Around La Jolla October `07.pub

A PUBLICATION OF SCRIPPS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL LA JOLLA FOR EMPLOYEES, PHYSICIANS AND VOLUNTEERS
October 2007
Scripps La Jolla Responding with Comfort and Care
Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla Supports Community and Staff during Firestorm 2007
As the San Diego firestorm spread throughout the county, volunteers, physicians and staff at
Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla worked above and beyond – responding to the needs of its
patients, staff and the San Diego community.
Remaining operational throughout the fire disaster, Scripps
La Jolla took special measures to provide its patients with
the greatest level of care possible. Coordinating with
Scripps Health Command Center, the 24/7 Scripps La Jolla
Command Center continually assessed hospital activities –
from staffing levels and bed space to air quality and
employee needs. County developments were also closely
monitored to disseminate the latest news to physicians and
staff.
With clouds of smoke that could be seen from space satellites, air quality was a concern. To
ensure and maintain healthy air quality for its patients and staff, Scripps La Jolla restricted
access to the hospital through the emergency department. Portable air scrubbers and other
equipment were also used to protect against hazardous air quality.
Despite widespread evacuations and school closures throughout the county, Scripps La Jolla
maintained full staffing throughout the disaster, thanks to the dedication and skill of its staff,
physicians and volunteers. Enduring personal sacrifice, many worked around the clock as their
family and friends were evacuated.
“I am so proud of our Scripps family – opening up
hearts and homes to accommodate those in need,” says
Gary Fybel, chief executive, Scripps Memorial
Hospital La Jolla. “We had employees who lost their
homes and still reported to duty. Others worked all
night long to ensure our ability to care for our patients.”
To accommodate the challenging circumstances faced
by staff and physicians, the hospital offered special
services including child care, pet sitting, staff sleeping rooms and respite care.
A temporary child care center was established in the Schaetzel Center for children of Scripps La
Jolla staff and physicians. Volunteers entertained as many as 40 children each day with games,
puzzles, books and videos. The arrangement allowed kids to play and release energy as their
parents provided critical care.
“Our staff has been so appreciative,” says volunteer Elizabeth Cole, R.N., M.S.N., C.N.S.,
director of education. “They are able to have lunch with their kids and check on them
throughout the day, which really helps to ease anxiety during this stressful time.”
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As the firestorm shifts from disaster to recovery, Scripps La Jolla will continue to care for its
patients and staff.
“Our hearts go out to members of the Scripps family who have lost homes or have been evacuated in these tragic fires,” says Fybel. “Through our human resources team, we will be reaching out to support our staff who have experienced these losses.”
For more information about resources for those affected by the fires, please go to
www.scripps.org.
~
Submitted by Kari Kritenbrink, Scripps Foundation
AROUND LA JOLLA „ PAGE 2
SMRT and MMU Give Shelter and Care
Scripps Health also deployed the Scripps Medical Response Team and Mobile Medical Unit to
Rancho Bernardo to provide basic medical services to firefighters and returning residents
evacuated by the San Diego firestorm.
The volunteer Scripps team of physicians and nurses
are working under the auspices of the San Diego Fire
Department at Rancho Bernardo Community Park,
18448 West Bernardo Drive, near the fire
department’s base camp. Scripps joined other service
providers such as FEMA and the American Red Cross
as part of a city-sponsored Local Assistance Center for
fire victims.
The medical team has been providing first aid and basic medical services such as treatment of
minor cuts, assess respiratory problems, providing over-the-counter medication and writing
prescriptions. Patients presenting with more serious medical issues are being referred to
nearby emergency rooms.
The Scripps Mobile Medical Unit and two medical
treatment tents will be stationed in Rancho Bernardo
until Sunday, Nov. 4, providing free medical services
between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday,
Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Scripps Mobile Medical Unit is a 40-foot motor
coach with two examination rooms, a nurse’s station,
and capability to serve as a back-up triage and communications unit for Scripps Health during community disasters. The Mobile Medical Unit is
used primarily for community health screenings and education.
President and Governor Visit Clinic Site
While in town to tour the fire areas, President George W. Bush and Governor Arnold
Schwarzenegger stopped by the Scripps Medical Response Team site to speak with
firefighters, medical personnel and evacuees. After a press conference, the President and
Governor visited with our Scripps staff.
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Scripps La Jolla Receives Top Honors
Scripps La Jolla is the recipient of the HealthGrades 2008 Distinguished
Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence. This award places us within the top
five percent of hospitals in the nation for hospital-wide clinical excellence. The
strategic implications of this recognition are significant as clinical outcomes
increasingly drive reimbursement, network inclusion, physician preference and
consumer choice.
Along with this award, Scripps La Jolla also received the following specialty recognitions:
■
■
■
■
■
Gastrointestinal Care Excellence Award™ 2008
Maternity Care Excellence Award™ 2007/2008
Pulmonary Care Excellence Award™ 2008
Stroke Care Excellence Award™ 2008
Women’s Health Excellence Award™ 2007/2008
Scripps La Jolla Recognized by Lifesharing
For the third year in a row, Scripps La Jolla has received the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Medal of Honor for excellence in organ donation. This important award is
given to hospitals across the United States for achieving a lifesaving organ donation rate of 75 percent or greater for a sustained
12-month period.
Scripps La Jolla is also among one of the 108 hospitals
nationwide that was honored with a special Crystal Award which
recognizes hospitals who have received the Medal of Honor for
three consecutive years. This honor reflects Scripps La Jolla’s
exemplary leadership in developing effective relationships
between the hospital, donor families and Lifesharing. This
successful collaboration has created a positive commitment to
organ donation and had generated life-saving results.
Congratulations Clinical Loan Scholarship Recipients!
We are pleased to announce the recipients of the Scripps Health 2007 Clinical Education Loan
Scholarship Program. The Clinical Education Loan Scholarship program is designed to provide
financial assistance to employees and their dependents seeking to complete their studies for a
clinical degree or certification. Their commitment to continuing to further their education is to
be applauded. Please join us in congratulating our awardees:
Kristine Andrues
Margaret Arbuckle
Adelle Arias
Melissa Arturet
Nathalie Capurso
Linda Good
Regina Izu
Amy Kinghor
Melanie Liegg
Christine Maciulla
Jonathan Mack
Anthony Mistretta
Theresa Perpetuo
Randy Reyes
Lee Roberts
Eileen Sapinoso
Linda Sebastian
Cindy Steckel
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Success Shares Results!
Congratulations to the entire Scripps La Jolla staff! Based upon the
fiscal year-to-date performance scenario, Scripps Memorial La Jolla
meets the maximum patient satisfaction target for a Success Shares
award of five days’ pay. This is not a guarantee of payout and is
subject to change based on year-end financial audits.
10.1%
90th
percentile
Don’t forget that a new year starts right away! Continue to monitor your best practices, share
helpful hints with colleagues and utilize the new programs, materials and education that were
implemented this year.
Cultivating a “Culture of Always”
A “Culture of Always” is the next phase on our patient satisfaction efforts. As we anticipate
the move to HCAHPS in 2008, our patients will be asked questions regarding their care in
terms of never, sometimes, usually and always instead of ranking their care from 1-5. It is our
goal to have the patient answer with an
“always” when describing the care they
receive at Scripps La Jolla. This means that
we need to ALWAYS provide excellent
service to each one of our patients. Keep
that in mind as you work with our patients,
their families and each other and we can develop a “Culture of Always.”
Over the next few months, we will break down the new categories of questions that will be
included in the HCAHPS survey. This month we are focusing on “The Hospital Environment”.
The new questions now presented to patients are:
■ During this hospital stay, how often were your room and bathroom kept
clean?
■ During this hospital stay, how often was the area around your room
quiet at night?
A Patient’s Thanks...
This following is a letter that was sent to the Lab in recognition of Sergio
Arroyo, lab phlebotomist.
Dear Sergio How do I thank you? You have a BIG HEART! Thank you for caring about me
- I felt it, and I knew it! How can a person make another instantly feel like a
friend? You did that for me! I was alone and afraid, you noticed - TWICE! :o) I
was blessed that night to know you. I will never forget you - Thank you.
Tina Schimk
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Construction Updates
Parking structure…
10/12/07
10/19/07
10/26/07
3rd Floor Renovation…
The first phase of the carpet replacement project has been completed,
re-opening the offices and on-call rooms on 3E. The second phase is now
underway, temporarily relocating 3W patients to 7E.
3ICU has re-opened, but 5ICU will not close. Instead six patients from
CCU will move up to 3ICU. This will allow us to do the loud CVL drilling
into the basement ceiling beneath CCU that needs to happen for the CVL
project. It has not been possible to complete this drilling with patients
above them due to the noise factor. We will drill for 4-5 days under half of
CCU, then empty the other half and drill another 4-5 days there.
Genesee Widening Project
During the month of October, the following projects were completed:
■ Relocate backflow prevention devices at Scripps Hospital Drive
■ Remove existing curb and gutter at intersection of Genesee Avenue and Scripps
Hospital Drive
■ Continue to clear and grub brush in the southeastern segment of the project area
on Genesee Avenue
■ Remove and relocate designated trees within project area
■ Continue installing and maintaining sediment erosion control measures throughout the project area
How Does Your Garden Grow?
How many times have you seen the new landscaping and thought, “What are those flowers
called?” or “How do I care for those?” In response to the many inquiries received by our landscaping team every season, we are starting this new section of the newsletter!
What’s New?
Along with the make-over outside of the ED, there are new Hibiscus flowers planted along the
perimeter of the fountain in the front entrance of the hospital.
What’s Special?
There are three African Tulip trees (Spathodea Campanulata,
right) planted throughout campus. The one on the southeast side
of the Poole Building was recently in full bloom. This tree is
native to South Africa and needs to be pruned at the tips to help
lighten the branches through the blooming season.
Tips for Your Garden
Cut back on water right now and reprogram your controllers.
Aerate the soil to help oxygenate the soil and allow the water to penetrate deep into the root
system.
~
Submitted by Dave Carvalho, grounds supervisor
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October Celebrates…
National Sterile Processing Week 10/14-10/20
This week recognizes the important role sterile processing teams play in supply distribution
and processing of surgical instrumentation, as well as patient safety and positive patient
outcomes.
National Healthcare Resource and Materials Management Week 10/7-10/13
This week recognizes resource and materials management staff and the contributions they
make to the healthcare field.
National Healthcare Quality Week 10/16-10/20
This week is a nationwide recognition week designed to unite healthcare professionals and
encourage the recognition and celebration of quality achievements. It increases the awareness
and appreciation of healthcare quality throughout the community. Stop by the Schaetzel
Center Atrium on Nov. 8 , 12 - 2 p.m., for a Quality Open House!
Pastoral Care Week 10/21-10/27
Pastoral Care Week gives opportunities for organizations and institutions of all kinds and types
to recognize the spiritual caregivers in their midst and the ministry which the caregivers
provide.
National Respiratory Care Week 10/21-10/27
Respiratory Therapists celebrate their profession while rising awareness of lung health. Local
events include lung health education programs aimed at encouraging early detection of lung
disease, particularly asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
National Healthcare Facilities and Engineering Week 10/22-10/28
This week recognizes the important role that facility managers and engineers have in ensuring
a safe and functional environment for all patients, visitors and staff. These are individuals who
work “behind the scenes” and, as such, too often go unrecognized and unnoticed.
Please print and post the attachments to use as reference guides for Facilities and Engineering and Materials Management.
Need Help Researching a Project?
Need to jump on a computer in a quiet area? Remember seeing an article somewhere that you just can’t find? The Kinyon Medical Library, located in the lower
level of the Schaetzel Center, is a great place for all of your research and resource
needs. Below is an example of the types of articles that can be researched.
Needs of family members of critically ill patients: A comparison of nurse and
family perceptions by KE Maxwell, D Stuenkel and C Saylor C; Heart and
Lung: Journal of Acute and Critical Care; September 2007; 36(5): 367-376
Abstract: Background: The challenge for critical care nurses is to provide care for
aggressively managed, critically ill patients while attending to the needs of stressed family
members. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore differences in the perceptions of
the needs of family members of critically ill patients and RNs' perceptions and the extent to
which these needs were met. Conclusions: By implementing specific cost-effective strategies
to increase family access to the patient, to improve communication with the physician and the
health care team, and to create a family-friendly environment, critical care RNs can meet family member needs and improve the quality of nursing care.
Intrigued? For the full text of this article, please visit the Kinyon Medical Library, Schaetzel
Center, Lower Level. For help with research, please contact Kimberly Baker, Medical
Librarian, 858-626-7424, fax 858-626-4468 or [email protected].
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EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS…
Successful Isolation Drill
In August, our facilities, engineering
and emergency preparedness teams
conducted a trial set up of negative
pressure isolation in the hallway
between the ED and ICU. We are also
in the process of preparing to have
negative pressure isolation on all
patient floors. At this time, we are
prepared for an influx of highly
contagious respiratory patients that would require negative pressure isolation. Thank you to all
who were involved in this successful drill!
~
Submitted by Dee Osargent, disaster preparedness coordinator
Fresh Café Grand Opening
Giveaways, prizes, beach balls and California Quivers! It was a festive celebration down in the
newly re-opened Fresh Café, highlighting the new Fresh selections, Fresh décor and Fresh new
salad bar. Don’t forget that you can use your new sport bottle
or travel mug for discounts in the
cafeteria on sodas and coffee. Help
us go green! Thank you all for
your patience and cooperation
during the renovation and thank
you to our great FNS staff who
braved the elements and continued
to provide excellent patient care!
Scripps La Jolla Public Relations Receives PRSA Awards
Scripps staff from Marketing/Communications, Human Resources, and the Foundation were
recognized at the Public Relations Society of America, San Diego Chapter’s annual Bernays
Awards for outstanding work, earning 11 of the 41 awards presented. Scripps La Jolla received
two of the night’s awards:
Mark of Excellence award for a Feature Story - Lisa Ohmstede Attacked by a Grizzly, Los Angeles Times
Mark of Merit award for Internal Video Program - Lisa
Ohmstede / Alison Haney - Scripps La Jolla Year in Review 2006
President and CEO Chris Van Gorder was also presented with the Diogenes Award for his
transparency and honesty in dealing with the public and the media -- a special honor given annually to a community leader who does not work in the public relations profession.
Volunteers Celebrate Oktoberfest
Break out your lederhosen and grab a plate of sauerkraut - It’s
Oktoberfest! Volunteer services celebrated this year by hosting a
German themed soiree, complete with bratwurst and (root) beer.
This traditional celebration began in 1810, in honor of the
marriage of Princess Therese to the Bavarian Crown Prince
Ludwig in Munich, Germany.
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27th Annual Oncology Nurses Symposium
Scripps Cancer Center’s 27th Annual Oncology Nurses
Symposium was a huge success! The conference was held Sept.
30 – Oct. 3, at the Marriott in Mission Valley and drew 250
participants from around the country. A wide range of topics
were covered including tips for nurses new to oncology, using
creativity to add to patient quality of life, new diagnostic
techniques, and bridging generational differences in the nursing
workforce. The exhibit hall boasted nearly 30 vendors offering
information on the latest treatments and diagnostic equipment available to oncology
professionals. For additional information on this course email: [email protected].
Hit Me With Your Best Shot!
New this year, ALL hospital healthcare workers must be vaccinated or sign
a declination form, so make your appointment in Employee Health today!
Flu Facts
■ Each year in the U.S. approximately 114,000 people are
hospitalized and an average of 36,000 die as a result of the flu
■ infected adult looses 3 days of work, 2 ½ of those days are spent
confined to bed
■ Over half of infected health care workers will infect a family member or patient
■ Flu vaccine is made from inactivated viruses—You can not get the flu from the flu shot
There is also a Scripps La Jolla sponsored community flu immunization program. Individuals
nine years and older, Scripps La Jolla patients and family members of Scripps La Jolla
employees, physicians and volunteers are eligible. The cost is $20. It is held Mondays and
Wednesdays (11/5, 11/7, 11/12, 11/14), from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. in the XiMED Medical Office
Building lobby.
4 East - Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
On Sunday, Oct. 21, 20 staff and family members from 4 East
walked in the American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides
Against Breast Cancer” walk in Balboa Park. They raised $1,440
in just two weeks. Over 20,000 participants raised $1.2 million
this year. There are plans to make this an annual event, so stay
tuned for information regarding next year’s walk!
For more information, go to www.cancer.org.
Eating For the Holidays
Do you dread the holidays and their effect on your waistline? Avoid over
indulging during this festive time of year and learn tricks of the trade for
eating well, while still enjoying those special holiday treats.
This course is offered by a Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla registered
dietitian and will be held on Monday, Nov. 5 or Tuesday, Dec. 4 from 6 - 7:30
p.m. in the Schaetzel Center. Cost is FREE! Call 1-800-SCRIPPS to register.
10th Annual Craft Fair and Food and Toy Drive Kick-off!
The 10th Annual Craft Fair will be held Friday, Nov. 9 in the
Schaetzel Center atrium. Start your holiday shopping with these great
gift ideas! Handmade soaps, frames, jewelry, toys, candles and more!
Once again, this event will be the kick-off of our Holiday Food and Toy
Drive (Nov. 9 - Dec. 18). For more information, please contact Mike
Krucky at ext. 7324.
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Whittier Professional Education Courses at a Discounted Price
DeMystifying the Diabetic Diet Friday, Nov. 9; 7:30 a.m. - 4:30
p.m., $50, 7CEUs. So many rumors, what is the truth? This class
takes a look at the role of food in America, weight loss strategies
and the proper proportion of protein, fats and carbohydrates in a
healthy, balanced meal plan. You will also learn about
carbohydrate counting and the use of meal time insulin.
The Art and Science of Insulin Management and Incretin Therapy Saturday, Nov. 10;
7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., $50, 7 CEUs. This course will enable you to clearly understand the
proper use and precautions of all types of insulin in the in-patient and outpatient setting. Learn
which insulins are more effective with steroid use or alternative nutritional therapies. Increase
your knowledge in the use of insulin pens and insulin pumps and understand hoe the incretins
can help with diabetes management. Call 858-626-5696 for more info and to register.
Gentle Yoga for People with Cancer
In this free two-session workshop series we will explore the relaxing
benefits of gentle yoga. Gentle yoga consists of restful postures and
deep breathing designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.
Monday, Nov. 12 & Tuesday, Nov. 20, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Schaetzel
Center, Great Hall. This workshop will be led by instructor Leslie
Denny. Refreshments will be served and there will be an opportunity
for open discussion and networking. Registration is required as space
is limited. Please contact Tom Freidman, LCSW, at 858-554-9376, or
at [email protected].
ONS Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Course
The Oncology Nursing Society’s (ONS) Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Course provides a
comprehensive review of the knowledge needed to administer cytotoxic and biotherapeutic
agents. This course content is appropriate for nurses who are new to chemotherapy
administration, as well as for those who want a comprehensive review. Tuesday, Nov. 13 and
Wednesday, Nov. 14 - Must attend both dates. 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Schaetzel Center, Ogilvie
Room (11/13) and Whittier Building 2nd Floor, Bristol Myers Squibb Classroom (11/14).
$85.00 for Scripps employees; $160.00 for non-Scripps. For additional information, please
contact: Aran Levine at 858-626-6049 or [email protected] or Eileen Gaudette at
858-626-6756.
McDonald Center Interventions
If you feel someone you know may need help dealing with an addiction, Scripps McDonald
Center offers assistance on how to bring your loved one into treatment through the intervention
process, which is the first step toward recovery.
John C. Seaman, a nationally recognized interventionist and
expert on the signs and symptoms of chemical dependency
and enabling behavior, offers free intervention seminars. We
encourage you to attend if you or are a loved one has a
problem with substance abuse. For more information about
these free seminars, call (858) 626-4300. The seminars are
held every Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in the Residential
Building at the McDonald Center.
AROUND LA JOLLA „ PAGE 10
FROM THE GRAPEVINE…
Autumn Learning Fair a Success!
The final counts are in! In all, 2163 employees completed this year’s
Learning Fair. Congrats to all who made it through, as well as to the
dedicated and hard working staff who spent countless hours planning,
facilitating and teaching throughout the rigorous schedule.
Specific arrangements are being made for those who were unable to
attend or complete their designated stations.
Dr. Launer Keeps Time Marching On
After admiring the grandfather clock in the main hospital lobby for more
than 28 years, Dr. Dana Lauer, chief of staff, has recently refurbished the
piece and shared his hobby with his Scripps La Jolla family.
“Repairing and restoring the grandfather clock from the lobby was easier
than expected. The mechanism is actually quite simple and is certainly
larger than the clocks that I have restored in the past,” Dr. Launer
commented.
His "career" restoring clocks began several years ago when a friend, who
knew how much he enjoyed both fixing things that are broken and
woodworking, brought him a Vienna Regulator Clock that was initially built in 1890. It was in
terrible condition - the case was dented and many of the wood parts were missing. He was told
that if he could fix it, he could keep it. After weeks of rebuilding, crafting new pieces and
polishing the clock, he completed the restoration.
Summer ICU Interns Complete Training
The summer ICU interns recently graduated from their 12-week
training program. The program is an intense orientation to ICU
nursing. Graduates are, from left to right, Greg Pollard, Juliann
Eigner, Tammy Long, David Ross, Anna Toney, Tamara Guerin,
Chris Sarmiento, Ian Davidson, Jason Ensign, Andrea Perkins,
(kneeling) Krystal Watkins, Stephanie Hanifan. Congratulations!
Manuscript Published in the AAOHN Journal
Linda Good, R.N., employee health coordinator, has had her third manuscript
accepted for publication. Addressing Hospital Nurses' Fear of Abandonment
in a Bioterrorism Emergency, AAOHN-2007-029 Version 1, will be published
in the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses (AAOHN)
Journal. “I am very pleased and wanted to thank you for all of your support-which has allowed me to do something that I am enjoying so much,” Linda
shared. Congratulations, Linda!
New Manager of Education
Joanna Gerlt has accepted the position of manager for the department of
education. Joanna joined the Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla “family”
in 1999 as an occupational therapist. In May 2006, Joanna became the
clinical educator for rehab and ancillary services. Most recently,
Joanna stepped into the "Interim Director" role for the education department
while it was in transition. (Joanna with Rick Springfield, right)
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Where In The World is…
With summer coming to a close, many Scripps La Jolla employees took advantage of the warm
summer months to take to the road. Whether traveling within the U.S., or journeying across the
oceans, your colleagues have been to some beautiful places.
“This is a shot of Bobby Dorsett, Susan Cummings
and myself on top of the world (continental divide
at Logan Pass in Glacier National Park, MT). As
you can see form the blackberry, Scripps was
never far away, but I do think we are the best l
ooking bunch of tourists.”
~ Johan Otter, admin. director, ancillary services
(right; far left in photo)
“I went to Seattle, WA and hung out with
the fish guys from Pike Place Fish Market. I
threw some fish and they asked me to come
back and help for a while!”
~ Michael Shannon, PT (left; middle in
photo)
“Here we are after Al's fantastic concert at the
House of Blues Oct. 13. This was the third time
I've seen him perform this year (about the 25th
time overall). I saw him at the San Diego Fair in
June and the Orange County Fair in July.
‘Weird Al’ ROCKS!!”
~ Robb Trexler, med staff (right; right in photo)
“I just returned from my dream trip of a
lifetime! My sister, brother-in-law and I were
part of a tour group to Italy (Verona, Venice,
Florence, San Gimignano and Rome) that
originated in my hometown of Utica, New
York. When the other Uticans flew home, we
embarked on an additional adventure - a fivehour train trip to the south of Italy. Our
destination was Alberobello (provincia di Puglia) in the heel of the boot. My ancestors are all
from this gorgeous town and its environs (the name translates to "beautiful tree"); in fact, my
father was born there and came to America with his parents as a child. We had the pleasure to
meet our first cousins and their children and grandchildren.”
~ Dinae Tinelli Miller, HR (above; second from left in photo, with sister and cousins!)
AROUND LA JOLLA „ PAGE 12
HR Benefits Bulletin
Employee Benefits Fair
Our annual fair will be held in the Schaetzel Center Atrium and Great Hall on Monday, Nov. 5,
from 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Come out for a great day of information, fun, snacks, music and giveaways. Learn about your Scripps Life Cycle Benefit programs!
Meet with Scripps benefits specialists and program vendors regarding:
■ Group Health & Dental Insurance
■ Flexible Spending Accounts
■ Cell Phone & Fitness Center Discounts
■ Banks and Credit Unions
■ Scripps Wellness Program
■ Retirement Plans
■ Voluntary Plans Including Life and Disability Insurance
And much more!
Please note: Although Open Enrollment ended on 10/31/07, we will have carrier representatives and information brochures available to discuss any benefit program for 2008. There is no
need to attend the benefit fair to make 2008 benefit changes.
~
Submitted by Paul Guidaboni, benefits specialist
Lincoln Financial 403(b) Plan Site Visits
Beginning Thursday, Nov. 1, the weekly site visit hours from The Lincoln Financial 403(b)
Retirement Savings Plan will be expanded. Starting 2 hours earlier from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. We
will also have an additional rep that will be introduced soon.
The weekly site visits will continue to be in the Mesa Room, towards the back of the Fresh
Café, located in the lower level of the hospital. Lincoln Financial is available to meet with
employees for plan information and enrollment. Lincoln can also be reached at 619 543-9995,
www.lfg.com (web) or at [email protected] (email).
Welcome New hires!
We would like to welcome the following new hires from September to Scripps La Jolla. We’re
delighted that you chose us, and we’re here to help!
3-ICU
Rowena D. Daclan-Cullen
Fatsani L. Dogani
Clinical Nutrition
Myra K. Ebeling
Megan C. Melendrez
Administration
Matilda (Mimi) Extance
Emergency Services
Joanne M. Hurst
Ambulatory Surgery
Sheryl F. Scott
Engineering
William E. Cline II
Breast Care Center
Shelly R. Hughes
Food Service
Igor F. Pereira
Teresa D. Rodriguez
Cardiac Care 6 East
Kristy J. Bennett
Andy Chan
Seon D. Lee
Zoe-Anne M. Zoet
Labor & Delivery
Christie A. Huston
Med/Surgical Acute 7 East
Brook A. Perry
Cardiac Catheterization
Patricia J. Cultice
Nuclear Medicine
Arturo Santos
CCU/MICU
Amanda M. Diller
Oncology Acute
Brian A. Bullas
Timothy E. Costelow
Elisa M. Hepp
Lisa M. Kaiser
Clinical Lab
Ricardo M. Ello
Jeannette N. Serbas
Kelli A. O’Neil
Erin K. Smyth
Gwendalin G. Sorianosos
Robert M. Wu
Patient Financial Services
Kaecy J. Harris
Rene V. Tolo
Perinatal Education
Amanda K. Glenn
Pharmacy
Jaqueline H. Gouw-Ceballos
Physical Therapy
Diego Hernandez
Philip A. Smith
Robert E. Thibault
Tammy A. Tracy
Resource Pool
Cheryl Lyn V. Carandang
Jackie A. Hulse
Respiratory Therapy
Elizabeth A. Carmody
Elizabeth J. Hunter
Sterile Processing
Jan Kristoffer D. Idos
Surgery
Neriza C. Borja
Jonathan Bowman Jr.
Kenneth G. Huston III
Judith A. Kane
Wendy A. Mooklar
Surgical Acute 4 East
Carolyn R. Fansler
Julia A. Mirabelli
Radiology – Diagnostic
Shimrith S. Mecate
Chelsea J. Valdiconza
Surgical Acute 4 West
Jennifer A. Lansville
Ashley J. McCullough
Recovery Room Services
Kimberly B. Connell
Surgical ICU
Annie P. Gayapa
Katherine A. Lapena
AROUND LA JOLLA „ PAGE 13
Scripps La Jolla in the News
Regular placement in various media outlets positions Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, our
services and staff as the experts they are to the media and lay communities. The following are a
few examples of Scripps La Jolla physicians and staff who have assisted with recent positive
media coverage:
NurseTV.com did a web-based video segment on some of the programs that Scripps La Jolla
utilizes to retain its nurses. The story featured Chief Nursing Executive Joan Burritt, R.N.,
L&D managers Alison Brindle and Amy Meier, and mentor nurse Sheila Scruggs.
Chrystal de Frietas, M.D., pediatrician, assisted with a KFMB Channel 8 story regarding an
outbreak of chickenpox in Santee. The story aired on Oct. 10.
Brent Eastman, M.D., chief medical officer of Scripps Health, was quoted in an Oct. 3 article
in the Wall Street Journal regarding the need for trauma systems across the United States. The
article also featured trauma patient Bubba Blackwell who was treated at Scripps La Jolla after
crashing his motorcycle in a stunt show at the San Diego County Fair more than six years ago.
Dana Launer, M.D., chief of staff and colorectal surgeon, made an in-studio appearance at
KUSI on Oct. 15 to discuss a new study that addresses the recent decline in colorectal cancer
deaths.
Dermatologist Susan Stuart, M.D., was featured in an article on new treatments to skin
rejuvenation that appeared in Fall edition of sdhealth, a new publication from the San Diego
Union-Tribune.
Also, special thanks to those physicians and staff who assisted with media during the
Wildfires. Specifically, emergency physicians Shawn Evans, M.D., and Martin Griglak,
M.D., assisted with television stories regarding air quality and patient presenting for treatment.
Edgar Ling, M.D., and Liza Blumenfeld of the Scripps Voice & Swallowing Center also
assisted with a San Diego Union-Tribune article related to the Wildfires.
G. Ryan Dominguez, M.D., family practice, assisted with an article about how to choose a
physician in our ongoing “To Your Health” column that runs in the Rancho Santa Fe Review,
Del Mar Village Voice, Carmel Valley News, La Jolla Village Light, and Beach and Bay
Press. Bev Mangerich, R.N., liaison nurse at the Scripps Polster Breast Care Center, also
assisted with an article about assessing your genetic risk for cancer.
If you have a compelling patient story, a new procedure or state-of-the-art technology that you
would like to share with the media, please contact Lisa Ohmstede, public relations manager, at
858-626-7142.
AROUND LA JOLLA „ PAGE 14
Scripps Health Academy Kick-Off
The Scripps Health Academy will kicked off at Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego on
Friday, Oct. 26. The purpose of the Scripps Health Academy is to educate our legislators and
other community leaders about the inner workings of our hospital so that they can get a real
sense of what it takes to run a hospital. The ultimate goal is for these leaders to make informed
decisions when legislation is proposed that could impact our fragile health system.
Scripps Mercy San Diego was chosen as the pilot location for the academy, and the events will
be scheduled at other Scripps campuses in 2008. This first academy was a daylong educational
session for elected officials’ aides, who heard presentations throughout the day from Chris
Van Gorder, president and CEO; Brent Eastman, M.D., chief medical officer of Scripps
Health; Eric Topol, M.D., chief academic officer of Scripps Health; Tom Gammiere, chief
executive of Scripps Mercy, as well as several of Scripps Mercy Hospital’s medical and
administrative leaders.
Representatives attended from the offices of: Governor Schwarzenegger, Senator Wyland,
Senator Ducheny, Congressman Brian Bilbray, Assembly Member Lori Saldana, Councilwoman Atkins, Supervisor Slater-Price, Supervisor Horn, Supervisor Cox and Supervisor Roberts and a few others.
The legislative aides will also tour the hospital from top to bottom, visiting such areas as
Admissions, the Staffing Office, the Chapel, Security, Pharmacy Services, Food & Nutrition
Services, the Cath Labs, the Clinical Laboratory/Pathology, OR/Robotics, the SICU, Maternal
Child Health, the Trauma Floor, 11th Floor Medical/Surgical Unit, Behavioral Health Unit and
the Emergency Department.
Submitted by Ty Kennon, director of marketing, Scripps Mercy hospital
~
It’s Finally Here – South Bay Expressway to Open Nov. 19
For those of you who travel to, from and around the South Bay, San Diego’s first state-of-theart toll road - the highly anticipated South Bay Expressway - will open just in time for the
holidays on Monday, Nov. 19. The opening of this 10-mile road, extending from SR 54 in
Spring Valley to Otay Mesa Rd./SR 905 near the International Border crossing, is a significant
regional and national event that will draw officials, press and industry professionals from
across the country.
The Expressway’s opening will be preceded by a weekend of special events. Anyone who
opens a FasTrak® account with South Bay Expressway will receive FREE UNLIMITED
driving on South Bay Expressway until midnight Jan. 13, 2008! To open a FasTrak account
visit www.southbayexpressway.com or call (619) 661-7070.
We Would Like to Hear From You!
If you have an article or news to include in an upcoming Around La
Jolla, please send it to Alison Haney in Marketing and Communications by the 15th of each month, to be included in the following
month’s issue. We will do our best to include all submissions and will
edit them accordingly. You can submit your story via e-mail to
[email protected] or via inter-office mail to LJ320.
Thank you for your submissions!
AROUND LA JOLLA „ PAGE 15