6 Pullman Community Update
da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgery Surgeon, Nancy Panko, M.D. Tells All
Nancy Panko, M.D.
Robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci at Pullman Regional Hospital has “revolutionized surgery,” says Nancy Panko, M.D., surgeon with Palouse Surgeons. “When I talk to my patients, I tell them I use robotics and list the reasons why it’s my preference, as their surgeon.”
The da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical system was new to Pullman Regional Hospital in 2012 and has been in high demand by surgeons and patients ever since. It’s used for surgery in the areas of general surgery, gynecology and urology.
The Benefits of Robotics “The very fine movements of the robot in small spaces— like the upper and lower abdomen—is critical to having a successful surgery,” explains Dr. Panko. • The da Vinci’s wristed instrumentation at the end of the laparoscope allows for full range of motion, meaning surgical tools can be more easily maneuvered with minimal movements and less “port pain” or pain at the incision site. • Enhanced magnification provides superior visualization; surgeons can see blood vessels and tissue layers in great detail using the da Vinci system. • While a surgeon sits at a console, they are in complete control of the robotic arms and wristed instruments, which mimic the movements of the surgeon’s hands and fingers. The robot also eliminates any tremor of the human hand. To read more visit pullmanregional.org/panko
A Fond Farewell
PULLMAN REGIONAL HOSPITAL
2021 Recognition Awards Pullman Regional Hospital Employee of the Year: Anna Engle, R.N.
all that encompasses a truly dedicated and wonderful caring professional.” – excerpt from nomination form
Dr. Mike, as he’s known by most, is a staple of Palouse Pediatrics— which was founded by his father, Dr. Al Frostad. Excerpts from nomination forms: It’s with many mixed emotions that I share with you my decision to leave my position as a family nurse practitioner at Pullman Family Medicine on June 30, 2021. It’s hard to believe that I have spent 18 years on the Palouse with 15 of them at Pullman Family Medicine. I have loved my job and my colleagues. I am headed off to explore my next chapter in Bigfork, Montana with the intent of exploring more outdoor adventures. Thank you for the honor of allowing me to assist you with your primary health care needs. I will sincerely miss caring for you. However, your care doesn’t have to miss a beat. My colleagues, Dr. Laura Baker, Dr. Drue Webb, Dr. Benjamin Adkins, Jennifer Davis, and Teresa Tomaszewski, are accepting new patients and are here for you and all your healthcare needs. They are prepared to make your transition to another provider as seamless as possible. I wish you optimal health and hopefulness as we continue our journeys. Sincerely, Kristine Brenc, ARNP To schedule an appointment at Pullman Family Medicine, call (509) 332-3548.
“many, many, families put their trust in Dr. Frostad” “Dr. Frostad has successfully followed his father in leading outstanding care of pediatric patients in our community. I feel this award is long overdue.”
Anna has worked at the hospital for 16 years and is a Clinical Volunteer of the Year- Betsy Wheeler Coordinator and registered When there is a job to be nurse in the Medical/ done, Betsy is always willing Surgical unit. Anna serves to jump in. She completes on numerous committees, all of her volunteer work and is praised for being a with accuracy and a smile. leader and team player. Her positive attitude is “Anna has influenced me through her work to just contagious to others and be better. Be a better person, employee, and friend. Her she truly makes Pullman selflessness is commendable. She does what is best for the Regional Hospital a better place with her presence. We’re so patient, the organization and the staff. She gives her all, thankful for you, Betsy! all the time. Anna is the epitome of our hospital’s mission Generosity Inspires Partnership- Peggy McDonnell statement, values and vision.” – excerpt from nomination Peggy was instrumental in launching our Story Time and form Pen Pal programs this year. She jumped in 100% to make our Nurse Excellence: Caitlin Carl, R.N. first Story Time video which not only acted as an example Caitlin has worked at for others to create their videos, but encouraged others to the hospital for 11 years participate as well. Peggy was also one of our first volunteers and is a registered nurse in to join the Pen Pal Program where she has built a fun the Medical/Surgical unit. relationship with the little guy that she writes back and forth Caitlin is always quick to with. Thank you for all that you do, Peggy! devote time and energy to efforts that continually Generosity Inspires a Healing Environment- Jan Gaskins Pre-Pandemic, Jan was one of our volunteers that ensured improve patient care and our hospital reading materials were clean and looking their teamwork. best for our visitors. Now that our volunteer programs have “Caitlin is engaged, informed, professional and has halted, Jan has jumped in and served countless plates of the utmost commitment to creating the best possible environment for our patients and staff. She is truly invested goodies to our staff to keep them smiling and at their best for in the holistic care and success of her patients. She epitomizes our patients. Thank you so much, Jan!
Physician Excellence Award Recipient: Mike Frostad, MD, Palouse Pediatrics.
To my patients at Pullman Family Medicine,
JUNE 2021
“respects the expertise of colleagues in other departments, works with different groups of professionals in the hospital to advance care of kids.”
Generosity Inspires Patient Comfort- Cheryl Holman
Cheryl is one of the members of our creative team and takes a strong lead on the sewing of rice bags for the BirthPlace. Cheryl does a perfect job sewing, but also does a great job coordinating the needs for our sewers. She picks up supplies at the hospital to distribute and then delivers the finished product to us ready to go. Thank you for your hard work, Cheryl!
