MUSC Catalyst by Cindy Abole

December 21, 2012

MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA

Vol. 31, No. 19

Inside Children’s services center opens Children

in need

Enrollment in the Foster Care Support Clinic has nearly tripled in size since 2009.

aneurysm award

Resident develops first reproducible large-animal model of thoracic aortic aneurysms. 2

Applause

Meet Sam

Year in Review

by GeRRy le Public Relations

orth Charleston’s 4480 Leeds Place West is now home to MUSC’s Children’s Rehabilitation Service Center, Sleep Center and Wheelchair Seating and Mobility Clinic. The facility, which was created to be a one-stop shop for families to receive therapeutic services, opened Oct. 17. Rehabilitation SeRvice centeR

MUSC’s Children’s Rehabilitation Service Center offers a variety of services for pediatric patients and their families in the North Charleston area. This new facility offers occupational and physical therapy, and speech and language pathology, giving patients the ability to improve motor skills, balance, communication, and feeding and sensory processing skills. The clinic uses an interdisciplinary approach that

T h e C aTa ly s T Online

http://www. musc.edu/ catalyst

Heidi Kanode, a polysomnographic technician, displays a sleep mask.

Speech language pathologist Jenny Tate works with Jaden Wright to improve his communication skills while he plays with a toy house at the Children’s Rehabilitation Service Center in North Charleston. develops lifelong learning skills for pediatric patients. The collaborative care that patients will receive from this location comes from a staff of five physical therapists, five occupational therapists and six speech-language pathologists. These therapists have had advanced and specialized training in pediatric disorders. “The therapists are exemplary as they demonstrate great compassion and dedication to improving their patients’ abilities to interact with their environment,” said Diane Andrews, the center’s manager. “I am truly inspired when I see children learning to walk, eat

meals, communicate and use their new motor skills to play with toys for the very first time.” Sleep centeR MUSC’s North Charleston location Sleep Center provides patients the same quality care as the original location at the downtown campus. The 12 sleep-study technologists are trained in specialized care for treatment of adult and pediatric sleep disorders, such as sleepdisordered breathing and sleep apnea. The center diagnoses patients through sleep studies that monitor EEG, heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels and leg movement.

“The new location removes the pressures of being in a hospital setting and allows us to care for our patients in a comfortable and relaxed environment,” said Amanda McGarrigle, Sleep Center manager. “I’m excited to bring our services into the community and our patients couldn’t be happier.” WheelchaiR, Mobility clinic The Wheelchair Seating and Mobility Clinic serves both adult and pediatric patients. The team consists of assistive technology providers who offer patients custom wheelchairs. North Charleston patient

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Applause Program The following employees received recognition through the Applause Program for going the extra mile: Medical Center

Smith, ART 6W; Dawn Salem, ART 6W; Darian Epps, ART 6W; Tibithia Jackson, ART 5W; Sarah Mathes, Oncology & Medical/Surgical Services; Bonnie Treado, Oncology & Medical/Surgical Services; Robin Walker, Oncology & Medical/ Surgical Services; Christian Taylor, Volunteer & Guest Services; Otis Williams, Safety & Security; Mary Robinsons, PAS; Karen Parsons, Women’s Services; Ana Virella, Women’s Services; Jessica Hardy, Women’s Services; Cher Simmons, Safety & Security; Cherise Pelzer, Medical Records; Rita Forrest, Environmental Services; Justin Carr, Volunteer & Guest Services; Erika Medina, ART 6E; Clifford Scott, ART 3W; Rebecca Stephens, Dietetic Services; Janice Petrilla, Radiology; Wendy Williams, 10W; Brett Green, 10W; Sara LaBissoniere, 8E; Alania Heyward, 10W; Megan Ohorodnyk, 10W; Angela Starkey, Environmental Services; Emily Huff, 8E; Bonnie Vasenda, HCC; Darryl Lee, Revenue Cycle; Melinda Biller, PICU; David Habib, Pediatrics Critical Care; Katherine Baldwin, PICU; Angie Kemp, PICU; Lauren Wallace, PICU; Megan DeBolt, Child Life; Marc Lindsey, PICU; Kathleen Clayton, MSICU; Annie Williams, Amb PreOp Clinic; Cindy Stokes, Children’s Hem/Onc; Megan Thomas, Peds Sub-Specialty; Jay Craven, Safety & Security; and Megan Minnich, STICU.

Lisa Jackson, Surgery; Susan Fancher, DDC; Tracy Bernard, 10W; Corey Slusarski, 10W; Ashleigh Millen, 10W; Sheila Freeman, Dietetic Services; Amy Hoyt; PAS; Clarice Dorsey, Radiology; Gunter Bullock, Pharmacy; Susan Shannon, HCC; Traci Davis, SEI; Jennifer Nash, Transplant; Jessica Edwards, Peri-Anesthesia; Sophia Bacani, After Hours Care; Courtney Matthews, ART 9PCU; Muriel Kennedy, GI Clinic; Sharon Dupree-Capers, Revenue Cycle; Alexis Jones, Pharmacy; Kate Miccichi, Revenue Cycle; Louis Luttrell, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Medical Genetics; Georgia McCune, Children’s Services Registration; Jennifer Redfern, Child Life; Terra Kirkwood, Children’s Services; Samantha Humzinger, Meduflex Team; Melvena Nelson, Environmental Services; Calvin Gathers, Facilities Management; Adonteng Kwakye, Urology Services; Gweneth Lazenby, Obstetrics-Gynecology; Katie Davis, Newborn-Special Care Nursery; Lucretia Wilson, GI Clinic; Dale Sanders, ART 9PCU; Nadirah Peterson, ART 4E; Sharon Robinson, Volunteer & Guest Services; Jennifer Grubbs, 9E; Nancy Sampson, Pediatrics Primary Care; Johnnie Martines, Pediatrics Primary Care; Cheryl Holderfield, NSICU; Rebecca University Moore, Labor & Delivery; Diane Graves, Accounts Payable Staff; Emergency DenRevenue Cycle; Stacey Simmons, RT tal Clinic Waiting Room Staff; Sandra Neurology Clinic; Rosemary Brown, Brown, University Transportation; VeRevenue Cycle; Ryan Dennis, ART 6E; Londa Dantzler, Human Resources ManJacquetta Norton, Central Supply; Eve agement; Mellie Klinger, Accounts PaySparger, ART 6E; Cyrus Edelson, ART able; Alison Llewelyn, College of Dental 6W; Florence Davis, ART 6W; Maude Medicine.

Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Editor: Kim Draughn catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Cindy Abole, aboleca@musc.edu Ashley Barker, barkera@musc.edu

The Catalyst is published once a week. Paid adver tisements, which do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, are handled by Island Publications Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or 843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.

WIR supports local nursing home

Women in Radiology (WIR) members wrap Christmas gifts that will be donated to a local nursing home whose elderly residents do not have family.

the catalySt, December 21, 2012 3

Foster care: Making a difference, one family at a time by aShley baRkeR Public Relations

hildren in foster care often fall between the cracks when it comes to their health, but two MUSC employees are making care for the special group of people their priority. Frederica Hughes, certified pediatric nurse practitioner, and Machelle Green, human services coordinator, provide primary and acute care for children up to age 21 through the Foster Care Support Clinic. Working through the Children’s Hospital, the clinic sees an average of 10 children each week, but has more than 270 children enrolled. “I always believe that if you can make a difference in at least one person’s life, then you have been successful,” said Green. Hughes and Green teach community classes — ranging from CPR instruction and asthma education to relaxation techniques for parents who are overwhelmed — free of charge. They also coordinate services for children who have complex medical problems and provide counseling services, with school and home visits as needed. “To not address foster care in a children’s hospital, is like to have a shoe but not have a foot to put in it,” Hughes said. “The clinic makes MUSC Children’s

“To not address foster care in a children’s hospital is like to have a shoe but not have a foot to put in it.” Frederica Hughes Hospital more comprehensive.” The clinic’s enrollment has nearly tripled in size since it began in 2009 and is making an impact on families in Charleston, Berkley and Dorchester counties. For Hughes, one family stands out. “We have a family — a husband and a wife — who always wanted children,” Hughes said. “They were born to be parents. They read all the books and go to all the classes.” Karena Aiken, an MUSC employee, and her husband, Antonio Aiken, fostered their first child in December 2009, a 4-year-old boy named Jalin. They brought home 2-month-old Kavon a month later. Kavon, who was born premature at 27 weeks, had a narrow esophagus and arrived with many health challenges. “I would literally walk in a room and catch him gasping for air,” said Karena Aiken.

While Jalin was primarily physically healthy, he was diagnosed with ADHD shortly after joining his new family. At age 4, he would tell people that he was only 2 years old, and he didn’t know his alphabet. “My husband invested a lot of time and patience just getting Jalin to the point that he knew he was 4 years old,” Aiken said. “That’s left a lasting impression on Jalin. Even as a 4-year-old, he knew he didn’t have that support before he came into care with us.” Aiken began leaning heavily on Hughes at the clinic for support. “Frederica was truly a godsend to me and my family,” she said. “There was nothing that was too small or too big. She never hesitated. She addressed every little concern.” Eventually, the two young boys became adoptable. During the adoption hearing in June 2011, Jalin, then 6, shared with the judge how much of an impact his new family had already made on him. “When the judge asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up, he said, ‘I want to be just like my daddy, and I want to help a little boy just like me,’” said Hughes. “The judge included, we were all weeping.” According to Aiken, Jalin was recently awarded student of the month at his school. For more information about the Foster Care Support Clinic, call 876-7023.

4 the catalySt, December 21, 2012

Currents DeC. 18 People–Fostering employee pride and loyalty Giving Back program Chaplain Terry Wilson, Pastoral Care Services, shared results of a special grant program established in the medical center through the generosity of about 800 patients. Gifts totaling $49,382 were used to establish this fund earlier this fall. Criteria for the grant awards should support the mission of MUSC Excellence and quality patient care. A special committee was formed, headed by Wilson, whose task was to review 43 submitted applications and award grants totaling $24,542 to 15 recipients. Award project include a variety of efforts from teaching materials and training to needed medical devices and project support. Next call for applications will be spring 2013 where the fund will award another $25,000 in grant projects.

Quality – Providing quality patient care in a safe environment

Danielle Scheurer, M.D., and Sheila Scarbrough, R.N., reviewed results from the Dec. 5 MUHA LDI’s brainstorming session seeking feedback from participants on how MUSC can transition to become a high reliable organization. Scheurer described this effort’s philosophy based on the book, “Managing the Unexpected,” which explores this in a variety of industries. The book defines five foundations: Principles of Anticipation — sensitivity to operations; preoccupation with failure and a reluctance to over-simplify and Principles of Containment — resilience and deference to expertise. Achieving this leads an organization from a state of mindfulness to high reliability and the ability to achieve high quality safe care. Scarbrough reviewed LDI information which resulted in 463 ideas. These results were divided into five theme

areas: sensitivity to operations; reluctance to simplify; preoccupation with failure, resilience and deference to expertise. According to Scheurer, the next step is to partner between the SC Hospital Association and the Joint Commission to establish a statewide effort promoting the adoption of high reliability practices in hospitals. Tactics will be developed using information from this collaboration and from the idea gathering. Ultimately, the goal is achieve significant improvements in patient safety and quality resulting in a greater reduction in events causing preventable harm. Online catering ordering system Brad Masteller, and Gina Capps, both of Sodexo Dietetic Services, introduced the cafeteria’s new online catering ordering system and menu. The new system will be launched in January. The system is user – friendly and requires customers to set up an account to place an order. All orders placed will be saved in each customer’s account and a confirmation email will be sent. For information, email at cappsg@musc.edu.

Finance – Providing the highest value to patients while ensuring financial stability

Kelly Crowley, PharmD, manager for Ambulatory Pharmacy Services, reviewed new initiatives in her area including the new discharge delivery system and counseling process. This effort was initiated in the Children’s Hospital in 2010 and started in ART earlier this summer. Discharge delivery will roll out to the university hospital in 2013. This process will improve patient outcomes because our pharmacy staff can verify doses from the inpatient system and calculate doses based on weight. The pharmacy also willwork to resolve compounding issues and prior authorizations. This prevents delays the patient may encounter if using offcampus pharmacies. Prescriptions will be delivered to the bedside and counseling by a pharmacist. The medical center’s

To Medical Center Employees: At the Dec. 18 management communication meeting Dr. Danielle Scheurer, chief quality officer, and Sheila Scarbrough, patient safety manager, discussed “High Reliability Organizations (HROs).” It was explained that reliability is not just a strategy, but it is a mindset and lifestyle. Key concepts around HROs include: sensitivity to operations; preoccupation with failure; deference to expertise; resilience; and reluctance to simplify. Dr. Scheurer and Ms. Scarbrough reviewed feedback from a tabletop exercise conducted at the Dec. 5 Leadership Development Institute (LDI). Details on the communication meeting and LDI presentations can be found on the medical center intranet communication site at http://mcintranet.musc.edu/muscexcellence/ communications/comm_mtgs/index_months_only.htm and the MUSC Excellence LDI site at http://mcintranet. musc.edu/muscexcellence/LDI/index.htm. Dr. Scheurer explained the medical center has committed to a partnership with the South Carolina Hospital Association and the Joint Commission to promote Smith adoption of high reliability practices in hospitals. The ultimate goal is significant improvement in patient safety and quality, resulting in a dramatic reduction in events causing preventable harm. On another matter, as we approach the winter season everyone should be familiar with their department-based weather emergency plans and relevant Medical Center policies, including the Medical Center Weather Emergency Plan (policy A-64) and the Human Resources Hazardous Weather and Emergencies policy 13. Also, the management team should ensure everyone is aware of the Medical Center Employee General/Emergency Management Information line which serves to issue organization-wide and department-based instructions. The Emergency Management Information “card” is located at https://www.musc. edu/medcenter/emergencyManagement/source/MedicalCenterEmployees.pdf and can be printed. Finally, as I wrap up my 40 year career at MUSC, I want to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has made MUSC a great place. I will greatly miss seeing my colleagues and friends on a day-to-day basis, but I will leave the organization knowing we have an outstanding team in place. MUSC is “changing what’s possible” and it’s because of all the dedicated staff, physicians and leaders throughout the organization. Have a happy and safe holiday season. W. Stuart Smith Vice President for Clinical Operations and Executive Director, MUSC Medical Center 340b drug program allows the pharmacy to purchase drugs at a reduced cost to help those in need. The program is only available to patients at discharge and in outpatient settings. Regarding retail pharmacy sales, pharmacy staff encourages patients to use MUSC retail pharmacies, which have yielded positive margin results (average margin is $80 per prescription). This new system was piloted at ART and resulted in a profit.

The new delivery process helps patients get their medications quickly and brings dollars back to the hospital. A technician will work with unit staff to gather demographic and insurance information, review prescription information and work with pharmacy staff to coordinate details prior to delivery to the patient. Announcement The next meetings are Jan. 8 and 15.

the catalySt, December 21, 2012 5

Meet saM

Sanford ‘Sam’ Solomon Department Inpatient Pharmacy How long at MUSC 11 years How are you changing what’s possible at MUSC Providing the ultimate clinical pharmacy services to our patients Meal you love to cook Pasta Dream vacation An Alaskan cruise A must-have in the freezer Ice cream Most embarrassing moment Looking for my eye glasses when, in fact, I was already wearing them Favorite restaurant 82 Queen Favorite place in the world New York City Family Wife, Shelley, and children, Brad and Ryan. We also have two Shih Tzus, Abby and Bentley Fvorite radio station 102.5

6 the catalySt, December 21, 2012

General surgery resident wins investigator award by aShley baRkeR Public Relations

haina Eckhouse, M.D., won MUSC’s second American Heart Association Vivien Thomas Young Investigator Award for her work in developing the first-ever reproducible large-animal model of thoracic aortic aneurysms, which mimics what doctors see in human patients. Her research may lead to further understanding of how aneurysms develop and how they can be treated. People with thoracic aortic aneurysms are usually unaware of their condition, and their aneurysms remain undetected unless caught by happenstance. Patients will go to a clinic or emergency department for some other diagnosis, and upon having a chest X-ray, they discover an aneurysm is present. Many patients who have aneurysms show up on death’s door as a result of their aorta rupturing, according to Rupak Mukherjee, Ph.D., research associate professor in the Cardiothoracic Surgery Division’s research program in the Department of Surgery. “The problem with this disease process is that detection is difficult, if it’s even detected at all,” Mukherjee said. “Our research goals include the development of methods to detect and threat thoracic aortic aneurysms, so having a reproducible large-animal model is useful.” Treatment of aneurysms based on the model, however, is in the very early stages. In her research, Eckhouse confirmed that the porcine model reproduced many of the features of the human form of the disease. The next step, which is where Eckhouse and her team are at now, is to see how the biochemistry will change when the animal is treated with a drug or device placed inside the aorta. Once a particular concept is successfully demonstrated in the large-animal model, it can then be taken to a clinical trial to see if the same treatment would be useful for human patients. “We now have a test-bed that we can start looking at interventions with,” said Jeffrey Jones, Ph.D., research assistant professor in the Department of Surgery. In 2003, John S. Ikonomidis, M.D., Ph.D., the chief of cardiothoracic surgery at MUSC, developed a mouse thoracic aortic aneurysm model. While the mouse model is an excellent resource to study the role of particular proteins and enzymes in aneurysm development, the differences in size between a mouse and a human make the testing of drugs or devices impractical. To address these and other issues, the cardiothoracic surgery research team developed the large-animal thoracic aneurysm model. The porcine model has additional advantages, such as the ability to do serial blood testing.

General surgery resident Dr. Shaina Eckhouse won the Vivien Thomas Young Investigator Award by developing a reproducible, large-animal model of a thoracic aortic aneurysm. From left are: Drs. Rupak Mukherjee, research associate professor in the Department of Surgery; John S. Ikonomidis, the Horace G. Smithy Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery; Eckhouse; and Jeffrey A. Jones, research assistant professor in the Department of Surgery.

“The problem with this disease process is that detection is difficult, if it’s even detected at all.” Dr. Rupak Mukherjee “It’s easier to test devices and different interventions that would be more applicable to humans in a large animal than it would be in a mouse,” Jones said. “With this large-animal model, we can start translating some of the mechanisms that we’ve learned in the mouse back into something that is more applicable to humans and eventually take it to the clinic.” In addition to creating the first reproducible, largeanimal thoracic aortic aneurysm model, Eckhouse and the research team also developed a process to routinely track the progression of thoracic aortic aneurysms in these pigs. “As of now, we’re the only lab on campus that can

perform MRI studies in large animals,” Mukherjee said. Eckhouse credits her research and Vivien Thomas award to the help she received from her mentors in the lab. “I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the help of Drs. Jones, Ikonomidis and Mukherjee,” she said. “If they hadn’t been interested in this for my research, this award would have never happened.” Ikonomidis, who also is the chair of the Cardiovascular Surgery and Anesthesia (CVSA) Council, attended the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in Los Angeles and was master of ceremonies at the CVSA Council Dinner, where it was announced that Eckhouse had received the award. “Obviously, having someone from our laboratory win this award during my tenure as CVSA Council Chair was very personally satisfying,” he said. “This award will be important for the future career of Dr. Eckhouse, who is extremely deserving of it. In addition, it provides validation of our laboratory as one of the premier cardiothoracic research labs in the country.” Eckhouse, who beat finalists from the University of Toronto, the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and the University of Colorado, received her

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The Catalyst, December 21, 2012 7

IP04-888867

8 the catalySt, December 21, 2012

2012 year in review

expanding serviCes: Changing whaT’s pOssible

C OmmiTmenT

p aTienTs

Magnet journey Nurses and staff kicked off events promoting the hospital’s commitment to the Magnet designation journey. Jan. 27 Mechanical heart

babies and those born with birth defects, as well as to seek new ways to prevent these health problems. April 20

and Nutrition team to diagnose young patients with liver and pancreatic diseases and disorders. Sept. 7

Cancer detection Women at high risk for developing invasive breast cancer now have a more definitive answer for appropriate screening methods. May 11

After-hours care clinic MUSC’s Children’s Hospital afterhours care and specialty clinic in Mount Pleasant opened for business Nov. 5. The clinic is geared toward children who need non-urgent care. Nov. 16

Special-needs clinic Pamela Kaminski, DMD, an alumna of the College of Dental Medicine gave a $1.5 million gift to name a special-needs dental clinic in the school’s new clinical building. May 25

Morgan Porter enjoys some pet therapy as she waits for a heart transplant. The Berlin Heart helped 6-year-old Morgan Porter wait almost six months for a new heart. Feb. 3

Forensic program MUSC’s Forensic Psychiatry Program and Sexual Behaviors Clinic and Lab, located in West Ashley, is one of a few on the East Coast with the capacity to conduct clinical, psychological and physiological assessments of sexual behaviors for use by the criminal justice system. Feb. 24 Smoke-free campus MUSC implemented a tobacco-free campus policy March 1. Feb. 24 Level 1 trauma center MUSC’s trauma program was the first in South Carolina to receive national trauma verification at any level. The verification was confirmed by the American College of Surgeons. March 2 Grants support research The March of Dimes of South Carolina Chapter awarded grants to two scientists to advance the treatment of premature

Telescopic lens MUSC’s Storm Eye Institute offers an implantable telescopic lens procedure. The first procedure was performed July 13. Aug. 3

Women’s care services The women’s care service line renovated its postpartum nursing unit. Nov. 30

d ediCaTiOn

s Taff

Wellness Center renovations

Clinical Connections A new publication, Clinical Connections, serves as a central source for internal communication to educate MUSC Health medical staff with information, news, announcements, initiatives and postive outcomes. June 29 CARTA goes to Summerville The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority expanded its bus route to Summerville. The new stop is located at the Park & Ride lot at Dorchester Village Shopping Center. July 6

25 years of service

Members use the dual turnstiles to access the lobby and main entrance of MUSC’s Wellness Center.

Dr. Rita Ryan checks on newborn Ella Nora Evans in the fifth-floor special care nursery.

Women in leadership Elizabeth Pilcher, DMD, was the newest graduate of The Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM) Program for Women. ELAM’s mission is to expand the national pool of qualified women candidiates for leadership in academic medicine, dentistry and public health. June 22

The renovated MUSC Wellness Center lobby has updated decor and a single point of entry. The center has new flooring, wall covering, lighting, expanded program space, new equipment and a redesigned membership desk. Feb. 3

When the Children’s Hospital was completed in 1987, it focused primarily on children with very difficult illnesses or injuries. It still offers expert service, but its reputation has grown to encompass a comprehensive level of pediatric care. Aug. 10

Arboretum planted Urban forest areas improve the environment in a wide range of ways, from the improvement of air quality to encouraging people to be outdoors and exercise more. April 20

Pediatric endoscopy suite The new $1 million pediatric therapeutic endoscopy suite expanded services provided by the Children’s Hospital’s Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology

Lighten Up Charleston Employees have a new way to get and stay healthy as several local campaigns and organizations work to improve the health of the community through weight loss and healthy lifestyles. June 8

Vitamin D project A $3 million grant provides funding for MUSC physician researchers to learn more about vitamin D’s effect on maternal health and fetal development during pregnancy. July 20 Expanded image The Department of Radiology and Radiology Science acquired a new scanner giving radiology specialists a more expanded image to view while allowing patients a more comfortable scan experience. July 27 COBRE grant MUSC is now home to four National Institutes of Health Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE). COBRE is a component of the Institutional Development Award program, which encourages healthrelated research, and supports faculty development and research infrastructure. Sept. 28

The Catalyst, December 21, 2012 9

A concierge greets patients and visitors at the new MUSC Health East Cooper. The patient care facility opened in Mount Pleasant on July 9 and is located near the I-526 and US Hwy. 17 North interchange and Hungryneck Boulevard (1600 Midtown Ave.). MUSC Health East Cooper consists of three floors, 84,000 square feet, 92 treatment rooms and 10 infusion stations. Services include neurosciences, neurosurgery, orthopaedics, radiology, pediatric and adult urology and more. For information, call 876-8282.

Improving access to care MUSC’s Stacy Renouf found an easier way to cut the 82 miles between her job as a Sodexo registered dietetian in Charleston and her patient in Bamberg. Oct. 5 Employee Wellness An innovative new program called the Children’s Hospital Wellness Initiative targets the health of employees through nutrition and fitness activities. Oct. 12 Emergency medicine

Physician assistant Kevin Harmon, Epic trainer Lydia Diaz and Dr. Neil Glover, Emergency Medicine, undergo training.

Emergency medicine personnel can

provide a higher level of patient care thanks to a new seamless and efficient documentation system. Dec. 14

OCIO’s George Haschker, network system’s team lead, tests the camera on the Cisco VX Clinical Assistant cart. The cart allows medical teams to conduct patient consultations and video conferencing.

intitiative to support veterans when they return home from duty. March 23

Study of smokeless tobacco

Urban Farm MUSC Urban Farm was recognized as a Charleston Friendly Yard by the Keep Charleston Beautiful Committee for creating and maintaining an environmentally sound garden. Dec. 14

d evOTiOn

HealthLinks HealthLinks, a new MUSC program that promotes family-centered care, started its pilot program in the Pediatric Primary Care clinic. The program uses student volunteers to connect MUSC patients and their families to non-medical resources in the community. July 13

s TudenTs

Pitch the Pack classes In support of the tobacco-free campus policy, students who want to quit smoking were offered smoking cessation classes free of charge. Jan. 20 Executive level of education The College of Health Professions created the Department of Healthcare Leadership and Management to prepare leaders for the future. March 9. Joining Forces The College of Medicine has committed to enhance its mission in a nationwide

Georgetown Pediatric Center was named as one of the two community training sites in South Carolina. May 4

Dental student Laura Tulga inspects the mouth of Citadel cadet Henry Mills for lesions. Studying the use of smokeless tobacco among men and evaluating their risk for oral cancer were the goals of third-year dental students Laura Tulga and Jennie Odom. March 23

Residency program The Health Resources and Services Administration awarded MUSC a grant to initiate a primary care track in the pediatric residency program. The

Wellness Works Wellness Works is the new student communication hub of all wellness and well-being programs. It is dedicated to helping students increase their awareness of every aspect of wellness. Aug. 24 Pirraglia nursing scholarship The Tony Pirraglia Nursing Scholarship was awarded in October, more than 10 years after Pirraglia was killed. The scholarship was awarded to an employee who is a student in the graduate program at the College of Nursing. Nov. 30

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Achievement in Diversity Awards accepting nominations MUSC’s Office of Student Diversity is accepting nominations for the Earl B. Higgins Award 2013. Established to honor a former director of minority affairs, the award acknowledges dedication to positive contributions to diversity enhancement on the campus, in the colleges, the university or MUHA. Nominations are being accepted for two separate awards: The Earl B. Higgins 2013 Achievement in Diversity Award and The Earl B. Higgins 2013 Student Leadership in Diversity Award. Nominees should be individuals who have contributed significantly to diversity in three of the following five areas: Enriches diversity through student/ employee recruitment, retention, enrichment or relations; Improves diversity through excellence in service to patients, families and visitors; Advances one or more of the several target areas of diversity, including race relations, gender issues, disabled, aging and

international constituencies; Recognizes and takes initiative to act upon potential opportunities to significantly influence the organization/work environment as it pertains to diversity; Promotes improvements in the understanding of the benefits of diversity within MUSC and the community. Nominations must include the nomination form (http:// academicdepartments.musc.edu/ diversity/earlbhiggins.html/), and two letters of endorsement on 8 ½ X 11 paper for each nomination. Attach letters of endorsement to the nomination form. Electronic submissions to burnham@ musc.edu are recommended. However, packets may also be submitted via fax and mail. Winners will be announced March 1. For information, call or e-mail Willette S. Burnham, M.Ed., executive director for student programs in the Office of Student Diversity, at burnham@musc.edu or 792-2146.

centeR Continued from Page One Ervin Clark has been coming to the clinic since 1991. He started seeing physical therapist Jill Monger for treatment and later received regular support with wheelchair tune-ups or technology evaluations about every five years. As a teen, Clark was injured doing back flips on home mattresses. The accident left him a quadriplegic. Today, Monger and colleague Sarah Kraft, DPT, are part of a team of specialists who provides care to children and adults, especially elderly patients who are diagnosed with spinal cord injuries or mobility impairments including cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease. “The new facility was large enough that we were able to incorporate our wheelchair clinic and sleep lab into the plans,” said Sally Potts, R.N., director of therapeutic and professional services. “Vendors and specialized physical therapists work with patients to ensure wheelchairs are custom fit to our patients.”

Ervin Clark began seeing physical therapist Jill Monger in 1991 for regular wheelchair tune-ups. The Wheelchair Seating Clinic allows patients to regain independence. The new ability to navigate and explore an environment directly impacts a patient’s life, allowing for mobility and independence that wasn’t attainable before. The Wheelchair Clinic is operated on an outpatient basis. All three clinics are open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 876-7200.

the catalySt, December 21, 2012 11

in memOry q Donna Odessa Jenkins, a social worker in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Youth Division, died Feb. 21. March 2 q Benjamin Lawson, DDS, professor emeritus of oral and maxillofacial surgery and founding dean emeritus of the College of Health Professions, died Feb. 15. March 23 q Gene Elizabeth Burges, M.D., a clinician, advisor, scholar and MUSC alumna, died May 5. May 25 q George Cooper IV, M.D., director of the Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, died April 28. May 11 q Harry S. Margolius, M.D., Ph.D., former chairman of the Department of Pharmacology, died June 17. June 29 q Lola, a therapy dog for the Medically Fragile Children’s Program, died July 7. July 27 q Jerome Burik, a College of Health Professions occupational therapist, passed away Aug. 13. Aug. 24 q Kathleen Cegles, D.Ed., physical therapy services, Community Aid, Relief, Education and Support Clinic, died Sept. 1. Sept. 28 q Gordon Stine, DDS, special assistant to the president, director of Dental Continuing Education and founder of the University Cultural Affairs Council, died April 11. Oct. 12 q Bernard “Bernie” Deas Jr., M.D., first African-American to graduate from the College of Medicine in 1971, died June 29. Oct. 12 q Carolyn Reed, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon, mentor, educator and oncologist, died Nov. 16. Reed was the first woman to serve as president of several major thoracic surgical organizations. Nov. 30

12 the catalySt, December 21, 2012

Protocol reduces radiation exposure for patients

omputed tomography (CT) scans allow medical professionals to look inside a patient’s body without ever having to make a physical incision. However, the radiation that the patient is exposed to during these scans is potentially harmful, especially for pediatric patients. Radiation is a concern because exposure has a theoretical risk of causing cancer during a patient’s lifetime. According to research, there is a risk that one child in every 1,000 who undergoes a CT scan will develop a fatal cancer during the course of his or her lifetime. As the dosage increases, the cancer risk also will increase. MUSC Children’s Hospital is taking measures to reduce radiation exposure in its patients through multiple strategies, one of which is the development of clinical guidelines for trauma patients and patients with suspected appendicitis by incorporating early surgical consults prior to the performance of CT scans. Christian Streck, M.D., assistant professor of pediatric surgery, said children are more prone to cancer through radiation because of three factors: 1) a young child’s cells are still rapidly dividing; therefore, their tissues are more sensitive to radiation, 2) a child has a longer lifespan than an adult and a longer time to manifest the potentially harmful effects of radiation, and 3) the radiation dose and its effects are cumulative during the child’s lifetime. In the past six years, the overall amount of CT scans has risen significantly, particularly in emergency medicine, according to Streck. “In the past, doctors used medical history and physical exams to evaluate a

patient. Now, it just seems easier for a doctor to order a scan before even seeing a patient,” he said. Nationally, two of the most common diagnoses for which CT scans are ordered include suspected appendicitis and trauma. Streck said many asymptomatic trauma patients undergo “pan CT” of the head, neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis evaluating for injury. Although CT scans are helpful in carefully selected children with specific clinical signs of pathology, the “old fashioned” physical examination is enough for a surgeon to decide if intervention is needed in most cases. According to Streck, MUSC sees about 100 appendicitis cases and 300 trauma cases each year. “These are the two cases where people overuse CT scans in children,” Streck said. “For most patients, CT should be the last option, and a hands-on evaluation should be the first step to diagnosis.” By implementing a clinical pathway with earlier surgical evaluation, MUSC has reduced the amount of CT scans in appendicitis cases by about 80 percent and in pediatric traumas by almost 50 percent in the past several years, said Streck. Jeanne G. Hill, M.D., professor of radiology and pediatrics, said there are multiple ways to minimize a child’s exposure to radiation. First and foremost, any imaging, particularly if it requires radiation, should be indicated by the clinical situation. “The physician needs to weigh the risks and benefits of CT scans in children,” Hill said. If, in fact, the CT is indicated, the technical parameters are tailored to the size and weight of the child, the examination is limited to the area

of clinical interest and repeat scanning is avoided. In consultation with the radiologist, alternative imaging modalities that do not utilize radiation may provide adequate information. In the case of appendicitis, MUSC uses ultrasounds as the primary imaging modality. CT scans are reserved for problematic cases. Both Streck and Hill believe that an ultrasound is a better alternative to CT scans in pediatric patients because of the lack of body fat and smaller size of children. However, according to Hill, CT scans in many institutions are used rather than ultrasounds because ultrasounds are operator dependent and many sonographers do not feel comfortable scanning children. Another alternative to CT scans is the MRI, which does not utilize ionizing radiation. MRI scans are significantly more time consuming, and they require the patient to stay very still for longer periods of time, usually resulting in children being sedated. Streck and Hill agree that if MRI scans were faster, they would be a much better alternative. Even though there is a higher cancer risk with CT scans, Streck and Hill stress that the fear of radiation should not negatively influence appropriate medical treatment for a child. Benefits of an appropriately indicated CT scan far outweigh the potential risks, according to Hill. “MUSC Children’s Hospital, through the implementation of clinical guidelines and research, will continue to develop strategies to minimize the risk of radiation exposure associated with CT scans,” Hill said. Editor’s note: The above article is a reprint.

CofC baseball team visits MUSC Several upperclassmen from the College of Charleston baseball team, along with head coach Monte Lee, visited the Children’s Hospital. Foreground: Jimmy Holton, left, helps 10-year-old Children’s Hospital patient Tremaine Washington decorate an ornament, along with Bradley Goodson and Matt Pegler. Background: Tyler Jackson and Brandon Murray play pool with 10-year-old patient Tyreq Mitchell. According to Goodson the visit was a humbling experience. “When you are always caught up with the obligations of baseball and school, it is easy to forget about the important things in life. I was reminded that I can’t take any of my blessings for granted.” The group spent the morning decorating ornaments and playing air hockey with pediatric patients.

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Advancing women faculty award presented to dean by cindy abole Public Relations Providing exceptional leadership that supports diversity and inspires and empowers women to make a meaningful impact with their careers and role in the community is a priority for Etta D. Pisano, M.D. On Dec. 17, Pisano, who is vice president for medical affairs and dean of the College of Medicine, was named the inaugural winner of the MUSC Women Scholars Initiative’s (WSI) Advancement of Women Faculty Award. Pisano accepted the award in the presence of her family, fellow faculty members, colleagues and friends. “I want to thank everyone for this honor. It’s quite remarkable to see the changes that have taken place over the past 50 years — there are many women who are successfully balancing careers and family, but we still have a long way to go,” Pisano said. “We are fortunate to be at MUSC where there is an institutional committment to diversity, and to diversity of leadership. I’m here today because of Ray Greenberg and his vision for what MUSC can be and should be. I share Ray’s belief that a diverse institution with diverse leadership makes better decisions and can be a stronger force in the world.” Ashli Sheidow, Ph.D., WSI vice chair,

Dr. Etta Pisano, second from right, receives the inanugural WSI award from Drs. Leonie Gordon, from left, Rita Ryan and Ashli Sheidow. Pisano in a nomination letter focusing praised Pisano for her hard work and important contributions to the university on multiple achievements including tripling the number of academic and women’s leadership development department chairs in the College of since her arrival in July 2010 as MUSC’s Medicine who are women; appointing first female dean of the medical school. According to Sheidow, Pisano’s a woman as senior associate dean for medical education; instituting a nomination rose above other nominees faculty spousal recruitment policy; and and focused on her dedication to foster expanding mentorship and professional women leaders. Rita M. Ryan, M.D., chair of the development opportunities for faculty. “There is a culture change happening Department of Pediatrics, praised

at MUSC, and I think Dr. Pisano has been the catalyst for this change. She’s not only focused on women but supports increased diversity in general,” said Ryan. Another speaker was Department of Radiology professor Leonie Gordon, M.D., who said Pisano is an advocate for affirming women’s contributions and accomplishments, and a leader set on improving the educational and professional environment for women. “Dr. Pisano recognizes that progress has been made nationally to empower women in medicine. She is already a very positive role model for all women at MUSC and has willingly shared her vision and experiences with us,” said Gordon. “She inspires all women colleagues and is leading the College of Medicine with a lasting impact and creating a solid framework for all women.” The selection process hosted many nominations and resulted in an extensive review led by committee chair Mary Mauldin, Ed.D., vice chair Darlene Shaw, Ph.D., and an eight-person selection committee. In addition to this award, Pisano was recognized in 2012 with the Gold Medal from the American Roentgen Ray Society and the Alice Ettinger Distinguished Achievement Award by the American Association for Women Radiologists.

aWaRd Continued from Page Six award on Nov. 6. Eckhouse attended Trinity University as an undergraduate and completed medical school at the University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio. She started in the general surgery residency program at MUSC in 2008, and chose to spend two years doing a research rotation in the Cardiothoracic Surgery Research Laboratory. “As a surgery resident who is interested in an academic surgical career, the award helps set me apart from other vascular surgery fellowship applicants and other potential applicants in my future career,” said Eckhouse. She is not the first resident to receive the Vivien Thomas award while at MUSC. Jean Marie Ruddy, M.D., won the award in 2008 while working on aortic samples in the same lab as Eckhouse. Ruddy is currently pursuing fellowship training in vascular surgery at Emory University and is expected to return to MUSC as a junior faculty member in the

Division of Vascular Surgery. “Successful submission to a national research competition such as the Vivien Thomas Award is not an individual accomplishment. Competing at this level requires academic excellence in not only scientific principles but also data extraction, organization, and manuscript composition,” Ruddy said. “For years the cardiothoracic research laboratory team at MUSC has provided the support and mentorship that motivated trainees, such as Shaina, have utilized to propel themselves into bright and successful careers, and I feel this most recent accolade is an appropriate time to recognize their work as well.” Receiving the Vivien Thomas twice in the award’s young 16-year history speaks to the institution’s reputation, according to Jones. “The quality of research is dictated by the institution that you work at and the support they give you. MUSC has had a long standing history of good, excellent cardiovascular research,” he said.

Eckhouse said that someone approached her right after the awards ceremony and commented that it was fitting for her research to receive the Vivien Thomas award because of Thomas’ own work with animal models. Thomas, an African-American surgical assistant, pioneered a procedure that was used to treat blue baby syndrome by simulating the condition in a canine model at Johns Hopkins University in the 1940s. “I feel honored. I’ve had good mentorship and been able to be a part of meaningful research,” Eckhouse said. “With this award, it solidifies and validates how much quality research comes out of this lab.”

Holiday Break

The Catalyst will not be published Dec. 28 or Jan. 4 and will resume publication Jan. 11. For information, call 792-4107 or e-mail catalyst@ musc.edu. For advertising information, e-mail sales@moultrienews.com.

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eMployee Wellness It’s hard to believe we are wrapping up another year. It seems like yesterday that I was writing about all the great things we had accomplished in making MUSC a healthier place to work. With the support and commitment of our leadership, we have moved beyond our own goals and expectations towards creating a true culture of wellness at MUSC. q Gold Apple: On March 1, MUSC Susan Johnson was awarded the Gold Apple for its accomplishments in creating a healthy food environment. The Gold Apple designation is a nationally-recognized, effective and practical model for promoting delicious and affordable healthy food, and is awarded by the SCHA Working Well and NC Prevention Partners leadership. q MUSC Urban Farm: In March, a new educational garden was developed on the campus to create opportunities for participants to learn how to eat for health. Produce harvested on the farm is used by chefs to prepare wellness items in the MUSC cafeterias, donated to local food banks, used at the Ronald McDonald House, Hope Lodge, farmto-school projects, and church food pantries, and shared with volunteers and participants in return for participating in farm sessions.

Health at work

q Office of Health Promotion: In June, the Office of Health Promotion was created to build an interprofessional, multidisciplinary network that supports collaboration, coordination, and commitment to a culture of wellness that reflects the mission of MUSC. q Porcher Medicinal Garden: When planning the space surrounding the Drug Discovery and Bioengineering buildings, MUSC dug back into its own archives to create the Porcher Medicinal Garden, which serves as an educational piece of living history right here on campus. The medicinal garden is based on the works of F. Peyre Porcher, former graduate and professor at the Medical College of the State of South Carolina, and author of Resources of the Southern Fields and Forests, which cataloged southern plants with therapeutic qualities that could be used as substitutes. q Tobacco-free campus and Gold Star designation: MUSC was recognized as a Gold Star Hospital as part of Working Well. In addition to creating a tobaccofree campus, we also implemented an innovative “pitch the pack” program, providing free cessation support and medication for employees and students as well as coupons for visitors to receive free nicotine replacement therapy. q SC Working Well Center of Excellence: MUSC has been honored to serve as a Working Well Center of Excellence for providing leadership within the health care industry, business community, and community at large.

MUSC president receives Real Estate Award MUSC President Ray Greenberg, M.D. Ph.D., received the March of Dimes Annual Real Estate Award Nov. 29. Greenberg was chosen by City of Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley Jr. for this award for his “significant impact on Real Estate and Development in Charleston through the development of the MUSC campus and for his outstanding leadership and citizenship in the Charleston area.” The Real Estate Award was established in 1998 by the South Carolina Chapter of the March of

Dimes to honor a member of the real estate community who has demonstrated a long history of service. Recipients are chosen for their outstanding leadership and vision in the community. “We are extremely pleased to recognize Dr. Greenberg with this award,” said Meredith Repik, March of Dimes director. “The contributions he has made to our community and his continued involvement and leadership in Charleston make him a worthy recipient.”

the catalySt, December 21, 2012 15

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Holiday Break The Catalyst will not be published Dec. 28 or Jan. 4 and will resume publication Jan. 11. For information, call Kim Draughn at 792-4107 or e-mail catalyst@musc.edu. For advertising information, call Island Publications at 849-1778 or e-mail sales@moultrienews.com.

16 the catalySt, December 21, 2012