’s
January 19, 2018
The Pulse
Your regular check up on SCKMC activities Share your thoughts, story ideas, and comments by e-mail to claytonp@sckrmc.org.
Flu Season Hits Full Swing With cases of influenza nearing epidemic numbers across the Nation, healthcare providers are bracing for what could be one of the hardest-hitting flu seasons in recent years. “We really didn’t start getting hit until the very end of December. Now we’ve had 31 patients test positive for influenza in January and 12 this week,” said Tami Eiselt, SCKMC’s Infection Control Nurse. The majority of the hospital’s patients have been able to be treated in the ER and released home, however some are being admitted after displaying signs of severe dehydration. “It’s more than we had last year, and it’s earlier. We have seen numerous patients, where the family members will all have it,” said Tracy Austin, SCKMC’s Director of Nursing. Of those admitted to the hospital, several have been children under two years of age. “It really is going to hit the elderly and infants a lot harder. They are going to be the two groups who are more severe,” explained Bonnie Schieber, RN and SCKMC’s ER Manager. Influenza or “the flu” is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. “If you are sick with it stay home. Do not go out in public, do not go outside because you are highly contagious and all you are going to do is spread your germs to where everybody else can get them,” Schieber said. To decrease the spread of the virus, the medical center has implemented a strict visitation policy not allowing visitors under the age of 12 and requesting anyone who enters the facility who has not had a flu shot to wear a mask. In addition, staff are requesting patients who are experiencing flu-like symptoms wear a mask. “It is to protect others from the germs. We are asking for their cooperation with trying to keep the germ level low,” Schieber said. SCKMC staff recommend a few simple tips to decrease your chances of catching the flu this season. “Wash your hands a lot and don’t touch the “T-zone”, your eyes, nose and mouth,” Eiselt said. The medical center team also say it’s not too late to get your flu shot. Eiselt has given 200+ vaccinations this season. “If you do get the flu shot you are much less susceptible to getting the flu, and it will lessen the actual effects of the flu if you get it,” Austin said.
Ball Named Lifesaver of the Month Congratulations to Cody Ball for being named the Integrity Healthcare Professionals Lifesaver of the Month for SCKMC. Cody was nominated for his exceptional efforts while caring for a patient that was being transferred to a Wichita facility. While in route, the patient became critically ill. Cody, being in the back of the ambulance by himself with this patient, performed multiple life saving measures on his own. This type of situation is challenging for multiple medical personnel to perform, let alone one person. Because of Cody's excellent skills and persistence the patient's life was saved. The EMS team was able to get the patient to the nearest hospital to for re-stabilization and eventually able to complete the transfer to Wichita. Cody is a Firefighter/Paramedic and has his degree in Paramedicine. He is currently employed by The City of Arkansas City Fire and EMS Department.
Fundraiser Held for Stegman The son of Alyssa & Riley Stegman, both former employees of SCKMC, has been diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer. Nineteen month old Carter Stegman has undergone two chemo treatments so far to fight Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) which has targeted his skin, lymph nodes, GI tract, upper jaw, and liver. CARTERSTRONG bracelets are available for purchase for $5 through the SCKMC lab. The bracelets also provide admission to a March 3rd pancake and sausage feed fundraiser to support the Stegman family. For more information visit Carter Strong on Facebook.
The Pharm Forum with Homer Mah, D.Ph. The FDA is requiring labeling changes on all cough and cold medicines that contain codeine and hydrocodone. These medicines are no longer indicated for use in children because they have determined that the risks outweigh the benefits. They have also added to the Boxed Warning section the safety information about the risks of misuse, abuse, addiction, overdose, death, and difficulty breathing. Parents should be aware that codeine and hydrocodone are also available in combination with antihistamines and decongestants. Always read the label on your prescriptions and address any concerns with your health care provider.
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