My Boone Health Summer 2020

Boone Health SUMMER 2020

In Command Chief Nursing Officer Monica Smith leads the Boone Team through a pandemic.

PG. 10

PG. 16

A History of Helping

When working with a patient, I want to offer hope.

That hope comes from a skilled team of physicians, nurses and technicians working together to treat cancer. I believe in Missouri Cancer Associates, and I believe in Boone.

Andrew Iliff, MD

Your Cancer Care Team

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President Jim Sinek Director of Marketing & Public Relations Ben Cornelius Communications Consultant II Jessica Park Digital Communications & Marketing Consultant II Madison Loethen Marketing Consultant I Erin Wegner Photography Sadie Thibodeaux Contributing Writers Hunter Blume, Kate Mirly, Tara Phillips

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Please submit comments or feedback to bcc1170@bjc.org or call 573.815.3392 1600 East Broadway Columbia, MO 65201 573.815.8000

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A Note from Jim

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Grilling Vegetables

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Hospital Headlines

Get to Know a BHC Doctor

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Thank You

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Get to Know a BHC Nurse

Team Response

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A History of Helping

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Water The Wonder Beverage

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Summer Safety Tips for Baby

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Summer Restart

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Heat Stroke vs Heat Exhaustion

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Foundation News

I am new to GI Associates, but not to Columbia. I am a Boone Baby! And I knew that when I came back home to practice medicine, I wanted to be a partner with Boone Hospital.

I believe in GI Associates, and I believe in Boone.

Mike Williams, MD

Your GI Care Team

A NOTE FROM JIM

Beyond Titles: Leadership in Health Care

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f you are like me, you have probably heard and read more about the COVID-19 virus than you ever wanted!

As a result, I am not going to contribute to your frustration by talking about it here. Rather, I’d like to talk about courage, fighting your way through adversity, and leadership.

At Boone Hospital Center, I tell all of our new employees that I consider every position at Boone Hospital Center to be a leadership position. I don’t subscribe to the theory that you’re a leader if you have a management title.

Managers are expected to be leaders, but leadership doesn’t require any particular job title – it just requires courage and the drive to succeed despite adversity. In health care, I believe our clinical quality outcomes, patient safety results, patient experience, work environment, and Boone Hospital’s results are all directly related to the number of leaders we have across our organization.

The courage to speak out and share concerns during a time-out prior to beginning a surgical procedure; the desire to assist a patient or visitor who is having a difficult time finding their way around the hospital; the motivation and concern for safety to clean up a water spill in a hallway; the pride and perseverance of caring for our equipment and fixing things the right way; and the willingness and commitment to coach a colleague who may not be complying with a protocol or procedure are just a few of the examples of leadership inherent in all of our Boone teammates, across every department, throughout our organization.

Each individual act of leadership at Boone Hospital collectively generates an environment of high quality, safety, and compassionate care for everyone who uses our services or steps inside our buildings. So, in spite of the fact that we have hundreds of job titles, I am proud that the one title shared by all of my teammates at Boone Hospital Center is Leader!

In health care, you experience a significant amount of adversity – death, infectious disease, challenging dynamics between patients and loved ones, difficult end of life conversations, high risk procedures, significant regulations, unaligned incentives, and fragile relationships between

highly driven and independent individuals. The leadership commitment necessary to fight your way through this adversity is tremendous.

I feel lucky and privileged to work with so many courageous leaders here at Boone Hospital Center. Our collective leadership gives us a significant advantage in overcoming the adversity and challenges found in the health care environment.

I will leave you with two quotes which I think are reflective of this topic.

• “We don’t develop courage by being happy every day. We develop it by surviving difficult times and challenging adversity.” –Barbara De Angelis • “Show me someone who has done something worthwhile, and I’ll show you someone who has overcome adversity.” – Lou Holtz

Jim Sinek President, Boone Hospital Center

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HOSPITAL HEADLINES

Patient Compliments I WOULD LIKE TO COMPLIMENT and thank the nursing staff in the ICU and Med Specialties unit for the care my Mom received while she was a patient at Boone Hospital Center. As none of her children were able to be there in person to be with her or interact with the staff and physicians, I found it to be difficult and was extremely emotional at times. The nursing staff on both units took my calls (multiple times per day), answered every question that I asked, and interacted with Mom when we could not be there. I received the updates I needed to properly relay information to my siblings regarding our mother’s condition because they answered every question I had every time.

Dr. Buatsi made multiple calls to me, explaining the treatment plan for Mom, where she was at, any progress or lack of progress, and answering the multiple questions I had. He was understanding, patient, and kind as we worked through some very difficult decisions my siblings and I had to make for Mom. He understood that it was vital we have information on her progress and updates, whether good or bad.

I would also like to compliment Melissa Koga, Hospice NP, who talked me through some of the decisions and options we had for Mom during and after hospitalization. Her understanding of the situation, along with her vast knowledge, made a huge difference in decisions we needed to make and provided needed information as we navigated a journey that is difficult at the best of times and made much more difficult by the COVID-19 crisis.

Because we could not be with Mom during this hospitalization, we had to rely on the staff for all information we received – good or bad – further complicated by the fact that Mom is basically nonverbal. They were all exceedingly gracious. Paula, a night nurse on 4C, called me on Thursday morning to tell me that Mom was much more alert and had ate and drank that morning. That call came as she was winding up her shift – she knew it was important for us to know that Mom was more alert. That call made such a huge difference for us to know that we had turned a very small corner.

From the bottom of our hearts – thank you to everyone involved in her care.

I GAVE BIRTH to my first baby on April 1, 2020 at Boone Hospital Center. Chanda, in Labor and Delivery was my nurse before my C-section and during my recovery.

She was absolutely incredible – explaining what was going on and always available to answer questions or try to make me comfortable. I was not expecting a C-section, and she made the entire process so much more manageable and less overwhelming. I felt like my baby and I were receiving the very best care with Chanda around. I will always remember her and because of her, I will recommend Boone Hospital to all my pregnant loved ones. Nurses are amazing, but especially Chanda!

I WANTED TO GIVE A SHOUT OUT to your Nutrition Services team! They deserve just as much thanks as those who are on the frontline. I had a baby last week and ended up back in the hospital this week for a couple of days and everyone was super kind and willing to get me whatever I wanted! Thank you for making my stay pleasant!

I FEARED THAT I HAD BROKEN A RIB. I went to your Emergency Department and it was absolutely wonderful! The staff were so kind and explained everything to me. I have suffered some recent strokes, and it sometimes takes me longer to understand everything being said, but they were very thorough and took their time with me. The radiology tech was great, too! He was really funny and did a great job of telling me what was going on and taking care of me. I even enjoyed my time in the waiting room! I was really scared before going in because I live alone and did not know what was going to happen, but I felt really well cared for during my visit. You all rock!

Blood Drives In April, Boone Hospital Center joined forces with the American Red Cross and Stephens College to replenish the region’s blood supply. With classes not in session, Stephens opened the Kimball Ballroom, in Lela Raney Wood Hall, for community drives. Boone also hosted internal drives for staff and physicians. Altogether, 144 people donated 132 units of blood, potentially saving 396 lives.

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2019 Employee and Leader of the Year While Boone Hospital Center’s annual employee Service Awards dinner was unfortunately canceled due to COVID-19, the recognition of our 2019 Employee and Leader of the Year was not. At two socially distanced ceremonies held in May, our Employee and Leader of the Year were announced and each presented with a gold name badge and a special gift. These ceremonies were caught on video and shared with Boone employees by e-mail.

2019 Employee of the Year

2019 Leader of the Year

Ray was recognized for his outstanding customer service, positive attitude, teamwork and willingness to go above and beyond for everyone who comes through his cashier line in the cafeteria. According to Food Services Director Julie Winters, “Ray treats every single person like family.” Ray has been with Boone Hospital Center since 2016 and was previously named Employee of the Month in April 2019.

Marlene was recognized for the positive impact her leadership has had on the hospital’s Surgery department, along with her work ethic, focus on patient safety, and strong relationships with Boone employees and surgeons. “Marlene’s passion for patient care puts her above the rest,” says Monica Smith, VicePresident of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer.

Marlene joined Boone Hospital Center in 2016.

Ray Hand, Food Services Worker

Marlene Lyon, Director, Surgery and Patient Care

Learn more about our Employee and Leader of the Year and see their award presentations at vimeo.com/boonehospital

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Accuvein

Johnson & Johnson

Anthem Church

Kelley Klean The Restoration Team

Appletree Quilting

Kilgore’s Medical Pharmacy

Band of Brothers Catholic Men’s Group

Landmark Bank, NA

CenterPointe Hospital of Columbia

Las Margaritas Downtown

Chick-fil-A

Love Coffee

Columbia Honda

Lowe’s Home Improvement

Columbia Insurance Group

Midway Mercantile Co

Columbia Landcare

Millers Professional Imaging

Columbia Orthopaedic Group

Missouri Employers Mutual

Columbia Public Schools

New Bloomfield Band & Music Boosters

Columbia Rotary South

Open Heart Baptist Church

Country Financial – Andreya Jensen

Panera Bread

Cover Yo Mouth

PCE: Professional Contractors & Engineers

Crafts for Care

PepsiCo

Crescent Electric Supply Company

Pizza Tree

Culver’s of Columbia

Reinhardt Construction Company

Cynergy Health

Rejoice Columbia’s Free Will Baptist Church

Dearborn Denim

Salvation Army

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and Catering

Septagon Construction Co Inc.

DODO Case

Shelter Mutual Insurance Company

Downes Insurance Agency

Smoothie King

Drury Inn & Suites

Songbird Station

Flat Branch Pub & Brewing

STEP Program

Forum Christian Church

Stephens College

Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland

TaleMed

Global First Responder

Texas Roadhouse

Harbor Freight

Tropical Smoothie Café

Hospice Compassus

UMB Bank

Hot Box Cookies

United Way

Imhoff Construction Services

Valley Hope

Insomnia Cookies

Veterans United Home Loans

Interact Rock Bridge High School

Yard Love Columbia

Iron Gate Real Estate Jersey Mike’s Subs Joe Machens Dealerships 8

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And the many individuals

When the community is hit by a crisis, Boone Hospital Center works with local emergency management to provide support and supplies. But when the pandemic changed everything, businesses and individuals in mid-Missouri immediately asked Boone Hospital Center what they could do to support our response and thank our employees for being on the frontline, ready to care for our community. Thanks to your generosity and concern, we have received many donations of food, supplies, homemade face masks and more.

To our community who took care of us so that we could take care of you,

Thank you MyBooneHealth.org

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TEAM RESPONSE Boone Hospital Center upholds its mission during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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n 1918, an influenza pandemic affected nearly a third of the world’s population and left few communities unaffected, including Boone County, Missouri.

This pandemic also changed approaches to public health.

Where infectious disease was once viewed as an individual problem, the emerging science of epidemiology considered infectious disease to be a social issue. Preventing disease became as important as treating the sick.

The lessons of the 1918 pandemic were foremost in the minds of Boone County leaders when they built the county’s first community hospital, which opened its doors in December 1921.

Nearly a century later, in the face of a new global pandemic, Boone Hospital Center stood prepared to fulfill its mission to protect the health of the people and the communities it serves.

The hospital’s response to novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, would challenge Boone Hospital employees and physicians to step up in new ways to curb the spread of the virus and to be ready to treat anyone who needed advanced care.

For Infection Prevention Coordinator Cassie Mueller, MSN, CIC, CNL, stepping up started early. She says, “COVID-19 has taken priority in our daily work since the end of January. We were trying to learn everything about the epidemiology of the virus, how it was being primarily spread,

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Chief Nursing Officer Monica Smith (left) and Infection Prevention Specialist Cassie Mueller, MSN (right) round on patient care units to answer questions.

Summer 2020

how to protect employees and patients and how to prepare to safely care for COVID-19 patients.”

Hospitals often have vulnerable populations, including patients who have chronic illnesses, patients recovering from surgery, patients who take immunosuppressant medications, elder patients, children and infants.

Starting in January, the Infection Prevention team participated in daily calls with BJC HealthCare in Saint Louis to monitor the spread and plan the hospital’s response. Boone Hospital Center also worked with local partners, including the University Hospital, the Truman VA Hospital, and the Columbia/ Boone County Department of Health to monitor cases, develop guidelines, and provide support.

A serious concern was that a large influx of COVID-19 patients, known as a surge, could strain resources – including beds, supplies and clinical staff – and limit access to critical care for the extremely ill, including patients who need a ventilator to help them breathe. A surge uses more medical supplies and personal protective equipment, or PPE, like gloves and surgical masks. More nurses and techs would need to be available, and a surge in one unit could strain another’s ability to care for patients.

As the first COVID-19 cases appeared in Missouri, taking action was critical.

On Monday, March 16, the hospital expanded its COVID-19 Incident Command Center. Incident command centers are opened to respond to an emergency situation, such as a power outage or extreme weather conditions.

Led by the Incident Commander, the Command Center leads efforts and collaboration between different departments to fully assess and address an emergency. For weeks, Infection Prevention had participated in a virtual incident command center with BJC HealthCare, but as each hospital prepared to receive COVID patients, the response would require support from more areas.

“I have participated in many simulations, but preparing during a real crisis has tapped every ounce of training,

experience, leadership skill and energy that I’d never imagined I had,” says Monica Smith, MSN, RN, NE-BC, FACHE. In addition to being Boone Hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer and Vice-President of Patient Care Services, Monica served as our lead COVID-19 Incident Commander.

“As incident commander, I became a sponge for information,” Monica continues. “I quickly identified our priorities and delegated activities appropriately, including timeframes for completion. Our incident command center has been successful due to the teamwork, cooperation, and execution of key priorities. There were times early on where large changes in our systems had to be made and at a rapid pace. We learned to evolve, make changes, and pivot to each new challenge.”

To help employees keep up with these changes, Incident Command started a daily housewide newsletter with updates about the hospital’s COVID-19 response. In addition to new patient care guidelines and instructions, these e-mails included patient compliments and profiles of Boone teammates who shared how COVID-19 had impacted their roles.

The week of March 16, 2020 would be a long one as employees adjusted to many drastic changes, but Monica was encouraging. In a staff message on Friday, March 20, she wrote, “We will be successful at defeating this virus while keeping our Boone teammates safe and providing excellent care to our patients.

We must all remember that we are a team that pulls together during the good and the bad times. Each one of you is capable of what will be asked of you, and you will have the full support of the Boone Team.”

FLATTENING THE CURVE While there is still more to learn about COVID-19, epidemiologists do know it’s spread primarily by close contact with infected people. Like the flu, people infected with COVID-19 can spread the virus to others before they feel sick – including to people at higher risk of severe illness or death. Some people who

get the flu or COVID-19 may have no symptoms but can still spread it to others.

Unlike the flu, COVID-19 had been previously unidentified. This meant there were no vaccines and no herd immunity – an effect that occurs when enough people in a community have immunity to a virus, either from vaccination or exposure, that the spread is slowed, and others are indirectly protected.

You may have heard the phrase “flatten the curve” used to describe the desired outcomes of stay-at-home or shelterin-place measures. Such measures help reduce the spread of COVID-19 so that fewer people at a time are sick, which makes it easier for hospitals to treat the seriously ill.

For many people, flattening the curve meant working from home, but most patient care jobs can’t be done remotely.

With safety as our #1 priority, it was important to ensure patients were safe and as few health care professionals as possible became sick while caring for patients.

To follow social distancing guidelines, meetings and events were postponed, canceled, or moved online. Dining areas and waiting rooms were closed.

Visitor restrictions, while understandably difficult for patients, their families and our caregivers, became necessary to limit the number of people entering the hospital.

To further limit visitors and to conserve resources for a possible patient surge, the decision was made to reschedule certain procedures and tests. It was a large, difficult task, but with the cooperation of our medical staff and Admissions teams, not an impossible one.

“I was honestly like, ‘Let’s do this,’” says Hannah Loesing, a Patient Access Rep in the Centralized Scheduling department. “We have a responsibility to adapt to change and do our part to help.

I was more than happy to do whatever was asked of me.”

Centralized Scheduling worked diligently to help patients reschedule weeks of testing and imaging appointments in 19 different departments. Over 1,000 tests and procedures had to be rescheduled.

Hannah says, “Rescheduling eased stress on the departments and allowed them to

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hold their resources for any COVID-19 cases that came into the hospital. I feel that our department did an awesome job at educating patients so that they understood.”

Another key measure to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the hospital was to screen everyone who entered, including employees, visitors, patients, physicians and vendors. Starting in late March, designated entrances were set up. Staff screeners equipped with thermometers asked everyone about common COVID-19 symptoms and their risk of exposure before doing an on-the-spot temperature check.

Hannah Loesing was among these screeners. When Centralized Scheduling became temporarily quiet, she joined other Boone staff in the hospital’s labor pool to step in where help was needed.

She says, “I just come into work with the understanding that each day is different.

You have to be able to adapt quickly and continue to serve our community the best way we can.”

Testing more people for COVID-19 was also a priority. On Wednesday, March 18, the bright blue BHC Mobile Health Unit, which usually hits the road each spring to bring free health care screenings to mid-Missouri, was transformed into a mobile testing site that allowed people with a physician’s order to be tested without leaving their car. Between mid-March and late June, Boone Hospital conducted over 5,000 mobile tests.

A SAFE ENVIRONMENT “What additional supplies do we need to have available and stocked to take care of our patients and staff ?” was the first thought Shelly Berg, Supervisor of Distribution and Linen Services, had as the hospital prepared to respond to COVID-19. Already, there were nationwide shortages of PPE and cleaning products. In addition to monitoring and maintaining levels of critical supplies, such as gloves, surgical masks, hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, N95 respirators, swabs for COVID-19 testing and parts for ventilators, Shelly researched additional resources and approved alternatives in

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case they ran out anything. Distribution also took in donated supplies from local organizations and generous citizens.

Conserving PPE became everyone’s responsibility. Infection Prevention rounded to departments to answer questions and make sure staff understood the requirements, which were based on CDC recommendations. While wearing a full suite of PPE all the time might sound like a good idea, depending on how a disease is transmitted, extra PPE offers no additional protection and uses up supplies necessary to safely care for other patients. Cassie Mueller notes that Boone Hospital’s PPE strategies have been effective at protecting patients and staff; and Boone teammates have overwhelmingly agreed that they had a good supply of PPE. “When I first heard of all the changes that were being made to prepare us for COVID-19, I knew that I would be able to handle whatever came my way,” says Lead Environmental Services Tech Jessica Parker. “Ensuring the patient’s environment is clean can make all the difference in their stay.”

Infection prevention not only guides Boone Hospital’s patient care practices, it also affects the hospital building itself. The 2011 opening of our south tower allowed more Boone patients to stay in private rooms – a move intended not solely for comfort but for infection prevention.

Proactively preventing the spread of COVID-19 required the hospital’s Support Services team to act quickly.

“I knew right away I would have a lot of unique requests coming in and that I would have to be flexible,” says Plant Operations Coordinator William Moore. In less than two weeks, his team set up over 70 additional negative pressure rooms.

Hospitals use negative pressure rooms for patients with infectious diseases that can be passed by droplets. Air from outside flows into the patient’s room whenever the door is opened, keeping airborne particles contained in the room.

The air inside the negative pressure room then vents outside the building, to keep others in the hospital safe.

“We continually monitor our air handling equipment to ensure that

everyone in our buildings is receiving as much clean, fresh air as possible. We have been able to test and develop procedures for operating our HVAC systems in unique ways, enabling us to temporarily convert typically positive procedure and operating rooms to negative pressure in the event a COVID-positive patient needs a procedure or operation,” William explains.

Plant Operations also helped set up the mobile testing site and installed sneeze shields in the cafeteria, café and pharmacy.

William is quick to credit his coworkers.

He says, “I’ve leaned heavily on this bunch.

They’ve accomplished everything that has been asked of them and more. From checking and rechecking negative pressure rooms to filling up the heaters with fuel in the drive-through testing area, they have risen to the occasion, made quality suggestions and done a wonderful job keeping everyone safe and comfortable.”

PUTTING PATIENTS FIRST During Boone Hospital’s COVID-19 response, patients remained at the center of Boone Hospital’s decisions. This priority was abundantly evident when, in April, the hospital had its first COVIDpositive inpatient.

“I didn’t feel worried, I felt prepared,” says Sammi Casteel, RN, a staff nurse on the Cardiology unit, who helped admit the patient. She was later complimented for her calm demeanor and positive attitude, but Sammi didn’t find it hard to stay calm and positive.

“When I arrived to take care of the patient, I was impressed with the support that was immediately available,” Sammi says. “Velvet Meers from Training and Development, Monica Smith, and House Supervisor Addison Watson all came by to make sure Amanda – the other nurse who was with me – and I felt as ready and comfortable as possible! Monica even helped set up the room for me. They all made sure PPE and education was available.”

“When I heard we were admitting our first COVID-positive inpatient, my first thought was ‘I need to be there.’

I immediately came in to support the team,” Monica says about the experience.

“The nursing staff showed me that we

As part of the hospital’s COVID-19 response, BHC’s Support Services team set up over 70 new negative pressure rooms.

were highly prepared, and their confidence was calming and appreciated.”

Monica was calmed, but not surprised. She says, “We had the opportunity to prepare for these patients well in advance. We learned from hospitals across the nation that cared for a lot of positive patients. We learned from our local experts in infection prevention. We learned from our partners at BJC. We learned from the CDC. With all of our learning, we made solid plans to prepare for PPE, staffing, screening and visitor management, to create a safe environment for our teammates and patients.”

House Supervisor, Addison Watson, MSN, RN, CCRN, CEN, EMT-P, agrees: “A positive COVID result provides clarity, but we know how to protect ourselves and what exactly needs to be treated. Boone has been very responsive and supportive throughout this event.”

House Supervisors are registered nurses who lead and support all other hospital nurses. When the Incident Command Center is closed, House Supervisors help staff with COVID-19 issues or questions.

Addison’s experience both as an Emergency Department nurse and an EMT have helped him remain calm and support others during unpredictable situations. He says, “Our knowledge of the virus continues to develop rapidly and therefore our organization must adapt just as quickly. Like any change, the initial implementation is challenging. However, as we’ve developed a better understanding of the virus and its transmission, things are running smoother.

The entire BHC staff has rallied together to adapt and overcome.”

Rallying together to care for COVID-19 patients is a must. ICU nurse Erica Rideout, BSN, RN, says, “It is nearly impossible to care for a COVID-positive patient singlehandedly. It takes an entire team working together to provide optimal care for the patient, even with only one person in the room. COVID-positive patients can deteriorate rapidly, so continuous monitoring is essential.”

Negative pressure rooms work best when the door is opened infrequently, so being prepared with supplies and medications before entering a patient’s room helps. Erica also found it useful to write messages to fellow nurses on the sliding glass door of the ICU room, to reduce how many times she had to leave and re-enter.

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“From the time that I wanted to be a nurse, I knew I’d be responsible for the care of sick individuals and patients who need me to care for them. But in the big picture, it’s the same as any other day. It is a sick patient and they need our care to get them better,” says Sadie Brimer, BSN, RN. Sadie works on Surgical Specialties, but when her home unit was temporarily closed after elective surgeries were postponed, she began caring for suspected and COVID-positive patients.

“Yes, the isolation gear is hot and irritating, and a mask makes it difficult to hold a conversation,” Sadie says. “But when I was able to just sit and talk to my patient, it brought me back to why I’m a nurse.”

Respiratory Therapist Jeanna Sanders, RRT, says, “I know it sounds like a cliché, but I was just doing my job. I had the right PPE and felt very confident and prepared. We have such a strong team of therapists, nurses and physicians. We all work so well together; we look out for each other as well as our patients.”

When reflecting on what’s changed, Float Nurse Brandon Walsh, BSN, RN says, “I’ve been sporting a beard for the last 3 years, that had to go.” Because certain facial hairstyles can cause an N95 respirator to fit improperly, many male employees in patient care areas chose to shave to conserve PPE for staff who can’t wear an N95.

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New infection prevention practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19 impacted all hospital areas and staff, including our mobile testing lab, Boone Plaza Pharmacy and patient care areas.

Beard aside, Brandon remains focused on his patients’ wellbeing. He says, “Being a patient in the hospital can be very isolating. I try to make my time at the bedside count.”

While visitor restrictions have decreased the risk of spreading COVID-19, they’ve also presented challenges for patients and staff. Employees on patient care units recognize that isolation precautions, while necessary to prevent infection, can be difficult for patients, especially when no familiar faces are present.

“Empathy and caring are so important for the patient and their families at this time. I have been able to care for several patients during their isolation and afterwards. Reassuring them that they are not alone is so important,” says Float Nurse Randa McEuen, BSN, RN. “COVID-19 has redefined how we communicate with patients and families because of the restrictions. It has greatly impacted and increased the need for advocacy on behalf of the patient and their families,” says Emergency Department Nurse Jesse Godec, RN. Social Worker Megan Widmer, MSW says, “I’ve made a lot of phone calls to family members to involve them in the discharge

planning process. I have had to have some difficult conversations over the phone that usually would take place face-to-face.

I try to keep open communication with our patients’ caregivers and give them a chance to vent their frustrations with missing their loved ones and not being able to physically be present for them.”

Megan says a flexible mindset has helped her adapt to rapid changes.

She adds, “Understanding that all these changes are not necessarily permanent has been helpful to get through stressful situations.”

One common refrain among Boone Hospital nurses, therapists, and technicians who’ve cared for COVID-positive patients is that they have the same needs and feelings as any other patient.

“I do what I was trained to do and what I enjoy doing, which is providing care to this patient to the best of my ability, just as I did for every patient in the ICU before COVID-19,” says Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Michelle Gay, MSN, APRN, AGACNP-BC. “As a nurse, my job is to care for a patient regardless of their diagnosis.

I always make sure the proper safety precautions are in place for my safety and theirs, just like any other patient,” says Randa.

Remembering this important point helped Sammi stay calm while she helped admit her first COVID-positive patient. She says, “They’re a patient just like any other!”

COMMUNITY SUPPORT When mid-Missouri is hit by a crisis, Boone Hospital Center often provides support and supplies. This time, as health care workers prepared to care for COVID-19 patients, mid-Missouri came together to help Boone.

In March, 8-year-old Adam Mohamad donated $45 of loose change that he’d been saving to help support Boone Hospital Center nurses. Due to the visitor restrictions, he had to wait outside for Boone Hospital Foundation’s Executive Director Barb Danuser to collect his donation. Adam’s single act

of kindness and generosity sparked an online fundraising challenge that has raised almost $13,000 for the Foundation.

“Fairly quickly our wonderful community began asking how they could help, so my role changed into the Donation Coordinator. For the first few weeks, pretty much all of my time was devoted to managing calls and emails from people and businesses who wanted to donate food, masks, hand sanitizer, face shields, and more,” says Yvonne Gibson.

As a coordinator for both the Foundation and the hospital’s Support Services department, Yvonne is no stranger to juggling responsibilities.

She also arranged internal deliveries of donated meals from local restaurants, including 3,900 staff meals provided

by Veterans United, and gifts to Boone staff, including 1,800 colorful fused glass hearts, handmade by Midway Mercantile Co. (See a list of community donors on page 8).

Boone Hospital Center has given donated cloth masks to patients, visitors and employees who don’t work directly with patients, to help everyone follow universal masking requirements while conserving our supply of surgical masks.

Boone Hospital also helped solicit community donations when one critical supply ran low: blood.

“Since the American Red Cross supports hospitals all over the country, people may not understand that our blood supply here, locally, decreases when other blood drives across the nation do not occur,” explains Lab Tech Peggy Martin.

Boone Hospital Center hosts several Red Cross blood drives a year in its conference center, but with social distancing requirements and visitor restrictions in place, Red Cross needed space to hold a large drive that was open to the public. Boone collaborated with its neighbor, Stephens College, to promote and host a community blood drive on the Stephens campus that lasted several days in April and collected 132 units of blood.

“The Boone team always comes together, and this is no different,” Peggy says.

A MISSION FULFILLED There is much that Dr. Frank Nifong and his colleagues could not have envisioned for the future of Boone County Hospital back in 1921, but they knew their community’s health would depend on a quality community hospital. While mid-Missouri hospitals didn’t see a surge of COVID-19 patients in spring 2020 – thanks in part to proactive measures to reduce the spread – they provided testing and care for many affected people from across the region.

Cassie Mueller says, “Community members can be certain that there are many people working behind the scenes to ensure Boone Hospital is doing everything possible to protect those that we serve.”

In a short time, Boone Hospital Center’s processes, procedures and responsibilities had significantly changed. These changes could not have been accomplished without the expertise, teamwork and positive attitudes of nearly 1,800 individuals.

“I knew I was about to witness a lifechanging event that was going to affect every single one of us, and that I’d see the absolute best in people I’d already considered the best,” says Security Officer Mark Moses. “And that’s exactly how I saw it play out, a smooth-running machine with care, compassion and cheerful personalities everywhere I look. In every single department, it was an attitude or mood that you could feel wherever you went. It’s the reason I came to work here.”

Megan Widmer, who had helped answer calls in the Incident Command Center says, “It was amazing to see our leadership hard at work handling multiple situations and scenarios in a calm but decisive manner. I realize more than ever that leadership has the wellbeing of our patients and staff at heart.”

Monica says, “I have learned that the Boone Team can handle anything that we’re faced with. We continue to be resilient, face challenges directly, and provide excellent, high quality care. We have amazing teammates who have exemplified the Boone Touch and strengthened our community’s belief in Boone.” By Jessica Park

MyBooneHealth.org

15

A History of

HELPING From Pink Ladies and Candy Stripers to Volunteers and Volunteens.

The Pink Ladies of Boone County Hospital Auxiliary made daily rounds to patient rooms with the Pink Ladies Cart.

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From 1989 until his retirement in December 2012, Rod Hartwig had been Boone Hospital’s Payroll Manager for 23 years. Before he officially retired, Rod wondered what he was going to do with his free time. He had been a member of the Kiwanis Club for over 40 years and one thing he’d always liked to do was volunteer.

Knowing he wasn’t ready to leave Boone, Rod filled out an application to become a Boone Hospital volunteer. He says, “It was hard to get away!”

Rod started volunteering in February 2013. He volunteers in the hospital’s Admissions area, escorting patients and guests to their destination in the hospital.

On any given day, he will walk people from the front desk to Radiology, the Cath Lab or the Harris Breast Center.

Volunteer services at Boone Hospital Center started in 1954 when the Pink Ladies of Boone County Hospital Auxiliary was formed. The group formed as a way for volunteers to take over duties that had previously been done by nurses.

The Auxiliary included Pink Ladies who were considered active workers and charter members who paid a $1 annual fee to be a member. Any woman in Boone County could join as an Auxiliary member.

The Pink Ladies wore pink pinafores, a plain white blouse and white shoes with rubber heels. Similar to the volunteer duties today, the Pink Ladies had various duties throughout the hospital:

For more information about Volunteering at Boone, visit boone.org/Employment/Volunteer or call 573.815.6047

• Pick up mail from the post office and deliver it to patient rooms • Deliver flowers and plants to patients • Daily patient rounds with the Pink Ladies Cart – a cart that was full of candy, stationery, novelties, magazines, blades, toothpaste, stamps and newspapers – and the Book Cart, filled with recent books and old favorites thanks to a cooperation with the Columbia Public Library • Read or write letters for patients • Take pictures of new babies for parents • Rent television sets to patients for $1 a day. Television sets were donated to the hospital.

• Act as receptionists during hospital visiting hours. (Back then, visiting hours were from 1 to 2 in the afternoon and 6:30 to 8 at night) • Run the Gift Shop • Care for plants in the hospital lounges • Care for landscaping and planting shrubs around the hospital grounds • Decorate hospital rooms and lounges during the holidays

By 1971, the Pink Ladies also offered bedside phone rentals and operated vending machines. They had additional help from the Candy Stripers, who were teenage volunteers.

Similar to how the Foundation supports the hospital today, the Pink Ladies raised funds by using the proceeds from the Gift Shop, the Pink Ladies’ cart, baby picture sales, television and phone rentals, and yearly membership dues.

“We have women calling all the time who would like to be Pink Ladies. We really feel that we are contributing to the community and to the hospital. It is very gratifying work,” said Mrs. William Jenkins, head of the Pink Ladies.

In 1979, the Pink Ladies and Candy Stripers were renamed to Volunteers and Volunteens, respectively. Currently, Boone Hospital has 125 volunteers which includes

Volunteer and BHC retiree Rod Hartwig (right) escorts patients and visitors from the registration desk to their destination.

adults, college ambassadors and Volunteens who are between 14 and 18 years old.

Though they’re no longer required to wear a uniform, volunteers continue to provide services at the hospital which include: • Delivering flowers and cards to patient rooms • Delivering newspapers to waiting rooms and patients • Printing and delivering e-cards to patients • Running the gift shop • Acting as a liaison between staff and families in hospital waiting rooms • Escorting patients to their testing locations • Visiting with patients and loved ones in the hospital • Making coffee

The process to becoming a volunteer includes filling out an application, scheduling an interview, providing a background check and a drug screening at the hospital’s Employee Health Office.

After an applicant has passed all of these steps, they are given an orientation of the hospital and volunteer office.

Positions are available for volunteers in these areas: • Volunteens (14-18) — Central Supply • Ambassadors — Inpatient Areas • Adults — Volunteer Office, Admissions, GI Lab/PASS, ICU Waiting Room, etc.

Martha Johnson, the manager of the Volunteer Office, has noticed the need and desire for volunteers continues to grow, as more departments in the hospital have reached out to her wanting volunteers.

“More departments want to use volunteers to help our patients and families find their way around the hospital and enhance communication,” says Martha.

She adds, “It’s interesting that we get calls from current employees asking if they can also volunteer because they want to give back to the hospital. It’s amazing!”

Rod loved being an employee at Boone and loves being a volunteer just as much.

He says, “I always knew I wanted to come back to Boone to volunteer because I knew there would be a place for me. I’m grateful for how Boone’s been to me. It’s been a highlight of my life.” By Erin Wegner

MyBooneHealth.org

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BRIN GIN G UP BO O N E BABIES

SUMMER SAFETY TIPS FOR BABY Are you ready for more sunshine? I know I am! With the current pandemic, we have all been staying safe by staying home and practicing social distancing. Though we might desperately be ready for fun in the sun and some extra vitamin D, it’s equally important to keep your baby safe in the summer heat. Enjoy your summer!

BY TARA PHILLIPS, RN, IBCLC, BOONE FAMILY BIRTHPLACE

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1. Sunscreen: The Center for Disease

Control & Prevention recommends putting sunscreen on you and your children before you go out each day. The recommendation is that you use a SPF of 15 or higher. You need to reapply sunscreen after sweating or swimming, and as needed. Also, look at the ingredients on your sunscreen bottle. The skin is a very absorbent organ and will soak up anything you apply.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies under 6 months old are kept in shaded areas and are not put in the direct sunlight. If sunscreen is needed, it takes 30 minutes before it will protect baby’s skin. Only use a small amount of sunscreen with at least a 15 SPF and only apply it to small areas such as the infants face and the back of their hands.

2. Head Protection: Wearing a hat can protect your child’s scalp, eyes, ears and the back of their neck

3. Water: Water is very important to stay

hydrated. Infants get their hydration from breastmilk or formula feedings. Slowly start adding water to your child’s diet around 6 months to 1 year of age. Children between 4 and 13 should drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Watch your child for signs of dehydration, including thirst, reduced or dark-colored urine, dry mouth, decreased tearing, decreased sweating, muscle cramping, nausea, vomiting and light headedness. Seek medical attention if your

child seems dehydrated and you are unable to get them to drink fluids.

4. Activities: Schedule outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. Take breaks to spend time in the shade and drink water. Pack a portable, battery-powered fan to take with you on outings.

5. Hot Vehicles: Never leave your

child in the car alone, not even with the windows cracked. Cars can reach a high temperature very quickly, even when it doesn’t feel hot outside. Most hot car accidents are unintentional, so get in the habit of checking the back seat before locking and leaving your car. Try placing your phone or purse in the back seat, which will encourage you to look in the back seat when getting out. Another suggestion is to place a stuffed animal in your car seat and move the stuffed animal to the front passenger seat whenever your child is in the car. This will remind you to take your child out of the car when you exit your vehicle.

NEED MORE SUPPORT?

6. Cool Down: Water activities can help

Bringing Up Boone Babies is a support group provided

by Boone Family Birthplace that is free and open to all parents of newborns, infants, and toddlers.

7. Clothing: Dress your baby in loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing to provide air flow and prevent overheating.

To join our Bringing Up Boone Babies Facebook group, visit boone.org/ BringingUpBooneBabies

you stay cool during the summer. Many water parks have lessons for all ages. Get your child started early on learning water safety, but no matter their skill level, never leave children unattended near water.

MyBooneHealth.org

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Heat Stroke vs.

Heat Exhaustion D

Knowing the difference can save a life.

uring the hot summer months, it’s important to know the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion. The symptoms are very different between these two heat-related illnesses.

Heat-related illnesses happen when your body becomes unable to cool itself. Dehydration and overexertion in hot conditions makes it hard to produce enough sweat to keep you cool. Heat exhaustion requires immediate attention, but heat stroke is a medical emergency. If left untreated, heat stroke could lead to death. Heat stroke can occur without first having symptoms of heat exhaustion.

Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, including people who work and exercise outdoors in the summer. It’s vital to listen to your body, know the symptoms, and be prepared when it’s hot outside.

Boone Hospital Center nurse Brenda Wilson, RN says, “Knowing what to do if you find yourself or someone you encounter experiencing any of these symptoms is very important.”

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Brenda says, “Preparation is always the first step to prevention. If you know you will be in a hot and or humid atmosphere, there are some things you can do to protect yourself.”

Get ready for the heat: • Dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing • Wear a wide-brimmed hat, preferably with an SPF • Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 • Drink fluids ahead of time If you or someone else has symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, it’s important to know what to do.

“In either case, it’s paramount to get the victim to a cooler environment and then proceed with other supportive measures.

Be careful to not push through recovery, it takes time to feel better. Once you’ve had either event, you’re at an increased risk of recurrence in the future,” Brenda says. By Erin Wegner

First Aid

Symptoms

Heat Exhaustion

vs

Heat Stroke

• Headache

• Throbbing headache

• Heavy, excessive sweating

• No sweating

• Cool, pale, clammy skin

• Hot, red, dry skin

• Fast, weak pulse

• Rapid, strong pulse

• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fainting or dizziness

• Constricted pupils

• Dilated pupils

• Altered mental state/ confusion

• Weakness or fatigue • Muscle or abdominal cramps

• Body temperature above 103°F

• Irritability

• Convulsions

• Shallow breathing

• Rapid breathing

• Dark or decreased urination

• Loss of consciousness

• Move to a cooler environment: Turn on a fan or move to an airconditioned room

• Call 911 or get victim to a hospital immediately

• Lay down and loosen clothing • Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of the body as possible, use cold compresses or take a cool shower • Offer sips of water • If vomiting occurs more than once, seek immediate medical attention

• Move victim to a cooler environment, preferably with air conditioning. Note: Use a fan only if heat index temperatures are below the high 90s. A fan can make you feel hotter at higher temperatures.

• Reduce body temperature with cool cloths or bath • Do NOT give fluids.

MyBooneHealth.org

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WELLNESS

Grilling Vegetables

W

armer weather means it’s time to break out the charcoal and uncover the grill. The change in the season also means fresh, child-friendly vegetables are widely available.

One of my favorite ways to grill vegetables is to place them in an aluminum foil packet with a dash of olive oil and a blend of fresh and dried herbs.

The aluminum foil prevents the vegetables from falling through the slats of the grill.

(Many asparagus spears met their fiery end before I learned this trick!)

Another way to ensure that your vegetables don’t fall through the grill is

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to make vegetable skewers. Simply place large pieces of your favorite vegetables on a skewer and grill for 5 to 8 minutes.

Make sure to flip the skewer halfway through the grilling to ensure even heating and char.

Don’t cut the vegetable slices too thin or small because the slices may fall off the skewer during cooking. Be sure to pierce the thickest, central part of the slice with the skewer.

Your skewers don’t have to be limited to just vegetables, either. A surprising addition that can add a boost of flavor is fruit. My favorite fruit to add to my vegetables is pineapple. Other fruits

that work well with vegetable skewers include apples and pears, which hold up well to heat.

It’s very easy to add some protein to these skewers and elevate them from a side dish to a main entree. Popular proteins for kabobs include chicken, lean beef or pork, shrimp and tofu. If you want to keep the kabobs vegetarian, mushrooms are a great way to add a meaty flavor without actually adding meat.

Elevate the flavor of the vegetableprotein combo by marinating them in the fridge for a few hours before grilling.

By Kate Mirly, MS, RDN, LD, Boone Hospital Center Registered Dietitian

A few great combinations for vegetable kabobs: Fajita-inspired • Bell peppers • Onions • Choice of protein Sprinkle with a Mexican spice blend.

Hawaiian • Bell peppers • Onions • Pineapple • Choice of protein Marinate in a low-sodium teriyaki sauce before grilling.

Summer • Zucchini • Yellow squash • Mushrooms • Onions

Classic • Potatoes • Peppers • Onions • Choice of protein

MyBooneHealth.org

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GETTING TO KNOW A BHC DOCTOR

Jason Blanchard, DPM Boone Medical Group

I

was raised with five siblings by amazing parents in Arizona. I completed my Bachelor’s of Science degree at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah in 2011.

Subsequently, I was blessed to marry the most amazing woman I know, Portia. We began the podiatry program that same year at Midwestern University in Arizona – and at the same time were blessed to begin our family. Through podiatry school and a subsequent three-year foot and ankle surgical residency in Northwest Indiana, we had five children. We love playing games together, hiking together and watching movies together. On a personal level, on top of enjoying all things foot and ankle, I enjoy running, dancing and making up my own baking recipes.

Why did you get into the health care field? I always knew I wanted to work in the medical field. I love being around and helping people. The opportunity I have to play a small part in other’s health care, be it providing care or promoting and encouraging health practices – and it brings me great fulfillment. I am also frequently inspired by the very patients I serve.

What interested you in your particular specialty? I had a great opportunity when shadowing different specialists to fly to Hawaii and shadow a podiatrist who happened to be my uncle!

I spent a month there shadowing in his clinic and in surgery. I saw the impact his work had on people and how much it meant to them, and I knew I wanted a similar experience. I love that as a surgical podiatrist I have the opportunity to provide conservative and surgical options for foot and ankle problems, such as painful hammertoes, corns, calluses, bunions, ingrown toenails, diabetic wounds, tendon injuries, fractures and so much more.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The best part of my job is the time I am privileged to spend with patients.

Ask my wife: she would tell you that I cherish the opportunity at each visit to get to know my patients and to learn from them. I also love when patients feel comfortable enough to share with me that they prefer a non-traditional method of treatment. I am open to and enjoy opportunities to research and learn other options and

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take a team approach towards making the most educated decision for a patient’s treatment.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

My personality typically enjoys time chatting with my patients. A challenge at times for me is knowing how best to limit that chat time to honor each patient’s schedule and provide the best health care I can.

What do you see changing in health care in the next 5 to 10 years? As I have studied podiatry in the last several years, I have also been studying to better understand natural health care options and how they are being using in practice. I am impressed already at the tremendous amount of research and incorporation of natural health products in modern medicine. I expect to see a significant increase in this integrative medicine approach in the near future.

What advice would you give someone looking to become a doctor? There are many amazing professions in the world. Explore several options, varieties and styles to make the bestinformed decision. The path to become a physician and eventually a specialist is long and difficult. I personally LOVE what I do. The more you can experience what life would be like serving others in the capacity of a physician, the more you’ll know if the time, effort, money and sacrifice to get there will be worth it to you.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Outside of work, I love date nights with my wife, playing and watching movies with my kids, spending time working in the yard, building things with wood, cooking in the kitchen, and even cleaning—crazy enough!

I love learning new skills, running and lifting weights as well.

What advice would you give to someone who is going to be a patient in a hospital for a period of time? First, keep the faith! Keep hoping and keep doing your best to get better while teaming up with advice and encouragement from everyone around you. There are many around you who love you and want to help you get better. They will give you their best. Trust that even those who are not present are praying for you. Remember that although nurses and doctors are doing their best to take care of several patients, they also work hard to take care of you even when they’re not in the room. Thank you for your trust. We do not take that lightly. Finally, if possible, bring your favorite books or movies. Try and make your stay as enjoyable as you can. We know that this is not a 5-star hotel, but together we can make your experience the best possible.

GETTING TO KNOW A BHC NURSE

Samantha Brunkhorst, BSN, RN

Cardiology and Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery

I

grew up in a rural community in Foristell, MO. I went to Wright City school district for grade school, then attended to East Central Community College for general education and finished my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Missouri Western State University.

I grew up in a family-oriented environment, doing everything together with a close family.

Why did you get into the health care field? I decided to go into the health care field after my mom fell and broke her ankle. I assisted her until EMS arrived to take her to the hospital and was the go-to person for questions from family and instructed my brother to call 911 and what to say. I decided to try Health Occupations in high school to see how I would like it and fell in love with helping people.

What interested you in your particular specialty? I actually grew up with a heart condition and felt at home with cardiac patients knowing some of the things they go through. I also love that the heart is like the battery pack of the body – if it’s not working right, it can cause other body systems to not function properly.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is helping people when they need it most and getting to work with my amazing coworkers. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without my coworkers and all the things they help me with.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is working nights – resources are more limited and when I have to call the doctor about a patient, I know I’ll be waking them up. Luckily, I have an amazing team to help whenever things get tough.

What has changed in your field since you started practicing? The technology for heart patients seems to change on a daily basis. From what I can recall, there’s been the micro pacemaker that was a smaller pacemaker device available for special cases, a new access site for heart caths known as

“snuff-box” access, another new pacemaker type known as a subcutaneous pacemaker where the wires are under the skin instead of implanted directly into the heart through a vein.

What do you see changing in the next 5 to 10 years? I could see our charting system changing, as well new advances in open heart surgeries and cath procedures and even more devices available to help patients with cardiac issues.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Outside of work I enjoy being on the farm with my family. Currently I have about 26 chickens and have a cattle company with my husband and our family. I enjoy playing with my daughter and seeing all the new things she discovers since she loves being outside. I also enjoy crafting and gardening.

What advice would you give someone looking to become a nurse? Never give up and give it your best. There will be times when you may want to quit because things may get hard – we do deal with very sick patients at times who need a lot of care but it can be one of the most rewarding things to help people when they need it most.

MyBooneHealth.org

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WATER The Wonder Beverage Staying hydrated is the key to improved health and wellness.

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“Choosing water most of the time is a simple switch you can use to jumpstart your health,” says Boone Hospital dietitian Laura McDermott, MS, RDN, LD. “Water helps in every function of your body. When you are not hydrated adequately, it can put a lot of strain on all of your systems that try to keep you functioning normally.

“Drinking water is one of the most easily accessible and cheapest starting places to help improve your health. Whether you struggle with constipation or want to lose weight or manage blood sugar, you can do yourself a lot of good by consistently and frequently choosing water.”

1. Energy Feeling sluggish? Many times, the foods we eat and drink can affect our mood. The amount of water we drink is no exception.

Drinking an adequate amount of water will give you more energy.

2. Skin Drinking water not only hydrates the skin, but it keeps it moistened, too – and it shows.

Skin cells can look younger and fuller, because water plumps up the skin. The natural oils on your face can also be balanced by the moisture created by staying hydrated.

3. Digestion The food you eat can be more easily broken down if you drink water not only with your meals, but before and after meals.

Because the water helps break down your food, your body can digest the food more efficiently.

4. Ears, Nose & Throat Drinking water helps keep these working to their full capacity.

5. Muscles Dehydration can cause muscle cramps and an aching feeling in your joints. By making sure you are drinking enough water, your

muscle cramping will subside, and the water will lubricate your joints, making them feel better.

6. Urine Your urine is a good indicator of dehydration. If you are hydrated, your urine should typically be pale or clear. If your urine is dark colored with an orange tint, that’s a sign that you’re dehydrated.

7. Kidney Stones Kidney stones are salts and minerals in your urine that form solid crystals. Drinking water weakens the salts and minerals in the urine, making them less likely to form into kidney stones.

8. Fights Illness Drinking water helps with hypertension, urinary tract infections, constipation, exercise-induced asthma and kidney stones.

9. Body Temperature Staying hydrated is how your body regulates its temperature.

10. Brain Our brain tissues are made of water. Depriving your brain of water can also cause you to feel stressed. Dehydration can also affect your short-term memory, alertness and ability to focus.

Laura says, “When it comes to water, often the cues our body gives us aren’t quite as obvious or we aren’t as aware of them, making listening to your body more difficult.” Before making any dietary changes, Laura recommends that you discuss your recommended water intake with your primary care provider or a registered dietitian: your ideal amount of water can be based on medications or health conditions that may contraindicate increasing your water intake. By Erin Wegner

TIPS TO INCREASE YOUR DAILY WATER INTAKE • Choose water most of the time – this is a simple switch that can jumpstart your health.

• Set small goals of drinking x ounces of water per hour or drinking x number of glasses before lunch.

These goals can help you become more mindful about your water intake.

• Try always having both – if you have a cup of coffee or glass of soda at your desk, also have a cup of water available. If you always drink a glass of milk with dinner, also have a cup of water. If the water is in front of you, you will be more likely to drink it.

• Start your day with a cup of water first thing in the morning. If you’re used to having a hot cup of coffee, make your water hot.

• Set alarms on your phone to help get you into the habit of drinking more water, or find an app for your phone that can remind you throughout the day to drink water.

• Always carry a water bottle with you. If you have it with you, you will not only be able to drink it when you need to, but you will also start to notice how dry your mouth and throat feel.

• Keep a running tally of how many ounces of water you drink each day.

MyBooneHealth.org

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LIVING WELL

Summer Restart Resolve to return to the gym, equipped for a successful fitness journey.

Americans have a complicated relationship with starting and sticking to an exercise program. A wave of people hop on the exercise wagon at the start of the New Year, but when summer months roll around, the gym looks like a ghost town.

What many realize when they embark on their fitness journey is, despite having a gym full of equipment and the will to work, they have no idea what they’re doing! When you don’t know how to properly use the equipment, the gym can be an intimidating environment. Approaching the gym with a program and the knowledge of how to perform the exercises will boost your confidence and result in a safer workout and increased adherence to exercise.

Mindset is the most important factor in sticking to an exercise program. Entering the gym worried about what others will think of you can be detrimental. Remember that everyone at the gym started somewhere and is there to get stronger and healthier. Don’t be afraid to make friends.

Ask staff and gym members for a spot or help. Building relationships with gym members and staff will give you a community of people who will help hold you accountable and encourage your progress. Don’t feel uncomfortable about asking questions or worry about other people’s thoughts or opinions. You’re there to find a healthier version of you.

These resistance exercises should be incorporated in a balanced exercise program. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 150 minutes of moderate physical activity on a weekly basis. Adding resistance training to cardiovascular exercise such as walking, jogging and biking is an effective way to meet that goal. Before starting any exercise program, talk to your primary care provider first.

Perform each exercise for 2 to 3 sets of 8 to 10 repetitions.

Use a weight that starts to make you fatigued on your last rep. Make sure to rest 60 to 90 seconds between each set.

Immediately stop exercising if you feel pain. Control the movement throughout its entire duration. Most importantly, remember to have fun! By Hunter Blume, Boone Hospital Center Exercise Physiologist

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1. Lat Pulldown Adjust leg pads so they are positioned just above the middle of your thighs. Sit up tall and engage your core, pulling your bellybutton to your spine. Grip handle with your arms just outside shoulder width. Keep your torso still, tilt your chin slightly up, and use your lats to pull the handle straight down. Touch the bar to just above your collar bone and slowly return to the start position.

2. Low Row Adjust the seat so that when your chest is flat against the pad, your arms must fully extend to reach the handles. Brace your core and pull the handles toward your body. Keep your back straight and chest against the pad. Keep elbows close to your sides as you row. Squeeze shoulder blades together at the back of the movement. Pause and return to starting position.

For more information, visit boone.org/fitness or call 573.815.3876

3. Dumbbell Curl Press Sit on a stable chair with feet flat on the floor and core engaged.

Hold dumbbells with arms fully extended by your knees and palms facing forward. Keep your shoulders still and elbows by your sides as you bend your elbows and pull dumbbells up towards your shoulders. Pause at shoulder level before pressing the weights directly overhead, rotating your forearms until palms face forwards and arms are fully extended. Pause and return to starting position.

4. Kettlebell Deadlift

5. Split Squat

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and a kettlebell between them. Brace your core as you hinge at the hips and bend your knees, lowering into a squat position. Grasp kettlebell with both hands. Drive your heels into the floor, push your hips forward and straighten your knees. Keep your back straight and shoulders pulled back. Do not hunch your back. Return kettlebell to the floor in a controlled manner.

Stand with a staggered stance, with one foot in front and one foot behind your body. Keep your back straight and core engaged, bending both knees and lower your body in a straight line, as far down as comfortable. Avoid slamming your back knee into the ground and keep your front knee over your toes. Pause and return to starting position.

6. Leg Press Adjust seat so that your knees are bent close to 90 degrees. Place feet shoulder-width apart on the platform, directly in line or above your knees.

Engage your core and press platform away from you until knees are close to fully extended. Do not lock your knees completely. Pause and return to the starting position.

MyBooneHealth.org

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FOUNDATION NEWS

Foundation Highlights Virtual visits connect patients with loved ones.

When visitors were restricted as part of the hospital’s COVID-19 response, the Foundation used donated funds to purchase a large iPad to help connect patients with loved ones who were unable to enter the hospital. Chaplain Richard Sullivan helped physicians and staff arrange virtual visits, like these two sisters who had a virtual visit with their elderly mother.

Thanks for the assist!

During their basketball homecoming, the Glasgow High School Booster club sold Hoopin’ for a Cure T-shirts and held a silent auction. They donated the auction proceeds to Boone Hospital Foundation’s Harris Breast Center Fund.

Heart smart Boone Hospital’s Cardiology staff held a trivia night and donated the proceeds to the Boone Hospital Foundation’s Cardiology fund, which supports advanced caregiver education, special equipment and medical conferences.

Challenge met Adam Mohamad, a generous and thoughtful 8-year-old boy, donated $45 dollars he collected to Boone Hospital, to help during the COVID response. A challenge gift of $4,500 was offered, encouraging others to donate $100 for every $1 that Adam donated. Thanks to all who donated to help exceed this challenge gift. To date, nearly $13,000 has been raised to support physicians’ staff with needs that arise during these challenging times.

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2020 Charity wine dinner The Club of Old Hawthorne hosted an Ehlers Estate Charity Wine dinner on February 29. Proceeds from this event were directed to the Boone Hospital Foundation Cardiology Fund for advanced caregiver education.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JULY

Gifts honoring caregivers Thank you to everyone who honored a Doctor or Nurse during National Doctor’s and Nurse’s Days by making a donation to the Foundation.

Physician and nurses who were honored with a gift in their name received a note of appreciation.

Gala BO ON E HOSP ITAL FOUN DATI ON

SAV E TH E DATE SATURDAY, NOVEM BER 7 T H

Community Campaign

AUGUST 25 & 26

Scrubs on Site Sale Online

SEPTEMBER 16 & 17

Dynamic Shopping Sale

FALL

Jewelry Sale

NOVEMBER 10 & 11

Scrubs on Site

NOVEMBER 7

Annual Gala

DECEMBER

COMO Gives Campaign

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Boone Hospital Center 1600 East Broadway Columbia, MO 65201 573-815-8000

NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

COLUMBIA, MO PERMIT 286

We’re fully open and ready to take care of our communities.

Believe in Boone.

Don’t put your health care on hold. Schedule your visit today.

Learn more about how we are keeping patients safe at boone.org.