SCOPE Magazine June 2006

SCOPE June 2006

Where caring counts. Feel the difference.

TM

Vol. 22 No. 2

Publication of Public Hospital District No. 1

She Hit Rock Bottom – Then Gained a New Life Sometimes we have to hit rock bottom before we truly “get it”. At least that is how Etta Treadwell feels about her life.

In 1999, Etta was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and told she needed to lose weight, change her eating habits and start getting minimal exercise or she would get worse, and eventually die, from complications due to diabetes “I was pretty sick, but I just didn’t get it,” she said, from her home. The following year, at the age of 40, Etta became totally insulin-dependent, homebound due to severe depression, weighed more than 340 pounds and was in a wheelchair and using a portable oxygen system, full-time.

“Finally one day it clicked,” she said. “I had three grandchildren I wanted to see grow up.” That was February, 2005. At that time, she started to make changes in her lifestyle, thanks to her desire to live and the outstanding support from MGH’s Living Well with Diabetes support team of local physicians, nurses, dietitians and podiatrists.

“Once it clicked that it was up to me, I began

If diabetes is a part of your life…

plan to attend Mason General Hospital’s next three-day session entitled, “Living Well With Diabetes”. All three consecutive classes will be held in the evening beginning Tuesday, June 13, 2006, from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the hospital in the Ellinor Room. Due to space limitations, advanced pre-registration is required. According to Sue Barwick, R.N., certified diabetes educator and coordinator of the class, “Diabetes self-management can be improved with proper knowledge and skills, and most people with diabetes can lead a healthy, active life.” MGH has a team of healthcare providers that teach the class. Studies show that effective selfmanagement of Continued on page 10…

Etta Treadwell enjoyed sitting and walking around MGH’s Wellness Garden in May.

to make those changes and seek support,” she said. She owes her success to the support from MGH’s Physical Therapy Department, her doctor, Candy Mattson, registered dietitian at MGH, and Sue Barwick, R.N., certified diabetic educator and coordinator of MGH’s Living Well with Diabetes. “They all were great. They kept helping and supporting me. Not once did they ever give up on me.”

Etta has now lost 117 pounds, is walking and does not need oxygen. “It is so great to be able to move around without a wheelchair or cane. I can do so much more. Going to the grocery store is no big deal like it used to be,” she said, of her new life. She is now off many of her medications with her doctor’s approval, and has cut back on the amount of insulin she needs. In addition, she now does gardening and home decorating.

“I can do things now that I have never been able to do before,” she said, with a smile. In the past 18 months Etta has read all she can about Type 2 Diabetes and has applied all she has learned.

“Etta is remarkable,” said Sue Barwick.

“She took the self- Continued on page 10…

Bill McComb Resigns as Hospital District Commissioner, Scott Hilburn Appointed

Bill McComb, Public Hospital District No.1 president and commissioner from Grapeview, resigned effective May 23, to spend more time with his family and business, McComb Funeral Home and Crematory, Shelton. Local retired businessman and public ser vant Scott Hilburn was appointed to fill that position.

Scott Hilburn “This was a tough decision to make,” said Bill, at the commission meeting. “I have spent nearly sixteen years involved with the hospital district in some capacity, and it has truly become a part of me. However, it is time that I step down. The district is in very capable hands and the leadership here is outstanding, so the timing is perfect for me to make this move.”

Continued on page 6…

What’s Inside: 2 Time is of the Essence in ER

Community-Related Infections

3 Disaster Preparedness 4 5 6 7 9

New Outpatient Clinic Director Good Year for MGH Foundation Small Equipment Needs Skin Cancer Up in Youth New Standards for ER Nurses News Briefs

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T W O

SCOPE Time Is of Essence in ER – and We Know It! When it comes to trauma patients – the first two hours are the most critical in helping to predict a positive outcome.

“As a trauma-trained ER, we know that what happens within that two-hour window can mean life or death for a seriously injured or sick patient,” said Cheryl Ann Graf, ARNP, MSN, MBA, emergency services director at MGH. “We see very serious trauma cases – patients that have multiple complications or illnesses – who need focused attention Cheryl Ann Graf upon their arrival.”

ES director According to Graf, what sets MGH apart from most ERs is that MGH has a formal procedure in place for its Trauma Response Team. “We begin preparing for the treatment when the patient is still at the scene with the paramedics. We have a strong collaborative effort between our County EMS personnel and our ER. By having this relationship, the resources are made available at the bedside for the patient upon arrival. Everyone on the team knows what needs to be done. This quick response provides the best opportunity to have a positive patient outcome.”

Within minutes of arriving at MGH, the patient receives a CT scan. “By doing this immediately, we can see what is happening right away. Most ERs have the physician look over the patient and then order all tests. Here, we go right to the critical area first,” added Graf. In addition, there is a bedside ultrasound available for a quick look for serious injuries. “Getting stat information is our most important goal upon arrival,” commented Graf.

“We truly surround the patient on arrival – which gives us an efficient team approach,” Graf pointed out. “Our trauma patients don’t compete for care as they do in most hospitals. We work hard to meet the patient’s needs upon their arrival. That is not the case with the bigger, busier hospitals.

“Fast response on arrival and quick access to level four Continued on page 7…

The Facts on Mumps – Need to Be Concerned?

If you are concerned with the recent outbreak of Mumps in the Midwest, there is one way to protect yourself and your family, and that is to make sure you are informed and up to date on your MMR immunizations.

The Mumps virus has re-emerged as an epidemic in the Midwest for the first time since 1988, after symptoms showed among students at the University of Iowa in December, 2005.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported 605 probable cases in that state as of April 12, most of whom were college students. Although Iowa was the hardest hit, the Mumps virus quickly swept across six neighboring states.

Air Travel has been of great concern for the recent spread of Mumps, and the IDPH identified two persons who traveled on commercial flights in March and April and were potentially infectious during that time. People having symptoms of Mumps should be checked by health professionals within 3 weeks of travel.

The symptoms include fever, headache and swollen salivary (parotid) glands which appear as a lump in the neck. Coughing and sneezing (droplet transmission) are the most common ways of spreading the virus, as it is transmitted to others through direct contact with saliva and respiratory secretions. An infected person is contagious from three days before their symptoms appear, to about 9 days after, and the incubation time for the disease is from 16-18 days.

Continued on page 7…

Community-Associated Staph and MRSA Infections

By Michele Rose, R.N., MGH surgical services

Whenever you hear or read about Staph (Staphylococcus Aureus) or MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), most often people think of a health facility-based infection.

Now community-associated Staph and MRSA infections are on the rise.

Most community-associated Staph or MRSA infections arise from the skin or in the nose of otherwise healthy people. Folliculitis (inflammation of a follicle), Impetigo, boils or pimples can easily lead to Staph or MRSA infections.

Community-associated Staph or MRSA infections can be spread from person to person through sharing personal items such as towels, razors and toothbrushes; using athletic or gym equipment that has not been properly cleansed; or prolonged skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a Staph or MRSA infection.

Prevention of community-associated Staph

or MRSA infections can be easy – don’t share personal items; make sure the gym you use has cleaning supplies either you can use, or the equipment is cleaned between each person’s use; clean your home’s most often-touched areas (door handles, light switches, etc.) with disinfectants; and practice good health hygiene by washing your hands and bathing regularly.

If you think you have signs or symptoms of a Staph or MRSA infection, don’t wait – see a healthcare provider right away.

If you have a Staph or MRSA infection, keep it to yourself; stay home, don’t share your personal items and keep the infected area covered. Also, wash contaminated clothing and linen in the washer with hot water and laundry soap, then dry your clothing and linen in the dryer on high heat. And as always, wash your hands.

Hand Washing?

It’s Okay to Ask!

By Michele Rose, R.N., MGH surgical services

Hand washing throughout the day is paramount to helping control infectious diseases. Everyone at Mason General Hospital is expected to wash their hands routinely – that includes staff and visitors.

Visitors are encouraged to wash at all times, i.e. after eating, using the rest room, nose blowing, coughing and helping patients.

As a visitor, we encourage you to ask our staff if they have washed their hands, too. It is a “team effort” to help control infectious diseases, and we ask our visitors to be a part of that team.

So it is okay to ask our staff, “Have you washed your hands?” Remember, hand washing is the first line of defense against passing germs.

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T H R E E

SCOPE New Clinic Director for Hospital District

Disaster Preparedness Above, Jeff Morrow, maintenance, hooks up the water system in a decontamination tent.

Right, Jeff Morrow, Barbara Wilkinson, R.N. (center) and Elaine Wolle, L.P.N., get ready for the recent disaster decontamination exercise at Mason General Hospital. Jeff is wearing the decontamination suit that MGH personnel will wear when assisting in the treatment of victims in a bio-terrorism or chemical disaster. MGH’s Disaster Team prepares on a regular basis for the “not if – but when it happens.”

A Quilt Quilt for for Every Every Baby Baby A More than 300 babies are born each year at Mason General Hospital. Every baby born at MGH goes home with a handmade quilt provided by either the Christmastown Quilters or Ladies of the Lake. In April, these tireless volunteer “quilters” were honored and thanked by MGH’s labor and delivery staff with a tea-reception. In attendance were: L-R, back row - Barbara J. HasBrouck, Vicky Scholzen, Joyce Spatz, Bev Burbridge, Charlene George, Lois Mineo. L-R, front row – Sharon Secor, Hazel Bartley, Sandra DeLost, Judy Richter, Kathy Stack and Jane Calleu.

Terry Megiveron, former regional manager for MultiCare Health System in South King County, is the new director of outpatient clinics for Mason General Hospital. In this newly created position, Terry Megiveron Terry will oversee the North Mason Medical Clinic in Belfair and Oakland Bay Pediatrics in Shelton.

Terry has worked in the healthcare field for 20 years, starting in the medical records department of a large primary care clinic in Portland, Oregon. He worked in both clinics and hospitals as he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Allied Health Sciences from the University of Portland, Oregon, in 1992. He has held leadership positions for the past ten years for large integrated health systems, responsible for service delivery of primary care, specialty care, urgent care and ancillary services. He is currently working on his Master of Science degree in Healthcare Administration from Troy State University, Alabama.

“I look forward to the challenging projects the Clinics have to offer,” said Megiveron.

“I am impressed with the collaboration and caring nature displayed by the hospital district and clinics. Healthcare facilities are an integral part of the community and I will work to help meet the needs of the patients we serve, and integrate the clinics into the fabric of the community.”

Terry grew up in Southwest Washington near Vancouver and lived and worked there most of his life. He enjoys the outdoors of the beautiful Pacific Northwest, traveling and boating. He spends most of his free time exploring the waters of Puget Sound.

Want to see what’s happening at Treasures Thrift Stores? Go to www.treasuresthriftstores.org

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F O U R

SCOPE Donation Increases Arts Collection

2005 Was a Good Year for Mason General Hospital Foundation

by Leigh Bacharach, director of development

2005 was another great year for MGH Foundation, thanks to the generous support of the donors and tireless volunteers.

Funds were raised through the annual campaign, memorial giving, Golf Tournament, Arts Commission, Fantasy Forest, Treasures Thrift Store, and Karen Hilburn Breast Cancer Fund.

In addition, there were fundraising activities from the Women’s Auxiliary, Future Generations Guild, Sherwood Guild, and Centennial Guild. All funds raised by the Foundation go toward the enhancement of healthcare for Public Hospital District Gene and Mona Carlson No.1, consisting of Mason General Hospital, Oakland Bay Pediatrics and North Mason Medical Clinic in Belfair. 1,339 people gave Gene and Mona Carlson donated to the Mason General Hospital Foundation Arts Comcash gifts to the Foundation in 2005. mission six original oils by their late friend, Lynn Winans, a noted San Diego artist; and The three major fundraisers netted an one print by Olaf Wieghorst, a well-known western artist. all-time high in 2005. The Golf Tournament’s The Carlsons retired to Mason County, residing at Alderbrook Country Club until a couple net was $27,800, Fantasy Forest’s was of years ago, when they moved to the Alpine Way Retirement Apartments. As lovers and $99,866, and Treasures Thrift Store donated collectors of art, they accumulated more pieces than they had room for in their new home. $93,084 of their sales. The major fundraising Instead of selling the artwork piece-by-piece for private collections, they chose to donate activities combined with all pieces to the MGHF Arts Commission for the benefit of many: the other fundraising efforts patients, staff and visitors. raised a whopping $343,222 The MGHF Arts Commission was formed in 1992. Its in 2005. mission is to aid in the promotion of health and healing at 2005 Foundation officers Mason General Hospital, through integrating quality art in – who gave of their time, talent the hospital environment. Its charge is the acquisition of and treasurers, were Presiart to aid in the healing of patients, and for the enjoyment dent, Marian Greenberg; of all who come to Mason General Hospital. Although the Vice President, Peg Stock; Commission has purchased some pieces, both sculptures and and Secretary/Treasurer, framed paintings, the majority of the hospital collection has Joan Hayes. Board members come from donors. Anyone interested in donating art should included Karen Anderson, contact the Arts Commission through the MGH Development Laurie Buhl, Peggy CleveOffice at (360) 427-3623 (from Belfair, 360-275-8614).

Auxiliary Gives Check land, Steve DiMiero, Adele Sue Glenn, MGH Auxiliary president, preDuPont, Lois Gold, Linda sented Bob Appel, CEO of MGH, with a Gott, Beth Gregg, Patricia Karen Hilburn Breast Cancer Fund check for $4,000 during the Auxiliary’s annual Heaton, Karen Hilburn, Linmeeting in May. The money will be used to purchase equipment in respiratory therapy da Hoff, Beth Johnston, Mark and in labor and delivery. The Auxiliary raises Mager, James McElroy, Mary most of its funds from the gift shop at the hosThe Karen Hilburn Breast Cancer Fund is available to Mason Ann Munson, Tim Sayan, pital. At the annual meeting all officers were County women who are non-insured or underinsured for William Schumacher, M.D., re-elected for another term - Sue Glenn was re-elected president; Barbara Burnett, vicebreast cancer treatment and are receiving treatment for breast cancer at Charleen Smith, Lorena Valpresident; Sheridan Holman, secretary; Mason General Hospital. If you would like to apply, please call the MGH ley, Dave Whitener, Sr., and and Marie Grinnell, treasurer.

Development Office at (360) 427-3623 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614).

Donna Wolden.

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SCOPE Mason General Hospital Small Equipment Needs If you would like to make a donation to go toward the purchase of this equipment, or if you would like to make a donation to purchase an entire piece of equipment from this list, please call MGH’s Development Office at (360) 427-3623 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614). Gifts may be made in honor of or in memory of an individual, loved one or a business. Donations can be made via cash, check or credit card.

ICCU Stryker Light Cord $1,200 Pharmacy ET CO2 Philips Pulse Oximeter Probes Stand Up Scale Bedside Commodes Bedside Tables Boehringer Suction

$4,755 $1,572 $2,478 $ 750 $2,822 $3,088

MSP 4 Rolling Chairs Digital Scale Boehringer Suction Digital Thermometers Disposable Stethoscopes

$817 $125 $2,800 $360 $200

OB BiliBlanket & Installation

$2,900

Nursery Panda Freestanding Baby Warmer & Installation

$5,000

$5,000

Recovery Vasotrac DS Apm205A Art Pressure Sensor Mattresses Mattress Covers IV Poles Intra Page

Anesthesia Pulse Oximeter Supplies Intubation Blades LMA’s Laryngoscope Blade and Handle Vasotrac DS Apm205A Art Pressure Unit Bariatric Weight Scale

$3,500 $8,500 $1,408 $4,500 $4,500 $4,500 $4,500 $1,905 $1,800

Genesis instrument Pans Steris Processing Tray Storage Upgrade

$400 $400 $800 $140 $4,800 $3,500 $1,000 $1,000 $5,000

Lab Zeiss Axiostart Microscope Leica Zoom Microscope 2 Lab Chairs Specimen Vital Rack Slide Dispenser Wall Organizer BNP Triage Meter Centrifuge

Shelf Dividers Medselect Refrigerator Medselect Unit Dose Coils

$200 $450 $510

RT $4,800 $550 $1,980 $520 $1,400

CS

Surgery Asculap Synthes Small Bone Fragment Fixation Set Cardinal Instrument Case Stryker 10mm 30 Degree Lap Scope 10mm 0 Degree Lap Scope 5mm 30 Degree Lap Scope 10mm 30 Degree Lap Scope Maquet Bed Extender Surgical Table Back Plate

Megadyne Electrosurgical Ground Pads

$4,500 $1,500 $900 $129 $109 $400 $5,000 $5,000

Foundation Seeking Nominations for County American Businesswomen Award Mason General Hospital Foundation is seeking nominations for individuals to be honored at its ninth annual American Business Women’s Day Luncheon being held Friday, September 29, 2006, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at MGH. Tickets are $25 per person.

Every year MGH’s Foundation honors three outstanding businesswomen who are or were successful in their occupations, who work or have worked in Mason County and are active and/or volunteer in their community. Past honorees include: 1998 – Miriam Hall, Janet Thornbrue and Patti Tupper; 1999 – Nita Bariekman, Jean Lee and Norma Taylor; 2000 – Kay Gott, Colleen Hunter and Doris Wilson, M.D.; 2001 – Beth Johnston, Betty Wolfe and Mary Helen Anderson; 2002 – Carol Hunter, Rose Nye and Cherrie Reitsch; 2003 – Janis Byrd, Carolyn Olsen and Gayle Weston; 2004 – Patti Case, Betty Wing and Catherine Ann Wolf; and 2005 – Angela Olsen, Michelle Schnitzer and Renee Youngs.

Entry forms are available at MGH’s Development Office at Gateway Center, 2505 Olympic Highway North, Suite 460, Shelton, or online at www.masongeneral.com. Nominations are due Friday, June 30, 2006. For more information call (360) 427-3623 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614).

Oxygen Flow Meters Air Flow Meters Nonin Sensors BiPap Full Face Mask Oxygen Monitor Capnograph Monitor Pulse Oximeter

$250 $250 $660 $200 $990 $4,772 $2,835

PT Fluids Therapy Ergonomic Splint Station 1 Supply Cart Splinting Plan Knee Bolsters New Office Chairs Bow Flex Total Gym

$4,800 $1,000 $800 $200 $400 $1,000

ER Thermometers 150 x 3 Lockers Office Chairs Bariatric Wheelchair Monitor Batteries WA Triage Monitor with Stand

$450 $547 $1,470 $2,085 $500 $2,244

Proc Rm Cleaning Brushes Co-Medical Etc02 Sensor/Monitor Fluid Warmer Mattresses Mattress Covers

$300 $4,800 $3,150 $550 $1,980

OPB Medical Scheduler Ergonomic Keyboards Rad 5 Pulse Oximeter Informational CD Digital Camera Computer Chart Notes (Doc Links)

$399 $400 $845 $359 $450 $2,395

NMMC GlycoHgb Instrument ProTime Instrument Procedural Stretcher Wood’s Lamp X-Ray Processor Female Instrument Set Circumcision Set Suture Sets & Instruments Welch Allyn Wall Mounts

$2,000 $3,000 $3,885 $700 $4,835 $900 $800 $500 $4,050

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SCOPE Skin Cancers Up Sharply in Youth Doctors are reporting a sharp increase in non-melanoma skin cancers among young adults. While these cancers are readily treatable and not as dangerous as melanoma, they have previously been considered a problem mainly for persons aged 60 and over.

A person who develops one non-melanoma tumor has a 50 percent risk of having a second within two to three years and a 75 percent risk of developing a third.

The major risk factor is exposure to ultraviolet rays, and 80 to 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers develop on sun-exposed areas of the body.

[Source: J. Raloff, “Sun Struck; Data Suggest Skin Cancer Epidemic Looms,” Science News, August 13, 2005]

El Melanoma también Ataca a las Personas de Piel Oscura La ocurrencia del melanoma es 10 veces más frecuente en los americanos de piel blanca.

Sin embargo los hispanos y afro americanos no deberían ignorar las advertencias relacionadas con la exposición solar, el uso de cremas de protección solar y los exámenes de piel. Un estudio descubrió que el 40% de los melanomas en las personas de color ocurrieron en los pies y solo el 33% de los melanomas aparecieron el la piel expuesta al sol.

El melanoma y otros tipos de cáncer de la piel normalmente se descubren a una edad más avanzada en las personas de piel oscura, siendo menores los porcentajes de supervivencia.

[Origen: J. Raloff, “Sun Struck; Data Suggest Skin Cancer Epidemic Looms,” Science News, August 13, 2005]

UV Ray – The Good and the Bad Ultraviolet radiation has been implicated as a major cause of most skin cancers, cataracts and premature aging of the skin. At the same time, death rates from prostate, ovarian and other cancers are only half as high in sunny areas such as Arizona, compared to cloudy northeastern states. According to one analysis, too little exposure to ultraviolet B radiation contributes to the premature cancer deaths of 21,700 whites and 1,400 blacks each year.

This increased cancer risk is believed to be due to a deficiency of vitamin D, which is manufactured by the body in response to exposure to ultraviolet B radiation. Only a small amount of sun exposure is needed, however, and vitamin D can also be obtained from the diet and supplements [Source: W.B. Grant, “An Estimate of Premature Cancer Mortality in the U.S. Due to Inadequate Doses of Solar Ultraviolet-B Radiation.” Cancer, 94(6), 1867; Emil Vernarec “Sun Exposure, Vitamin D and Cancer Deaths,” RN, November, 2002]

Lo Bueno y lo Malo sobre los Rayos UVA La radiación ultravioleta se considera como una de las causas principales de la mayoría de los canceres de piel, de las cataratas y del envejecimiento prematuro de la piel. Al mismo tiempo, el número de muertes por complicaciones de próstata, ovarios y otros tipos de cáncer son la mitad en áreas soleadas, como por ejemplo Arizona, que en los estados nublados del noreste. De acuerdo a un estudio, la falta de exposición a la radiación de los rayos ultravioleta B contribuye a la muerte prematura por causa del cáncer de 21.700 personas blancas y 1.400 personas de color al año.

Se cree que este aumento al riesgo de contraer cáncer se debe a una deficiencia de vitamina D producida por el cuerpo como respuesta a la exposición de la radiación ultravioleta B. Solamente es necesario exponer el cuerpo al sol durante periodos de tiempos cortos. La vitamina D también se puede obtener de los alimentos y suplementos.

[Origen: W.B. Grant, “Una estimación del nivel de mortalidad por cáncer prematuro en los Estados Unidos debido a dosis inadecuadas de radiación ultravioleta.” Cancer, 94(6), 1867; Emil Vernarec “La exposición solar, la vitamina D y las muertes de Cáncer,” RN, Noviembre, 2002]

Hilburn Continued from page 1…

Bill first became involved with the hospital district in 1991 as a charter member of the Mason General Hospital Foundation board, later becoming president of that board.

In June 1998, he was appointed hospital district commissioner, when Ken Fredson stepped down. Bill was later elected to a six-year term.

On the appointment of Scott Hilburn, former hospital district commissioner from 1984 – 90 , owner of Scott Hilburn Auto Center and mayor of Shelton, Nancy Trucksess, president of the hospital district commission stated, “We are delighted to have someone of Scott’s healthcare and civic background, energy, time and community support accept this position. We are a small board and need someone in place immediately, who knows what being a commissioner is all about and does not need to be brought up to speed.

Scott knows the county, the issues and the constraints that we, as a board, must work within. He is ideal for this position, and we couldn’t ask for a person more highly regarded in the community and who knows the hospital district.”

Scott has been a very active supporter of the hospital district for more than 22 years. Scott first served as a hospital district commissioner in the 1980’s. After he left the commission, he and his wife, Karen, became active members in the Foundation, serving the past two years as hosts of Fantasy Forest’s Diamond Dinner and Gala Auction and establishing the Karen Hilburn Breast Cancer Fund, which helps women in Mason County who are under insured or non-insured for breast cancer treatment, receive financial assistance. Scott has also served on various Foundation and hospital district committees. In addition, he is on the elder board of his church and building committee.

“I look forward to being of service to the community once again as a hospital district commissioner. The community has been very good to me and my family, and I will give the necessary time and commitment needed to help lead our hospital district in the direction of continuing to serve the medical needs of our community,” said Scott.

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SCOPE New Standards for Emergency Nurses No matter the profession. The challenge to being the best in your industry requires constant refining of skills, training and knowledge. That’s why last September Mason General Hospital’s Emergency Services Department started sending its ER nurses to the Emergency Nurses Association’s Trauma Nurse Core Curriculum (TNCC). By the fall of 2006, MGH is expecting all of its ER nurses to have completed the 16-hour certification program.

“Once we had a few certified trained nurses, we began employing the new standards which give a more focused, team-oriented bed-side care,” said Cheryl Ann Graf, ARNP, MSN and MBA, emergency services manager. MGH’s ER sees an average of 60 patients a day.

Graf went on to explain that out of the 20 nurses to be trained, 4 - 6 will become certified TNCC trainers, which will help in keeping the standards at the highest level within MGH’s ER department. Also, with certified trainers, MGH will be able to train other hospitals.

“This is exciting, as MGH will be setting the standards very high for ER care in the area, making the other hospitals step up their skills, too,” Graf added.

MGH’s education program is highly regarded throughout the state of Washington as a leader in staff education and certification. “We have always placed a high value on staff training,” said Tom DiDonna, R.N., education coordinator at MGH. “Because of this, other hospitals seek us out as teachers.” Tom’s department is taking the lead in the TNCC training, with MGH Foundation’s financial support.

Vitamin D Crucial for Bone Health Vitamin D may be more important than calcium in promoting strong bones, according to a recent Icelandic study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. In a study of 944 adults, ages 30 to 85, researchers found that higher levels of vitamin D were more closely associated with good bone health than high levels of calcium.

The researchers concluded that persons getting sufficient vitamin D may not need more than 800 milligrams daily of calcium. On the other hand, no amount of calcium can make up for a deficit of vitamin D. They recommended at least 500 milligrams daily of vitamin D through diet or supplements and 700 milligrams for persons living in northern climes or with minimal exposure to sunlight.

[Source: “Vitamin D Drives Bone Health – And You May Not Be Getting Enough,” Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter, February, 2006; JAMA, November 9, 2005]

La Vitamina D es Crucial para la Salud de los Huesos Según un estudio islandés publicado en el Periódico de la Asociación Médica Americana, es posible que la vitamina D sea más importante que el calcio para el desarrollo de los huesos fuertes. En un estudio de 944 adultos entre 30 y 85 años, se descubrió que los niveles altos de vitamina D están más asociados con la buena salud de los huesos que los niveles altos de calcio.

Los investigadores concluyeron que las personas que reciben suficiente vitamina D no necesitan más de 800 miligramos al día de calcio.

Por otro lado, ninguna cantidad de calcio puede compensar la carencia de la vitamina D. Se recomiendan ingerir 500 Continued on page 8…

Time is of Essence

Continued from page 2 …

trauma capabilities make for a greater chance of a positive outcome,” added Graf, referring to the time some ERs take to provide attention. “More time on the road also takes away from that two hour window.”

MGH sees more than 60 ER patients a day and employs only physicians that are emergency medicine board-certified or board-eligible. “We take our job very seriously, and pride ourselves in giving the best care possible,” said Graf.

Mumps

Continued from page 2…

Other than treating the symptoms, as a virus there is no medical cure for Mumps; vaccination is key to preventing the disease.

The Mumps vaccination is found in the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine, which is given in two phases – the first MMR at 12-15 months, and the second vaccination at 11-16 years of age. Adults should catch up on their childhood immunizations and ensure they have had a total of two MMR vaccinations, unless they can show that they have had the disease. If you are immuno-compromised for any reason, have certain allergic reactions or other medical conditions, ask your physician.

More information on the MMR vaccine and the Mumps virus is available at www.cdc.gov under the Health and Safety topic that lists Diseases and Conditions, or ask your healthcare provider.

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E I G H T

SCOPE La Falta de Vitamina D es muy Común

Vitamin D Deficit is Common

l La vitamina D es necesaria para desarrollar huesos fuertes y para ospita eral H stic n e reducir los riesgos de la hipertensión, las enfermedades G iagno Mason Vitamin D is needed to build strong bones cardiacas, la diabetes y el cáncer de próstata, pecho, ng to dical care, d ou come i m o y C e reduce the risk of hypertension, heart and n m e , h ts w ovarios y colon. Aún así ciertas investigaciones recientes for tes emember, bby – diabetes and prostate, breast, disease, sugieren que muchos americanos tienen una carencia g? R in lo ” . r imagin into the ma ovarian and colorectal cancers. Yet recent e b de esta vitamina.

Numwe are able toe. research suggests that many Americans a e k Se ha descubierto que la mitad de las mujeres internadas “Taing a number” rder they arriv have a deficiency of this vitamin. por fracturas de cadera en el Hospital de mujeres de Brigham y “tak nts in the o Half of the women admitted to Brigham and B tenían una deficiencia de vitamina D. Un estudio canadiense patie Women’s Hospital for hip fractures were found serve que recopiló muestras de sangre de una selección al azahar to have a vitamin D shortage. And a Canadian de hombres y mujeres entre 27 y 89 años, descubrió que el study that collected blood samples from a 34% de estas personas tenían unas cantidades insuficientes de vitamina D. random selection of men and women, ages 27 La cantidad diaria recomendada de vitamina D subió a 400 unidades al día en 1997, pero en un to 89, found that 34 percent had insufficient meta-análisis reciente se descubrió que ni siquiera 600 unidades eran suficientes para reducir la supplies of vitamin D. cantidad de fracturas de los ancianos americanos. Las fuentes dietéticas incluyen los huevos, la The recommended daily allowance of leche, y el pescado graso tales como el salmón y la caballa. El cuerpo también produce vitamina D vitamin D was revised upward to 400 IU a day mediante la exposición a los rayos ultravioletas B. in 1997, but a recent meta-analysis found [Origen: “La Vitamina D’s un Nuevo Día Bajo el Sol,” Harvard Women’s Health Watch, Febrero, 2004; “¿Está recibiendo suthat even 600 IU was not enough to reduce ficiente vitamina D para prevenir las fracturas de huesos?” Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter, Diciembre, 2005] the fracture rate in older Americans. Dietary sources include eggs, milk and fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel. Vitamin D is also La Vitamina D es Crucial Continued from page 7 manufactured by the body through exposure miligramos diarios de vitamina D ya sean a través de la dieta o de suplementos alimenticios. La to ultraviolet B rays. cantidad mínima de vitamina D recomendada para las personas que viven en los climas del norte [Source: “Vitamin D’s New Day in the Sun,” Harvard Women’s Health Watch, February, 2004; “Are You Getting y que tienen una exposición solar mínima es de 700 miligramos.

[Origen: ‘“Vitamin D Drives Bone Health – And You May Not Be Getting Enough,” Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter, February, 2006; JAMA, November 9, 2005]

Enough Vitamin D To Fight Fractures?” Tufts UniversityHealth & Nutrition Letter, December, 2005]

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SCOPE News Briefs ...Mental health medication management is now available at the North Mason Medical Clinic. Jolene Culbertson, ARNP, MSN, is now seeing patients in need of mental health services at the Jolene Culbertson North Mason Medical ClinARNP, MSN ic, Belfair. She has been a nurse for more than 30 years and completed her master’s degree in psychosocial nursing at the University of Washington in 1989. During her fifteen years as an ARNP she worked in both hospital and community settings. She has been an adjunct clinical professor in nursing at Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, and currently at Olympic College, Poulsbo. She is available to provide medical management for adult patients. Her treatment techniques vary with the needs and preferences of the individual patient. To schedule an appointment at NMMC call (360) 275-4084 (from Shelton (360) 426-8405). ...North Mason Medical Clinic, Belfair, has made space available in its WIC office for Behavioral Health Services of Thurston-Mason County. This allows residents in the North Mason area, who are eligible for counseling and case management through BHR, to be served without traveling to the Shelton office.

For information call 1-800-825-4820 and ask for Entry Services. …Congratulations to MGH “Employees of the Month”: March - Kerry Rogers, R.N., discharge planner, patient resources; April - Judy Brenke, R.N., medical/surgical/pediatrics; May - Donna Perryman, business office. ...Treasures Thrift Store recognized Volunteer of the Month for January - Janet Poupitch; February - Jo Walters; March - Carolyn Vogel; April - Diana Gunter. ...In keeping with our Mission Statement, “...to protect and promote the health of the people in Mason County while extending respect and compassion...”, Public Hospital District No. 1 wants to help make healthcare affordable. If you need financial assistance with hospital expenses, please call the MGH Business Office at (360) 427-9547 for more information on: 25% discount, property tax adjustment or charity care. For a brochure go to www.masongeneral.com and click on “Charity Care” .

...MGH’s medical staff officers and chiefs of service include: Douglas F. Lindahl, D.O., chiefof-medical-staff; Bonnie J. Davis, M.D., assistant chief-of-staff; and Dean E. Gushee, M.D., secDouglas F. Lindahl retary. Immediate past D.O. chief-of-medical staff is Joe Hoffman, M.D. The 2006 Clinical chiefof-service department heads: Chief of Anesthesia, Robert F. Goad, M.D.; Chief of Intensive Care Unit, Mark L. Schlauderaff, M.D.; Chief of Emergency Services, Dean E. Gushee, M.D.; Chief Bonnie J. Davis M.D. of Infant and Children’s Services, Saad Al Alou, M.D.; Chief of Laboratory Services, Terrence A. Schulte, M.D.; Chief of Medical/Surgical, Christopher W. Penoyar, D.O.; Chief of Obstetrics, Jonathan A. Gold, M.D.; Chief of Physical Therapy, Kenneth R. Sebby, M.D.; Chief of Respiratory Therapy, Dean E. Gushee Douglas F. Lindahl, D.O.; M.D. Chief of Surgery, Michael G. E. Thomas, M.D., and Chief of Radiology, David J. Gacetta, M.D. ...Planning is underway for the 2006 Fantasy Forest to be held at The Pavilion at Sentry Park.

The MGH Foundation is accepting donations of Joe Hoffman hand-crafted items, art- M.D. work, services, and products for the various silent and live auctions held at the ticketed events during the four-day event from November 15 - 18. Vendors of hand-crafted items, art, foods, and products are also needed for the gift bazaar/vendor day. Use your summer for donation planning. For more information, please call the Mason General Hospital Foundation and Development Office at (360) 427-3623 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614) or email pegjstock@msn.com.

Kerry Rogers, R.N., discharge planner, patient resources

As a Discharge Planner, Kerry plans a safe discharge for all her patients. “We look at the whole picture and the needs of the patient and family. We want to make sure the patient’s needs will be met at home, at the nursing home, or wherever they are being sent from the hospital.

“It is so rewarding to work here at Mason General,” Kerry added. “Every day is different and every person is unique. I am always learning something and the people I work with are the best. I have worked in three different hospitals and Mason General is the nicest and friendliest. This is the best place to work.”

Quality Care Pledge We are there when you need us, providing safe and high-quality healthcare every day.

Fact 1 We are open every hour of the day, every day of the year, handling your big and small health needs.

Fact 2 We are investing in innovative ways to advance patient safety.

Fact 3 We hold ourselves accountable by continually measuring and improving the quality of care.

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management of diabetes seriously, and began a road to success. It has been very encouraging to see her become so successful through self-management.” Self-management includes blood glucose testing, eating right, being active, taking medications and working with the Diabetes Support Team.

Etta’s advice to someone diagnosed with diabetes? “By all means, get to a Living Well With Diabetes class, and do what you learn.

You can do it, just make up your mind to.”

Diabetes

Continued from page one…

the disease is beneficial for the patient and their family. Content of the class includes diabetes diagnosis, proper meal planning, diabetes medications, exercise, prevention and treatment of complications, stress management, living with diabetes, and the use of support people and a healthcare team. To register, call Mrs. Barwick at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 (from Belfair (360) 275-8614, ext. 3301).

Want to see Mason General Hospital from the comfort of your home?

Go to www.masongeneral.com and click on “Video Tour” found at the bottom of the website home page.

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

Published by: 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. Business Hours are 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Spanish Translator Available.

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; Nancy Trucksess, commissioner/president; Scott Hilburn and Don Wilson, commissioners.

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

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

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Mason General Hospital POB 1668 Shelton, WA 98584

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

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