Twin Tiers Health - December 2015

Shed those Holiday Pounds

DECEMBER 2015

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

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216 N. 2nd St., Suite 6 Clearfield, PA 16830 814-765-8284

1095 Million Dollar Hwy, Ste 2 St. Marys, PA 15857 814-834-7721

900 Beaver Drive DuBois, PA 15801 814-371-1085

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4 Fifth annual First Day Hike encourages families to celebrate New Year outdoors 5 Plenty of ways to stay active at ASP 6 YMCA offers walking, classes to keep community in tiptop shape 8 Winter blues shouldn’t be taken lightly, experts say 10 Pa. officials: Reports of flu down across region 12 Time and discipline key to shedding holiday pounds 15 Olean General and Bradford Regional introduce new communications tool enhances language assistance 16 BRMC, OGH: Quality efforts showing results 18 STHCS: Babies sleep safest when ‘ABCs’ are followed 20 Local council offers overdose prevention awareness to community 22 How to shorten the duration of a cold

DECEMBER 31, 2015

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

Fifth annual First Day Hike encourages families to celebrate New Year outdoors ALBANY, N.Y. — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has the fifth annual First Day Hikes program taking place at 38 state parks and historical sites Jan 1.

First Day Hikes give people of all ages an opportunity to kick off the New Year and enjoy nature during guided walks.

“The natural beauty of New York state makes the perfect backdrop for welcoming in 2016 with family and friends,” Cuomo said. “I encourage everyone to start a new tradition and take a First Day Hike at their local state park or use the occasion to discover a new favorite.”

First Day Hikes offer a way to connect with the outdoors, exercise and enjoy nature on

New Year’s Day. Participants can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of the season and spectacular vistas, and benefit from the company of a knowledgeable guide, Cuomo said.

State park staff and volunteers will lead these family- friendly walks and hikes, which average 1 to 3 miles, or longer, depending on the location.

If weather conditions permit, some First Day Hikes may include snowshoeing or cross- country skiing. Many hikes will include refreshments. Last year, over 2,100 participants took part in celebrating First Day Hikes across the state.

“We are proud to once again host the First Day Hikes and offer

these popular outdoor events for the new year,” said Rose Harvey, commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

In Western New York, hikes will be offered at: • Allegany State Park, Red House Area, anytime 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; call (716) 354- 9101 ext.

236.

• Buffalo Harbor State Park, Buffalo; 10 a.m. to noon; call (716) 549- 1050.

• DeVeaux Woods- Whirlpool State Park, Niagara Falls; 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; call (716) 2855154.

• Fort Niagara State Park, Youngstown; 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.; call (716) 285- 5154 • Genesee Valley Greenway State Park, York; 10 a.m. noon; call (585) 493- 3600.

• Knox Farm State Park, East Aurora; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; call (716) 549- 1050.

• Letchworth State Park, Castile; 1 p.m.; two hikes — one for families with young children; call (585) 493- 3600.

• Niagara Falls State Park, Niagara Falls; 1 to 3 p.m.; call (716) 285- 5154.

DECEMBER 31, 2015

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Plenty of ways to stay active at ASP

By Rick Miller

Special to Twin Tiers Health

RED HOUSE, N.Y. — Winter in the Twin Tiers doesn’t have to mean the end of exercise season — once the snow starts flying, Allegany State Park is a fitness wonderland.

From cross-country skiing to snowmobiling, snowshoeing to ice fishing or just a winter hike, the 65,000-acre state park has it all.

On Jan. 1, check out this year‘s First Day Snowshoe Hike This year’s hike will offer an opportunity to explore the unique natural treasures Allegany has to offer.

This self-guided hike will take place in the Summit area on the Red House side of the park.

The off-trail hike, approximately 2 miles long and easy to moderate in intensity, begins at the Summit Area Warming Hut, follows a scenic ridge line to Stone Tower, then continues back to the warming hut. Interpretative points of interest will be found along the way.

Participants can listen to birds, breathe in the fresh air, discover wildlife tracks and feel the warmth of the sun or the coldness of the snow.

First Day runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants will begin the hike at the warming hut by picking up a trail map and scavenger hunt. Weather permitting, participants are encouraged to bring snowshoes, trekking poles or anything else needed for an enjoyable hike. Appropriate dress and footwear are strongly encouraged.

Those with questions can call the Environmental Interpretation Department at 354-9101, ext. 236.

On Mondays in January and February, park naturalist Adele Wellman will lead a Sunset Snowshoe Hike beginning at 4:30 p.m. from the Summit area.

In early December, Wellman was helping to build a new trail to the Stone Tower west of the Summit area.

“It’s along an old mountain bike trail on the ridge,” she said. “We’ll watch the sunset at the end of the hike.”

The first Sunset Snowshoe Hike will be Jan. 11. A bonus on the Jan. 25 sunset hike will be a full moon, Wellman said.

“If there’s no snow, it’ll just be a night hike,” she said.

There is no snowshoeing on cross-country ski trails, but other trails and snowmobile trails can be used by snowshoers.

January is also Winter Trails Month. For a list of areas for winter hiking inside and outside the state park, check out wintertrailsmonth.

org.

The annual Art Roscoe Loppet in the Summit Area’s Art Roscoe Cross Country Ski Trails is scheduled for Feb. 15. Hundreds of cross-country skiers enter the races of varying distances. For more information, check out the website heartrateup.com.

Registration and check-in starts at 8 a.m. at the Summit Warming Hut. There are awards and prizes for the top five finishers in each distance. There is also a new Junior Division for cross-country skiers under age 15.

At other times, when there is sufficient snow, the Art Roscoe Cross Country Ski trails is teeming with cross-country skiers.

Another winter activity in the park is the Can-Am Dog Sled

Races, usually held in late January or early February. A lack of snow in recent years has led to their cancellation.

Snowmobiling is huge in Allegany State Park, with more than 90 miles of groomed trails available. Park trails connect to another 400 miles of snowmobile trails in Cattaraugus County.

Another new activity will be cozy fires in the Red House Picnic Area on Saturdays. Bring hot dogs and marshmallows, officials suggested.

And even on the coldest days, you are likely to see someone ice fishing on Red House or Quaker lakes. It seems like the colder, the better for some of the hardcore ice fishers.

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

YMCA offers walking, classes to keep community in tiptop shape

A group of women enjoy lively exercises with music during an Aqua Zumba session at the Olean Family YMCA.

By Kate Day Sager

Special to Twin Tiers Health

OLEAN, N.Y. — Senior citizens who want a dry, level area to walk during the day or night can find ideal conditions on the indoor walking and running track at the Olean Family YMCA. Connie Cooper, membership and marketing director of the YMCA of the Twin Tiers, said the track attracts residents of all ages who want to walk or run year-

round.

“We get even more coming in during the winter months to avoid the elements of the outdoors,” Cooper said. “Members will schedule their days around a walk at the Y with their friends.

For some people, it gives them a reason to get up, get out and get active. We have people who have retired and need a place to belong and feel good — friendships are made here.”

In addition to socializing, the

activity is great for the heart, according to Cooper.

“Walking is a good cardiovascular exercise that keeps you healthy all over. You can do it with other people or by yourself,” Cooper noted. “A 30-minute walk is the best thing that you can do for yourself to start on your way to an active life.”

There are several treadmills to choose from at the YMCA for those who prefer that style of exercise.

“Some people will use the track

Kate Day Sager/Olean Times Herald

or treadmill to warm up before a group exercise class or to cool down after a class,” she continued.

“It’s a great way to move and be healthy in spirit, mind and body, and to share family and life stories with one another.”

Another common sight at the YMCA is groups of seniors who gather after a class or a workout to socialize over coffee. continued on next page

DECEMBER 31, 2015

INK YOUNG, SENIOR wellness director at the YMCA, said there are a number of other exercises offered at the YMCA that help health issues such as arthritis.

“The Enhance Fitness class meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays … and they work on strength, balance and weightbearing exercises,” Young said of the one-hour senior fitness and arthritis management program. “A lot of these folks come and walk (the track) before and after the class.”

Other popular active older adult classes include: • Motion Plus: The class involves standing and floor exercises.

• Gentle Shape-up: Participants have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activity for daily living

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skills. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a ball are offered for resistance, and a chair is used for seated or standing support.

• Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance: This is an evidencebased, fall-prevention program for older adults developed at the Oregon Research Institute. The program protocol involves a set of simple, continuous, rhythmic and functional Tai Chi-based actions. The program represents a significant enhancement of traditional Tai Chi by transforming the movements into therapeutic training for balance and integrating the movements into daily functioning for older adults.

This program runs in sessions; registration is required.

• Aqua Zumba: Water exercises facilitated by lively music.

Kate Day Sager/Olean Times Herald

Ray Padlo (left), a 70-year member of the Olean Family YMCA, and longtime member Don Johnson regularly walk around the track at the facility for exercise.

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

Winter blues shouldn’t be taken lightly, experts say

By Alex Davis

Special to Twin Tiers Health

BRADFORD, Pa. — Are you experiencing the winter blues?

Area professionals say seasonal depression shouldn’t be taken lightly, and several steps can be taken to help lift one’s spirits in the weeks ahead.

“Experiencing the winter blues is a real concern for many people.

Most people disregard feelings of laziness and depression, but chronic symptoms can be signs of a larger mental health concern,” said mental health professional Nicholas A. Kicior. “Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a subtype of major depression that comes and goes based on seasons.”

SAD is common in the region, with Bradford-based counselor Jim Owens attributing that to a lack of sunlight and long periods of being indoors because of winter.

“It affects women more often than men but can be a problem for anyone,” Owens said. “SAD is often overlooked as the root of the problem when people are struggling with things like sleep patterns, lack of motivation, overeating or relationship concerns, just to name a few.”

According to information provided by Kicior, some people could experience feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day; feeling hopeless or worthless; difficulty concentrating or loss of interest in activities you enjoy; irritability; problems getting along with other people;

hypersensitivity to rejection; heavy, “leaden” feeling in the arms or legs; oversleeping, trouble sleeping, feeling sluggish, low energy; and appetite and weight changes.

“SAD also tends to exaggerate other problem areas in your life

by breaking down your coping levels,” Owens said. “When thinking about staying on top of a problem like SAD, I always like to have a gameplan before winter sets in. If you know this is an area you struggled with last year, be prepared.”

How does one combat seasonal depression?

Light therapy could be the answer in some cases, said Kicior.

“Use the sunlight and daytime to your advantage and be sure you get out during the day,” he said. “Some people even go so far as to purchase light boxes or sun lamps.”

In addition, people should get into a routine and make themselves tackle a task, Kicior said.

“Even getting out of bed just to take a shower can jump-start your day into a different direction,” he said. “Use your natural supports to help you through some of your tough times. Be proactive and not reactive by learning what your triggers are and making a plan.

Identify some of the negative thoughts that can lead to increased isolation, depressive moods and lack of engagement and think of alternative views.”

Individuals should have a lineup of activities and be sure to make a habit of being out and about, Owens said.

“Interact regularly with friends and family even when you feel like staying at home,” Owens said.

“Stay active by walking or working out a few times each week.”

And if SAD symptoms continue, Kicior advises an individual to see a professional for additional help. The chance that other types of mental health concerns exist could mean more in-depth psychotherapy or medication is needed, he said.

DECEMBER 31, 2015

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

Pa. officials: Reports of flu down across region

By Alex Davis

Special to Twin Tiers Health

BRADFORD, Pa. — Fewer people across the region appear to be suffering from bouts of coughing, chills, fatigue and other flu-like symptoms in recent months.

In fact, from Oct. 4 through Dec. 19, Elk County has three reported cases of the influenza; Cameron and McKean counties, one each; and Potter County, zero, according to state Department of Health statistics. All told, there have been 491 reported flu cases across the state.

But state Department of Health spokesman Wes Culp hastened to add that flu results posted by the department reflect positive laboratory tests.

“These case counts represent only a fraction of the actual burden of illness due to influenza occurring in (Pennsylvania) at any given time,” he said. “This is because most persons with influenza do not go to the doctor or are not tested or reported.

Influenza spread and severity varies widely from season to season.”

Even with that in mind, Culp said flu season is dragging behind in comparison to previous years.

But a slow start isn’t exactly a prediction of the remainder of flu season, he said.

“Weather does seem to have some relationship to influenza in the northern hemisphere, although

how it is related is not well understood,” Culp said. “One way weather may affect the spread of the flu virus is that when it is cold outside, people might spend more time indoors in confined spaces with each other, allowing the flu to spread more easily.”

Warmer weather and people spending time outdoors could also limit the spread of the flu, he said.

“It is important to keep in mind, however, that even during times of warmer weather it is not unusual for flu cases and outbreaks to occur. Influenza occurs in the tropics, too,” Culp said.

To protect against the influenza, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a vaccine for those 6 months and older.

“People should begin getting vaccinated soon after flu vaccine becomes available, to ensure that as many people as possible are protected before flu season begins,” Culp said. “However, as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated.”

Other measures people can take to fight against the flu include keeping away from those who have taken ill, washing one’s hands and staying home from work or school if one is sick.

The state Department of Health said it is estimated that 5 to 20 percent, or 600,000 to 2.4 million, Pennsylvanians contract the flu every year. Of those, 120 to 2,000 die from complications.

DECEMBER 31, 2015

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

Time and discipline key to shedding holiday pounds

By Kelsey Boudin

Special to Twin Tiers Health

Perhaps you were naughty this holiday season and indulged with a few too many treats and drinks laden with empty calories.

There’s still time to get it right — and drop those extra pounds — with those New Year’s resolutions fresh in mind, said Ink Young, senior wellness director at the Olean Family YMCA. It just takes a little time and willpower. And by a little time, Young said she means 15 to 20 minutes.

“I think people this time of year need to get very strategic about

their schedule,” she added. “I recommend this for members yearround. Plan into your schedule some times to move around.”

That’s even more crucial for those who sit behind a desk all day, Young said. For those who can’t seem to find time, even standing up to stretch and taking short walks around the office can burn extra calories.

It’ll also boost blood flow and productivity, Young said.

“It’s like any appointment,” she added. “Put it in your schedule and stick to that schedule. Something is always better than nothing.

You’re going to benefit from any movement. To get a cardiovascular

benefit you would have to do 20 minutes or longer, but intensity is individual for everyone.”

An ideal workout duration would be 45 minutes to an hour, she noted.

Some may find motivation in scheduling a workout class or time with a personal trainer.

“You may be more likely to make that time if someone is counting on you being there,” Young said.

While it’s not for everyone, strength training can also help to shed unwanted pounds and build muscle tone in the process.

“Strength training is a great way to burn extra calories,” Young

said. “You get what’s called an after-burn effect, which can burn calories up to 72 hours after a workout. That’s a great way to boost your metabolism any time of the year, but especially for the holidays. You can do strength training for 20 minutes to half an hour or even longer.”

But the key, regardless of exercise style, is consistency, she added.

You are what you eat, Young said. It may be tough to push aside sugary treats and fat-filled salty snacks, but planning ahead with continued on next page

DECEMBER 31, 2015

healthier alternatives is always the best dieting bet, she added.

“It’s the time of the year for people to put some personal nutrition habits in place,” the wellness director said, noting the age-old mantra that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. “Prepare a good breakfast ahead of time with some good protein and fiber.”

Never underestimate the importance of staying hydrated, she added. Drinking water to start the day and heading back to the well often for more should fill your stomach and stave off food cravings as the day progresses.

“Take your water bottle with you wherever you go,” Young said.

“You’ll be less likely to overindulge later.”

Even eating meals systematically can have an impact.

At a balanced dinner, try eating vegetables first before moving to the protein and finishing with the suitable starch, Young said. You’ll

likely fill up before finishing those sweet potatoes that are likely to pad the calorie intake.

Simple meal-preparation remedies — like going light on the olive oil instead of dousing a meal with melted butter — also keep pounds in check.

“There are a lot of ways to prepare foods to make them lighter on the waist,” Young said.

“Try using a sugar substitute. You can make a lot of treats diabeticfriendly, as well.”

Stress plays a large role in eating habits, she noted.

“We’re more likely to graze on unhealthy things when we’re stressed out,” Young said.

And that goes back to taking short breaks during the workday to stretch your legs and get your heart pumping.

“It’ll burn calories and help with your stress level to step back from it all,” Young said. “It’ll also have a big impact on your eating habits.”

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

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Olean General and Bradford Regional introduce new communications tool enhances language assistance OLEAN, N.Y. — Olean General Hospital and Bradford (Pa.) Regional Medical Center have rolled out a new, cloudbased remote interpretation service that allows both to meet the growing need for faster, more comprehensive help for non-English speaking and sign language-dependent patients 24 hours a day.

The new Stratus Video Remote Interpreter service uses innovative technology to connect health care providers with interpreters in more than 175 spoken and signed languages on demand in less than 30 seconds, officials said. The Stratus application can be loaded onto any tablet, smartphone, PC or Mac. Twenty iPads have been distributed throughout Olean General and Bradford Regional, including in the emergency departments, in admissions, on patient units and at the hospitals’ satellite locations. More than 340 staff have been trained in using the Stratus application.

“This new system will enhance patient safety and quality for our patients with language barriers,” said Timothy Finan, president and CEO of Upper Allegheny Health System, of which Olean General and Bradford Regional are members. “Having this technology at our fingertips and being able to quickly and accurately provide interpretation is a great opportunity for us to deliver better patient service.”

Olean General and Bradford Regional are the only hospitals in Western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania to have

Photo submitted

More than 340 staff members at Olean General Hospital and Bradford Regional Medical Center are trained in the use of a new, cloud-based remote interpretation service for non-English-speaking and sign language-dependent patients.

The new iPad application from Stratus is now in use at both hospitals.

the Stratus system, Finan said.

When a non-English-speaking or sign language-dependent patient indicates they need interpreter assistance, staff show the patient a language identification card to determine the language required to help the patient. The staff then connects via iPad to a Stratus Video Remote Interpreter, where a certified live interpreter appears within seconds on the screen from one of 30 Stratus call centers around the country.

The Stratus interpreter then interfaces directly between the patient and the staff to ensure all conversations are clearly understood. In the case of deaf and hard-of-hearing patients, a certified sign language interpreter appears on the screen and signs

directly with the patient, conveying information between patients and staff.

In preparing for the introduction of Stratus, Olean General invited deaf members of the community to meet with hospital and Stratus staff to view a demonstration program and offer their input.

“The deaf community was very receptive to the new services,” said Gail Bagazzoli, vice president for quality at Upper Allegheny.

Previous to the introduction of Stratus, both hospitals relied on language interpretation phone services for non-Englishspeaking patient support and live interpreters for sign language.

“The phone service was built with two handsets for communication,” Bagazzoli stated.

“At Olean General there was a

dedicated TV system with cable technology that was connected to University of Rochester for sign language interpretation; there were five rooms in the hospital that housed this old technology. This limited where we could admit our deaf patients. The Stratus program gives us the accessibility of all interpreter services in seconds, 24 hours a day, and seven days a week in all areas of the hospitals.

“We will still use community members for interpreter services if requested by the patient, but our first step for immediate communication will be signing on to the Stratus Video Remote Interpreter.”

For more information, visit www.stratusvideo.com.

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

BRMC, OGH: Quality efforts showing results

By Amber Turba

Special to Twin Tiers Health

OLEAN, N.Y. — The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced that for fiscal year 2016, 758 hospitals were penalized under the hospitalacquired condition (HAC) reduction program, costing them $364 million in reimbursement penalties. They will have their reimbursement from CMS reduced by 1 percent for all Medicare discharges between Oct. 1, 2015, and Sept. 30, 2016.

Olean General Hospital and Bradford (Pa.) Regional Medical Center, member hospitals of Upper Allegheny Health System, are not among the penalized hospitals, officials recently said.

For the second year, and since the inception of the program, both hospitals earned scores well below the threshold for incurring a penalty from Medicare.

Hospitals with a total HAC score greater than 6.75 for fiscal year 2016 had their payments reduced. Olean General had

a HAC score of 5.75. Bradford Regional earned score of 4.12.

The result is a reimbursement penalty avoidance of $70,000 at Bradford Regional and $140,000 at Olean General.

The HAC program was created under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and was effective beginning fiscal year 2015, which started with discharges Oct. 1, 2014. It looks at four quality measures, examining such areas as urinary, catheter, surgical site and bloodstream infections; pressure ulcer care; postoperative hip fractures; sepsis; accidental punctures and lacerations.

Under the program, hospitals that are paid under the Inpatient Prospective Payment System are measured on HAC measures. The bottom 25 percent of hospitals could be subject to payment reduction.

“The HAC results are obviously encouraging to us since they have an impact on reimbursement, but more importantly it is one

more indicator of our success in assuring a safe environment for our patients,” said Timothy Finan, president and CEO of Upper Allegheny. “We have been taking an aggressive approach to reducing infections, patient harm events and utilizing technology to improve patient safety and quality.”

Finan noted that recently Olean General earned a grade of “A” in patient safety from the Leapfrog Group, one of nation’s most noted independent hospital rating organizations. Early this year Bradford Regional was recognized by the Hospital and Healthcare Association of Pennsylvania with the Safety Across the Board Award for its efforts in reducing preventable harm.

“When patients come to us for care, they want to get appropriate medical care and then be discharged safely home,” Finan said. “They don’t bargain for an infection, a medication error, a fall or some other problem while they are with us.”

Finan said both hospitals have been driving the quality and safety agenda very hard over the past several years and believes those cumulative efforts are getting results.

“It’s a combination of factors,” Finan said. “Both hospitals have introduced aggressive initiatives surrounding infection control and harm prevention, including more effective communication in clinical areas and intense efforts around hand hygiene. Additionally, our employees are very involved in leading these efforts.”

Gail Bagazzoli, vice president

Photo submitted

A Clorox germ-killing ultraviolet light system is the latest weapon in fighting hospital-acquired conditions at Bradford Regional Medical Center and Olean General Hospital. The system is part of multiple initiatives to improve quality and safety at Upper Allegheny Health System hospitals, officials said.

for quality at Upper Allegheny, said a “Stop the Line” program has been introduced, which empowers anyone to stop a procedure or an action that they perceive could be harmful to a patient.

“We’ve introduced Safety continued on next page

DECEMBER 31, 2015

Champions at both hospitals, with

hospital in the region with

designated to observe and report

Care Unit, Mills noted. Intensivists

nearly 150 employees trained and on safety around the hospitals,”

she said. “We encourage patients

and their families to take an active role, ask questions and express concerns to staff through the Patient Speak Up initiative.”

Dr. William Mills, senior

vice president of quality and

professional affairs, said the

intensivists to manage its Intensive

hospitalists on patient care units

are physician specialists in

and safety,” Mills noted.

intensive and critical care. They

Clinical literature notes that ICUs

new Clorox towers that kill surface

day of the year, at Olean General. directed by intensivists experience a 40 percent reduction in ICU mortality, Mills said.

Bradford Regional recently

factor in avoiding medical errors.

physician who specializes in the

10 percent of hospitals nationally for achieving 100 percent

compliance in 63 of 65 core safety and quality measures routinely

reported to Medicare,” Mills said.

Olean General is the only

The latest weapon in reducing

infections at the hospitals,

introduced a hospitalist program,

“Last year OGH was in the top

significantly enhances patient care

are on-site 24 hours a day, every

introduction of computerized

physician order entry has been a

“The 24/7 presence of

he added. A hospitalist is a

Bagazzoli said, is the acquisition of germs and bacteria by exposing them to intense ultraviolet light.

“This technology was just rolled

out at both our hospitals, and we

are the only hospitals in the region to have it,” she said.

The Clorox Optimum-UV

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the DNA of microorganisms, neutralizing them.

The technology is designed to

supplement, not replace, manual

surface disinfection in the hospital, Bagazzoli said. The Clorox

system is known to reduce the

risk of surface infection by up to

20 percent. At Olean General the

system was purchased by hospital employees through donations

to the Olean General Hospital Foundation.

“Raising the bar on quality

practice of acute care medicine

System is a 6-foot-high mobile

and safety is not one effort. It is

patients. Bradford Regional now

an unoccupied room and bathes

together on multiple programs

for several minutes to inactivate

experience whenever they entrust

intense ultraviolet light damages

said.

with a sole focus on hospitalized provides hospitalist services 24

hours a day, seven days a week,

and joins the majority of hospitals in the region offering this service.

light tower, which is placed in

many efforts with people working

surface areas with intense UV light

to ensure patients have a safe

pathogens on surface areas. The

themselves to our care,” Finan

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

STHCS: Babies sleep safest when ‘ABCs’ are followed OLEAN — Sleep time can be the most dangerous time for an infant.

Sleep-related death is the number-one killer of infants 1 to 12 months old in the United States.

Although sleep-related infant deaths have declined in recent years, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have said almost 2,500 infants die in the U.S. each year while sleeping or napping.

That’s nearly seven babies every day.

The Southern Tier Child Health and Safety Team, a program of Southern Tier Health Care System (STHCS), recommends that parents and caregivers follow the ABCs of safe sleep to protect newborns — babies sleep safest “Alone, on their Backs, in a Crib.”

To educate parents and caregivers, Southern Tier Health Care System is launching a winter “ABCs of Safe Sleep” campaign across Allegany and Cattaraugus counties. Billboards will depict a safe sleeping environment and the “ABCs of Safe Sleep” message.

The agency has also just been named a Cribs for Kids partner.

Through the designation, STHCS will provide families in need with Cribs for Kids Safe Sleep Survival Kits. The kits include a Graco Pack-n-Play, a fitted sheet, an infant Halo sleep sack, a pacifier and safe-sleep information for parents and caregivers.

Cribs for Kids, a national nonprofit initiative, was created to ensure that parents who lack the means to create a safe sleep environment for their newborns

have the resources and knowledge to protect their children.

STHCS is seeking grant and foundation funding to purchase Safe Sleep Survival Kits.

The agency is also accepting donations. Checks can be made payable, with “Cribs for Kids” on the memo portion, to Southern Tier Health Care System, 1 Blue Bird Square, Olean, NY 14760. All proceeds will be used to purchase kits for needy families.

STHCS CEO Donna Kahm

coordinates the Child Health and Safety Team. She noted that sleep-related infant deaths declined dramatically after the American Academy of Pediatrics launched its “Back to Sleep” campaign in 1992. But, she said, infant deaths linked to unsafe sleep conditions continue to occur.

In January 2014, six infants died in Erie County due to unsafe sleep conditions. It was particularly cold that month, and public health officials pointed to parents either

bringing infants into their beds to keep them warm or placing too many blankets in the infants’ cribs as contributing causes.

“Sadly, we have experienced four infant deaths in the Southern Tier since 2010 as well that were linked to unsafe sleep environments,” Kahm said. “That’s why it’s so important to continue to share the safe-sleep message with parents and caregivers and continued on next page

DECEMBER 31, 2015

take proactive steps to protect newborns.”

The New York State Office of Children & Family Services (OCFS) recommends that babies be placed on their backs, alone in a safety-approved crib. The crib should have a firm mattress without any soft items, such as pillows, crib bumpers, comforters or stuffed toys. Babies should be dressed in lightweight sleep clothing in a room that is a comfortable temperature for a lightly dressed adult.

Babies should never be placed on their tummies or sides to sleep and never on a soft surface such as a pillow, a waterbed, an air mattress or a bean bag, according to STHCS. Babies should never be allowed to sleep on a cushioned chair, recliner or couch and should never go to sleep with another baby, child or adult.

Supported by a grant from the New York State Office of Children

and Family Services, the Southern Tier Child Health and Safety Team was founded to explore the causes of preventable child deaths and make recommendations to the community to prevent child deaths and improve the health and safety of children in Allegany County.

Child Health and Safety Team member agencies include the OCFS Buffalo Regional Office;

STHCS; New York State Police; Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office; Allegany County and Cattaraugus County departments of Social Services, departments of health, county attorney’s offices, district attorney’s offices and coroner’s offices; Olean General Hospital; Jones Memorial Hospital; Cuba Memorial Hospital; Olean Police Department; Salamanca

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Police Department; Wellsville Police Department; Dr. Pamela Salzmann; Allegany/Western Steuben Rural Health Network; and the NYS Sudden Infant and Child Death Resource Center.

For more information about the Child Health and Safety Team or child safety, call 372-0614 or visit www.sthcs.org.

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

Local council offers overdose prevention awareness to community OLEAN, N.Y. — Local communities are becoming tragically familiar with losing people of all ages to fatal overdoses.

Each overdose has a lasting impact on the lives of others. Can it be prevented?

The Prevention Department of the Council on Addiction Recovery Services in Cattaraugus County has partnered with the Allegany Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse and the Chautauqua Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Council to share a preventative message across the Southern Tier — “Friends Take Care of Friends.” The campaign provides displays, informational handouts and consultation in schools and other community settings.

The theme of “Friends Take Care of Friends” is to encourage community members to educate themselves about overdoses so they are in a position to make helpful choices if they are with someone who is overdosing.

An overdose occurs when a person takes more of a drug than his metabolism can detoxify in time to avoid harm. This includes both legal and illegal drugs, as well as alcohol.

Alcohol and other drug overdoses can be intentional or unintentional. There are several risk factors for an unintentional overdose: • Unpredictability. The purity, strength and formulas of illegal drugs vary greatly. Drugs also affect everyone differently,

depending on variables such as illness, prescribed medications, weight, gender and mental health.

than one type of drug, including alcohol, can cause a highly unpredictable physical response.

• Impairment. Alcohol and other drugs affect memory, thinking and judgment. This can cause one to forget what has already been taken. Delayed desired effect may lead to re-dosing.

• Using drugs alone. When a person is alone, there is no one to initiate rescue measures if an overdose occurs.

• Accidental. Children or adults may mistakenly ingest alcohol or other drugs.

• Loss of tolerance. Regular use leads to greater tolerance, which results in more being needed to achieve the same desired effect.

An overdose can occur when a person starts using again following a period of not using.

• Mixing drugs. Using more

Knowing the signs and symptoms of an overdose can save a life. Although they vary depending on what kind of drug was taken, some basic signs and symptoms include: • Vomiting • Unresponsiveness (inability to wake up) • Irregular breathing (slow, shallow or erratic) • Irregular heartbeat • Loss of consciousness If you think someone could be

overdosing, turn him onto his side to prevent him from aspirating his vomit. Never let him “sleep it off,” and never leave the person alone.

Most importantly, call 911.

Many people worry about experiencing legal or other consequences if they call for help.

It’s important to know about the Good Samaritan Law, experts say. According to www.drugpolicy. org, “The 911 Good Samaritan Law seeks to encourage people to call 911 when witnessing or experiencing an alcohol or drug overdose by providing a limited shield from charges and prosecution for possession of narcotics, marijuana and, for minors, alcohol. This policy also provides limited immunity from arrest when the witness who calls 911 or the overdose victim possess residual or very small amounts of drugs.”

To adequately address the overdose issue, it is important for communities to fight the stigma of addiction, according to area experts. Many overdoses are accidental and are experienced by people who are not addicted to the substance. Those who are addicted are dealing with an illness that has biological, behavioral and environmental factors. Alcoholics and addicts need the same support as those dealing with other illnesses, such as cancer and diabetes.

For more information on overdoses or the services provided at the Council on Addiction Recovery Services, call 3734303, ext. 519, or email dbartz@ councilonaddiction.org.

DECEMBER 31, 2015

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DECEMBER 31, 2015

How to shorten the duration of a cold Few things can be as uncomfortable as the common cold. In their book “Common Cold,” authors Olaf Weber and Ronald Eccles say the common cold has been around since the ancient times. More than 200 virus strains can contribute to colds, but the rhinovirus is the most common. Colds produce a bevy of symptoms, including runny nose, congestion and sore throat, so it should come as no surprise that sufferers want to find relief fast.

Colds typically last for a week or more. While there’s no cure for the common cold, according to The Mayo Clinic, there are some remedies that can help cold sufferers feel better more quickly.

• Rest: One of the best things to do when you have a cold is to get adequate rest. Your body’s immune system is working overtime to combat the cold virus, and restricting activity can help it direct efforts where they’re needed most. Keep away from strenuous activities, and spend more time relaxing or sleeping to let your

body do its job.

• Hydration: Consuming plenty of clear fluids can reduce congestion and ensure that you do not get dehydrated. Plus, warm beverages can be soothing to an irritated throat. Avoid coffee, caffeinated sodas and alcohol, which can exacerbate dehydration.

• Saline rinses: Intra-nasal saline sprays, neti pots and similar products can help loosen mucus that is clogging the nose and sinus cavities, allowing it to flow out. This makes blowing your nose more effective and may help prevent post-nasal drip. Avoid prolonged use of medicated decongestant sprays. They may work well, but they can cause rebound congestion that’s worse than the original stuffiness.

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C will not prevent colds, but it could help in other ways. Taking vitamin C before the onset of cold symptoms may shorten the duration of symptoms. Vitamin C also may

provide benefits for people at high risk of colds due to frequent exposure, offers The Mayo Clinic.

• Soup and tea: Soup is an easyto-digest meal that provides many of the necessary remedies for a cold, including warm broth to hydrate and soothe, antioxidantrich vegetables and protein to help fuel the body’s recovery process.

In 2000, Dr. Stephen Rennard of the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha actually tested if chicken soup clinically makes people with colds feel better. He found that chicken soup inhibited neutrophils, immune cells that cause congestion. Decaffeinated tea also

may help you stay hydrated and relieve many cold symptoms.

• Reinfection: Use cleaning products that are effective at killing viruses around the house to prevent reinfection and cold relapses. Also, avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth between hand-washings to keep germs at bay.

Colds can be a nuisance.

Most medicines will help relieve symptoms but cannot make colds go away faster. Natural remedies can help the body’s immune system work at its best and lessen the severity of a cold. HM161780

DECEMBER 31, 2015

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DECEMBER 31, 2015