

FALLS

Report in QSTATIM if you witness a patient, visitor, or employee fall.

I.V. TUBES

Report in QSTATIM if IV infiltrates, PICC not flushing properly.

PATIENT INJURY

Report in QSTATIM if a patient/tenant is injured.

Reminder your password in QSTATIM expires 360 days from the last time you have logged in.

QUESTIONS ?

Alyssa Reekers, Quality Director alyssar@humboldthospitalorg

What Is The Difference Between Quality and Patient Experience?

Quality

Ensuring we are delivering the BEST care, the BEST results, utilizing the BEST care team and doing the right thing, at the right time, in the right way.

When Should I Contact The Quality Director?

Adverse events

Unplanned changes in care

Seeking clarification on policies, safety or training

When a process doesn’t work or is broken

If you have an idea on any improvement projects: if you notice repeated problems within the organization

Quality Director: Alyssa Reekers

Phone: 515-332-7657

Email: alyssar@humboldthospital.org

Patient Experience

The sum of all interactions our patients have with u HCMH, shaped by our culture that helps us influenc patient perception across their care visits

When Should I Contact The Patient Experience Coordinator?

When a patient/customer is unhappy with their care received

When a patient/customer is unhappy about interactions of those delivering care

When service recovery is needed, but you feel this may be a bigger issue than completing H.E.A.R.T

After a visit, if you feel we did not meet our Promise with the patient

Patient Experience Coordinator: Alison Angstrom

Phone: 515-332-7628

Email: alisona@humboldthospital.org

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free, confidential and short-term counseling to employees or family members as part of their HCMH benefits.

What problems can EAP address?

You can call for any type of concern but most common issues are:

Depression or Anxiety

Child/Adolescent Issues

Grief/Bereavement

Child-Parent Problems

Family, Marriage and other

Relationship Issues

Stress Related Illness

Problems With Co-Workers

Coping With Chronic Illness

Addition (drug, alcohol, gambling, etc.)

Domestic Violence

As an employee of HCMH you are urged to use this confidential consultation program This program provides evaluations, counseling and referral of employees and eligible family members.

We will provide a maximum of one (1) evaluation session and three (3) counseling sessions at the expense of HCMH. When a referral is necessary and appropriate to another discipline or care provider for ongoing therapy, chargers for that professional consultation and/or service is the responsibility of the employee.

Voluntary acceptance of a treatment program will not be a valid reason for continued poor job performance. It will not result in any special regulations, privileges, or exemptions regarding job performance or requirements.

Iowa Department of Education unveils eligible careers for new health care workforce program

The Iowa Department of Education has released details about the professions eligible for the new Health Care Professional Incentive Program, created under House File 972, signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds Wednesday, May 28.

Health Care Professional Incentive Program | Department of Education

This program consolidates five previous health profession loan repayment and recruitment initiatives into a single, streamlined effort to support health care professionals in high-need areas statewide Participants may receive their award as a federal student loan payment or an income bonus, paid annually following each year of qualifying full-time employment, for up to five years

Eligible health care professions and FY26 award allocations

The Iowa College Student Aid Commission and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services have determined these award allocations for fiscal year 2026:

Advanced registered nurse practitioners: 14 awards

Licensed professional counselors (i.e., substance abuse, behavioral disorders, mental health): eight awards

Licensed social workers (qualified to provide mental health counseling): eight awards

Nurse educators: five awards

Occupational therapists: three awards

Physical therapists: 10 awards

Physician assistants: seven awards

Physicians (doctors of medicine and osteopathic medicine): 19 awards

Registered nurses: eight awards

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for the program, applicants must:

Be licensed and employed in an eligible health care profession and practice area within six months of signing the program agreement.

Commit to practicing in a designated high-need community for five years. Eligible geographic practice areas will be published before January 2026.

Not have received funding from previous loan repayment programs.

Application timeline

The application period opens in January 2026.

The deadline for guaranteed consideration is Saturday, Feb 28, 2026

HCMH TUITION REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM

WHY?

We’re here to help you grow! HCMH offers tuition reimbursement for classes, degrees, or certifications that help you build your career and boost your job performance

WHO’S ELIGIBLE?

Full-time employees (36-40 hours/week)

Part-time employees (at least 48 hours/pay period)

Must have worked at HCMH for 6 continuous months

READY TO APPLY?

Reach out to Diane with Human Resources at dianel@humboldthospital.org to learn more or to request an application.

DETAILS

What’s Covered?

Courses must relate to your current role or future opportunities at HCMH and must be preapproved

Reimbursement

Amounts:

Full-Time Employees Up to $1,000/semester Up to $2,000/year

Part-Time Employees Up to $500/semester Up to $1,000/year

Questions?

Reach out to Diane in HR to find out more about this program, 515-332-4200 ext.118

New Team Member update

Sayge Washington

CNA/Med Manager

What Excited You Most About Working at HCMH? Getting to meet new people and my new residents.

Why Did You Choose To Work At HCMH? There are many opportunities for career advancement.

What Does “Company Culture” Mean To You? Morals and values of a company that forms a great work environment.

Rebecca Poron Andres

Why Did You Choose To Work At HCMH? I enjoy helping people and real food is a big part of healing.

What Excited You The Most About Working At HCMH? Teamwork and helping people through food

What Does Success at HCMH Look Like To You? Moving up in my career

Carolyn Olson

Patient Access Rep (OPSC)

What Is A Fun Fact About You? I was 1 of only 2 girls in my graduating class of 10 people.

What Excited You The Most About Working At HCMH? The parttime status and being so close.

What Does “Company Culture” Mean To You? Everyone treats others with respect and also we will know what is expected of us too. Do You Have A Favorite Quote? It’s a good day to have a good day

Why Did You Choose To Work At HCMH? Great work environment and employees

What Excited You The Most About Working At HCMH? The people that work here!

What Is A Fun Fact That Most People Don’t Know About You? “I share a birthday with Baby Spice from the Spice Girls.

OUR PROMISE

You are ALWAYS our priority; the center of our hearts, minds and actions.

Everyone on our care team promises to ALWAYS...

Provide exceptional care by exceeding your expectations

Respect and honor your choices

Reduce your fears and anxieties

Clearly address your concerns

We are privileged to be the dedicated partner in your health and wellness journey

Please Note: Every employee is expected to memorize our promise and be able to recite this with your teammates at Huddle.

OUR VALUES

RESPECT

We will honor others opinions, even if different than our.

We will think of others first

We will listen, acknowledge and be considerate

We are all equal COMPASSION

We will show genuine kindness and concern.

We will be an advocate for our patients and staff.

We will follow the “Golden Rule”

We will show empathy, and be considerate

We honor mind body and spirit

OWNERSHIP

We will be committed, dedicated and loyal.

We will have pride, take initiative and have vision.

We will work with passion and purpose.

We will take personal responsibility to do what is right

INTEGRITY

We will do what is right - even when nobody is watching.

We will tell the truth

We will have courage to uphold our values

We are responsible in how we use our resources

TEAMWORK

We will work hard for our patients and each other.

We will have a winning attitude

We will set differences aside

We will put our patients first

We will work together for common goals

I agree to deliver our Promise to create exceptional experiences by demonstrating the following behaviors -ALWAYS.

Key Team Behaviors

As a teammate of HCMH, I understand that I will...

Avoid negative conversations with my teammates

Take any concerns I cannot manage myself to my Leader

Verbalize appreciation for positive behavior to my teammates

“Tap my badge” to indicate behavior that does not meet our Culture standards

Be open to accepting feedback

Follow department specific action plans

In each interaction ask, “What can I do better?”

Set teammates up for success by anticipating/accommodating teammate needs

Follow the KSBs with my teammates

Key Service Behaviors

COMMUNICATES WITH COMPASSION & CLARITY

Practices active listening skills

Utilizes AIDET communication tool

Expresses key terms at key times

Manages up, while assessing and managing expectations

DEMONSTRATES PROFESSIONALISM AND PRIDE

Greets and initiates conversation using the 10/5 rule with a warm smile, positive tone, and demeanor

Maintains a clean, safe, private, comfortable, and quiet healing environment

RESPONDS WITH TIMELY

CONFIDENCE

Responds to concerns with HEART (Service recovery)

Takes action in the “No Pass Zone”

Demonstrates the “No Point Policy”

Purposefully rounds on patients and team members to manage their expectations

HCMH has been recognized four years in a row by the Des Moines Register as a Top Workplace.

Check out the list of current openings and join our team here at HCMH!

Current Full Time Positions:

Mental Health Counselor

Environmental Services Supervisor

Dietary Cook

Corporate Health RN

Maintenance

Activity Director (LTC)

Physical Therapist

Chief Nursing Officer

Office Coordinator (CMA, LPN or RN)

Speech Therapist

RN/LPN

CMA/LPN

Current Part-Time Positions:

Ambulance Driver

ALS Transport Provider EMT

Registered Nurse in ER (PRN)

Lab Tech - MLT

HCMH Clothing Store (online)

The employee website is the KEY place to gain access to: Your Email ADP (paystubs)

HCMH Store (clothing) IT Help & more!

If you are looking for options to purchase HCMH gear outside of Genevieve's Gift Shop - we have two online stores available each with different options. Please note that dress code still applies (hoodies are not allowed to be worn to work).

Go to: www.humboldthospital.org/employee to view the two online store options.

Maintenance Requests

All maintenance requests need to be submitted to your leader. Each leader has access to our new maintenance request program called, “MaintainX” If you notice something like a leaky faucet, broken door, etc please inform your leader so they can submit a request

IT Help

Having trouble with your HCMH computer, printer, keyboard, email access, time clock, CPSI or Wifi?

Send an email to help@wintechnology.com

Are you looking to help out your fellow employees in times of need and hardship? This is an easy way to help out those people in need. The REACH Program has granted over $6,000 in employee aid over the last 5 years, but we cannot do that without your help.

What is REACH and how does it work?

The REACH Program is a financial assistance program sponsored by the HCMH Foundation. The purpose of the REACH Program is to make funds available to HCMH employees in times of unusual need

To make it work, we ask employees to consider a small gift (suggested amount $2/pay period or $52/year) which is placed into a fund, strictly for employee aid

Confidential applications will be accepted from eligible employees (full or part-time employees who have been employed for at least 12 months) who find themselves in unexpected circumstances and in need of financial assistance A committee reviews the applications for appropriateness of need and grants are made based on that information

Criteria for application and approval

Donations are purely voluntary and making, or not making, a contribution does not affect one’s chances of receiving a grant

Requests to the REACH Program may be submitted as the situation or need warrants Maximum allowable award is $500 with a lifetime cap at $5,000

Criteria considered in evaluating includes:

Unexpected occurrence or specific situation that significantly impacts the personal life of the employee, as well as seriously affecting the ability of the employee to work effectively

Health problems, which result in a depletion of personal PTO and excessive medical bills

Loss of family income

An occurrence that could have been anticipated or avoided by good advance planning or appropriate money management.

Frequency of application.

How are funds distributed?

The HCMH Foundation will make payments directly to the appropriate provider of service, not to the applicant

For example, if help was needed by paying the utility bill the Foundation would write a check directly to the utility company.

How can I contribute?

Contributions can be made in a number of ways:

A one-time check or cash

$2 (suggested) per pay period payroll deduction

One-time payroll deduction gift

Questions - reach out to

This program is funded by employee donations and its intended use is for employees who find themselves in an emergency situation that could not have been anticipated or avoided by good advance planning or appropriate monetary planning.

I wish to participate by contributing:

$ through payroll deduction (ONE-TIME)

$ per pay period for one year (suggested $2/pay period)

$ one-time check or cash Make checks payable to: HCMH Foundation

Please complete the information below:

Name:

Employee #:

Dept. Name:

Date:

Thank you!

Please return form to the HR Office/Mailbox

Questions? Contact Director of Community Development at 515-332-7626.

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION

SAVE THE DATE - DECEMBER 9TH

(TAKING PLACE IN THE HCMH CAFETERIA)

We wanted acknowledge all team members and thank you for all you do to make HCMH such a great place to work! Longevity and WOW awards will also be announced during this time.

Day Shift Will Be Served Lunch (11:45-1PM)

Night Shift Will Be Served Dinner (7-8PM)

LUNCH/DINNER

MENU

Pasta Bar (3 different types) with Garlic Bread and an Olive Garden Style Salad the HCMH way

DECEMBER

Aflac

8AM-11AM Executive ConferenceRoom

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION

(Tuesday, December 9th)

We want to take the time to say thank you for everything you’ve done this past year! Join us for lunch (day shift) at 11:45AM-1PM and dinner (night shift) at 7PM-8PM Longevity and WOW awards will also be announced during this time.

BLS Renewal Class Monday, December 1 @ 5:00pm st Friday, December 12 @ TBD th

(Sign up in the mailroom or email Megan Foth)

AFLAC will be onsite on TUES, 12/2 from 8AM – 11AM in the Executive Conference Room. Please make arrangements to stop by to chat with them if you have current policies or questions about polices.

HCMH

CHRISTMAS coffee

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8TH

FOUNDATION CONFERENCE ROOM

JOIN US FROM 2-4PM

Join us for coffee and holiday treats!

Genevieve's will also be open for Christmas shopping! You don't want to miss out!

Become A Member of the Auxiliary $20 / Year or $200 for Lifetime (pay in Genevieve's or at this event)

Make Checks Payable: HCMH Auxiliary Mail To: 1000 15th St. N. Humboldt, IA

Hope in every bag, strength in every heart

AUXILIARY CAREBAGS

TheHCMHAuxiliaryCareBagsprojectprovides thoughtfullyassembledcarepackagesforindividuals undergoingtreatmentforseriousandlife-threatening illnesses suchascancerandothercriticalconditions.

Eachbagisfilledwithcomfortitemstoliftspiritsand easethetreatmentjourney.

WHYITMATTERS

Acarebagmayseemsmall,butitcanofferamomentofwarmth,relief, andencouragementtosomeonegoingthroughoneofthehardesttimes intheirlife Withyourhelp,wecanletthemknowtheyareseen, supported,andnotalone.

GETINVOLVED

We’dloveyoursupport!Toarrangeadonationdrop-offortocontribute financiallytotheHCMHAuxiliaryCareBags,pleasecontact:

HCMHcarebags@gmailcom

515-332-2492

NOMINATESOMEONEFORACAREBAG

Ifyouknowofsomeonecurrentlyundergoingtreatment-call 515-332-2492withthepersonsname,addressanddisease

ITEMSNEEDED

Chapstick

Kleenex(travelpacks)

SoftBlankets/Quilts

ReusableWater

Bottles

CozySocks

UnscentedLotion

ActivityBooks (crossword,sudoku, etc.)

Books

HardCandy/Dry

MouthLozenges

Hats/Beanies

HandSanitizer

MonetaryDonations (usedtopurchase itemsorgiftcards)

ChecksPayable:

Teammate Shoutouts Parking Spot Winner

"Our family appreciates all of you so much for you excellent care of Dad and Mom! I’m nearly 72 and been in a lot of care centers visiting other family a Yours in Humboldt is the best by far of any I’ve ev Keep up the great work and God bless each and every one

Lili Lechuga reservedFor The Month

Nicole (Lee) is a wonderful provider. She is so great to wo onto better days because of her help! I'm absolutely grateful for her!

Our nurse, Bethany Reiss, was exceptional

She expressed so much empathy for our care She also kept the situation light but completely explained everything occurring . The ER doctor thoroughly explained the diagnosis and allowed our input on the treatment. It was helpful that radiology brought the portable x-ray to the ER. Many thanks for the exceptional care!

I just want to say that the EMS that came to Hardy and got me and took me to Humboldt Hospital. We're very gentle kind explain a lot and showed very goodmannerisms when dealing with me and the staff at the hospital were amazing and I think the girls name was Peyton and she deserve an award HCMH is so fortunate to have both Dr Lewis and Dr Worthington on the ER staff! HCMH has the best ER with a terrific nursing staff to compliment to physicians!

Nursing staff and Dr Worthington were great I didn't even feel Kyra draw my blood

Connie was very courteous and got me out in time to head upstairs for an ekg towards the end of the day.

The radiology department was awesome. They met my last minute request to re-schedule my appointment to an earlier time (10:30) I was even done and out the door before 10:30 Bree was outstanding Professional, yet caring and courteous!

Amanda is great to deal with She makes sure she is covering anything you have concerns about I would definitely recommend her to anyone

I look forward to my future therapy sessions with Jonathan Naaf. So thankful that Humboldt has such a great therapy department.

My nurse Cindy and Richard Kilgore explained everything so it was easy to understand. I felt I was in very capable hands

I believe my therapist, Gabe, is very knowledgeable He has designed my appointment to address my specific needs And through a combination of variables, I've made continued improvement

I've been in physical therapy since September for my total knee replacement. Brian and the team are very good Reception to the assistants are friendly and helpful

Taylor is impressive, she has been great

Katie is awesome!

Kelly worked our daughter in and was so great with her! We appreciate her and all the staff at the radiology department!

After spending nearly four weeks in Humboldt hospital, I am amazed at the kindness, the care, the compassion, and the professionalism extended to myself and my family My family and I had a lot of questions and concerns, and you were all so willing to address our concerns and provide the answers we needed We are so fortunate to have this health facility available to us Thank you again for everything you do! You are all amazing!

Teammate Of The Moment

Abi Theisen**

Andie Thompson

Anthony Zigrang

Brittny Coronado

Dr. Ryan Lee

Hannah Mickelson

Hannah Quintus

Heather MacLeod

Jamie Johnston

Jasa Hankey

Jo Ramirez

Joey Nino*

John Canavan

Jomar Besande

Kaitlyn Langel*

Karen Mitsven

Karen Point*

Karla Rasmussen

Kassie Wyatt*

Katie Morey *

Ky Little**

Kyra Fritz

Lexy Hefler

Lili Lechuga

Lisa Schoon

Megan Douglas *

Megan Steinbrink

Melissa Slaikeu**

Miranda Andersen

Nicole Hoag

Nicole Lee

Odalis Zaldivar-Figueroa

Rose Baker

Sara Armstrong

Scottie Vollrath*

Shawn Pieczko

Sheri Hotovec

Steph Sisson

Sydney Lynch*

Teresa Reinig-Olesch

Tosha Aye**

DECEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

Connie Moench, 21 Years

Courtney Harris, 21 Years

Nicole Boyle, 8 Years

Angela Bradwell, 5 Years

Patricia Jensen, 5 Years

Mary Vaughn, 4 Years

Kelly Goodell, 3 Years

Kellie Hennigar, 3 Years

Whitney Andersen, 3 years

Margaret Cunningham, 2 Years

Kybray Little, 2 Years

Sara Armstrong, 1 Year

Kyler Steinborn, 1 Year

Miranda Andersen, 1 Year

Daniel Essing, 1 Year

Arielle Crotty, 1 Year

Brea Williams, 1 Year

Amanada Lau, 1 Year

* means number of additional mentions that teammate received in that month.

Erin Siefert, 1 Year

All-Star Cards NEW! All-Star Cards

What are “All-Star Cards”? These cards have had many names over the years but the principle of them remain the same

This is a recognition and reward program designed for employees to give praise when another employee goes above and beyond our Key Service Behaviors (KSBs) and Values. Please make sure to fill it out with the specific occurrence you noticed.

Example: “I observed [name of teammate] yesterday walking a patient to their car in the rain with an umbrella”.

Fill out when you observe an employee going above the standards set with our Key Service Behaviors and Values.

DO give specific examples – no generalized statements please DO fill out completely: including first and last name and department.

DO NOT take advantage of this tool - it’s specifically created to give people recognition for going ABOVE and BEYOND their daily duties not what is already expected of them.

Once filled out, place in our recognition boxes, Alison Angstrom’s mailbox, or slide under her office door.

YOU ASKED, WE LISTENED! New “tear away” feature so you can keep your card after you’ve used the $2 value.

December 1st: Cooks Choice/Pot Roast

December 2nd: Mediterranean Power Bowls/Chicken Cordon Bleu

December 3rd: Balsamic Salmon/Ribs

December 4th: Hawaiian Fried Rice/Beef Stroganoff

December 5th: Chicken and Noodles/Cooks Choice

December 6th: Pork Loin/Cooks Choice

December 7th: Turkey/Braised Beef

December 8th: Salisbury Steak/Stuffed Shells

December 9th: Employee Meal

December 10th: Chili/Smothered Pork Chop

December 11th: Taco Bar

December 12th: Crab Cakes/Baked Potato Bar

December 13th: Chicken Marsala/Swiss Steak

December 14th: Ham Balls/Turkey

December 15th: Parmesan Chicken/Beef and Noodles

December 16th: Big Mac Salad/Herb Roasted Salmon

December 17th: Salisbury Steak/Tenderloins

December 18th: Carne Asada Tots/Turkey

December 19th: Meatloaf/Cooks Choice

December 20th: Garlic Chicken/Marinated Pork

December 21st: Brisket/Scalloped Chicken

December 22nd: Sloppy Joe/Baked Cod

December 23rd: Spaghetti Squash Ramen/Chicken Strips

December 24th: Pulled Pork/Scalloped Turkey

December 25th: Christmas Meal

December 26th: Cooks Choice/BBQ Meatballs

December 27th: Chicken Drumsticks/Herbed Pork Loin

December 28th: Ham/Herb Chicken

December 29th: Pot Roast/Chili Dogs

December 30th: Avocado Toast/Chicken Cordon Bleu

December 31st: Ribs/Tater Tot Casserole

D E C E M B E R M E N U C H E C K O U T T H E M E N U F O R T H I S M O N T H

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December 2025 Vital Signs by Humboldt County Memorial Hospital - Issuu