Vol. 30, No. 45
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
July 6, 2012
Local group helps village grow stronger S
everal MUSC faculty members, residents, nurses, students and others soon will be traveling to a remote village in West Africa to work with local Ghanaian nurses and physicians. This remote village is home to 2,500 people, 1,400 of whom are children. The group will be addressing the primary health goals of the village, including malaria testing and surgeries for goiter, hydrocele and vision problems. The group is seeking donations to aid in this Health Outreach trip to Okurase in Ghana. Cynthia Cupit Swenson, Ph.D., is a professor in MUSC’s Family Services Research Center, a part of MUSC’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and is involved with community-based services and research. People associated with Project Okurase in Ghana have been at work for many months organizing the Health Outreach on the ground, she said. Including the 15 people going from America, there will be 75 volunteers in all. The outreach will be led by local Ghanaian physicians and nurses. The Charleston group is set to arrive to begin the outreach on July 12. “We are very excited about this phenomenal event and our partnership with Ghana. We hope that this is the start of a more formal arrangement for future rotations and internships for MUSC students and residents.” Swenson said despite the strengths and work ethic of the people, this village has no clean water, lack of proper sanitation, limited medical care or educational opportunities, malnutrition and food security issues (see photo exhibit on second floor of the Colbert
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See Village on page 8
The village children are a big part of the appeal for MUSC volunteers who go to Okurase, Ghana.
What Will Be happening? q Screening, treatment and surgeries (1,350 people were seen in 2011) q Children’s camp, organized locally by Charleston students, that includes English, science and other educational activities, as well as soccer and songs q Piloting telemedicine for health consults q Piloting the use of technology
StudentS recognized The South Carolina Dental Association welcomes future dentists at annual meeting.
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for an electronic classroom where village students can join classrooms at a local high school in Charleston q Collecting information for the website and public relations q Under the direction of a medical coordinator from MUSC, Eve Spratt, M.D., collecting information for the background of grant applications (health, nutrition, sanitation, water)
q Helping with building of the educational center, the Nkabom Centre q Health education to be shared with people waiting to be seen q Partnering with Water Missions International to conduct a site assessment to determine water needs q The opening of a women’s new small business in gari production (a roasted cassava root)
Summerville expreSS
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Around Campus
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority expands its route to Summerville.
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Meet Janet
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Applause
READ THE CATALYST ONLINE - http://www.musc.edu/catalyst
2 The CaTalysT, July 6, 2012
PeoPle
Around Campus
eVenTs
Barry Hainer
Bridal Boot Camp
Barry Hainer, M.D., Department of Family Medicine, has been appointed interim chair of the Department of Family Medicine. Hainer received his medical degree from Georgetown University in 1976, and has been at MUSC since 1992.
A Bridal Boot Camp will be held from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m., every Monday and Wednesday, July 16 through Aug. 24 at the MUSC Wellness Center. To sign up, go to www.musc.edu/hsc or visit the MUSC Wellness Center. A personal trainer will guide participants through marine-style drills and discuss the importance of healthy eating and managing stress. For more information, email Jennie Brooks at brooksjw@ musc.edu.
Grantsmanship Workshop
Lindsay Perry
open houSe
Lindsay Perry, DPT, earned her specialty certification with the American Physical Therapy Association as a neurological clinical specialist. Perry, in the Department of Health Science and Research and the Division of Physical Therapy, is the fifth physical therapist in South Carolina to earn this certification. In addition to Perry, Sara Kraft, DPT, also has earned her speciality certification.
Visitors to MUSC’s Urban Farm’s open house June 28 got to tour the garden, meet committee members and get a taste of fried green tomatoes. Above, committee members talk about the purpose of the garden, located at the corner of Bee and President streets. University hospital executive chef Brett Cunningham, left, gives a live cooking demonstration. He and other chefs explained how to prepare meals using fresh ingredients. Sessions also were held on urban chickens, composing and beekeeping. For more information, visit www. musc.edu/urbanfarm.
John Waller John Waller, M.D., professor of anesthesia and perioperative medicine, was named the first university ombudsman. The Office of the Ombudsman offers services to faculty and post-doctoral trainees and provides a confidential, impartial, informal and independent resource for information or conflict management. The office assists those who seek guidance with resolution of academic or administrative issues and disputes.
Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Editor: Kim Draughn catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Cindy Abole, aboleca@musc.edu Dawn Brazell, brazell@musc.edu
The Catalyst is published once a week. Paid adver tisements, which do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, are handled by Island Publications Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or 843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.
The Office of Research Development will offer a special summer Grantsmanship Workshop: One-onOne Consultation Series with Israel Goldberg, Ph.D., president of Health Research Associates, July 25 and 26 in Room 101-C, Basic Science Building. To schedule a consultation, email huttow@musc.edu or vander@musc. edu.
VolunTeer offiCe Caring Clowns The Volunteer Office is starting a new service at MUSC — Caring Clowns. This volunteer role is an opportunity for those that can spare three hours a week, have a sense of humor and like helping others. To sign up to be a caring clown at MUSC or for more information, visit www.MUSCHealth. com/volunteer.
Toiletry Supplies Adult Volunteer & Guest Services is in need of toiletry supplies for families during their extended stay at MUSC. Items needed include shampoo, conditioner, combs, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, lotion and soap. Items may be dropped off at the Adult Volunteer & Guest Services Office, Room 101, North Tower. Donations also may be dropped off in Room 2104, Ashley River Tower.
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Medical student finds herself ready to take challenge Editor’s Note: Chelsey Baldwin of Little River is a third-year medical student. This column follows the journey of her class in becoming doctors.
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aydreams of the blazing beach sun and the taste of a strawberry milkshake, which I have been craving since my boards lockdown began, had become more intense with every five minute break I took in between the hour sections of my national board examination. Not now, I pleaded with myself, please not now. This game of Chelsey Baldwin subconscious rebellion begun in past few weeks leading up to what I had labeled on my calendar as “Game Day.” The clarity of the dreams intensified with every repetition, with distinct improved additions. The sunset would be more colorful, my company would be delightful and I’d laugh harder than ever before. But then I would be yanked back to the present by the reality of a timer ticking through my allotted break and by the shivers induced by a frigidly cold room, destroying any residual warmth of the scene I had created.
Medical musings
Throughout the examination, I would feel the test administrator looming behind me adjusting the thermostat. He explained prior to the start of the exam that for every person in the testing room the temperature would be decreased; a semi-successful attempt to discourage daydreams and nodding off of the examinees. One would think the adrenalin created by the most important examination of my life would be enough, and yet the body seems to have adapted as a result of the numerous surges of anxiety experienced during the past two years. There also is the acquired calm I’ve gained knowing I had studied all I was capable of and ‘what will be will be.’ In lieu of this fact, I progressed through every section with a ritual of a daydream to remind myself what waited on the opposite end of the exam and a pep talk to ground myself to the present moment. Yet, within a matter of a few hours, it was over. This exam that I had heard about for two years with increasing frequency, to the point of avoiding classmates in the last few weeks because that’s the only subject matter that we seemed to be able to utter to one another, was simply over. I got up from my desk, signed out by giving my final set of fingerprints and was out the door without a look back. I currently find myself on a two-week hiatus, and I am enjoying it thoroughly.
I recall reading a passage at the beginning of my board prep book about reintegration after the boards. I have found no such reference necessary. The first week I spent cramming every desire I had denied myself for the past five weeks. One night I found myself at a local rooftop bar enjoying the company of those who had supported me throughout the prior month and just feeling on top of the world. We had the Charleston breeze slipping around us, choruses of laughter springing from every direction and the distinct absence of the gnawing burden of guilt that normally accompanies a medical student. This feeling was the exact reason why one works so hard: the chance to enjoy achievement without the slightest bit of regret. Now it seems that I am gearing up for the start of a new era. I have graduated from the imprisonment of the library to be a willing captive of the hospital wards, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Medical school has an uncanny ability to offer such excitement for the future, that it is often difficult to remember the emotional aspect of the past hard times. While I can remember my rants of never wanting to enter the library again, the strength of the feeling is impossible to conjure. Instead I hold fast to a sense of contentment with the expanse of progress I’ve experienced during the past two years and an anticipatory excitement about what still lies ahead.
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SCDA invites students to present research findings By Cindy aBole Public Relations
CDM students participating at the annual meeting Carson Hund, Amber Houston, Kathryn Harrison, Paul R. Lambert III, Brandon Hagan, K. Bryan Wingate Jr., Jeanette S. Wingate, Scott Brown and Jonathan Puza.
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team of dental students, who presented their research projects on campus in February, got a second chance to discuss their findings with statewide dentists and dental practitioners. Nine rising fourth-year dental students were invited to the South Carolina Dental Association’s (SCDA) 143rd Annual Session in Myrtle Beach, May 3-6. Students, working individually or in teams of two, competed Feb. 23 at the second annual James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine (CDM) Scholars Day at MUSC. The program featured student and post-doc-level posters and research results from a variety of dental, oral and craniofacial research. Awards were presented in four categories that awarded top winners an invite to present at a national dental and dental research meeting. Honorable mention entries were invited to present posters at the SCDA meeting. The research poster session was held during a May 4 luncheon at the Embassy Suites Kingston Plantation Hotel Dental student Paul R. Lambert III relishes any opportunity to talk about the research work he and co-student Brandon Hagan collaborated on about a new dental hearing aid as an option for people suffering from hearing loss. The
Third-year dental students present results from their research at the South Carolina Dental Association annual meeting in Myrtle Beach. removable device is revolutionary and works with bone conduction to transmit sound. The Soundbite device is fixed to a molar in the upper jaw. According to Lambert, the device and technology is already well-known in the ear, nose and throat medical community. Lambert and Hagan first presented this research at the Dental Medicine Scholar’s Day and were invited to present again in Myrtle Beach. Lambert, who is experienced at presenting on a national level, was excited to address this statewide audience whom he regards as his future peers.
“Dentists are so busy that they don’t have extra time to stay up-to-date on research. Our presentations offered a snapshot of research ideas that are on the horizon. It allowed practitioners to stop, talk and ask questions.” Lambert also praised the experience, which allowed for valuable networking time with practitioners. “I met with dentists and specialists who could work on tooth modifications and prep work for this device and others who said they knew of a patient who could benefit from this type of dental
hearing system.” Lambert hopes other dental students will take up the mantle that he and Hagan left behind. Other students now have an opportunity to write an abstract on Lambert and Hagan’s findings and submit it for future publication. “MUSC provides so many great opportunities for students to challenge themselves and excel. It’s up to students to take advantage of this and be dedicated to work hard to get the best results,” Lambert said. Joe Vuthiganon, DMD, CDM instructor and CDM Scholar’s Day student coordinator, was happy to organize and support the dental student’s participation in this professional venue. “Our dental scholar’s day event was so successful that we wanted to invite our dental students to communicate their research work to statewide dental professionals. Everyone’s efforts were both important and meaningful. I feel it allowed others to appreciate the research side of dentistry.”
White coat markS tranSition of care The College of Dental Medicine Class of 2014 celebrates their transition from didactic coursework to clinical training during their White Coat Ceremony June 15 at the Church of the Holy Communion. A total of 71 dental students donned the traditional white coat in front of dental faculty, staff, student’s family and friends.
photo by Anne Thompson, Digital Imaging
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Meet Janet
Janet Masonberg Department Volunteer & Guest Services How long at MUSC I have been a volunteer for 12 years. How are you changing what’s possible at MUSC? I talk to new moms about the importance of reading to their babies. Why do you volunteer The nurses cannot get all their work done while holding fussy babies. The parents cannot always be there to hold their babies, but they can be assured that I will be there to comfort the babies when they need it. Unique talent I can sing a song about almost anything. Favorite place in the world The deck on the back of my house Favorite vacation An African safari. We traveled to Tanzania and had the experience of a lifetime. From Tanzania we flew across Africa to Cape Town. Those two weeks could not have been any more memorable.
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Warehouse reveals supply trove of ‘gold’ By Caroline alTman Public Relations
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n what makes great sense for recycling and for global health, MUSC’s latest outreach to Tanzania involves the donation of more than $1 million worth of surplus equipment no longer being used here. Randy Pauling, biomedical engineering supervisor, said just because equipment is old, doesn’t mean it no longer works. “Stuff that’s trash to us is gold to someone else, and these monitors are gold to the Tanzanians,” he said, referring to the one lone battery-operated pulse oximeter that currently exists in the 150-bed Lutheran Memorial Hospital in Haydom. Thanks to MUSC and a local nonprofit Madaktari Africa, there soon will be 12 more of them in Haydom’s hospital. More than 40 Phillip monitors and 100 Nellcor pulse oximeters from MUSC are going to three hospitals in Tanzania. In Tanzania, the hospitals have limited resources and only 5.2 health care workers for every 10,000 people. The Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine has been sending faculty and residents to the Bugando Medical Center in Mwanza, Tanzania, for the past three years as part of the globalization efforts in MUSC’s Strategic Plan 2010-2015. In addition, the goal of the program is to give African medical staff the tools and training they need to provide health care to patients and teach others how to do the same. During a trip to Tanzania in 2010, Carlee Clark, M.D., assistant professor of anesthesia and perioperative medicine, found that physicians were trying to provide anesthesia with limited resources and needed equipment. The donated equipment will allow physicians to monitor patients’ vital signs and help them determine what treatment to provide for them. Pauling, who helped with organizing and packing the equipment, learned from the MUSC anesthesiologists that patients were dying both in the operating
Robert Tritt, left, and Randy Pauling packed the supplies.
Equipment being sent to Tanzania was organized, crated and stored in MUSC’s warehouse before being sent to Tanzania. rooms and later in the recovery room to install, maintain and work on the because of an inability to monitor equipment. Pauling said Tritt was the patients undergoing surgery. “There perfect choice to go because the NICU is no way to alert medical personnel if was his area. “I was really happy when a patient starts having complications. he wanted to go, because he knows these These monitors will save lives.” monitors as well as anyone here.” MUSC’s former neonatal ICU Tritt said it will be fascinating to be in equipment had been sitting in a Tanzania teaching others how to work warehouse for more than a year, on the same equipment that he has been unusable to the hospital anymore. working with for the past eight years Meanwhile, Scott T. Reeves, M.D., in Charleston. “I’ve taught people over chairman for the Department of here, but this is a little different. Once I Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, leave Tanzania, they are on their own. I was arranging for the equipment to be need to make sure I convey everything I donated by MUSC and sent to Tanzania need to them.” to support his department’s efforts in Kathleen Ellis, director of operations, Mwanza. As the equipment was being Center for Global Initiatives, said cataloged, it became possible to expand this project shows the amazing impact the opportunity to provide equipment of what can happen when multiple to three Tanzania hospitals including departments collaborate across campus. the Lutheran Memorial Hospital in The long-term plan at the center is to Haydom, the Muhimbili National work across campus to develop a formal Cardiac Center in Dar Salam and the process for donating surplus medical Bugando Medical Center in Mwanza. equipment and supplies overseas so there’s a structured process versus having Through months of volunteer work, the equipment has been packed into to do it on a project-by-project basis. multiple crates and is being shipped “The benefits are great for everyone. to Tanzania. Once the shipment has This type of initiative supports our global arrived, Robert Tritt, biomedical health and community service missions technician, will be visiting to teach how while allowing us to look at ways to help
lower operational costs, reduce waste and promote resource sustainability through the recycling of usable surplus medical supplies and equipment.” Ellis said what makes this initiative so effective is that Reeves and his colleagues spent time up front, assessing the needs of the local hospitals and the limitations of basic infrastructure, such as electricity reliability and staff support, before assembling the appropriate equipment. “Sending a ‘trainer’ to ensure that the people receiving the supplies know how to use them and maintain them is what makes all the difference. It means the donated supplies that often end up unused in developing countries due to lack of training, lack of replacement parts or inability can actually be used.” To learn about MUSC’s Center for Global Initiatives, visit http:// globalhealth.musc.edu or join MUSC Global on facebook. Reeves said the project happened with the support of many people, including: Lisa Montgomery, MUSC CFO for assisting with state appropriations; Teresa Hacunda, director of Civic Affairs for Covidien, for aiding in getting supplies; Dan Altman, support services operation manager, for establishing contact with Hacunda; Chris Fennell, courier coordinator at the warehouse, for navigating the state system to obtain the donation; Carlee Clark, M.D., for identifying appropriate equipment; Doyle Word, CEO of Madaktari Africa, for arranging the container ship and ground transportation; and Cathy and Townsend Reeves, for packing.
The Catalyst, July 6, 2012 7
CARTA Express service expands to Summerville T he Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) announced the expansion of its bus route with service to Summerville. The Dorchester Road Express is the newest addition to CARTA Express commuter services. The new stop, located at the Park & Ride lot at Dorchester Village Shopping Center (corner of Dorchester and Trolley road), provides a consistent connection to the CARTA system for Summerville area residents. The express service will run during the week (every half-hour) from 5:15 to 9:46 a.m. and 3:07 to 7:39 p.m. The service, effective June 20, is a limited stop service that runs weekdays during peak drive times, mornings and afternoons, commuting from Summerville to downtown Charleston with multiple stops including MUSC. The service will initiate from Summerville and pick up passengers in North Charleston with stops at Robert Bosch Corp., the Boeing South Carolina plant, and continue to downtown Charleston with stops at Meeting and Columbus streets (Piggly Wiggly), Meeting and John streets (Charleston Visitors Center), Calhoun and St. Phillip streets (College of Charleston) and Calhoun and Jonathan Lucas streets
CARTA passengers take advantage of the new Summerville stop from downtown Charleston. (MUSC). The new express route is included in MUSC's free CARTA program. MUSC employees and students, using their university ID badge can ride any regularly scheduled CARTA route seven days a week. For information about CARTA and CARTA Express, visit http://www. ridecarta.com.
Researchers receive federal grant to help transform cancer care
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lacks in South Carolina, with early stage nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC), are less likely than Caucasians to receive surgical treatment for their disease, thus significantly reducing chances of survival. This reflects a national trend that the Hollings Cancer Center and statewide partners hope to change with a $1.8 million federal grant. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. While surgery is the standard of care for the early stage of this cancer and offers the best chance for long-term survival, fewer than half of black patients diagnosed undergo surgery. This study, funded by the National Institute of Health’s National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, will test
whether statewide patient navigation intervention improves receipt of surgery, time to surgery and survival in black patients with early stage NSCLC. The study, led by Nestor F. Esnaola, M.D., a surgical oncologist and medical director of MUSC’s oncology service line; and Marvella E. Ford, Ph.D., associate director for Cancer Disparities at the Hollings Cancer Center, will be conducted at MUSC and five other cancer centers across South Carolina: q McLeod Regional Medical Center (Florence) q Palmetto Health (Columbia) q Self Regional Healthcare (Greenwood) q Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System (Spartanburg)
q The Regional Medical Center of Orangeburg and Calhoun Counties (Orangeburg) Ford said the hope is that this study will uncover modifiable causes of underuse of lung cancer surgery among this group. “The patient navigation intervention may prove to be a practical and powerful strategy for use by other health care providers, institutions and communities seeking to reduce persistent racial disparities in lung cancer surgery and outcomes.” Esnaola added: “This project has the potential to transform the care of African-American lung cancer patients in our state and demonstrates our cancer center’s commitment to improving the health of all South Carolinians facing cancer.”
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Being 'left out' increases risk of depression for children S pecial needs children with chronic medical or developmental conditions already have it tough, but a study from MUSC indicates that being bullied or shunned poses a greater risk of anxiety or depression than the challenges presented by a medical condition. The study, presented by lead investigator Margaret Ellis McKenna, M.D., senior fellow in MUSC’s Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Department, investigated the impact of bullying, ostracism and diagnosis of chronic medical condition on the emotional well-being of children with special health care needs, ages 8 to 17. When looking at both parent and child reports, McKenna found ostracism (being left out or ignored) by peers was the strongest indicator of symptoms for depression or anxiety and that ostracism and bullying often go hand-in-hand. This finding may come as a surprise to some, particularly given the immense physical health challenges these children must face.
Village Continued from Page One Education Center & Library). Sarah Logan, a student going on the trip, established a project to accept donations at MUSC. Donation boxes are located in the lobbies of the Basic Science Building, the library, the university hospital and the Children’s Hospital, the Wellness Center, the Cannon Street building, Ashley River Towers, McClennan Banks first floor and Harborview Office Towers. Organizers are asking for donations
“These findings show that despite all the many challenges these children face in relation to their chronic diagnoses, being bullied or excluded by their peers was the factor most likely to predict whether or not they reported symptoms of depression,” McKenna said. Participants were recruited from MUSC during routine visits to their physician. Participants and their parent or guardian completed three questionnaires that screened for emotional well-being (psychosocial adjustment). In all, there were 109 participants with a variety of chronic medical or developmental diagnoses. Main categories of diagnosis included: q ADHD (39 percent) q cystic fibrosis (22 percent) q Type I and II diabetes (19 percent) q learning disability (11 percent) q sickle cell disease (11 percent) q obesity (11 percent)
of any of the following non-expired supplies: scrubs, patient gowns, surgical tools, otoscopes, ophthalmoscopes, stethoscopes, skin calipers, scales, gloves, glucometers, glucose strips, school supplies and batteries. Tax-deductible monetary donations also are needed to buy medications and malaria testing kits in Ghana. Contact Swenson, MUSC Department of Psychiatry, fourth floor, McClennan Banks, 876-1802; swensocc@musc.edu or mail to: Project Okurase, 2449 Beacon Street, North Charleston, S.C. 29405.
Initiative accepting nominations for women faculty award A call for nominations is under way for the MUSC Women Scholars Initiative Award for Advancement of Women Faculty. The purpose of the award is to recognize the MUSC faculty member who best demonstrates excellence in his or her commitment to the advancement and promotion of women faculty at MUSC. This annual award will be announced during Faculty Convocation, and in addition to a commemorative plaque, the
recipient will receive a monetary award from the MUSC Foundation To be eligible for this award, the nominee must be a full-time faculty member at MUSC. Male or female nominees are welcomed. Nomination packets should be submitted as one single PDF file to Miriam Hutto (huttojm@musc.edu) no later than 5 p.m., July 13. For information, visit http:// academicdepartments.musc.edu/ womenscholars/index.htm.
q autism spectrum disorder (9 percent) There were several children who had a combination of these diagnoses. One questionnaire screened for symptoms of depression, while the other two questionnaires broadly screened for “internalizing conditions,” which include anxiety and depression. The child’s age, gender and scored self-reports of being bullied or ostracized were analyzed. Previous research has shown that ostracism and being bullied often occur together, which McKenna also found in this group of children. Based on the children’s answers, these two factors were the strongest indicators of depression or other internalizing symptoms. Given these findings, McKenna recommends that health and education professionals increase the levels of vigilance needed to identify bullying and ostracism in this already vulnerable group of children. For example, she suggests that schools adopt policies to prevent and address ostracism, with the goal of implementing programs that promote a culture of inclusion and a sense of belonging for all students.
Applause Program The following employees received recognition through the Applause Program for going the extra mile: Medical Center Kasey Hamlin-Smith, Pediatrics Genetics & Child Development; Adrienne Gregory, Revenue Cycle Operations; Tiffany Coakley, PAS; Melvena Nelson, Environmental Services; Anne Redick, 2JRU; Fatima Bellinger, 2JRU; Pamela Scarborough, 2JRU; Natasha Sheppard, 2JRU; Floyd Whittington, NSICU; Maria Lopes-Virella, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Medical Genetics; Sharon Dupree-Capers, Revenue Cycle Operations; Elice Graham, Medical Records; Helen Hicks, Hollings Clinics; Delilah McKinney, Outpatient Registration; Philip Egloff, HCC Retail Pharmacy; Darryl Lee, Revenue Cycle Operations; Eric Lentsch, Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery; Marie Thompson, ART Pre-op Surgery; Karen Adams, ART Preop Surgery; Lisa Cordes, HCC Retail Pharmacy; Darnella White, Outpatient Billing Office; Robin Edwards, Hollings BMT; Jennifer Wood, HCC; Moya McFadden, Radiology; Connie Vendrick, 6W; Jessica Brown, 6W; Sara Speakman, MICU; Chris Hairfield, Transplant Center; Jill Norman, 10W; John Carson,
10W; Brett Mills, 10W; Wendy Williams, 10W; Brett Green, 10W; Courtney Nettles, 10W; Dusti Roberts, 10W; Haley Fitzsimmons, 10W; Sam Guffey, 10W; Tracy Bernard, 10W; Jill Norman, 10W; Alaina Heyward, 10W; Laurie Moultrie, 10W; Ashleigh Millen, 10W; Jennifer Smith, Environmental Services; Libby Woodward, Women’s Services; Jessica Johnson, 10W; Metzfe Sulyma, 10W; Kelley Westbrook, PAS; Lauren Mikell, ART 3W; Keisuke Shirai, Hematology/ Oncology; Patricia Barrineau, Women’s Services; Pamela Polite, Revenue Cycle Operations; Diane Graves, Revenue Cycle Operations; Valerie Collins, Medical Records; Mary Washington, Cardiology; Karl Byrne, Surgery; Karen Legare, ART Pre-op Surgery; Denise Carneiro-Pla, Surgery; Wade Reardon, Residents Surgery; and Sandra Buck, RT Urology Clinic. University Kiften Carroll, Pediatric Surgery; Kathy Chessman, Pharmacy; Kevin Drayton, Engineering & Facilities; Julie Mansfield, Pediatric Surgery; Michael Meacham, College of Health Professions; Lauren Parnell, Operational Analytics; and Margaret Seabrook, Maxillofacial Prosthodontics.
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DAISY winner stays cool under extreme pressure T
he MUSC DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award winner for May is Amy Dugan, R.N., NSICU. The following is Dugan’s nomination letter, submitted by Cheryl Holderfield, manager of NSICU. “It was around 7 p.m. on a Saturday when the MUSC fire alarm went off and the staff thought it was just another fire drill. As it turned out smoke began to filter through the vents and began to irritate staff and patients causing them to cough. As the staff was preparing for shift change, it became obvious that the patients would need to be evacuated to a safer location. As you can imagine being on the ninth floor with a fire just under you reported on the eighth floor, things could get panicky. Instead, staff on 9NSICU followed the fire evacuation plan and were able to safely move all of the patients to another area without a single incident. Amy was not the only staff that evening who did a wonderful job, but because so many of our team were off for another staff member’s wedding, Amy ended up in charge for the first time. Amy will always remember her first night as charge, especially since the patients were relocated to the PACU area where supplies and equipment were different for staff. The primary reason that I am submitting Amy as a Daisy Award winner was not because she was in charge for the first time, in a new location, during a fire and patient evacuation, but because before her shift ended she had written a long email
Registered nurse Amy Dugan, third from right, accepts the May Daisy Award. Helping her to celebrate her award is the NSICU staff. MUSC is among 400 medical facilities every day. The foundation was formed in recognizing and thanking everyone for honoring nurses with the DAISY Award. January 2000 by the family of J. Patrick their help during the night. As you can This is one initiative of the foundation Barnes who died of complications of guess, I am very proud of Amy and my whose overall goal is to help fight entire team. I am not sure if I would have idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. diseases of the immune system. All award winners receive an African thought to write such a nice email to To nominate a nurse, visit https:// thank people for their help as Amy did.” Shona Tribe sculpture titled, “A Healer’s www.musc.edu/medcenter/ Touch,” a certificate, and a DAISY The award for nurses is a monthly formstoolbox/DaisyAward/index.htm. Award pin. The DAISY Foundation also award and is part of the DAISY delivered cinnamon rolls to all the nurses To see more on the DAISY Foundation, Foundation’s program to recognize the visit http://www.daisyfoundation.org. in each winner’s unit. super-human efforts nurses perform
order of the palmetto aWard To commemorate OB-GYN chair Dr. Peter Van Dorsten stepping down as chair and being the latest recipient of the Order of the Palmetto award, the highest civilian honor in the state, a portrait was painted by artist Charles DeAntonio. The portrait was presented to Van Dorsten, left, and wife, Brett, and DeAntonio, June 24. The portrait hangs in the department’s conference room. Van Dorsten is honored for his career contributions and leadership in the area of high risk pregnancy, decreasing the rates of premature births and improving the lives of newborns. On July 1, Dr. Donna Johnson became the department chair.
photo by Jenny Perry Photography
10 The CaTalysT, July 6, 2012
eMployee Wellness Heat, sun, insects are among the list of skin concerns during the summer. Here are a few tips to keep skin healthy and free of burns, rashes and bites this summer. q Sun protection: Exposure to ultraviolet light, UVA or UVB, from ultraviolet rays can damage unprotected skin in 15 minutes, and it only takes a few bad sunburns to raise the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Choosing the right sunscreen is the first step in preventing sun damage. Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied liberally enough to all sun-exposed areas that it forms a film when initially applied. It takes 20 to 30 minutes for sunscreen to be absorbed by the skin, so it should be applied at least a half an hour before going out in the sun and be sure to re-apply often. If skin does become burned, use cool compresses to soothe and cool, anti-inflammatories to decrease inflammation, ibuprofen to help control swelling and to reduce pain and over-thecounter hydrocortisone creams to further remove the sting of the burn and the redness associated with sunburn. A free skin cancer screening is being offered from 9 a.m. to noon, July 14 at the Isle of Palms County Park on 14th Avenue. q Bug bites: The best way to avoid an insect bite is to use repellent and try to stay away from areas where pests are found. Products with a DEET concentration of 15 to 30 percent are safe and effective for children 2 months and older, and adults, the higher the concentration, the longer the effectiveness. To avoid tick bites, avoid dense woods, fields, and brush. Mosquitoes love to hang around these areas. Ticks and chiggers are also nuisances that you can avoid by staying away from tall grass, woods, and brush and cover skin when in these areas. Treatment for most insect bites is first to remove the stinger or tick, wash with antibacterial cleanser and use
hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion or baking soda. If the area becomes red and painful, see a physician. q Rashes and skin irritations: Summer activities, sun and heat increase the risk of skin rashes. There are many causes, including heat, insect bites, poisonous plants and reaction to products and medications. Whatever the cause, it can become extremely irritating and itchy if left untreated. The best treatment is to prevent the rash from occurring by protecting skin from irritants, avoiding areas prone to poison ivy and insects, and being aware of any medications that might cause photosensitivity. However, if a rash does occur, the most effective treatment is hydrocortisone. It reduces the appearance of a rash and also soothes inflammation and skin irritability. Poison ivy and oak rashes may be soothed with calamine lotion. Again, if any rash becomes worse or does not respond to treatment, consult a physician. Employee Wellness events q MUSC's Pitch the Pack Program: Free smoking cessation program offered to MUSC employees and students. Classes, counseling and a one-month supply of medications are available to eligible participants. Receive a success kit with enrollment filled with gifts. Enroll at http://ceii.muschealth.com/SCP/ SCPRegistration.aspx. q MUSC Urban Farm: Work & Learn. Participants can engage in handson learning about urban agriculture including planting and harvesting from 9 to 10 a.m., July 12, and Family Workday from 9 to 11 a.m., July 14. q Lunch & Learn: The next Lunch & Learn will be held from noon to 1 p.m., July 12. A brief gardening or nutrition presentation will be followed by social interaction under the oak tree. Email musc-empwell@musc.edu for information and to register for these events. “Like” us on Facebook: “MUSC Urban Farm” Contact Susan Johnson at johnsusa@ musc.edu to become involved in employee wellness at MUSC.
Boot camp’s goal: Help health care professionals treat veterans A program title, “Operation Homecoming: Boot Camp for Civilian Health Care Professions,” will be held 8:30 a.m. to noon, July 11 in Suite 802, Harborview Office Tower. The program’s goal is to educate clinical and behavioral health professionals to provide better care to military veterans and their families who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury. Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, the mission of this project is to train 10,000 clinical professionals across the country to better serve the often unique needs of
military personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Although eligible for care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), veterans and their families living in rural area may find it difficult to regularly visit a VA facility. This program is designed to provide clinical professionals across the country, particularly in rural areas, with the tools they need to better treat veterans and their family members. To register for this program, visit http://scahec.net/schoolsregistration. For additional information, contact Jessica Huggins at 792-4981 or email hugginjr@musc.edu.
The CaTalysT, July 6, 2012 11
CLASSIFIED P AGE • Household Personal Items for MUSC employees are free.
All other classifieds are charged at rate below. Ads considered venture-making ads (puppy breeder, coffee business, home for sale, etc.) will be charged as PAID ADS •• PROOF OF ELIGIBILITY REQUIRED * NO MORE THAN 3 LINES * FREE ADS RUN 2 WEEKS ONLY!
PAID ADS are $3 per line ( 1 line = 35 characters) DEADLINE: TUESDAY – 10:00 AM * CLASSIFIED ADS CAN BE E-MAILED TO sales@moultrienews.com, OR MAILED (134 Columbus St., Charleston SC 29403) Please call 849-1778 with questions. *Must provide Badge No. and Department of Employment for employees and Student I.D. Number for MUSC Students. IP01-681634
Homes For Sale
Homes For Sale
Misc. Services Part-Time NP/PA needed at the College of Charleston Student Health Services, no weekends, no evenings. More information at jobs@cofc.edu, job # JA#0600512
984 Harbor Oaks, James Island. 3BR, 2.5BA, 1582 sf. $179,900 Minutes from Connector 843-696-1331
4154 Jean Laffite Tidal Creek $449,000 4/5BR, 2.5BA, 3511 sf. Disher, Hamrick & Myers Helen Butler 843-343-2222
12 The CaTalysT, July 6, 2012