New Year, New You
Transcription
New Year, New You
L A N G L A DE HO SP I TA L Winter 2014 To Health, Healing and Enriching Lives Walk in a winter wonderland: Drs. Noel and Lakshmi Deep with their children, Nikki and Nathan. New Year, New You Make your resolutions stick page 2 www.langladehospital.org New Year, New You Keep your resolutions from unraveling IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR when many of us sing an old familiar tune—and it’s not “Auld Lang Syne.” Around the New Year’s holiday, we vow to change—perhaps to lose weight, stop smoking or reform our couch-potato ways. Unfortunately, the resolutions we’re good at making, we’re also good at breaking. But it doesn’t have to be like that. Th is year, set the stage for resolutions that stick: ➜ Don’t overhaul too much at once. Ditch the total makeover—you’ll get overwhelmed. It’s often easier to focus fi rst on one or two lifestyle goals. ➜ Keep it real. Don’t expect to drop 30 pounds by February or to dive right in at the gym every night. Pin your hopes on something more realistic—like a modest weight loss of maybe 10 pounds at fi rst. ➜ Break it down. See your goals as small steps, not sweeping reform. For example, you can start to improve your daily diet just by putting more fruits and veggies on your plate. ➜ Be specific. Vague resolutions— such as “I’ll exercise more”—won’t go far. Be clear about what you plan to do. For example, how many days will you work out each week and for how many minutes? ➜ Measure your progress. Track those efforts, and be willing to recalculate. For example, if exercising after work turns out to be a drag for you, then try exercising in the morning instead. ➜ Don’t let setbacks stop you. If you do fall back into an old habit, don’t abandon your resolution—and all that you’ve accomplished. Figure out what went wrong, and work toward a fi x. Sources: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; American Psychological Association Take the first step to a healthier 2014. Call today to set up your personalized fitness program. Center for Health & Performance • 715-623-9924 2 Pathways • www.langladehospital.org Contents 4} 8} WINTER 2014 7 Cardiac Care. After half a century of hope and frustration, Bob Flaa’s heart trouble is over. Baby and Family. Be a healthier you for a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. 10} Pink Shield. You could qualify for a free 11} Q&A. Dr. Turnbull answers three frequently asked questions. mammogram. Follow Sara Arrowood’s path from decision through commitment to success. Thank you, Sisters! By Dave Schneider, Executive Director, Langlade Hospital SISTERS of the Religious Hospitallers of St. Joseph were asked to come to Antigo to open the new hospital that had been standing empty for many months after it had been built during the Great Depression. They opened the doors of Langlade Hospital for the fi rst time in April 1933 and have been operating the facility ever since. The Religious Hospitallers of St. Joseph was founded by a layman, Jérôme Le Royer, a tax collector and father of five children, in La Flèche, France, in the 17th century. A little later, some of the Sisters traveled from France to help settle Canada. Their history is fi lled with stories of incredible courage and vitality, but most important, their work was carried out with deep faith, compassion and a love of all persons in need. Today their ministry of good works extends to Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Peru and France. When the hospital fi rst opened in 1933, many of the employees and managers and the hospital administrator were Religious Hospitallers of St. Joseph. They nurtured the hospital, its patients and the community for generations. But the number of Sisters has grown smaller and smaller. In 1976, the fi rst lay administrator of Langlade Hospital was appointed. Today, three Sisters remain and continue to love, serve and minister to patients, employees, providers and volunteers at Langlade Hospital. Sister Dolores Demulling, Sister Jean Bricco and Sister Adele Demulling continue to work tirelessly in the care of others. While their roles have changed over the years, they continue to serve as role models expressing their deep faith in God and paying witness to what is good in the world. Langlade Hospital has been blessed for 80 years by the presence of the Religious Hospitallers of St. Joseph and we are hopeful that Sisters Dolores, Jean and Adele will continue to serve the patients and this community for many more years to come. It is a privilege for all of us at Langlade Hospital to have served with these wonderful women, who have taught us so much about what health care is really all about. LANGLADE HOSPITAL’S PATHWAYS is a free publication intended to provide health information to the people living in and around Langlade County. Langlade Hospital is proud to offer this publication as a resource to you and your family. This publication is also available online at www.langladehospital.org. Langlade Hospital 112 E. Fifth Ave., Antigo, WI 54409 715-623-2331 715-623-9200 www.langladehospital.org David Schneider Executive Director Pat Tincher Director of Finance Janelle Markgraf Director of Human Resources Ruth Risley-Gray Director of Patient Services and Quality Management Betsy Kommers Marketing and Fund Development Manager [email protected] Sarah Olafson Marketing and Fund Development Assistant [email protected] Information in this publication is not intended to replace medical advice, nor is it for self-diagnosis. Individuals should speak with their primary care provider or other health care professionals regarding medical concerns. If you would prefer not to receive Pathways magazine, call Sarah Olafson at 715-623-9877 or email solafson@ langhosp.org and provide your mailing address. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. Copyright © 2013 Coffey Communications, Inc. CUM29930 www.langladehospital.org • Pathways 3 Sync Back in Atrial fibrillation treatment puts an end to frustration WHEN THEN23-YEAR-OLD Kenneth “Bob” Flaa returned from active duty in the Michigan National Guard in 1959, he was forced to stay in the hospital for an extra week with a heart murmur before he could be discharged—at least that’s what he was told. He didn’t know it at the time, but he was misdiagnosed, and the hospitalization proved to be just a preview of what was to come many years later. After being discharged from the service, Flaa and his wife, Lu, moved from the Upper Peninsula to Kenosha, Wis., where he worked for 32 years. It wasn’t until he was in his early 50s that Flaa’s heart began to act up again. “When they Kenneth “Bob” and Lu Flaa are relieved to have gotten the answers they needed. 4 Pathways • www.langladehospital.org fi rst discovered my murmur during my discharge test, I didn’t even feel it, and it never bothered me all those years I worked, either,” says Flaa, now 77 years old. “It wasn’t until I retired that I began to notice that my heart would go out of rhythm when I reached for something, but it never stayed that way for very long.” It Gets Worse Not long after his retirement in 1991, the Flaas moved back to the Upper Peninsula, where the couple of 53 years still resides. Shortly thereafter, Flaa’s heart fell out of rhythm again, but this time it failed to correct itself, prompting a trip to the emergency room. At the hospital, doctors performed a cardioversion, a procedure that uses electricity to shock the heart back into rhythm. Flaa learned that his heart was beating 180 times per minute before being put back into rhythm. He also learned that the heart murmur diagnosis he received 34 years prior was wrong, and instead he had atrial fibrillation, sometimes called a-fib, which is a common heart condition where a faulty electrical impulse causes the heart to beat irregularly and greatly increases a person’s risk for stroke. After leaving the emergency room with his heart back in rhythm and an accurate diagnosis, Flaa began a medication regimen in an attempt to control his a-fib. Starting in 1995, the Flaas began logging countless miles as they made hourslong trips from one doctor appointment to the next in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. “Every six months we’d have to go to the doctor for a follow-up appointment and every time the medications didn’t work, they put me on a different one,” Flaa says. “I tried different doctors and pretty much every available drug.” Th is pattern continued for 17 years until 2012, when the Flaas saw an advertisement in the newspaper for a free a-fib seminar offered by Aspirus at Gogebic Community College. At this point they were beyond frustrated and Bob’s heart was almost always out of rhythm, so they attended the seminar looking for any shred of hope. The Wait Is Finally Over At the seminar, they listened to Aspirus heart surgeon John Johnkoski, MD, talk about a surgical treatment for a-fib called minimally invasive Maze, or mini-Maze. When one of Dr. Johnkoski’s former patients also spoke about having the procedure and how it gave her a new lease on life, the Flaas were convinced that this was the solution that had eluded them for years. The Flaas were excited about what they had learned about mini-Maze, but Bob wanted to remain loyal to his physician in Wisconsin. Four months after the seminar at his next appointment, he asked his physician about mini-Maze and after hearing his answer, Flaa knew he’d be making an appointment with Dr. Johnkoski. “My other physician told me that he didn’t perform the mini-Maze procedure and that he wanted to put me on a new trial drug for another six months to see if it worked,” Flaa says. “I’d already been through all the medications and they didn’t work, so that was the last time I saw that doctor.” Upon meeting with Dr. Johnkoski in Wausau, Flaa underwent some tests to determine whether he was a candidate for the procedure. Unfortunately for Flaa, he was not a candidate for the mini-Maze because it was determined that he also needed bypass surgery. Instead, Flaa had to have a full Maze, which is a more invasive procedure, but is performed at the same time as the bypass. Flaa underwent bypass and full Maze surgery in October 2012 and spent just over three days in the hospital. His heart went into normal rhythm immediately after surgery and has been that way ever since. Following surgery, Flaa was able to complete his cardiac rehabilitation closer to home at Aspirus Grand View. Within six months of the surgery, Flaa was completely off medications, including Coumadin, a blood thinner that requires frequent blood monitoring tests. “It’s so awesome that specialists like this come up here to the U.P.,” Lu says. “The procedure has made such a huge difference because you always wondered, ‘I hope his heart doesn’t go out,’ and it was scary always having that hanging over your head, but now we don’t have that anymore.” Aspirus Heart & Vascular Institute has been seeing patients at the new location since November. Call 715-847-2611 or toll-free 800-441-4013 to make an appointment for the Antigo location. www.langladehospital.org • Pathways 5 What Do Triage Nurses Do? TRIAGE NURSESwear many hats throughout the day, not only triaging phone calls, but providing hands-on care to patients as well. Here’s a look at many of the tasks they perform. Providing Care on the Phone A majority of time throughout the day is spent on the phone with patients. When a patient places a call to the clinic, it may be forwarded to a triage nurse. Calls to triage are often for the following reasons: ➜➜Patient medication refills. ➜➜Pharmacy medication refills. ➜➜Acute issues such as shortness of breath or cardiac symptoms. ➜➜Chronic problems. ➜➜Requests for appointments. Veronika Gagovic, MD Giving Care in Person Another aspect of a triage nurse’s job is providing hands-on care to patients. Some examples include: ➜➜Allergy injections. ➜➜Drug screenings. ➜➜Dressing changes. ➜➜Bladder scans. Accepting New Patients: Veronika Gagovic, MD Veronika Gagovic, MD, is a board-certified Gastroenterologist trained in the care and treatment of digestive health disorders of the stomach, intestines, liver and pancreas and swallowing disorders. Dr. Gagovic’s special interests include colon cancer prevention, inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s and colitis, Hepatology, and women’s digestive health. Dr. Gagovic graduated cum laude with a degree in Biochemistry from North Central College in Illinois. She earned national recognition as a Soros 6 ➜➜General advice or information. ➜➜Requests for results. ➜➜Critical lab values. ➜➜Concerns about patients at Eastview, Rosalia Gardens, Care Partners, Evergreen Terrace, or other assisted-living or skilled-nursing facilities. Triage nurses also receive calls about prior authorizations, questions from other health care facilities regarding a mutual patient, looking up immunization records for parents, and even more! Pathways • www.langladehospital.org Kim Kennedy, RN ➜➜Inserting or replacing Foley catheters. ➜➜Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line dressing changes. ➜➜Blood draws from PICC lines. ➜➜Flushing port-a-caths. ➜➜Assessing walk-in patients. ➜➜Teaching, such as showing patients how to use glucometers or insulin pens. Triage nurses also are in charge during a code blue (cardiac arrest) at the clinic. Deciding the Next Step When assessing a patient, triage nurses decide the next step, whether it be informing the provider, Had a good experience at Langlade Hospital? Tell us! Go to www. langladehospital.org, and click on “Compliment a Staff Member.” Fellow in addition to other honors and awards. After graduating from Stritch School of Medicine at Loyola University in Chicago, Dr. Gagovic completed her residency at Indiana University in Indianapolis, followed by a fellowship program in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Dr. Gagovic sees patients in clinic and performs procedures in Antigo. Call 800-847-4707 to schedule an appointment with her. scheduling a future appointment, requesting a provider to see the patient at that time, or a fast intervention such as a visit to the Emergency Department. There are three full-time triage registered nurses employed at the clinic, as well as one who is part-time. They are knowledgeable, empathetic, able to prioritize, dependable and ready to help. No More Wondering PCOS diagnosis solves mysterious weight gain SARA (KOSS) ARROWOOD is the youngest of eight siblings, a graduate of Antigo High School and now an employee of Langlade Hospital. Thanks to a diagnosis that led her down a path to a new lifestyle, she has been on a weight-loss journey this past year and has racked up a number of accomplishments. Diagnosis Provides an Answer A year ago, Sara was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Th is is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS often have symptoms of infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne and obesity. In women past adolescence, difficulty becoming pregnant or unexplained weight gain may be the fi rst sign. In Sara’s case, she remembers that for years, her family wondered if something was wrong with her health. She didn’t look like her siblings. She ate what they ate and exercised the same as her family, but she was always heavier. When Sara received her PCOS diagnosis from Dennis McFadden, DO, OB-GYN, she was relieved. For years she had wondered what was wrong, and now she understood. Moreover, she felt like her life could begin. Dr. McFadden prescribed a medication to help her blood sugar and suggested she try again to lose weight through diet and exercise. A New Life Sara and her husband began working out at 4 a.m. five days a week at the Cardiac Rehab Gym, where they used treadmills and did weight training. In June 2013, when the new Center for Health & Performance opened, they joined WelFit. They also walk two miles every night after dinner. Sara has also changed her diet to be high in protein and low in carbohydrates with lots of fruits and vegetables, and she carefully limits breads and pastas. She hasn’t followed any fad diets and doesn’t count calories, and she knows that weekends and holidays can be difficult. Overall, Sara credits her weight loss to hard work and dedication. She’s lost 75 pounds since October 2012. She’s had to buy a new wardrobe—not once but twice—and the weight loss has helped her get her energy back. Her blood pressure a year ago was 138/90 mm Hg, and today it is 120/80, and she monitors her weight and blood pressure as a WelFit member. A year ago Dr. McFadden said she was prediabetic, but today, her blood glucose levels are in the normal range. Sara worked as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) for years, at nursing homes and facilities in the area, and saw what untreated diabetes can do to the body. After years as a CNA, she changed careers and went into the kitchen to become a cook. Sara now works as a nutritional services assistant for Langlade Hospital. Decide, Commit, Succeed For Sara Arrowood, her doctor’s diagnosis meant a new life. Her number one supporter is her husband, who is also on the weight-loss journey with her. He works for Plaspack, a local packaging company in Antigo. The company offers an incentive program for employees to work out and maintain their health. He hasn’t missed a day of work in 19 years. “The power of a positive attitude will take you a long way,” he says. The two of them live by these three words: decide, commit, succeed. Sara’s co-workers have also been supportive as well as Dr. McFadden, of whom she says, “He genuinely cares about my health.” And Sara adds, “As an employee of Langlade Hospital and a patient of the General Clinic, I never want to be anywhere else.” www.langladehospital.org • Pathways 7 Bill Burt and Dr. Meghan O’Brien and their children, Mya, Liam, Ruby, and baby Elsy, with their family physician, Dr. Bart Kneeland PREGNANCY Healthier You, Healthier Baby WHEN YOU’RE PREGNANT, a lot of things that you do can have an effect on your baby—even long after he or she is born. That’s why it’s crucial to make good decisions. The best way to take care of your baby is to take care of yourself. Prenatal Care Pregnant women who see a health care provider regularly have fewer problems during pregnancy and delivery and healthier babies than women who don’t get adequate prenatal care, according to the March of Dimes. Your provider will talk with you about the best ways to give your baby a healthy start in life, answer questions, and make sure you and your baby are healthy. Regular prenatal care also gives your provider a better 8 Pathways • www.langladehospital.org chance to detect and treat problems early, according to the Office on Women’s Health. Diet Aim to eat a low-fat diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and calcium-rich foods. Avoid fish that contains high levels of mercury. Cook meat, lunch meat, eggs and fish thoroughly. Avoid unpasteurized milk and cheeses. Exercise Following a regular exercise program during pregnancy may help labor and delivery go more smoothly, and being in good physical condition may make it easier to get back in shape. If you were exercising before you became pregnant, it’s usually OK to continue. But ask your provider about which exercises are safe. If you don’t already exercise, start slowly and don’t overdo it. Consider light exercises, unless your provider says otherwise. Expect the best when you’re expecting. Visit www.langladehospital.org, and select “Birthing Center.” More Healthy Hints ➜ Do not smoke or use alcohol or illegal drugs during pregnancy. ➜ Talk to your provider about your medications or supplements. ➜ Limit coffee and other caffeinated drinks to one or two cups a day. ➜ Ask your provider how much weight you should gain. For many women, 25 to 35 pounds is about right. ➜ Get 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid a day—some women may need up to 2,000. Ask your provider about taking a multivitamin. ➜ If you have a cat, have someone else change the litter box to help prevent toxoplasmosis. ➜ Ask your provider whether there are vaccinations you may need. PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS Your Partners in Health A COUGH THAT WON’T GO AWAY. A swollen ankle. A sore wrist. These could signal something as benign as a common cold or a mild sprain or as serious as cancer. It’s nice to know you can take these concerns to someone you trust—someone who knows more than just your name. Lakshmi Deep, That person is your primary care MD physician (PCP). PCPs can respond to health issues ranging from the straightforward to the more complicated. And they are familiar with you and your health care needs. Not Just Any Doctor When you have a health issue, your PCP is the fi rst person you call. PCPs are doctors who specialize in treating the whole person. For example, they can: ➜ Offer preventive care. ➜ Answer medical questions with sound, specific advice. ➜ Manage care for chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. ➜ Refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist, surgeon or oncologist, when you need to see one. ➜ Coordinate your health care, lab tests and medications among multiple health care providers. What can we do for you? Call the Aspirus General Clinic to make an appointment at 715-623-2351. Choosing a PCP A good relationship with your PCP can have a positive effect on your health and health care. If you don’t already have a PCP, make choosing the right one a priority. Look for someone you feel comfortable with. Be sure to choose the right doctor for your age and health history. Often, PCPs are internists, family physicians or pediatricians. Family physicians treat people of all ages, from infants to older adults; pediatricians specialize in children’s health; and internists focus on health issues common just to adults. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American College of Physicians 2014: The Affordable Care Act Hits Full Stride JAN. 1 MARKED MORE than the beginning of 2014. It also marked the date when many key provisions of the Affordable Care Act took effect. These provisions are intended to make it easier for you to purchase health insurance. They also provide new protections if you already have health care coverage. For instance, as of Jan. 1: Health exchanges offer affordable insurance options. The exchanges are online marketplaces where you can shop for health plans. All of the plans must meet certain standards for benefits and costs. Some of the exchanges are run by the federal government. Others are run by individual states. You can sign up online at www.healthcare.gov. Tax credits help many people buy insurance. These credits are available to people with incomes between 100 and 400 percent of the poverty guidelines who can’t afford coverage elsewhere. Access to Medicaid increases. In Wisconsin, if you earn less than 100 percent of the Federal Poverty Level, you’re eligible to enroll in this government-based insurance program. Coverage can’t be denied because of pre-existing conditions. Th is protection applies if you’re seeking new coverage or renewing an existing policy. Annual benefit caps are banned. Th is means insurance companies cannot put limits on the benefits you receive in any given year. Originally, another key aspect of the law was expected to kick in on Jan. 1: Large employers were supposed to begin offering their workers affordable health coverage or face fi nes. That provision has now been delayed a year in order to help businesses comply with the law. Sources: Healthcare.gov; U.S. Department of the Treasury www.langladehospital.org • Pathways 9 You May Be Covered Think you can’t afford mammograms or breast care? Keep reading. If you are a woman who is 40 or older and meets financial requirements, you could qualify for a free mammogram and diagnostic services through Aspirus. Qualifying women receive: w w w A clinical breast exam. Screening mammography. Breast health educational materials. And if needed: w w w Diagnostic mammography. Ultrasound. Biopsy. Program Support If you cannot afford these services, call the Aspirus Information Center at 800-847-4707 to see if you qualify for the free mammogram program. Pre-qualification and appointments are required. This program is supported by a grant from the Central Wisconsin Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Additional support is provided by Radiology Associates of Wausau, Associates in Pathology, Aspirus Health Foundation, Aspirus Wausau Hospital, Aspirus Clinics, Langlade Hospital, Memorial Health Center, Park and Associates, and Central Wisconsin Radiologists. DO YOU QUALIFY? Find out at www.aspirus.org/ freemammogram. WELCOME, New Providers! Aspirus General Clinic is pleased to welcome Angela Buchman, PA, to our experienced team. Buchman graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and has more than 11 years of experience in health care. She is dedicated to working with family members of all ages and guiding them in making informed health Angela Buchman, care decisions to help them lead healthier PA lives. Buchman and her husband, Mark, have two children and enjoy being a part of the community. Mark Buchman has worked for Langlade Hospital for more than six years. Buchman’s special interests include disease prevention, healthy lifestyle modifications and family wellness. Call 715-623-2351 to schedule an appointment. 10 Pathways • www.langladehospital.org Langlade Hospital and the General Clinic are welcoming Helen Cueny, LCSW. Cueny graduated from Western Michigan University with her master’s degree in Social Work. She has practiced in upper Michigan as a mental health therapist for almost eight years. Helen Cueny, Cueny and her husband relocated to LCSW the Antigo area and are excited to become a part of the community. She enjoys fishing, kayaking, oil painting, photography, and scrapbooking. Her special interests include psychiatric disorders, depression and anxiety disorders. Call 715-623-2351 to schedule an appointment. Your Questions Answered Jay Turnbull, MD, is a Family Medicine Physician with Aspirus General Clinic. Exclusively for readers of Pathways, he shares his expertise on some frequently asked questions. Q I was just diagnosed with diabetes. Do I have to give up sugar? I’ve heard a lot about whooping cough recently. What can I do to avoid it? A A The quick answer: Give up, no; cut back, yes. People with diabetes can have a sugary treat once in a while. But it should be a small serving enjoyed in the overall context of a diet and exercise plan that keeps diabetes under control. Of course, if you’d asked this question years ago, you probably would have gotten a different answer. Scientists once thought eating sugar would send blood glucose levels dangerously high. It was off-limits for people with diabetes. Today, we know that glucose levels are affected by the total amount of carbohydrates you eat. The exact type of carb, such as sugar, isn’t as important. So a small amount of sugar is probably OK as long as you swap it for other high-carb foods. For instance, you might skip having a roll with dinner so that you can have some dessert. Keep in mind that even a small portion of a sugary treat is likely to have a lot of calories and little nutritional value. That’s another reason it should be enjoyed only occasionally. Most of the time, stick to a healthy meal plan that features vegetables, whole grains, fruit, nonfat dairy products, fish and lean meat. Your doctor or diabetes educator can help you devise a plan that’s right for you. Q Get vaccinated. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a serious respiratory infection that can be deadly for babies. The DTaP vaccine protects young children from whooping cough. Kids should receive five doses of DTaP as part of their regular childhood immunizations. Children ages 11 or 12 and adults need a one-time booster shot, known as Tdap, to continue to be safe from whooping cough. These shots are especially important if you are going to be around babies. If you have a newborn, keep your baby away from anyone with cold symptoms. Ask everyone coming into contact with your child on a regular basis to get vaccinated. If you have concerns, talk with your doctor. Make an appointment with a provider for one-on-one counseling. Call the General Clinic at 715-623-2351. Q A Jay Turnbull, MD My dad has colorectal cancer. Should I get tested? If you’re between the ages of 50 to 75, you should be screened for colorectal cancer regardless of family history. And if you have a close relative with the disease, your doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent screening. People with an average risk have about a 5 percent chance of developing colorectal cancer. (Men’s risk is slightly higher than women’s.) Your risk can be nearly double that, however, if you have a parent, sibling or child with the disease. And if your relative was diagnosed before age 45, your risk may be even higher. A family history of cancer in further-removed relatives, such as aunts, uncles and grandparents, is also relevant and should be shared with your doctor. Talk with your doctor to decide on an appropriate screening schedule. www.langladehospital.org • Pathways 11 The Healing Power of Hyperbaric Oxygen Jon Zwirschitz Therapy FOR MOST PEOPLE , noticing a small crack or cut on their toe wouldn’t be much cause for concern—it’s likely to heal in a few days. But for Jon Zwirschitz, the small crack that developed on one of his toes had him on the verge of losing his entire foot. Zwirschitz, who has diabetes, went from having to deal with what was seemingly an insignificant cracked toe to facing the possibility of having his left foot amputated in a matter of months. It all started when he noticed his toe was not healing. “About a week after I fi rst noticed the crack in my toe, I went to the doctor because it didn’t seem to be getting any better,” says the 61-year-old Mattoon, Wis., resident. “We tried some different salves and medicine, but nothing worked, and I dealt with it always throbbing for nine months.” Zwirschitz’s doctor informed him that his toe wasn’t healing because of his diabetes, which can cause circulation problems. His foot was not receiving enough blood flow to help his toe heal. After those nine months passed without any improvement, his toe became infected, and doctors had no choice but to amputate. Kick-Starting the Healing Process After his toe was removed, Zwirschitz began hyperbaric oxygen therapy at Aspirus in an attempt to promote healing after surgery. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments over an extended period of time can stimulate healing by delivering oxygen in a pressurized environment to tissues that aren’t getting enough oxygen naturally because of poor blood circulation. Zwirschitz also underwent a vein grafting procedure where doctors attempted to reroute blood flow in his leg to improve circulation. “Within a day or two, my doctor could tell right away that the vein graft had failed, and he even told Need oxygen? Find out what you need to know about hyperbaric oxygen therapy at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Call 800-847-4707. 12 Pathways • www.langladehospital.org me that he had never seen one fail so quickly,” Zwirschitz says. “Right after that, the other four toes on my foot became infected, and they all had to be amputated.” The second amputation occurred just a month after he lost his fi rst toe, and now Zwirschitz had only two options—restart hyperbaric treatments and hope that his body would heal after the six-week oxygen therapy treatment period, or amputate his entire foot. It was an easy decision for Zwirschitz, who did not want to lose his foot. “They told me that if I chose amputation that I wouldn’t have to do hyperbaric treatments, and I told them ‘But I’ll have my foot, and that’s important,’” he says. “I told them I wanted to stick with the treatments, and they said if I want to keep fighting that they would work with me.” Safety First Using your own medications at Langlade Hospital And It Helped! During his hyperbaric treatment schedule, Zwirschitz also received specialized wound care at the Aspirus Wound & Hyperbaric Center to give his wounds the best chance to heal. About halfway through the treatments, he knew he was on his way to recovery when doctors began to see tissue healing and the wounds fi nally start to close. Now, with his wounds healed and a special shoe insert, he walks normally. Th is would not have been possible without hyperbaric oxygen treatments. “It was a long, tough grind, but it sure was worth it,” he says. “Foot amputation would have been certain without hyperbarics.” PATIENT SAFETY AT LANGLADE HOSPITAL is a top priority. One important safety issue is medication management. Th is is how patients can use their own medication in our hospital. When patients are treated in the hospital, they typically receive hospital pharmacy stock medications. There are a few exceptions to this, including outpatient status and observation status patients. Patients admitted with these statuses are allowed to use their own medication supply if an order is written by the provider stating the fact. This policy is in place because of the potential lack of payment by insurance companies for “self-administrable” medications. Self-administrable medications include those medications that a patient can give themselves, such as tablets, capsules, inhalers, insulin injections, creams, ointments, eyedrops and eardrops. In order to be able to use their own medication supplies, the medication must meet the following criteria: ➜ The medications are in the original prescription bottle from the pharmacy or manufacturer with an expiration date printed on it. ➜ The medications are not expired. ➜ The medications can be identified via markings or imprints. A patient’s own medications will not be used if: ➜ The patient is in isolation (infectious condition) for any reason. ➜ The patient is being tested for MRSA or Clostridium difficile. ➜ The medications are not in the original prescription bottle from the pharmacy or manufacturer bottle with an expiration date printed on it. ➜ The medications are expired. ➜ The medications cannot be identified via markings or imprints. ➜ The medications are considered to be herbal, alternative or homeopathic medications. When a patient brings in his or her own supply of medication, it is sent to the inpatient pharmacy for verification by a pharmacist. The medication is labeled and barcoded for safe medication administration by a registered nurse. The medications are kept secure in a locked area on the inpatient unit. All medications are returned to the patient upon discharge from the hospital. Getting ready for a hospital stay? Visit www .langladehospital.org, .langladehospital.org and select “Patients & Families.” www.langladehospital.org • Pathways 13 PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE Am I at Risk? Five Ways to Prevent Pelvic Organ Prolapse Here are five steps every woman can take to reduce her risk of pelvic organ prolapse: Keep your weight in a healthy range. Carrying extra pounds raises your risk for prolapse significantly. Fend off constipation with a fiber-rich diet and regular exercise. Straining during bowel movements adds to your risk. Control your coughs. Frequent coughing increases your risk, so see a doctor if you cough frequently. And don’t light up; you don’t want to wind up with a smoker’s cough. Avoid heavy lifting, which can contribute to prolapse. Do regular Kegel exercises. If you’re not sure how to do them correctly, ask your doctor at your next pelvic exam. 1 2 3 4 5 Source: American Urogynecologic Society Foundation WOMEN’S BODIES go through many changes, from menstruation to menopause. But there’s one possible change you may not be aware of, even though 200,000 surgeries are performed every year in this country because of it. Doctors call this change pelvic organ prolapse, and it occurs when the muscles and other tissue supporting pelvic organs weaken or are injured. As a result, these organs can drop down from their normal position. The uterus is especially likely to slip out of place and can either descend partially into the vagina— or sometimes completely outside of it. The bladder, urethra and rectum are also particularly prone to sagging. instance, it might be hard to keep a tampon inside the vagina. But if prolapse worsens, these symptoms might occur: ➜ Pressure or a heavy feeling in the vagina that intensifies as the day goes on or gets worse during bowel movements. ➜ The sensation of sitting on a ball. ➜ Bulging tissue that protrudes out of the vagina. ➜ Urinary incontinence. ➜ Difficulty urinating or emptying the bowels completely. ➜ Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) If prolapse doesn’t cause any symptoms—and was only discovered because of a physical exam—treatment may not be necessary. But if you do have bothersome symptoms, your doctor may fit you with a pessary—a rubber or plastic device inserted in the vagina that helps support pelvic organs. Why It Happens If pelvic organ prolapse is disrupting your life, surgery may be your best option. Several types of surgery can correct prolapse. Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of each option, and ask which would be best for you. Giving birth is the main cause of pelvic organ prolapse, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports. And women who deliver vaginally face a slightly higher risk of this condition than women who deliver by cesarean section. But prolapse can also be brought on by: ➜ A loss of muscle strength that can accompany aging. ➜ Decreased estrogen production after menopause. ➜ Pelvic surgery. ➜ Being overweight or chronically constipated, both of which put pressure on the abdomen. Warning Signs of Prolapse The fi rst symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse are often subtle. For 14 Pathways • www.langladehospital.org What About Surgery? Additional sources: American Geriatrics Society Foundation; American Urogynecologic Society Foundation; National Institutes of Health Been meaning to get that exam—and always put it off ? Simply call the Aspirus General Clinic today for an appointment with our OB-GYN: 715-623-2351. PALLIATIVE CARE Comfort When You Need It Most Autumn Cole, Nurse Practitioner for the Palliative Program COMFORT. SUPPORT. SYMPTOM RELIEF. These are the hallmarks of good health care. But for people with a serious illness, there’s a type of medical care devoted specifically to giving such help: palliative care, says Autumn Cole, Nurse Practitioner for the Palliative Program. Unique From Hospice Hospice, which addresses the needs of people at the end of their lives, provides palliative care. But not all palliative care is hospice-related. A person receiving hospice care generally is not expected to live more than six months and is not trying to cure the condition. Palliative care, by comparison, is available to anyone with a serious illness, regardless of life expectancy. And it’s possible to receive palliative care and treatment at the same time. Both kinds of care can be provided in many settings, including your home, a hospital, a nursing home or an assisted-living center. Team Help A multidisciplinary team is available through palliative care. Physical or occupational therapists, for instance, can help you regain function. Doctors and nurses work to To learn more, visit the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization website at www.caringinfo.org. prevent or relieve physical symptoms of disease, such as fatigue and pain. A psychologist might help you and your family handle the stress and emotional aspects of an illness. A social worker can often identify community resources that could help. Chaplains may be involved too. They can help with spiritual issues that your condition might raise. When you’re the person who is ill, you can help set treatment goals. Ultimately, the aim is to improve quality of life and to support you and your family throughout treatment. Getting Care Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance may cover some treatments and medications, but there may be limits. It’s best to check coverage before treatment starts. If you have questions about palliative care, talk to your doctor. www.langladehospital.org • Pathways 15 Contact us Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage Langlade Hospital 715-623-2331 Aspirus General Clinic 715-623-2351 PAID 112 E. Fifth Ave., Antigo, WI 54409 Wausau, WI Permit No. 5 Marketing Department 715-623-9877 715-623-9455 Community Health Foundation 715-623-9557 Visit us online at www.langladehospital.org If you did not receive this issue at your home address and would like one sent to you, please email [email protected]. L Get Fit, Stay Injury-Free BEING ACTIVE IS GOOD FOR YOU in so many ways. Getting hurt while exercising? Not so much. Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight; keep your bones, muscles and joints strong; and decrease your risk for heart attack, stroke and other diseases. Cori Bottemiller, Sports Medicine Technician But many people with perfectly good intentions see their efforts end in an injury when they overdo it or don’t follow safety precautions, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). To enjoy the benefits of exercise and help prevent injuries, consider these tips from the AAOS and other experts. ➜ Always warm up for at least three to five minutes before exercising. ➜ Start your program with short sessions—5 to 10 minutes—and increase your activity gradually. ➜ Drink plenty of fluids when working out, even if you don’t think you’re thirsty. ➜ Try to avoid being a weekend warrior. Being active on a regular basis, instead of just on the weekends, may reduce your risk of injury. ➜ Always use the safety equipment recommended for the exercise or sport, such as helmets for bike riding and supportive shoes for walking or jogging. Safety first. If you have health problems, talk to your doctor about an appropriate exercise plan for you. Walking is a safe place to start for most people. Talk to your doctor about an appropriate exercise plan for you. Weigh the Benefits of Strength Training It’s not all about having big muscles: Strength training can also protect you from sprains, strains and broken bones. Research shows that strength and resistance training helps reduce injuries by strengthening muscles, bones and connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments. You just want to make sure you’re doing it safely. To avoid injuries while exercising and lifting weights: ✓ Learn how. A trained fitness instructor or coach at a health club or gym can show you how to lift weights and use exercise equipment safely. ✓ Start slow. Don’t lift more, or exercise longer, than you should. Build up your strength over time, and take on more only when you’re ready. ✓ Warm up and cool down. Stretching, jogging in place and doing calisthenics help prepare your body for lifting weights and can assist in recovery afterward. ✓ Be careful. Don’t do heavy lifts without a spotter. Sources: American College of Sports Medicine; American Council on Exercise