’s
October 16, 2015 edition
The Pulse
Your regular check up on SCKMC activities Share your thoughts, story ideas, and comments by e-mail to claytonp@sckrmc.org.
SCKMC Flu Vaccine Campaign Oct. 12-16 Infection Prevention Coordinator, Joanne Holman, has visited every department within SCKMC this week in an effort to reach a hospital wide goal of a 95% vaccination rate. It is highly recommended that anyone working within a healthcare setting receive the flu vaccine. A new policy change for SCKMC staff, students, volunteers, and physicians requires anyone who did not receive the vaccination to wear a surgical mask throughout “flu season”. SCKMC defines flu season as beginning with the first confirmed patient with influenza and ending when cases significantly drop off, typically March. Staff who miss the opportunity to receive the vaccine should contact Holman or the ER to schedule an appointment. Vaccines are available at a variety of places within Ark City such as the health department, local pharmacies, and your family physician’s office. (Pictured): Holman provides the flu vaccine to members of the hospital Auxiliary prior to their general meeting.
Traffas Memorial Bench Dedication Cindy Traffas had worked at SCKMC as a Certified Laboratory Technician for more than 15 years before she passed away on July 13th To honor her memory, the lab department organized donations for a memorial bench to be placed outside the hospital’s front entrance. The bench was placed between the hospital and the Outpatient Services Building earlier this week. A brief dedication ceremony will be held with the Traffas family at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 18th, Cindy’s birthday.
PA’s Celebrate Recognition Week National Physician Assistant Week takes place each year from Oct. 6–12 to celebrate the profession and its contributions to the nation’s health. SCKMC employs three PAs, Deb Schrag (ER), Randy Simpson (ER), and Racquel Szabo (Specialty Clinic). The U.S. has more than 100,000 certified PAs caring for millions of patients annually. PAs practice medicine on healthcare teams with physicians and other providers, making the healthcare system stronger, while allowing more patients get access to high-quality, cost-effective care.
Healthy Living: Trick or Treat Safety Fall celebrations like Halloween and Arkalalah are fun times for children, and can also provide a chance to give out healthy snacks, get physical activity, and focus on safety. Check out these tips to help make the festivities fun and safe for trick-or-treaters and party guests. •Make sure to examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. •Wear costumes that fit properly and don’t cover kids’ eyes. •Plan healthy treats. Instead of candy, offer safe nonfood treats or healthy snacks. Limit the amount of treats you eat. •Always trick-or-treat in groups or with a trusted adult. Never trick-or-treat alone. •Ensure safety on the street. Mark treat bags and costumes with reflective tape, and have children carry a flashlight so drivers can see them. •Keep porches and walkways clear of candles and obstacles. •Always WALK and don’t run. For more information on this topic visit: www.cdc.gov.
SCKMC Attends Baby Shower The Breast Feeding Advocates of Cowley County will be sponsoring the third annual “Community Wide Baby Shower” this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be held at William Newton Hospital’s Physician Pavilion in Winfield. A variety of vendors are scheduled to have booths focused on pregnancy and newborn items, as well as health information for women and children. The County-wide Baby Shower is free to attend, open to the general public, and will include drawings for prizes.
The Pharm Forum with Homer Mah, D.Ph. According to the CDC, more than 76 million flu vaccinations have been distributed. The vaccinations have been updated to better match the strains that are circulating. It is recommended that everyone 6 months and older be vaccinated. This not only protects yourself, but helps protect friends and family. Receiving the flu vaccine may help reduce flu illnesses, decrease doctor visits, decrease missed school, and reduce hospitalizations. The body takes about two weeks after vaccination for it to fight off flu illness. Consider vaccinating yourself and your family.
Experience a new type of
mammography.
The chance of a woman having invasive breast cancer some time during her life is about 1 in 8. At the medical center, specially trained technologists and doctors work together to diagnose and treat breast changes that may be cancer. From mammography to same day surgical biopsies, we have the team to provide an increased likelihood of early detection. Now with digital mammography early detection is even easier. Experience a gentle exam in less time than usual, with exceptional quality for diagnostic accuracy. Call 441-5770 to schedule your appointment today.
Throughout October, pay the regular price or allow us to bill your insurance for a mammogram screening and you will receive a certificate for a free mammogram screening* to give to your sister, mother, friend, or to donate to someone in need. *RADIOLOGIST’S INTERPRETATION FEES ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THIS OFFER.
Find out more about our services at www.sckmc.org