Spring 2010 - Willis-Knighton Health System

vim& vigor
vigo
g r
go
season 2010
spring
2009 $2.95
a carefree
lifestyle
TLC for
babies
WHY THE
BEST HEART
DOCTORS
COME HERE
page 6
changing
how you
think about
‘hospital food’
will
power
no special effects here.
strong
physique is the result of
hard work and dedication
will smith’s
FdVVSP1093_00_Cover.indd 1
12/9/09 4:53:04 PM
contents
special
4
a peek at
The Tower at The
Oaks, a vibrant
residential community for healthy,
active adults.
features
6
a reputation for quality Discover
why the Willis-Knighton Heart &
Vascular Institute is doing increasingly
more cardiac procedures despite a
slowing national trend.
8
dishing up healthy, tasty choices
Forget what you might think
about “hospital food.” Good
meals are always on the menu
at Willis-Knighton.
designed for
living Take
22
on mended knees They’re two of
our most used—and abused—joints.
Find out how surgical advances might
help you.
27
36
40
imaging IQ Going in for a routine
screening or diagnostic test? Here’s
what you need to know.
44
50
wake-up call A diagnosis of prediabetes doesn’t have to be all bad. It’s a
chance to turn your health around.
departments
spring
10
14
18
excuses, excuses Experts bust the
most commonly used cop-outs for
not eating right.
easing the pressure Think you work
hard? Your heart pumps 24 hours a day.
Keep hypertension under control.
prostate predicament Read how
one man got to the cause of his
urinary symptoms—and found relief.
30
will power
With roles
that include
Muhammad Ali and a
superhero, iconic actor
Will Smith has to stay in
shape. Find out how you
can get fit even without
the celebrity treatment.
PHOTOGRAPH BY JET SET, ICON INTERNATIONAL
FdVVSP1093_01_TOC 2.indd 1
caregiving: a survival guide Caring
for a loved one is hard work and
fraught with unique challenges.
form factors Just like the women
it affects, breast cancer comes in all
shapes and sizes. Learn about four
types you need to be aware of.
good beginnings Find out about the
resources that are available if you have
a problem during your pregnancy.
2 first things first
New construction
highlights a focus
on health and
well-being.
3 news you can
use The latest
buzz about WillisKnighton and The
Oaks of Louisiana.
52 food for thought
Enjoy two Louisiana
culinary favorites.
53 life at the oaks
The MarketPlace
mixes charm and
convenience.
54 focus on fitness
Learn how low-back
pain responds to
exercise.
55 accolades
WK employees
are making positive
differences in
Shreveport.
56 parting thoughts
Check out the health
and wellness events
available this spring.
vim & vigor · s p ri ng 2010
1
12/16/09 8:20:20 AM
first things first change
in the air
live oak’s design is part of our focus
on health and well-being
I
In the South, warm weather is never far away.
James K. Elrod
On the coldest gray day of winter, we know
there will soon be a bright springlike day to warm our bodies and spirits.
Nowhere at Willis-Knighton is the change more evident than at The Oaks of
Louisiana. The vistas change daily, and not just the trees and plants. The construction of The Tower at The Oaks has changed the landscape remarkably.
The building, new lake and all the activity surrounding the construction have
brought visual interest for our residents at Live Oak as well as visitors and
passers-by. This new residential concept for active senior adults is one we are
excited to bring to Shreveport to support the health and well-being of this rapidly growing demographic. Learn more in “Designed for Living” on page 4.
As we consider the health and well-being of the people we serve, we are
constantly aware of the importance of cardiovascular care. We are fortunate
that the three largest cardiology groups in Shreveport and Bossier City have
chosen to locate to Willis-Knighton campuses. This is an indication of the
impact that our Heart Institute has had on cardiovascular care. The Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention lists heart disease as the leading cause
of death for both women and men in the U.S. As long as that is the case, the
Willis-Knighton Heart Institute will work with physicians to combat the
disease. Check out the feature on page 6, “A Reputation for Quality,” to learn
about the sophisticated care available today.
Most women experience pregnancy as a routine part of life, but sometimes
mothers and babies need specialized help before the birth. “Good Beginnings”
on page 50 offers insight into maternal/fetal health and the great support available for babies at Willis-Knighton South and the Center for Women’s Health.
Also, hospital food has received a bad rap over the years, but not at WillisKnighton. Our Dietary Department is one of those behind-the-scenes areas
that are critical in the day-to-day care of patients, their families and our employees. It’s a big job, as our dietary director confirms in “Dishing Up Healthy,
Tasty Choices” on page 8.
Finally, as always, thank you for your positive response to Vim & Vigor.
I welcome your comments.
Sincerely,
James K. Elrod
President and CEO
2
President and CEO, Willis-Knighton Health System
James K. Elrod
Facility Administrators
Jaf Fielder, Willis-Knighton Medical Center
Keri Elrod, Willis-Knighton South
Cliff Broussard, WK Bossier Health Center
Sonny Moss, WK Pierremont Health Center
Margaret Elrod, The Oaks of Louisiana
Regional Editor
Marilyn S. Joiner
Contributors
Charlie Cavell, Kim Foulk, Denise Hiller, Sharla Inman, Danna Jacobs,
Rhonda MacIsaac, David Noble, Karen Peters, Darrell Rebouche
PRODUCTION
Editorial
V.P./Creative Director: Beth Tomkiw
Editor-in-Chief: Shelley Flannery
Editors: Sam Mittelsteadt, Matt Morgan, Amanda Myers,
Kari Redfield, Jill Schildhouse, Tom Weede, Julie Wlodychak
Copy Editor: Cindy Hutchinson
Design
Creative Director: Lisa Altomare
Art Directors: Laura Butler, Erica Brooks, Maggie Conners,
Monya Mollohan, Kay Morrow, Adele Mulford, Tami Rodgers,
Keith Whitney
Production
Senior Production Manager: Laura Marlowe
Ancillary Production Manager: Angela Liedtke
Imaging Specialist: Dane Nordine
Prep Specialists: Julie Fong, Sonia Washington
Circulation
V.P./Business Intelligence Group: Patrick Kehoe
Postal Affairs & Logistics Director: Joseph Abeyta
client services
V.P./Sales and Product Development: Chad Rose,
888-626-8779
V.P./Strategic Marketing: Heather Burgett
Strategic Marketing Team: Robyn LaMont, Barbara Mohr,
Andrea Parsons, Paul Peterson, Todd Speranzo
Advertising Sales
Advertising Sales Representatives
New York: Phil Titolo, Publisher, 212-626-6835
Phoenix: Soliteir Jaeger, Associate Publisher, 888-626-8779
Mail Order: Bernbach Advertising Reps, 914-769-0051
ADMINISTRATION
im & Vigor Founder: J. Barry Johnson
V
Chairman: Preston V. McMurry Jr.
President/Chief Executive Officer: Christopher McMurry
Chief Operating Officer/Financial Officer: Audra L. Taylor
President/Content Marketing: Fred Petrovsky
2600 Greenwood Road
Shreveport, LA 71103
318-212-4000
wkhs.com
Vim &Vigor,TM Spring 2010, Volume 26, Number 1, is published quarterly by
McMurry, McMurry Campus Center, 1010 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix, Arizona
85014, 602-395-5850. Vim & Vigor TM is published for the purpose of disseminating health-related information for the well-being of the general public and
its subscribers. The information contained in Vim & Vigor TM is not intended
for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Please consult your physician
before undertaking any form of medical treatment and/or adopting any
exercise program or dietary guidelines. Vim & Vigor TM does not accept advertising promoting the consumption of alcohol or tobacco. Copyright © 2010 by
McMurry. All rights reserved. Subscriptions in U.S.: $4 for one year (4 issues).
Single copies: $2.95. For subscriptions and address changes, write: Circulation
Manager, Vim & Vigor,TM McMurry Campus Center, 1010 E. Missouri Ave.,
Phoenix, Arizona 85014.
vim & vigor • s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_02_FirstThings.indd 2
12/9/09 4:54:57 PM
news you can use
the right
place for
chest pain
Mudbugs players
Neil Clark and Dale
Lupul work out at
the WK Health &
Fitness Center.
fitness center gets
a sleek update
WK Health & Fitness Center is looking good! A complete renovation of
Willis-Knighton’s original fitness center on Greenwood Road has included
an upgrade of strength equipment from the classic Cybex line. Termed the
“VR3,” this equipment has a much smaller footprint, is very user-friendly and
has been ergonomically redesigned for safety, ease of entry and exit, smooth
operation and long life. The sleeker look is possible with plasma-welded joints,
laser-cut racking and new powder-coated finishes. Members, including athletes
from Mudbugs Hockey (pictured), have appreciated this equipment line and
the multiple new bright color schemes and interior finishes.
Willis-Knighton Health System has been
awarded accreditation by the Society
of Chest Pain Centers. Willis-Knighton
Medical Center received full designation
as an accredited chest pain center with PCI (percutaneous
cardiac intervention, a
procedure used to unblock
narrowed arteries). Only
a small percentage of hospitals across the country
have earned this designation, which requires a rigorous
evaluation of heart care processes
to ensure that best practices in cardiac care
are integrated into cardiac services, from
the emergency room to treatment.
All Willis-Knighton Health System hospitals use evidence-based practices to ensure
the highest quality of care in the treatment
of chest pain, heart attack and other emergency cardiovascular illnesses.
your home for hospice
In 1980, Willis-Knighton Health System established the first hospice in northern Louisiana
and the second in the state. Today, the program that has allowed patients to remain at home
toward the end of life is enjoying its life in a comfortable, homelike setting. Formerly on the
campus of Willis-Knighton Medical Center, Willis-Knighton Hospice of Louisiana is now at
616 E. Flournoy Lucas Road. From that location, hospice workers and volunteers provide care
throughout the community to patients and families.
Unlike many others in the community, Willis-Knighton Hospice of Louisiana is a not-forprofit organization. Willis-Knighton Hospice welcomes inquiries about volunteer opportunities
as well as contributions to support its work as staff members care for patients with limited
financial resources.
vim & vigor · s p ri ng 2010
FdVVSP1093_03_News.indd 3
3
12/9/09 4:56:28 PM
living
the tower at the
oaks offers a new
kind of freedom
designed
for
by sharla inman
f
From the ground up, The Tower at The Oaks is
designed for living life to the fullest. “We want
to create a vibrant environment at The Oaks of
Louisiana and The Tower,” says Scott Green,
executive manager for The Tower at The Oaks.
“We offer seniors a residential opportunity in
a resort-like setting that supports an active,
healthy and carefree lifestyle.”
Design details throughout reinforce that goal,
from the architectural design of the building to
furnishings and fabrics in common areas.
k spaces to feed the mind,
body and soul
The Grand Foyer at The Tower is a welcoming
environment for residents and their guests.
4
Most people don’t have the luxury of a full-scale
spa and wellness center near their homes, but
Tower residents will. And that’s just the start of
design that enhances a lifestyle that nourishes
body and mind. Every floor features dedicated
spaces for engaging activities: an in-house movie
theater with surround sound, billiards room,
ballroom, arts and crafts studio, lounge, library
and computer center, just to name a few.
The spa offers two exercise areas, one with
state-of-the-art hydraulic fitness and cardio
equipment designed for older adults. With mirrors, ballet bar and instructor’s platform, the
other room accommodates fitness and dance
classes. Water is calming and healthful, and The
Tower has plenty to offer starting with the view
of a large, sparkling-blue lake with a half-mile
vim & vigor • s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_04-5_49_Designed.indd 4
12/9/09 4:58:24 PM
go
come see for yourself
To schedule a tour of The Oaks and get
information on carefree living at The Tower
at The Oaks, call 318-212-OAKS (6257).
paved walking path. A saltwater pool inside the
spa offers swimming year-round. And no spa
would be complete without a salon with hair,
massage, manicure and pedicure services.
❋ dining in delightful
surroundings
Perhaps the best example of The Tower’s design
for healthy and carefree living is its attention to
dining, with multiple venues. Menu-style dining
is offered in an intimate restaurant atmosphere.
The Bistro combines a short-order grill with a
large salad bar and cases filled with freshly made
sandwiches and take-home items. Two seating
areas are nearby, plus a causal coffee shop setting and a family dining room with views of the
lake. Design details including continued on page 49
Top: Year-round swimming is a pleasure in the
pool at The Tower. Center: The calming view
of the sparkling lake makes the Terrace a great
outdoor living space. Above: Gourmet cuisine
and elegance meet in the Fine Dining room.
vim & vigor · s p ri ng 2010
FdVVSP1093_04-5_49_Designed.indd 5
5
12/9/09 4:59:07 PM
heart & vascular
institute continues
to lead the way in
cardiac care
quality
a reputation for
o
Kathy Walker, director of
cardiovascular services,
inside the Cath Lab at
Willis-Knighton’s Heart &
Vascular Institute
6
One of the hardest-working muscles in your
body is your heart, which beats 72 times per
minute on average. That’s 4,320 beats every
hour, even when you’re sound asleep! Most
people take the heart for granted—until something bad happens.
The physicians and staff at the Willis-Knighton
Heart & Vascular Institute see the results of that
neglect every day. As a regional referral center
for patients with heart conditions, the institute’s
procedure numbers continue to grow, despite
a national trend to the contrary. Today, the
institute, which started on the Willis-Knighton
Medical Center, offers a variety of services at all
Willis-Knighton hospitals.
“While procedures across the country are
down 5 percent, Willis-Knighton has shown an
almost 7 percent increase this year,” says Kathy
Walker, director of the Willis-Knighton Heart
& Vascular Institute. “We attribute this to the
forward thinking and collaborative efforts of our
administrators and physicians.”
by charlie cavell
Those people have helped shape the institute’s
reputation for sophisticated technologies and
treatment, which has garnered national attention
for quality. One of the newest technologies, a circulatory assist device, is used during procedures
to improve blood flow for high-risk patients. The
pump promotes three to five times more blood
flow than comparable products, leading to better
patient results.
the best attracts the best
As Willis-Knighton has become a national leader
in cardiac care, more physicians have elected
to practice at its hospitals. Walker says that
95 percent of the private-practice cardiologists
and 100 percent of the cardiovascular surgeons
practice at Willis-Knighton, attracted by the
advanced technologies and quality care. Two
longtime practices, Ark-La-Tex Cardiology and
Cardiovascular Consultants, helped to build
the institute’s reputation for quality. Last year,
Cardiology Associates moved to WK Pierremont.
vim & vigor · s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_06-7_Heart.indd 6
12/9/09 5:02:09 PM
Kathy Walker (left) and Renee
Ward, RN, review ablation
results on the EnSite System in
the Heart & Vascular Institute’s
Electrophysiology Lab.
Also at Willis-Knighton is Robert Lafargue, MD,
a noninterventional cardiologist who is part of
the Willis-Knighton Physician Network. The
institute is also fortunate to have the support of
Curtis Prejean, MD, a well-established cardiovascular surgeon from California who joined
Red River Cardiovascular Surgeons, a Physician
Network surgical practice.
Walker, a 20-year veteran at the institute, is
proud of what it offers. “We provide treatment
for patients with atrial fibrillation,” she says, “and
implant 17 percent more heart-rhythm devices
for the treatment of congestive heart failure than
most organizations throughout the country.”
decades of milestones
In 1994, the Willis-Knighton Heart & Vascular
Institute was the first in the area to introduce
coronary stents on a nontrial basis. Stents, or
tiny scaffolding-like tubes, are designed to open
clogged arteries and improve blood flow. WillisKnighton also was among the first in the nation
to introduce a sophisticated cardiac resynchronization system (pacemaker) that offers patients
a dramatic improvement in their ability to
resume a normal lifestyle.
In April 2003, the institute brought another
major improvement in the fight against restenosis to the Ark-La-Tex when physicians began
implanting stents coated with drugs
to help prevent blockages from
recurring. Since then, thousands
of patients at the Heart & Vascular
Institute have received the drug-eluting stents.
Beginning in 2005, cardiologists offered new
hope to patients at high risk for stroke, when they
began to place stents in carotid arteries, or arteries of the neck, rather than perform surgery.
In fall 2009, Willis-Knighton
Medical Center received full designation as an accredited chest pain
center with PCI (percutaneous
coronary intervention) following
a review of protocols and an on-site
To learn more about the
visit by the Society of Chest Pain
cardiologists and cardiovascular
Centers. Processes were reevaluated
surgeons at Willis-Knighton,
to ensure that best practices were
click “Find a Doctor” at the Willisintegrated into Willis-Knighton’s
Knighton Web site, wkhs.com.
cardiac care services.
get to know go
our doctors
‘the best can always get better’
Walker emphasizes that the institute will continue to pursue innovative technology and focus
on best practices. “Even the best can always get
better,” she says. “And we take this very seriously. We never know when a member of our
own family will need our services, and that’s
why we want to offer every patient the same
level of care we would want for our family.”
Clearly, with its people, protocols and technology, the Willis-Knighton Heart & Vascular
Institute truly has a heart for patients.
the future is here
Not wanting to rest on its proven history of excellence, the Willis-Knighton Heart & Vascular
Institute now offers mitral valve repair using the da Vinci Surgical System. The equipment
features state-of-the-art robotic technology designed to help the surgeon see vital anatomical structures more clearly and perform a more precise surgical procedure.
Curtis Prejean, MD, cardiovascular surgeon with Red River Cardiovascular Surgeons,
was the first to perform this procedure at Willis-Knighton using the da Vinci system.
Technologically advanced surgery complements the extensive technology at the Heart &
Vascular Institute, which offers patients the most comprehensive heart services in the region.
vim & vigor · s p ri ng 2010
FdVVSP1093_06-7_Heart.indd 7
7
12/9/09 5:02:19 PM
dishing up
healthy, tasty choices
‘hospital food’ takes on new
t
meaning at willis-knighton
The proper dosage of medication is vital to the
restoration of health in patients recovering in
the hospital—and so is the food. “Proper nourishment is a lifeline to a patient’s healing,” says
Kim Bickham, director of nutritional services
for Willis-Knighton Health System. “No matter
how nutritional a meal may be, patients are less
likely to eat it if it tastes bad.”
Sadly, in many hospitals, food brings complaints from patients and their families, and
Bickham and her staff
work hard to be sure
that’s not the case at
Willis-Knighton. She
contends that freshness
makes a big difference in
taste. “Every meal served
at Willis-Knighton hospitals is prepared on-site
and on the same day it is
Right: Menu Assistant Shirley Burns
helps patients select items that are
nutritious and tasty. Above: Tray
liners include easy-to-read nutritional
information.
8
by danna jacobs
to be served, by cooks who are specially trained
to prepare patient foods,” she explains. Menus
and ingredients are reviewed often and rotate
throughout the year.
Behind the scenes, doctors and nurses collaborate with dietitians to ensure that patients’
nutritional needs are being met. According to
Bickham, dietitians are available to hospital
patients seven days a week at all four WillisKnighton hospitals. “They want to be certain
that adequate amounts of calories, proteins,
vitamins and minerals are being consumed in
order to promote healing,” she adds.
Many patients admitted to the hospital are on
modified or restricted diets. Food allergies, cultural preferences and restricted chewing abilities
also affect what is served, so staffers are ready
with special menus with many tasty options.
k assistance when needed
What if a patient needs help deciding? Not a
problem! Menu assistants visit each patient’s
room and can help select a meal that meets the
patient’s dietary requirements and is likely to
please the palate as well. They are so familiar
with the food selections that they can answer
patients’ questions about their meals on the
spot. Added help comes from the liner that is
placed on each patient tray, which includes an
easy-to-read nutrition guide to help explain the
role of a correct diet in patients’ recovery and
continued health.
Old-fashioned comfort food, modern menu
selections, patient rooms, cafeterias—good food
is a hallmark at Willis-Knighton, where the
words “hospital food” take on positive meaning
and promote healing. vim & vigor • s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_08_Dishing.indd 8
12/9/09 5:03:38 PM
elegant window treatments
and tablecloths dress the private dining room,
making it ideal for special occasions. Dining
alfresco is available on the Terrace and in the
large, lakeside gazebos. Two meals daily are
included in The Tower’s monthly residence fee,
ensuring that healthy eating is easier than ever.
continued from page 5
k security and safety
Prerequisites to a sense of well-being, security
and safety are increasingly important to active
seniors, some of whom travel often or live alone.
At the gated entrance to the property, Oaks
residents and visitors are greeted by friendly
security staff on duty 24/7. In addition to staffing the gatehouse, the security team routinely
patrols the property. Driving at night and in
bad weather is not a problem. Residents can
take advantage of curb-to-curb service for shopping, trips and organized outings, with the
driving left to others. Those who enjoy walking in the evening will appreciate that lighting
in the residential areas as well as parking and
grounds has been engineered for maximum
security and convenience.
k carefree, redefined
Top: Grumpy’s is a casual gathering place.
Above: Relaxing is sure to be a pleasure in
the study at The Tower.
“We offer seniors a
residential opportunity
in a resort-like setting that
supports an active, healthy
and carefree lifestyle.”
—Scott Green, executive manager,
The Tower at the Oaks
So how did all of these advantages in a single
community come to be? Willis-Knighton Health
System executives invested time to research,
visiting premier communities throughout the
South and Southeast to find the best of the best
and bring them to Shreveport and The Oaks of
Louisiana. So each resident receives a lovely residential facility and services that transfer most
of the mundane chores such as home and lawn
maintenance responsibility to The Oaks’ staff.
“The Tower offers a new kind of freedom for
active adults,” says James K. Elrod, President
and CEO of Willis-Knighton Health System.
“This is our region’s first concierge community.
Once visitors learn all that is included in the
monthly apartment fee, you can see the light
bulb switch on in their heads. They realize that
living at The Tower is a smart way to preserve
their retirement nest egg and their children’s
inheritance while having more time and opportunities for healthy, productive living.” vim & vigor • s p ri ng 2010
FdVVSP1093_04-5_49_Designed.indd 49
49
12/9/09 4:59:48 PM
good
beginnings
by darrell rebouche
a
thanks to specialists, even problem
pregnancies get the best start possible
A baby is on the way, and a thousand questions
are running through the new mother’s mind.
Will my baby be healthy? How can I know? Should I
feel this way? I’m not sure. That’s normal.
“Many things happen during the course of a
pregnancy that are normal, but a woman who
has never had a baby before or doesn’t know
anything about pregnancy may think something
serious is going on,” says Christian Briery, MD,
of Willis-Knighton Health System’s Regional
Perinatal Group.
If an obstetrician recommends a consultation with Dr. Briery, who specializes in problem
pregnancies, there is no reason to be alarmed.
His first order of business is to answer questions,
and, he says, “I usually get to give great news.
A lot of times, I give a lot of TLC to moms. They
just want to know if the baby is going to be OK,
and, about 90 percent of the time, I can say yes.”
But that means that 10 percent of the time he
has to break the news that the baby has a problem and explain what needs to be done. So what
can be done to ensure that babies have the best
chance to thrive?
50
vim & vigor · s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_50-51_Beginnings.indd 50
12/9/09 5:04:29 PM
It is essential for
watched Dr. Briery
moms-to-be to see a
at patients’ bedsides
doctor early in the
and describes him as
pregnancy and to
“hands-on, approachcommunicate openly
able and a good
about what they are
educator.”
feeling, Dr. Briery
Because there
says. He works with
are so many factors
obstetricians to identhat contribute to
tify and treat issues
a healthy start for
that may arise. “Many
babies, Dr. Briery
of these pregnancy
often becomes a kind
symptoms start off
of counselor, discussseemingly like no big
ing lifestyle, diet and
Christian Briery, MD, cares for moms and babies before the
deal to the untrained
smart choices in addibabies are born.
eye, but they may reption to medicine. “It’s
resent something of more concern,” he says.
just important for the mother to establish early
“If we can decrease maternal complications, we
care, routine care and a good relationship with
can keep mom pregnant longer.”
her doctor,” he says. If she does, it becomes that
much easier for potential problems to be identiearly arrivals
fied and treated.
Approximately 60 percent of expectant mothers
“Usually when patients come to me, there’s
that Dr. Briery sees deliver before the due date.
a specific question that needs to be answered,”
He speaks of a “perfect symbiosis” between his
Dr. Briery explains. They ask why they are
practice of medicine and that of the doctors who
experiencing problems such as hypertension,
care for premature infants. Generally speaking,
blood sugar elevation or even thyroid malfunckeeping mom pregnant longer offers inherent
tion. His goal is to answer their questions, evalubenefits, but he admits that “sometimes mommy’s
ate their problems and treat moms and babies
tummy isn’t the best place to be.”
to make things better.
When that is the case, a world-class neonatal
comfort through uncertainty
intensive care unit at Willis-Knighton South
Dr. Briery knows that problem pregnancies can
and the Center for Women’s Health plays a vital
be fraught with uncertainty and are often frightrole in the baby’s overall health. “Dr. Briery has
ening to parents-to-be as well as their families.
made a positive difference with our high-risk
Working closely with the doctors who consult
moms,” says Mary Bush, patient care coordiwith him, Dr. Briery says, “I think we’re making
nator for women’s services at Willis-Knighton
an impact in a lot of families’ lives, especially
South. She has spent more than 22 years carmoms who are sick or have sick kids that need
ing for mothers and babies at the Center for
to be taken care of.”
Women’s Health. “Dr. Briery has added a new
That impact can start even before women
dimension to the level of care for our mothers
become pregnant. And in many circumstances,
and babies,” she adds.
Dr. Briery can help before they are expecting.
mutual admiration
If a mother has had a problem pregnancy, he
Eager to acknowledge the contributions of
suggests talking in advance about how to minihis colleagues, Dr. Briery gives credit to his
mize problems the next time.
staff and to the caregivers in the hospital.
Working with skilled, deeply compassionate
“We’ve got a great, compassionate crew here,”
healthcare providers like Dr. Briery and those
he says. “We want our patients to know we
throughout Willis-Knighton Health System can
care about them and want the best for them.”
give babies the best chance for a good beginning
The admiration goes both ways. Bush has
to life. art and
science
Get to know the
specialties at WillisKnighton Health
System.
Perinatal medicine.
Care for mother and
baby immediately
before and after birth.
The meaning of the
term varies from
practice to practice.
Generally, perinatal
care commences
at the 20th to 28th
week of gestation
and ends one to four
weeks after birth.
The Regional Perinatal
Group expands this
definition to include
the entire pregnancy,
as well as prepregnancy consultation.
Neonatology. Care
for the newborn,
particularly those
born prematurely or
with an illness.
Obstetrics.
Management of
pregnancy, labor and
the time after a baby
is delivered.
Pediatrics. Care for
infants, children and
adolescents.
vim & vigor • s p ri ng 2010
FdVVSP1093_50-51_Beginnings.indd 51
51
12/9/09 5:04:45 PM
food for thought
springtime in our kitchen
enjoy these louisiana culinary
favorites: crawfish and strawberries
live oak crawfish étouffée
strawberry tiramisu trifle
4 cups cooked rice (1/2 cup per person)
1 stick butter
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
1 small can diced tomatoes
1 can diced red peppers
1 cup flour
4 cups chicken stock
1 pound crawfish tails
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
4 cups fresh strawberries
1 package (1 ounce) instant sugar-free, fat-free vanilla pudding
11/4 cup fat-free milk
8 ounces fat-free cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon almond extract
8 tablespoons strong brewed instant coffee
2 cups fat-free Cool Whip
1 package (3 ounces) ladyfingers, split
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, grated
In a sauté pan, sweat the celery, onions
and bell peppers in butter. Add diced
tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper
(to taste). Slowly add flour to mixture and
make a roux (use more flour if needed).
After all flour is combined and roux is
made, add small amounts of chicken stock
until all is incorporated together. Add can
of red peppers and paprika. Add crawfish
to mixture, bring to a boil and simmer
5 to 8 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve étouffée over rice using about a
1/2 cup of rice per person. Serves 8.
52
Set aside 3 strawberries and 2 tablespoons of chocolate for garnish; slice remaining
strawberries. In a bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand 2 minutes
or until soft-set. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth; gradually beat
in 3 tablespoons coffee and almond extract. Beat in pudding. Fold in whipped topping.
Brush remaining coffee over ladyfingers. Line the bottom of 3-quart trifle bowl or glass
serving bowl with half of the ladyfingers. Top with half of the sliced berries, grated
chocolate and pudding mixture; repeat layers.
Top trifle with remaining grated
chocolate. Cut reserved berries in half; place on trifle.
Cover and refrigerate for 4
hours or overnight.
Recipe modified by Alicia
Smith, MS, RD, LDN, CDE.
Serves 12 (size: 1 cup).
Calories: 136. Fat: 4 g. Protein:
5 g. Carbohydrates: 20 g.
vim & vigor · s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_52_Food.indd 52
12/9/09 5:05:49 PM
by sharla inman
going to
market
the marketplace mixes charm and
convenience for oaks shoppers
T
Tucked inside The Oaks of Louisiana is the
MarketPlace at The Oaks, which is at once a
nostalgic country store and a gleaming retail
shop with cyber connections.
Like a country store, the MarketPlace is high
on convenience and friendly service. Focusing
on the needs of residents at the gated community, the MarketPlace has basic convenience
items as well as take-and-bake food in individual serving sizes. Two favorites are crawfish
étouffée and Live Oak’s signature cookie, the
Oatmeal Jumble.
In the tradition of charming retail gift shops,
the modern store features Willow Tree figures,
door decor crafted from recycled materials, body
lotions and reed infusers from Aromatique,
and boxed cards from the Metropolitan Museum
of Art.
The shop is inside the Clubhouse at The Oaks,
a place so comfortable that customers often
relax in the comfy leather chairs after their
purchases. Sampler parties are also held there,
allowing new merchandise and foods to be
sampled before earning a place at the store.
Displayed proudly in the MarketPlace is a
framed logo of its predecessor, the Live Oak Gift
life at the oaks
Far left: Denise Hiller
(from left), of Live Oak
Independent Living;
David Winkler and
Susan Beaird, children
of Live Oak Gift Shop
founders; and Catherine
Romero, store manager,
celebrate the opening
of the MarketPlace
at The Oaks. Left:
Ester Bremer purchases
an Oatmeal Jumble
cookie from Catherine
Romero, manager of the
MarketPlace at The Oaks.
Above: Live Oak residents
Betty Speairs (from left),
Maxine Parrish and Peggy
Garland delight in the
MarketPlace shopping
venue at The Oaks of
Louisiana.
Shop, which was founded in 1982 and managed
for years by the late Marjorie Beene (Beenie)
Winkler and the late Carolyn Beaird. These dedicated Live Oak volunteers stocked the shelves
with modest treasures from their world travels
as well as hand-crafted items from local artists.
“Thanks to the Web, the proximity of the
World Trade Center in Dallas, and connections
to local merchants and artists, we can continue
Beenie and Carolyn’s buying reach without the
jet lag,” says Scott Green, executive manager of
The Tower at The Oaks and the shop’s lead buyer.
“Not a day goes by without a new shipment of
reasonably priced but very distinctive gifts.”
As a free concierge service, gifts purchased
for Oaks residents can be delivered by staff
or held for personal delivery by the purchaser. But the ultimate convenience is the
MarketPlace’s shop-in-your-pajamas online
store featuring popular gifts, some only available online. “Unique and affordable,
that’s what you will find here and
at our online store,” says Catherine
Romero, the store’s energetic and
Call the MarketPlace
friendly manager.
at 318-212-2455 for
The shop welcomes residents and
hours and directions, or visit the
their family members, as well as visiMarketPlace online at The Oaks’
tors. With affordable gift selections, it
Web site, oaksofla.com.
promises to be a go-to stop in southeastern Shreveport.
now open
go
vim & vigor · s p ri ng 2010
FdVVSP1093_53_TheOaks.indd 53
53
12/9/09 5:19:37 PM
focus on fitness by david noble
low-back pain? work it out
why exercise may be the best medicine
N
Nearly eight out of 10 people experience lowback pain. It’s termed acute pain if it lasts less
than three months and chronic pain if it lasts
longer. Most low-back pain is due to physical
inactivity and the lack of core endurance and
strength (more endurance than strength). When
compounded with poor lifting techniques and
posture, it’s an invitation for a back injury.
Fortunately, most back injuries improve in four
to six weeks with proper rest and exercise.
Exercise? Yes, exercise! If you have low-back
pain, it is important to discuss your health with
a doctor or qualified healthcare provider before
starting any exercise routine, especially if the
pain is unexplained. Tests may be required for
an accurate diagnosis. Once cleared by a healthcare professional, you can start exercising.
Health experts know the advantages of exercising and being physically active versus the
disadvantages of a sedentary, inactive lifestyle.
Exercising improves your quality of life and
54
David Noble
overall well-being and reduces the risk of debilitating diseases that cause heart attacks, strokes,
diabetes and high blood pressure. It also reduces
the likelihood of recurring low-back pain by
increasing tolerance and functionality, decreasing stress, and improving body weight, stamina,
strength and sleep habits.
Whether you have low-back pain or a back
injury, the exercise goals are the same: prevent
further debilitation, improve functionality and
increase exercise tolerance. These depend on
your individual condition, fitness level and
threshold. Your program should be progressive, starting with low-level exercises such as
walking, isometric core exercises and mild
stretching, and then advancing to higher-level
activities. Just becoming active may improve
or reduce the pain.
You should always practice good back care
and body mechanics:
• When lifting heavy objects, keep objects
waist level and close to the body and avoid
twisting. Bend at the knees, not at the waist,
with feet shoulder width or wider for a good
base of support.
• Sit and walk tall. Continually pressing your
navel to your spine helps maintain good posture.
• If standing for long periods, prop up a foot.
Remember, being inactive may increase the
pain or the risk of having recurring low-back
pain. When exercising with low-back pain,
“no pain, no gain” has changed to “hurt does not
mean harm.” Don’t fear discomfort while exercising. If an exercise increases the pain severely,
stop that activity and modify it to avoid regression. Trained exercise specialists can be of real
benefit to you. Whether or not you suffer from
low-back pain, an exercise program can offer
you improved health and well-being. vim & vigor • s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_54_Fitness.indd 54
12/9/09 5:25:05 PM
accolades
reaching out
WK employees extend dedication to the community
serving the needs of others
management profile
coaching a nationally ranked team
When it comes to his job, Chuck
Daigle, Willis-Knighton’s chief oper­
ating officer (COO), is like a coach,
a mixture of teacher, counselor,
cheerleader, motivator and process
engineer. For a patient or family
member to say, “I got the best care
at Willis-Knighton,” someone has
to ensure that systems are in place
and everyone is working together
to make that happen.
That’s where Daigle comes
in. Clearly he understands that
delivering the best care requires
the skills and expertise of every
employee on an ongoing basis.
“Best practices are constantly
changing,” Daigle says. “It’s my job
Chuck Daigle,
to coordinate and communicate so
chief operating officer
everyone is working together in an
efficient manner to achieve the best possible patient outcomes.”
The COO trained in economics and finance with an MBA from LSU
and came to Willis-Knighton in 2007 after 14 years at Our Lady of the
Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge. He and his wife, Brandi,
and their two sons have adapted well to life in Shreveport, just as Daigle
has adapted to his life at WK.
Every day is a challenge, and one the personable executive enjoys.
“It’s fun and very rewarding to engage our clinical leadership and medi­
cal staff, who are so incredibly talented, and to see improvements in our
health system,” he says.
Sherri Hagerhjelm, RN, knows a lot
about reaching out to others. It was no
surprise that the registered nurse was
guest speaker for a benefit dinner for
the Oakwood Home for Women, an
addiction recovery center for women.
“I spoke about my previous service
work in the com­
munity and around
the world, specif­
ically Indonesia,”
Hagerhjelm says.
Emulating
Oakwood’s recovery
mantra of “Trust
God - Clean House
- Serve Others,”
Hagerhjelm encour­
Sherri Hagerhjelm, RN
aged those attend­
ing to trust God for all of their needs,
cleaning themselves of doubt in their
ability to complete daunting tasks so
they can move forward to serve others.
“In this service, our needs diminish
and the needs of others supersede our
own,” she explains.
Hagerhjelm has worked at WillisKnighton for 19 years and has traveled abroad on numerous medical
mission trips.
talented team
Willis-Knighton and Live Oak
employees auditioned to perform the
national anthem at Mudbugs hockey
games. Employees who have been
chosen to perform this season are
Amber Butts, Laura Hendrix, Glenda
Moreno, Sarah Nettles, Curtis Phillips,
Amanda Smith, Yevonne Tippin,
Robyn Warmack and Ronnie Watson,
with Melinda Baker and Christina
Simpkins as alternates. vim & vigor • s p ri ng 2010
FdVVSP1093_55_Accolades.indd 55
55
12/9/09 5:26:30 PM
parting thoughts
healthy new year
start off 2010 well with education events
Make reservations for any of these events online by visiting wkhs.com
and clicking “Classes and Events,” or by calling 318-212-8225.
live oak
BEYOND THE WILL: LEGAL ISSUES FOR SENIORS
Local attorney Lamar Pugh with the Pugh Law Firm
will cover the need-to-know issues of planning.
This program is designed for seniors and their children. Reservations requested for nonresidents.
Where: Alta and John Franks Community Centre
When: Wednesday, March 24, at 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
EARTH DAY CELEBRATION
Commemorating the 40th anniversary of Earth Day,
Donna Curtis, executive director of Shreveport Green,
will discuss the city’s environment, community beautification and recycling projects.
Where: Patio Overlooking Lake Herman
When: Thursday, April 22, at 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
willis-knighton
GROWING UP FOR BOYS
Physical and emotional changes are the threshold
of adulthood. Clint Wilson, MD, family practice
specialist, will help you educate and prepare your
preteen for the sensitive changes of adolescence.
Reservations required.
Where: WK Bossier Health Center Auditorium
When: Thursday, Feb. 4, at 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Clint Wilson, MD
Learn the answers to your questions
about what screenings, tests and activities you should undertake to help ensure
a healthy future. Jason Milligan, MD,
family practice specialist, will guide you
through the planning. Reservations required.
Where: WK Bossier Health Center
Auditorium
When: Tuesday, March 23, at noon
Jason Milligan, MD
Cost: $6
GROWING UP FOR GIRLS
Physical and emotional changes
are the threshold of adulthood. Alisha Ware, MD, will
help you educate and prepare
your preteen for the sensitive changes of adolescence.
Reservations required.
Where: Willis-Knighton
Alisha Ware, MD
South Auditorium
When: Thursday, April 8, at 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
MAN TO MAN PROSTATE EDUCATIONAL GROUP
ROBOTIC HEART SURGERY
The region’s most sophisticated technology now
allows some heart procedures to be performed as
minimally invasive heart surgery with shorter recovery time and smaller incisions. Curtis Prejean, MD,
cardiovascular surgeon, will explain how the
da Vinci Surgical System helps him perform surgery.
Reservations required.
Where: Willis-Knighton Heart Institute Auditorium
When: Tuesday, Feb. 16, at noon
Cost: $6
56
AGING GRACEFULLY: WHAT’S BEST
FOR GOOD HEALTH?
This event features life experiences, group discussion
and a special guest speaker. It is cosponsored by the
American Cancer Society. Wives and partners are
welcome. Reservations required.
Where: WK Pierremont Health Center Auditorium
When: Thursday, April 29, at 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
vim & vigor · s p rin g 2 0 1 0
FdVVSP1093_56_Parting.indd 56
12/22/09 4:31:50 PM
Willis-Knighton Health System
2600 Greenwood Road
Shreveport, LA 71103
Non-Profit Org.
US Postage
PAID
Vim & Vigor
What would surgery be like if your surgeon had
Superhuman abilitieS?
With the da Vinci Si surgical system,
it can happen.
Superhuman features like intense microscopic vision and
precision movements available with the da Vinci Si give
surgeons at Willis-Knighton a distinct advantage.
Some procedures that were once performed with large incisions can
now be performed with small incisions. That means you’ll have a
shorter hospital stay, smaller scars, less pain, and, most important,
faster recovery.
The da Vinci Si robotic surgical system is available at Willis-Knighton
Medical Center so that you can get back to your life.
www.wkhs.com
FdVVSP1093_C4.indd 1
For a qualified surgeon, call Health+Match.
(318) 212-9562
12/9/09 5:29:07 PM