SCOPE Magazine March 2006

SCOPE March 2006

Where caring counts. Feel the difference.

TM

Vol. 22 No. 1

Publication of Public Hospital District No. 1

Compression Key to Successful CPR

“Push hard, push fast“ is the key advice in the new American Heart Association’s guidelines for delivering CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) to a person having cardiac arrest.

Compression on the patient’s chest is more important than mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, according to the AHA. Guidelines call for 30 chest compressions (instead of 15 as previously recommended) for every two rescue breaths.

There’s no need to stop and check to see how the patient is responding; just keep on pushing.

According to research, circulation increases with each compression, but slows with even a momentary interruption.

Cardiac arrest – when the heart ceases to beat – can occur as a result of a heart attack, an abnormal heart rhythm, electrocution or near-drowning.

[Source: Jamie Stengle, “Heart Association Offers New CPR Guidelines,” Yahoo News, November 29, 2005]

MGH and Shelton Firefighters visited the Mt. Olive Lutheran Pre-school to show the students what firefighters do when there is a fire and what the student can do to be safe in a fire. “This was all about fire and injury prevention and how to be safe,” said Terri Gushee, BSN, trauma coordinator at MGH. “We want the kids to know that we care about them and want them safe.”

Pictured here helping City of Shelton Firefighter Darrel Roberts put on his gear are Matthew Dohring and Ian Strozyk.

When the Nurse is the Patient…

When she and her husband decided to have a baby, Nina Clawdus, R.N., in MGH’s labor and delivery department, knew she would have her baby at MGH. For 14 years she has been a nurse in high-risk labor and delivery – the last year at Mason General Hospital. It never crossed her mind, however, that she, herself, would one day be the “high risk”.

It was in November of last year when Nina went on maternity leave as she began having Nina Clawdus with son Aiden. problems with her pregnancy. Then on a Sunday in January, she started to notice signs that her baby was under stress.

“He would be very active, and then he wouldn’t be,” Nina said, holding her newborn son, Aiden Timothy, after the delivery. “It was scary knowing what was going on, as I deal with this all the time as a nurse. I never thought it would be me in this situation, though.” A trip to MGH’s emergency department/labor and delivery unit indicated that all was fine at that time, but it was recommended that she follow up with her physician.

As things settled down, Nina saw her physician, Timothy Weber, M.D., Shelton Family Medicine. He advised her to have a non-stress test (NST) the next day.

“They were very busy that day (in labor and delivery), so I just went in and hooked myself up,” she said. This is something Nina does all the time, so she felt comfortable doing it.

Labor and delivery manager, Marcia Rohlik, R.N.- C, MSN, went in to check on Nina, and then talked with Dr. Weber, who happened to be at MGH on his day off.

“I had run into Doctor Weber on my way in and told him that I was going to have the NST,” Nina remembered. “He was off work, but said that he’d hang around the doctor’s lounge to make sure all was okay. I am sure glad he did.”

Nina and her husband, Clint, had planned to do the NST and then go home to Olympia and have Mexican food. That never happened.

Instead, Dr. Weber and Marcia discussed the What’s Inside: NST and felt that an emergency C-section was necessary. “It was scary at the time,” said Nina.

2 100k Lives Campaign “The staff was already on overload and the OR 3 Additional X-ray Room (operating room) was wrapping up a very hectic day. But they just took me right in, and Aiden was 4 News Briefs born at 7:17 p.m.”

6 New Year’s Baby Reflecting back on January 18, 2006, Nina and 7 Artículos relacionados con su salud Clint can now relax, remembering how stressful it (Health Related Stories) was, and how reassuring at the same time.

Continued on page 10…

9 New Renal Care Center Open

P A G E

T W O

SCOPE 100k Lives Campaign Now at MGH

By Sue Barwick, R.N., CDE, quality improvement director Mason General Hospital is pleased to announce its participation in the 100k Campaign. One hundred percent of Washington State’s community hospitals are joining a national campaign to save 100,000 lives through hospital quality improvement.

The 100k Lives Campaign, founded by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), is the first of its kind – a national campaign to institute changes that will save 100,000 lives in hospitals using proven best clinical practices and methods.

MGH is an enthusiastic participant in the 100k Lives Campaign! We know that safe patient care is a goal that all of you share as healthcare providers. Participating in the campaign is an important part of the value we place on delivering high quality healthcare.

We are working on the campaign with our partners in healthcare delivery, including the Washington State Medical Association, the Washington Organization of Nurse Executives, and Qualis Health. The Campaign is a true partnership among healthcare professional organizations, hospital management, and staff.

Your participation in the campaign is critical to our goal of saving patient lives.

MGH has chosen to continue improvements by implementing the following key strategy: Deliver reliable evidence–based care for pa-

Golf Tournament Sold Out

tients with acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). In particular, we plan to assure that all standards of care for patients with acute myocardial infarction are provided whenever appropriate. These standards are: * * * * *

Early administration of aspirin Aspirin at discharge Early administration of a beta-blocker Beta-blocker (medication) at discharge ACE-inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker (medication) at discharge * Timely reperfusion * Smoking cessation counseling The Cardiovascular Collaborative will develop and implement the necessary resources and improvements to achieve this goal. Collaborative members are: Geri Repar, R.N., ICU; Robin Henderson, R.N., ICU; Margie Low, R.N., ICU; Kiffy Fuller, R.N., MSP; Ann Johnson, R.N., ICU; Arlene Hutchins, ICU; Barbara Kreutz, R.N., ICU, nurse director; Joann Norris, R.N., ICU; Leila Stevens, R.N., MSP; Mark Schlauderaff, M.D., ICU.; Director of QI, Sue Barwick, R.N. Your input and feedback is critical in ensur-

ing the success of this program! Skills and interventions will be called on from all staff and physicians in emergency, ICU, respiratory care, pharmacy and medical surgical departments, plus others as needed, to achieve excellence with this strategy.

We look forward to your participation and collaboration in this amazing project. We are challenging ourselves to make life-saving improvements in the care we provide to patients.

Together, we will succeed. We WILL make a difference NOW to continuously improve patient care!

For more information about the 100k Lives Campaign nationally, go to www.ihi.org. In the words of Dr. Don Berwick, the guru of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, “Some is not a number; Soon is not a time!”

For questions or comments about the Campaign in our hospital, please contact Sue Barwick, R.N., Quality Improvement director at Mason General Hospital at (360) 426-1611 (Belfair (360) 275-8614), the Washington State Hospital Association, the Washington State Medical Association, Qualis Health, or the Northwest Organization of Nurse Executives.

Car Club Really Cares

FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2006 ALDERBROOK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

The 11th annual MGH Foundation Golf Tournament is sold out. However, business sponsors are still needed. If interested, call development at (360) 427-3623 (from Belfair call (360) 275-8614) for more information.

The local Yesteryear Car Club donated 97 stuffed toys to Mason General Hospital’s emergency department in November. Every year the Car Club donates the toys for the pediatric patients in MGH’s ER. Pictured here are Club members Bill McGee, Vern Honstain, Colton Kealy, Gerry McKenzie, Larry McKenzie and Annette McGee.

P A G E

T H R E E

SCOPE CT Scan Allows Viewing Inside Skull The CT (computerized tomography) scan is an excellent tool for diagnosing and monitoring moderate to severe head injuries. The procedure is widely available, can be performed quickly with no special preparation on the part of the patient, and at a lower cost than MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).

CT gives high-quality images of bone, soft tissue and blood vessels, detecting bleeding and damage to blood vessels. Although MRI may give more precise images of soft tissue, CT is better for noting some changes in bone.

3rd X-ray Room Added

[Source: Radiological Society of America, “Computerized Tomography (CT) – Head,” 2005

Ease Your Pain with Exercise A 14-year study of men and women in their 50s and 60s found that those who excercised for at least 6 hours per week had 25 percent less joint and muscle pain than those who were sedentary. “Vigorous excercise” was defined as any activity that produced sweat and raised the heart rate above 120.

[SOURCE: Joy Keller, “Vigorous Exercise Lessens Pain in Older Exercisers,” IDEA Fitness Journal, January, 2006]

-

Shane FaFord, RT, (left) and Patrick Wainscott, RT, show one of the newly re-modeled x-ray rooms.

MGH’s diagnostic imaging department recently added to its services a third x-ray room, additional mammography space and equipment, and upgraded both the fluoroscopy room and tomography room. “All of this helps to decrease patient waiting time and moves us into being a digital (film-less) department,” said Lois Medina, diagnostic imaging (DI) manager. MGH has a complete DI department including a multi-detector CT scan, nuclear medicine, ultrasound and digital fluoroscopic exams such as upper GIs.

EMPLOYEE FOCUS Donna Scott, R.N., medical/surgical/ pediatrics Donna Scott, a registered nurse in MGH’s medical/surgical/pediatrics department, has worked at MGH since 2001. She moved to Shelton from Georgia, following her husband, after working for 26 years as a nurse on the East Coast. She received her Bachelor of Science nursing degree from Armstrong State College in 1975.

“It is easy to love my job,” said Donna.

“This is the best place I have ever worked.

The patient-to-staff ratio is great. The staff is friendly and very helpful. It is such a pleasant atmosphere to work in. I think Mason General is wonderful.”

P A G E

F O U R

SCOPE News Briefs their family. Content of the class includes dia...Congratulations to MGH “Employees of In the calendar year 2005, Treasures gave betes diagnosis, proper meal planning, diabetes the Month”: December - Sue Yore, dietary; $93,084.30 to MGH for the purchase of medical medications, exercise, prevention and treatment January - Margie Low, R.N., ICU; and Februequipment. The volunteers with the most hours of complications, stress management, living ary - Reno Munro, certified nursing assistant, in 2005 were: Tom Martin (1,360 hours), Teresa with diabetes, and the use of support people medical/surgical/pediatrics.

Chamberlain (945) and Gail Johnston (902). and a healthcare team. To register, call Mrs. …MGH Foundation selected Norma Taylor …In keeping with our Mission Statement, Barwick at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 or (Belfair to receive the 2005 Fantasy Forest Flame “...to protect and promote the health of the (360) 275-8614, ext. 3301).

Award for her countless hours of volunteer people in Mason County while extending …Sherwood Hospital Guild’s 5th Cooking time, incredible effort and energy towards the respect and compassion...”, Public Hospital with Xinh – Reserve your tickets now. Dates: creation and support of Fantasy District No. 1 wants to help Sunday or Monday, April 23 & 24. Time: 6 Forest and the Mason General make healthcare affordable. If p.m. Place: Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House, 3rd Hospital Foundation, as well as you need financial assistance with and Railroad, downtown Shelton. Cost: $50 for her numerous in-kind and hospital expenses, please call the per person. Tickets: Contact Carolyn Carlton direct donations, which help MGH Business Office at (360) 427(360) 427-5460, or the MGH Development Office ensure quality healthcare for all 9547 for more information on: (360) 427-3623. citizens within Public Hospital • 25% Discount • Property Tax The evening includes: A lively cooking District No.1, Mason County. The Adjustment • Charity Care. demonstration by Xinh, followed by a bufFoundation continues to reap …Bruce Jorgenson, president fet-style dinner of selected Xinh entrees and what Norma has sown. Norma of the Shelton Hospital Associaappetizers, Olympic Mountain ice cream and 2 joins previous winners – Ron tion, presented Mason General complementary glasses of wine or beer.

Pannell and Marlene Davison, Marian Greenberg (left) Hospital with a check for $48,000 and Norma Taylor Proceeds: Go towards the purchase of equipKen and Kitty Frank, Bill and in December, for new equipment ment for Mason General Hospital.

Gert Batstone, Diane and Sam Edgin, Sara in 2006. Don Wilson, then president of the …Mason General Hospital’s next FREE Watkins and Opal Orr, and Don and Bonnie hospital board of commissioners, accepted the community service CPR/Basic Cardiac Life Wilson. check on behalf of the hospital. The Shelton HosSupport is set for Wednesday, April 19, 2006, … The business office for Mason General pital Association was formed in the late sixties 6 - 9:30 p.m. in MGH’s Ellinor Room.

Hospital, Oakland Bay Pediatrics and North with the closing of the privately-owned Shelton According to Tom DiDonna, R.N., education Mason Medical Clinic, located in Shelton at the Hospital. With the hospital’s assets, an endowcoordinator at MGH, the skills of basic cardiac Gateway Center next to McDonald’s, recently ment was established to support healthcare in life support (BCLS) are extended its closing time from 4:30 to 6:30 Mason County. Over the something everyone p.m., Monday - Friday. The office opens at 8 a.m. years, the Shelton Hospital should know. “We enand now closes at 6:30 p.m. A Spanish interAssociation has donated courage everyone to get preter is now on-site every Thursday evening more than $1,000,000 to informed and trained,” from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. The direct number is (360) MGH and the clinics for added DiDonna. “It takes 427-9547 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614). needed equipment and only a few hours, but it MGH’s business and development offices services. may save a life.” Everymoved off-campus in December 2004 due to … If diabetes is a one attending the class space limitations at the hospital’s location. They part of your life, plan to is asked to wear comare both now located at the Gateway Center, attend Mason General fortable clothes. There 2505 Olympic Highway N., Suite 460, in ShelHospital’s next three-day will also be a Spanish ton. The mailing address for the business and session entitled, “Living Bruce Jorgenson (left) and Don Wilson interpreter on site. development office is POB 1668, Shelton, WA Well With Diabetes”. All Advanced registration is recommended, 98584. The MGH business office phone number three consecutive classes will be held in the as class size is limited. Reservations must be is 426-1611 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614). The morning beginning Tuesday, March 28, 2006, made by Friday, April 14, 2006, by calling (360) direct number is (360) 427-9547. from 9 a.m.- noon at the hospital in the Ellinor …Treasures Thrift Store recognized Teresa 427-3609 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614).

Room. Due to space limitations, advanced Chamberlain as Volunteer-of-the-Month for …Yvonne Stedman, Treasures assistant pre-registration is required. According to Sue December. Congratulations! manager, celebrated her ten-year anniversary Barwick, R.N., certified diabetes educator and …Treasures Thrift Store reported an inat Treasures Thrift Store in January. “Working coordinator of the class, “Diabetes self-managecrease in sales for 2005. Treasures, in operation ten years at a thrift store is an amazing ment can be improved with proper knowledge for approximately ten years, reported that 2005 accomplishment,” said Sandy Jackson, and skills, and most people with diabetes can was the most successful year to date, with total manager of Treasures and Treasures Too. lead a healthy, active life.” MGH has a team sales of $336,657.42. That is an increase of “She really cares about the store and people of healthcare providers that teach the class. $49,838.77 (15%) from 2004, which was second that work and shop here. She is dedicated Studies show that effective self-management in succession, with total sales at $286,818.65. and appreciated by the staff, the volunteers of the disease is beneficial for the patient and

P A G E

F I V E

SCOPE Support Groups @ MGH and the customers.”

Yvonne started working for Treasures on January 15, 1996. She worked as a merchandising clerk/pick-up person.

Later, she started the Community Service program that permits youths and adults to do community service for non-violent crimes with (then) Treasures manager, Kimberly Janda.

Yvonne Stedman Treasures was very successful, and after 15 months, moved to its current location, the old JC Penney building. Yvonne was then promoted to receiving manager, in charge of pricing, display and pick-ups. In 2002, Yvonne was promoted to assistant manager.

She has watched the store grow into a very successful community-driven store.

“I am proud to be a part of Treasures,” she added. …Public Hospital District No. 1, the governing body of Mason General Hospital, Oakland Bay Pediatrics and North Mason Medical Clinic in Belfair, announced the officers for the 2006 Board of Commissioners. Bill McComb, Grapeview, will serve as president of the three-person Bill McComb commission; Nancy Trucksess, Shelton, will be secretary; and Don Wilson, Potlatch, trustee. …MS WALK 2006 - The “FMS CLAN” of Mason County walk team is starting to form again for the 2006 MS Walk. The walk is set for Saturday, April 1, 2006, at Horizon Elementary School, Lacey. All proceeds go towards fighting MS. To register for the walk, go to www.nmss. org/was , or e-mail Crystal, team captain, at cdiemert@comcast.net. For local happenings and more information on the FMS Clan team, go to www.diemert.org.

Together we can beat MS!

Where caring counts.

TM Feel the difference.

55 Alive – Meets two consecutive days each month from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. in the Ellinor Room. Contact Don at (360) 426-0590 for current dates.

Cancer Support Group – Meets the 1st Monday of each month, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. in the Washington Room.

Contact Pat at (360) 426-5346.

Childbirth Classes – Call Tammy at (360) 426-0955 for current dates.

Compassionate Friends (Support group for parents who have lost children or grandchildren) – Meets 1st Monday of each month, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. in the Pershing Room. Contact Alan at (360) 427-1694 in the evening.

Depressed Anonymous – Meets every Tuesday from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. in the Pershing Room. Contact Ron at (360) 427-6847.

Diabetes Support Group – Meets the 2nd Thursday of the month (except July & August) from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. in the Ellinor Room. Contact Sue at (360) 426-1611.

F.I.E. (Fiercely Independent Elders) - Meets the 1st Friday of the month, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the Skokomish Room. Contact Area Agency on Aging Information and Assistance at (360) 427-2225 or Ray at (360) 898-2316.

Lap Band Forums – Contact Michelle at (360) 4264142 for current dates.

Narcotics Anonymous – Meets every Friday at 8:00 p.m. in the Ellinor Room. Contact (360) 754-4433. Visit website at www.spsna.com/homex.htm.

Tai Chi – Meets every Monday from 6:15 - 8:30 p.m. in the Ellinor Room. Contact Kim at (360) 427-0184.

Please call ahead to sign-up.

CPR/First Aid – A variety of classes are offered throughout the community. For further information, please contact the Education Department at Mason General Hospital at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3609.

Alcoholics Anonymous – There are many meetings at different times and locations throughout the Mason County area. The Patient Resources Department (4279544) has a current list on file in the office, or call (360) 352-7344. Visit website at www.aadistrict8.org/.

Alzheimer’s Support Group – Meets 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Alpine Way Retirement Apartments, 900 W. Alpine Way. Contact Merridee at (360) 427-2225, ext. 11.

Assured Home Health and Hospice Grief Support Groups: Bereavement Support Group – Meets 1st Thursday of the month, 5:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 1212 Connection. For more information, contact 1-800-833-9404. Rising Star Program – For children ages 6 - 19 who have experienced the death of a loved one. Contact Kate at Assured Home Health and Hospice for times and registration at 1-800-833-9404.

Surviving the Holidays Workshops – Contact Kate at Assured Home Health and Hospice for start dates & registration at 1-800-833-9404.

Bereavement Support (Providence Sound Home Care) – Meets at Shelton Health and Rehabilitation.

Contact Barb at 1-800-869-7062 for information.

Domestic Violence Support Group – Contact Turning Pointe for a prescreening appointment at (360) 432-1212.

MGH Women’s Auxiliary – Contact Sue at (360) 427-7606.

Lap Band Support Groups – Meets 3rd Wednesday of the month at Maple Glen (Shelton) from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month at St. Peter’s Hospital Gallery (Olympia) 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Contact (360) 426-4142 or visit their website at www.pacsurgical.com for further information.

MOPS: Mothers of Preschoolers – All mothers and children, birth to age 5, are welcome. Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 210 West Shelton Valley Rd., 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Call Shelton Presbyterian Church at (360) 432-8696 for further information. In Belfair – Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Belfair Assemblies of God. All mothers of preschoolers are welcome. For more information, call (360) 275-2858.

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group – Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at El Sarape. Contact Debbie at (360) 877-6959.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill – Contact Jean at (360) 866-0403.

Parenting and Babysitting Classes – Contact The American Red Cross at (360) 352-8575.

Parkinson’s Support Group – Call 1-888-4002732.

Reach to Recovery – Call The American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 for a referral.

The Yoga Connection – (Located behind Domino’s Pizza). Tuesdays: 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. – Low Key Yoga; Thursdays: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. – Lunch Hour Yoga; Thursdays: 5:45 - 7:00 p.m. – Introduction to Yoga; Thursdays: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. – Continuing Yoga. Call (360) 427-3897 to reserve your space.

The Patient Resources Department at Mason General Hospital also has information on many more support and self-help groups in the Mason and Thurston County areas. Call (360) 427-9544 with inquiries, or go to www.masongeneral.com and click on “Support Groups.”

P A G E

S I X

SCOPE Light Blanket Treats Jaundice

Kris Gaa, R.N. and Marcia Rohlik, R.N.-C, MSN, both of MGH’s labor and delivery department, demonstrate how the new phototherapy blanket works for babies with a high bilirubin count, commonly know as “newborn jaundice.” Normally when a baby has newborn jaundice, they are placed under special lights to help bring down the bilirubin count. Now MGH’s babies are wrapped in a fiber-optic blanket, which provides light from all sides. The baby can be held and fed while receiving treatment. “This is a much better way to care for our babies. They feel more secure and mom gets to be right there with them,” said Marcia.

New Year’s Baby New Year’s Baby Alera-Lynne Duffin was born on January 3, 2006, at 12:47 a.m. – and weighed 5 lbs, 11 oz. and was 19 inches long. Holding her is her mother, Kelli Higgins of Hoodsport. Also in the picture is Alera-Lynne’s godfather, Ronald Hughes.

Tim Weber, M.D., was the attending physician.

Students Give to Patients

Sweet-Ease Relaxes Babies

Olympic Middle School students from Mrs. April Yantis’ 6th grade class made tie-blankets and other items and delivered them in December for patients of Mason General Hospital’s emergency room. Cheryl Ann Graf, ARNP, MSN, MBA, director of MGH’s emergency department, invited the students to meet the E.R. staff and tour the trauma room after they presented the hand-made items. Later that day one of the tie-blankets was given to an elderly lady who felt cold while waiting for a bus ride home. Pictured here are students who made the blankets: (back row, l-r) Asia Hornal, Nolan Johnson, Keisha Bird Hat, Quincie Ball, Amanda Thompson; (middle row) Kayla Boome, Kara Parker, Paige Snider, Blake Smith; (front row) Chase Lund, and Jacob Wilson.

The nursery at MGH is using a new specially-formulated medical concentration called “Sweet-Ease,” that is effective in the first month of life to relax babies and decrease pain response to uncomfortable circumstances, such as laboratory tests. The nurse dips a pacifier, or trickles into the infant’s mouth the Sweet-Ease, which then soothes the baby. “This has a calming effect which makes blood draws or other procedures much easier on the baby,” said Marcia Rohlik, R.N.C, MSN, labor and delivery manager.

P A G E

S E V E N

SCOPE La metodología de “esperemos y veamos que pasa” para curar infecciones de oídos.

De acuerdo a un nuevo estudio, dos tercios de los niños que reciben tratamiento para curar infecciones de oído usando medicina para el dolor y una metodología de “esperemos y veamos que pasa” mejoraron sin necesidad de usar antibióticos.

Según este estudio los niños que recibieron antibióticos inmediatamente experimentaron una mejoría más rápida de los síntomas y necesitaron menos medicina para controlar la fiebre. Sin embargo estos niños desarrollaron una bacteria desmesuradamente resistente a los antibióticos en las fosas nasales y por lo tanto correrán más riesgos en el caso de futuras infecciones de oídos. Los padres de los niños de ambos grupos estuvieron satisfechos en la misma medida, siempre y cuando recibieron educación sobre la metodología de “esperemos y veamos que pasa”.

“Wait and See” Approach Works Two thirds of children treated for middle ear infections with a “wait and see” approach, plus pain medication, got better without eventually needing antibiotics, according to a recent study.

Children who received antibiotics immediately had faster relief of symptoms and required fewer pain medications but also developed more antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains in their nasal passages, putting them at future risk. Parents of the subjects in both groups were equally satisfied, given that they were educated about the reason for the “wait and see” approach.

[Source: David P. Mc Cormick, M.D., et al Pediatrics, June, 2005]

Que hacer para que sus hijos se mantengan sanos y en forma No es recomendable que los padres ponga a sus hijos a dieta, sin embargo los padres pueden establecer hábitos saludables que ayudaran a sus hijos a estar en forma. ◗ Reúna a su familia a las horas de las comidas tan a menudo como le sea posible y ofrézcales alimentos saludables. ◗ Obligar a los niños a comer ciertos alimentos no funciona, pero usted puede crear hábitos saludables a una edad temprana. ◗ No obligue a sus hijos a participar en deportes organizados. Sin embargo es importante que sus hijos hagan suficiente ejercicio físico. Asegúrese de tener a mano bicicletas, aros de baloncesto y otro tipo artículos en buenas condiciones que promuevan el ejercicio físico. ◗ Dedique tiempo a jugar a la pelota con sus hijos, a caminar en el bosque, a bailar o a hacer otro tipo de actividad física. ◗ Anímeles a beber agua cuando tienen sed, en lugar de beber zumos de frutas que tienen más calorías. ◗ Preste atención al peso de sus hijos a medida que crecen y no dude en hablar con su pediatra si usted cree que su hijo tiene un problema de peso.

How To Keep Your Kids Fit and Trim Dieting is not advised for children, but parents can help children establish good eating habits that will help keep them fit. ◗ Eat meals together as a family as often as possible, with a variety of healthy foods on the table. ◗ Forcing children to eat certain foods doesn’t work, but you can make an effort to establish healthy eating habits early. ◗ Don’t force kids to participate in organized sports, but encourage physical activity by making sure bikes, basketball hoops, skates and other outdoor play equipment are available and in good working order. ◗ Spend time with your children playing catch, hiking in the woods, dancing or other physical activities. ◗ Encourage them to reach for water first when they’re thirsty. Even fruit juices add extra calories. ◗ Pay attention to your child’s weight as he or she grows and talk to your pediatrician if you suspect a weight problem.

[Source: American Heart Association No-Fad Diet: A Personal Plan for Healthy Weight Loss, 2005]

¿Tiene problemas de Flemas?

Si usted sufre de congestión de pecho, flemas y tos, Mucinex DM, Robitussin y Tobitussin DM son tres expectorantes sin receta medica que pueden ayudarle a aliviar estos síntomas. Estos expectorantes son más efectivos cuando el paciente toma cantidades abundantes de agua.

Thick Phlegm? Drink More Water When you suffer from thick phlegm, chest congestion and heavy coughing, you can get some relief with several over-the-counter remedies such as Mucinex DM, Robitussin and Robitussin DM . One simple way to break up the phlegm and make expectorants more effective is to drink more water.

[Source: “From the Pharmacy,” Saturday Evening Post, November-December, 2005]

P A G E

E I G H T

SCOPE Aerial view of Mason General Hospital campus with more than 100 physicians in 20+ specialties.

In honor of Doctor’s Day – March 30 – we’d like to thank the following doctors: Anesthesiology ❖ Robert F. Goad, M.D. Cardiology Philip W. Berger, D.O. ❖ William P. Brennan, M.D. James F. Clifton, M.D. William A. Gavin, M.D. Phillip E. Jones, M.D. J. Gregg Julin, M.D. Richard P. Kennedy, M.D. David H. Schoening, M.D. Harton S. Smith, M.D. Robert S.Wark, M.D. ❖ Craig J. Wehrli, M.D. Christopher L. Wolfe, M.D. Emergency Medicine ❖ Roy G. Belville, M.D. ❖ Carola E. Bonfante, M.D. Eric T. Friedland, M.D. Walter A. Fink, Jr., D.O. ❖ Dean E. Gushee, M.D. ❖ John W. Hautala, M.D. Carter D. Hill, M.D. ❖ Joseph R. Hoffman, M.D. ❖ Anurag Jindal, M.D. ❖ John P. Short, M.D. Bruce E. Stevenson, M.D. Lauren R. West, M.D ❖ Doctors with office hours in Shelton. ✶ Doctors with office hours in Belfair.

Effective March 1, 2006.

Douglas F. Lindahl, D.O. Bonnie J. Davis, M.D. MGH Medical MGH Medical Asst. Chief-of Staff Chief-of Staff

Family Practice ❖ John V. Butler, M.D. ❖ Bonnie J. Davis, M.D. ❖ Peggy A. Hosford, M.D. ✶ Pen Hou, M.D. ❖ Allen L. Millard, III, M.D. ❖ Christopher W. Penoyar, D.O. ❖ Timothy J. Weber, M.D. ❖ Doris H. Wilson, M.D. Gastroenterology ❖ Harpreet S. Brar, M.D. Rodney W. Joe, M.D. ❖ James F. Kruidenier, M.D. ❖ Kathryne A. Wagner, M.D. General Surgery David M. Deitz, M.D. Robert S. Hipp, M.D. ❖ William D. Neal, M.D. ❖ S. Garrett Ogle, M.D. David F. Tollefson, M.D. Internal Medicine ❖ Chandar Bhimani, M.D. ❖ Douglas F. Lindahl, D.O. ✶ Jose Jeffrey Reasol, M.D. ❖ Mark L. Schlauderaff, M.D. ❖ Diana E. Velikova, M.D. Obstetrics & Gynecology ❖ Jonathan A. Gold, M.D

Dean E. Gushee, M.D. MGH Medical Secretary

Oncology Ronald S. Goldberg, M.D. Steven J. Gorton, M.D. ❖ Harry S. Griffith, III, M.D. Nicole Lee Grous, M.D. Min S. Kang, M.D. James J. Lechner, M.D. Dustan C. Osborn, M.D. ❖ Paul A. Robertson, M.D. Xiang Sui, M.D. ❖ Joseph Ye, M.D. Ophthalmology ❖ Mark R Corley, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgery ❖ Kenneth R. Sebby, M.D. ❖ Michael G.E. Thomas, M.D. Pathology Nisreen Fidda, M.D. Jay M. Odell, M.D. Dennis F. Peck, M.D. Charles A. Richert, M.D. Terrence A. Schulte, M.D. Richard O. Whitten, M.D. Pediatrics ❖ Saad Al Alou, M.D. Physical Medicine/Rehab Joseph D. Sueno, M.D. Plastic Surgery Arthur L. Foley, III, M.D.

Joseph R. Hoffman, M.D. Past Chief-of Staff

Podiatric Medicine Terrence E. Hess, D.P.M. ❖ John V. Rice, D.P.M. ❖ James A. Wright, D.P.M. Pulmonology J. Waylon Black, M.D. ❖ Robert L. Huck, M.D. Austin C. Lampert, M.D. Radiology ❖ Lawrence N. Bennett, M.D. ❖ James G. Bonifield, M.D. ❖ Gordon G. S. Dhanda, M.D. ❖ David J. Gacetta, M.D. ❖ Virgil E. Knackstedt, M.D. ❖ Thomas J. Luetkehans, M.D. ❖ Tremont V. Parrino, M.D. Joanna Prescott, M.D. ❖ Kevin J. Reed, M.D. ❖ David Stagnone, M.D. ❖ Navneet K. Singha, M.D. ❖ Andrew R. Taylor, M.D. ❖ Ian D. Timms, M.D. ❖ Evert-Jan Verschuyl, M.D. Surgical Assist Michael D. Barnard, M.D. Laurence E. Perrin, M.D. Urology Daniel M. Brown, M.D. ❖ Donald R. Miller, M.D. Mark S. Peckler, M.D

P A G E

N I N E

SCOPE BP Control Essential for Diabetics

New Renal Care Center Open

From 55 to 65 percent of Americans with diabetes also have high blood pressure, and it increases their risk for cardiovascular disease. According to the HOT (Hypertension Optimal Treatment) study, subjects following intensive control of blood pressure had 51 percent fewer heart attacks, strokes and other cardiac-related events.

The American Diabetes Association recommends a blood pressure goal of 130/80 or lower for diabetics.

[SOURCE: John R. White, Jr. and Jason Schick, “Home Blood Pressure Monitoring and Diabetes,” Clinical Diabetes, Winter 2004]

There is a welcome addition to the medical community in Mason County. Renal Care Center, a kidney dialysis center, opened in early 2006 to care for Mason County patients. The 6,000 square-foot facility is currently at one-third capacity, but plans to be at full capacity by summer, to care for 36 dialysis patients. There are five staff members, including a dietician and social worker, treating patients three days a week. Renal Care Center is located across the street from MGH and sees patients from as far away as Allyn and Hoodsport.

Books Donated to Health Information Management

It was an exciting day for the Health Information Management (HIM) department at Mason General Hospital. Stacks of books were donated to MGH’s HIM department by a Shelton resident who is a former student of medical “coding.” “This was an incredible donation,” said Laura Grubb, HIM manager. “These books will truly help us in doing a better job for our patients.” Pictured here with the books are HIM employees (l-r) Denise McDevitt, Pam Madison, Nancy Hancharick, Patti Rose, Holly Byczynski and Jeff Jackson.

PAGE

T E N

SCOPE Did You Know?

In Mason County, healthcare accounts for $82 million in payroll, and about 1,900 well-paying jobs with benefits. MGH’s component employs 452 people with an annual payroll of nearly $22 million. Each of these healthcare jobs, in turn, supports another 1,600 local jobs, generating an additional $49 million in payroll, for a total economic impact of $131 million.

Nurse

continued from page 1

“It is so hard to know what is going on,” Nina said. “I understood everything they were saying, as I have been through it so much as a nurse, but it is very different being the patient.

“I work with all the nurses who cared for me – Marcia, Hazel, Betty and Kris – and they were so awesome with me. You see them much differently when they are caring for you. They are great nurses to work with, and I am so thankful they were there to care for me. They were just as compassionate and skilled as ever, and I felt totally safe for myself and my baby.

“Dr. Weber was wonderful. He was so calming and so reassuring that all was going to work out,” she said.

K Street

A

Old Belfair Rd

M

SO

W A

PUBLIC

L PITA DIST R OS

O.1 TN IC

H

Our Mission: We take every possible action to protect and promote the health of the people in Mason County while extending respect and compassion as we serve each individual.

Published by: Public Hospital District No. 1 for Mason General Hospital, Oakland Bay Pediatrics and North Mason Medical Clinic.

Mason General Hospital: Visiting Hours are 8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., daily.

901 Mt. View Drive, Building 1, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001, (360) 426-1611, from Belfair (360) 275-8614. Serving the medical needs of the entire county since 1968. Accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations. TTY/TTD: (360) 427-9593. Translation Services Provided. Se habla español. Equal Opportunity Provider.

Oakland Bay Pediatrics: 247 Professional Way, Shelton, WA 98584, (360) 426-3102 North Mason Medical Clinic: N.E. 140 S.R. 300, Belfair, WA 98528, (360) 275-4084, (360) 426-8405 Administration: Bob Appel, chief executive officer; Eric Moll, chief financial officer; Diane Stillman, chief operating officer; Doug Lindahl, D.O., chief of staff; Bill McComb, commissioner/president; Nancy Trucksess and Don Wilson, commissioners.

Scope: Published four times per year. Editor: McCarty & Associates, “A Marketing Firm”

Northcliff

Mountain View

Mason General Hospital

Mason General Hospital Oakland Bay Pediatrics North Mason Medical Clinic Where caring counts. Feel the difference.

TM

N. 13th

, N C O UN T Y

Clifton Lane

Professional Way

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Mason General Hospital POB 1668 Shelton, WA 98584

Gateway Center

A

B

A Business Office, C D Development B McDonald’s C El Sarape Restaurant D State Office Bldg.

MGH

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Shelton, WA Permit No. 56

ECRWSS Postal Customer