Blog Center: Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point

The late Don Hess will be honored on ‘his day’ by man he saved

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 18:40:00 +0000

Don Hess, former longtime director of the
Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point
Emergency Medical Services Academy,
passed away in August 2011.

The second annual Don Hess Day, to honor the late, former longtime director of the Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point Emergency Medical Services Academy, will be highlighted by the presence of a man Hess is credited with saving about five years ago.

Don Satoski, of Crown Point, who had collapsed due to an undetected heart defect at the finish line of the city’s Hub Run and was attended to by Hess, who also was a paramedic; is scheduled to throw out the first pitch at the event, scheduled for 6:10 p.m. July 13 at the U.S. Steel Yard, prior to a Gary South Shore Railcats game.

Widow Lenore Hess said she received a letter from wife Joyce Satoski, praising Hess and expressing gratitude for his efforts.

“My husband was unresponsive and literally dead for about two minutes and your Don continued to work on him until he finally got a heartbeat,” the letter said, adding, Satoski was taken to Franciscan St. Anthony Health where he was found to have a defective heart valve and underwent corrective surgery.

“Your husband visited mine during his 10 days in the hospital ... No words can express our gratitude and the love we have for your husband. We have prayed for him since that day and now will continue to pray to him,” the letter said.

Hess died in August 2011, following surgery complications.

Lenore Hess said the letter and the presence of Satoski and his family adds particular meaning to the event, proceeds of which will benefit The Don Hess Memorial Scholarship Fund that supplies monies, through the Crown Point Community Foundation, for paramedic and emergency medical technician students.

“What makes this a real special day, not just for myself and Don’s family, is that the Satoski family will attend and throw out the first ball. In fact, 45 members of the family will be attending to help celebrate the event,” Lenore Hess said.

Tickets for Don Hess Day are available for $10, through June 30, through the Crown Point Fire and Rescue department or the Emergency Medical Services Academy, which is located on the Franciscan St. Anthony Health campus, 1201 S. Main St., Crown Point. The Railcats organization also will donate $5 from each ticket sold that day.

For more information, contact Dale Holsti at (219) 306-7361, or send e-mail to: dholsti@gmail.com. To donate to the scholarship fund, call (219) 662-7252, or visit: www.crownpointcommunityfoundation.org.

Hospital sponsors annual EMS Week celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Fri, 24 May 2013 17:51:00 +0000

The Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point Emergency Medical Services Academy, which trains most paramedics and emergency medical technicians in south Lake County, annually sponsors a cookout in honor of National Emergency Services Week, which was May 19 to 26 this year. This year’s event on May 23 was hosted by Crown Point Fire and Rescue and proved to be a cook-in, due to cool, windy, rainy weather.

Shown at the grill is Justin Gettler, a Crown Point firefighter. Taking a break from their duties is Jack Eskridge, left, a former 34-year paramedic, who also was Lowell fire chief; and Rob Dowling, Emergency Medical Services Academy director.

Cancer survivors will celebrate their day at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Tue, 21 May 2013 16:21:00 +0000

Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point will offer a Celebration of Life on National Cancer Survivors Day June 2.

The Burrell Cancer Center on the hospital campus, 1201 S. Main St., will host the free event from 2 to 4 p.m. and offer games, prizes, a range of activities, snacks, free chair massages and yoga demonstrations.

Registration is required by May 30 by calling (800) 931-3322.

Franciscan St. Anthony will join hundreds of communities worldwide in noting the 26th annual observance.
Local event sponsors include the Breast Care Center at Franciscan St. Anthony Health, Cancer Health Treatment Centers LLC, Michiana Hematology Oncology and Premier Oncology Hematology Associates.

National Cancer Survivors Day is a time for pause to honor America’s nearly 14 million cancer survivors. “A ‘survivor’ is anyone living with a history of cancer – from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life,” according to the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation.

The event provides an opportunity for survivors to connect with other survivors, celebrate milestones, and recognize the health care providers, family and friends who have supported them.

“When most people hear the word ‘cancer,’ they automatically think the worst,” says Foundation spokeswoman, Laura Shipp. “But the truth is that more people are living longer and better quality lives after cancer than ever before. National Cancer Survivors Day is an opportunity for these cancer survivors to come together and celebrate this new reality in cancer survivorship. There is life after cancer. And that’s something to celebrate.”

The nonprofit National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation provides free guidance, education, and networking support to hundreds of hospitals, support groups, and other cancer-related organizations that host National Cancer Survivors Day events in their communities. For more information on the program, visit: http://www.ncsd.org/about-us.

"Nurse's nurse" receives annual Nightingale Award

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Fri, 10 May 2013 21:32:00 +0000

Bernie Puplava, left, a 24-year endoscopy registered nurse at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point who has been in her profession for 44 years, was honored May 10 with the hospital’s annual 2013 Nightingale Award during National Nurses Week.

She shares a light moment with Carol Schuster, Franciscan Alliance Northern Indiana Region chief nursing officer, shortly after receiving an honorary pin.

The hospital’s Professional Development Council of Shared Decision Making chooses the winner from among nominees, of which there were four this year.

Puplava was commended, for, among other attributes, putting patients’ and physicians’ needs above her own, often responding to requests during odd hours for emergency situations and for working holidays; and for her compassion, commitment and accountability. She also was lauded for treating patients’ family members respectfully, for being a consummate-professional team player, and for being dependable and trustworthy.

Puplava told a packed room during the award program of her love for the profession and expressed gratitude to her coworkers.

The award is named in honor of legendary nurse Florence Nightingale.

Celebrating National Nurses & Hospital Week 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Mon, 06 May 2013 16:04:00 +0000

A special message from our Mission and Spiritual Care Team:

May 6-12, 2013 is National Nurses Week. No other profession touches people the same way a nurse does. Our nurses touch the heart, soul, mind and body of each patient.

A patient commented, "I am 82 years old and the nurse saw that I was frightened and she asked if I wanted her to stay with me…. She stayed and comforted me…. I loved the concern and I felt safe!!!" Another patient commented, "Nurses may not be angels, but they are the next best things…."

Although each day is a challenge, and the work is often physically and emotionally demanding, what a privilege the nursing profession must be. Florence Nightingale – the Founder of Nursing – put it well: nursing is a "higher calling" for the special few who can combined art and science into a thing of beauty, compassion and caring at the bedside. It is not just a job, it is a mission.

Following Nurses Week, we celebrate National Hospital Week, May 12-18, 2013. For years, Franciscan Alliance hospitals have touched the hearts, souls, minds and bodies of thousands in Nortwest Indiana and South Chicago land. It is a continuing mission that begun 150 years ago by Mother Maria Theresia Bonzel – the Founder of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Perpetual Adoration. Little did Florence Nightingale and Mother Theresia realize that over a century later their visions would converge across the Atlantic as Franciscan Alliance.

Let us honor and celebrate our nurses and staff for continuing to answer the call to bring Christ’s compassion and caring to others. WE ARE PROUD OF OUR NURSES! WE ARE PROUD OF OUR STAFF!

Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point scores a safety for Tri-Town Raiders

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:13:00 +0000

Attendees or participants at Tri-Town Raider youth football games henceforth can have a greater sense of security in knowing that should a health emergency strike, help will be closer at hand, thanks to the donation by Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point of a potentially life-saving Automated External Defibrillator.

The AED is a portable electronic device that diagnoses potentially life-threatening cardiac problems and is able to treat them through defibrillation that stops arrhythmia and allows the heart to re-establish an effective rhythm.

The donation of $1,500 to purchase the device came about when Dave Ozsust (standing, second from left), a St. John police officer and Raiders coach, contacted Rob Dowling (center), Franciscan St. Anthony Health Emergency Medical Services Academy director, seeking advice on how to obtain such a device. Dowling subsequently contacted David Ruskowski, hospital president (second from right), who agreed to the fund the purchase.

“You perform a great service to area children through your program and we are proud to help to be able to be to provide a life-saving piece of assistance,” Ruskowski told team representatives, who thanked him for the gesture.

Also shown are coach Ricardo Guerrero (left) and Raiders president Tim Arvanitis (right), a Schererville police officer, who was instrumental in organizing the Schererville-based organization, beginning in 1991. The group, which also includes cheerleaders, has grown to more than 200 participants, who range in age from 5 to 14. Shown in the front row (from left) are Ricardo Guerrero Jr., Megan Ozsust and Brandon Ozsust.

Every minute counts: the facts you need to know about stroke

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Wed, 01 May 2013 13:16:00 +0000

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in adults. A stroke results when blood flow to the brain is interrupted and nearby cells die from a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Treatments are available that can greatly minimize damage caused by a stroke—but you must recognize symptoms and get to a hospital immediately to avoid disability. Every minute counts

What are the symptoms of a stroke?

The warning signs of a stroke have a quick onset, and include sudden:

numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
confusion
trouble speaking or understanding speech
difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance/coordination
severe headache with no known cause

If someone is having stroke symptoms, perform the FAST assessment:

(F)ace: Ask person to smile; look for facial droop and uneven smile.(A)rms: Ask person to raise both arms. Can he/she do it evenly?
(S)peech: Ask person to say a simple sentence. Listen for slurred speech.
(T)ime: CALL 911 and get to the hospital immediately!

Am I at risk of having a stroke?

The following are stroke risk factors that can be minimized with medical treatment or lifestyle changes:

High blood pressure: This is the number one cause of stroke. Know your blood pressure and have it checked regularly.
Smoking
Diabetes
Heart disease
High cholesterol
Physical inactivity and obesity
Excessive alcohol use

Knowing your stroke risk is the first step in prevention. Have regular medical checkups, and talk with your health care provider about what you can do to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Online Stroke Assessment
Our online Stroke Assessment can help explain your risk factors and recommend steps for reducing your risk. Take the Stroke Risk Assessment >

Because May is National Stroke Awareness Month, on May 22, 2013, Franciscan Alliance stroke coordinators Kari Kerstetter and Amy Linsemeyer will be discussing stroke recognition and the importance of early activation of 911 at the monthly Mallwalkers event at 9 a.m. at Westfield Southlake mall in Hobart. The Mallwalkers program, sponsored by Franciscan Alliance and the mall, takes place on the fourth Wednesday of the month in the JC Penney court on the first floor. Blood pressure screenings also are available.

Managing Change

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:29:00 +0000

Submitted by: Cathy M. Cinko, LCSW

Change is one mainstay in our lives today. Change affects us in our home lives, but also in our workplace. Change is all around us. Change is not only persistent, but it is also consistent. Do we want to embrace change or resist change? Embracing change is an adaptable quality. Resisting change is maladaptive. Resisting change could be perceived by others as being rigid and inflexible. Embracing change, on the other hand, could show others that we are flexible and a team player.

Some people view change positively. This change is viewed as a learning opportunity or growing potential. Others may view change negatively. Change is perceived as something to fear or avoid. Fearing or avoiding change will only prolong the inevitable. If change is feared then sometimes it is important to develop coping skills to assist an individual with embracing the changes. Coping can be defined as behavioral and cognitive strategies to deal with experiences that are perceived as negative.

Coping with change means that you take charge and be a part of the change solution, including managing your feelings. Ask yourself if this change is going to affect you in a positive or negative way. People who have a positive outlook find it easier to engage in the change process. Use positive thinking techniques like positive affirmation statements while visualizing a good outcome. Ask yourself questions: Is this change likely to ease your work load or enhance your skills?

If the change is a perceived threat then knowledge can translate to power and control. Be proactive, and assertively ask for news updates. Being proactive is an important action step to help navigate the changes. The famous self-help book, Who Moved my Cheese, by Spencer Johnson and Kenneth Blanchard, is an amazing resource for individuals that struggle with change at work and at home.

Embrace change by becoming a change-agent! Remember: change is inevitable!

Cathy M. Cinko, LCSW, is a therapist with the Employee Assistance Program for the Franciscan Alliance hospitals in Northern Indiana.

Driven to Distraction

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:25:00 +0000

“Oh – I know not to text and drive.” But then you are on the road and remember you never responded to your husband about what time you plan on getting home after a meeting. It will just take a second to text him - yes, you are on the road but you are experienced, right?

A Health Day poll in 2011 had more than 2,800 American adults state the following:

Over 1/3 of drivers have sent or received text messages while driving and 18% say they do it regularly.
About 13% of adult drivers have surfed the Internet while driving
A large percentage of those polled said they know distracted driving is dangerous, but do so anyway

Did you know texting will take at least 5 seconds of your attention away from the road? April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. I visited www.focusdriven.org and was saddened to see so many stories about people lost due to texting and driving. The statistics are bad. Nearly 25% of all car accidents involve texting. Texting is about 6 times more likely to cause an accident compared to driving intoxicated.

We worry that teens will text and drive but don’t we adults need to set the best example of proper driving? How about not reading, putting on makeup, or finding that something in your purse while driving? I know we pride ourselves on multitasking, but when I am behind the wheel of a one to two ton object going any speed, I want to be focused on just driving. Everything else can wait.

Dr. Lisa Gold is a pediatrician practicing in Crown Point, Indiana, at the Franciscan Physician Network - Crown Point Pediatric Health Center.

National Healthcare Decisions Day - Understanding Advance Directives

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:30:00 +0000

There may come a time when you or a family member is seriously injured or gravely ill. In the midst of shock and grief, you may be asked to make hard medical decisions. It is important for you to learn about Advance Directives, types and intensity of medical care, and to discuss the kind of treatment you feel comfortable with before you make those difficult decisions.

April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day…a time to bring awareness to the importance of advance care planning and communicating and documenting your healthcare decisions.

Understanding Advance Directives

Advance care directives allow patients to provide instructions about their preferences regarding the care they would like to receive if they develop an illness or a life-threatening injury and are unable to express their preferences. Advance care directives can also designate someone the patient trusts to make decisions about medical care if the patient becomes unable to make (or communicate) these decisions. This is called designating "power of attorney (for health care)."

Advance care directives can reduce:

Personal worry
Feelings of helplessness and guilt by family members
Futile, costly, specialized interventions that a patient may not want
Overall health care costs
Legal concerns for everyone involved

Example of Advance Directives

Verbal instructions. These are any decisions regarding care that are communicated verbally by an individual to health care providers or family members.
Organ donation. This may be accomplished by completing an organ donation card and carrying it in your wallet. A second card may be placed with important papers (such as a living will, insurance papers, and so on).
Living will. This is a written, legal document that conveys the wishes of a person in the event of serious illness. This document can speak for a patient who is unable to communicate. A living will may indicate specific care or treatment the person does or does not want performed under specific circumstances. A living will is not to be confused with a last will and testament that distributes assets after a person's death.
Special medical power of attorney. A legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone else (proxy) to make medical or health care decisions, in the event the individual becomes unable to make or communicate such decisions personally.
DNR (do not resuscitate) order. This states that CPR is not to be performed if your breathing stops or your heart stops beating. The order may be written by the person's doctor after discussing the issue with the person (if possible), the proxy, or family.

Recommendations

In the event you choose to create a living will or special medical power of attorney, know specific state laws that may apply. Write the document to be consistent with your state's laws.
If you have a living will or special medical power of attorney, provide copies for your family members and health care providers. Carry a copy with you in a wallet, glove compartment of a car, or similar location. If you have a planned admission to a hospital, take copies for the hospital to include in your medical chart and tell all medical personnel involved with your case about the documents.
Consider the possibilities of the future, and plan ahead. Studies have shown that although the majority of people believe having some form of advance directive is a good idea, most people have not actually developed advance directives for themselves. Many people state that they want their families to make health care decisions. However, less than half of these people have ever discussed the issue and their specific desires with family members.
These decisions can be changed at any time. However, if a living will is changed, everyone involved -- including family or proxies and all healthcare providers -- must be informed and new copies of instructions made and distributed.

The process of creating advance care directives may be difficult. It requires you to think about your priorities regarding quality of life and your death. Treatment options, and their possible influence on your quality of life, need to be fully understood and considered. Know the potential implications of choosing or refusing specific forms of care.

Discuss your wishes regarding advance care directives with your health care providers, family members, and friends. Review your wishes from time to time to remind everyone.

Source: A.D.A.M. Interactive Health

World-Class Cancer Treatment, Right Here at Home

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 18:31:00 +0000

Not so long ago, cancer treatment options were limited. But today, the technology available is not only changing the way we can treat cancer patients—it’s changing people’s lives. Giving them more hope and quality of life than ever before. Our fight against cancer is not over, but with care like this, we’re getting closer.

When facing cancer, you want the best possible care. The hospitals of Franciscan Alliance are committed to providing state-of-the-art treatment using the most advanced cancer-fighting technology available—all right here in your community. In fact, Franciscan Alliance hospitals are nationally recognized for providing outstanding cancer care. You would go anywhere for world-class cancer treatment. It’s nice to know you don’t have to go far.

For more information on Cancer Care Services with the hospitals of Franciscan Alliance - Northwest Indiana, visit FranciscanAlliance.org/Cancer.

VIDEO: Donate Life Month 2013 - Stories of Heroism and Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:37:00 +0000

Colorful and emotional stories of people who have given of themselves so that others might live were told April 4, 2013, during a Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point observance of National Donate Life Month.

The program was highlighted by prayer, a procession of flowers and donor witness testimonies of how their lives and those of loved ones have been affected.

Pope’s decree of miracle paves way for beatification of Mother Maria Theresia Bonzel

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 22:14:00 +0000

On Wednesday, March 27, 2013, Pope Francis approved his first decrees from the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Among them was a ‘Decree of Miracle’ acknowledging a miracle attributed to the intercession of the Venerable Servant of God, Mother Maria Theresia Bonzel, foundress of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration.

This miraculous cure of a young boy from Colorado Springs, Colo. – who is now a young adult -- paves the way towards her beatification, which is scheduled to take place on Nov. 10, 2013, in Paderborn, Germany.

Mother Maria Theresia, was born on Sept. 17, 1830, in Olpe, Germany. She sought to combine the contemplative and active religious life through an unfailing commitment to Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the works of mercy in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. Mother Maria Theresia died on Feb.6, 1905.

About the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration:
The Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration continue to serve in education, health care, and other ecclesial ministries in Germany, the United States, the Philippines, and Brazil. In doing so, they follow in the footsteps of Jesus who spent His public life praying, teaching, healing and ministering to others. The Provincial House of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Province is located in Mishawaka, Ind. These Sisters serve in the Archdioceses of Chicago and Indianapolis, and the Dioceses of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Lafayette-in-Indiana, and Gary. The Sisters rejoice that this gift comes during their celebration of the 150th Jubilee of the Congregation and the Year of Faith. To learn more, go to http://www.ssfpa.org.

Franciscan St. Anthony Health marks Donate Life Month April 4 with stories of donor heroism

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:29:00 +0000

Colorful and emotional stories of people who have given of themselves so that others might live will be told April 4 during a Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point observance of National Donate Life Month.

The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the hospital’s Corpus Christi Chapel on the second floor with a prayer, a procession of flowers and remarks from hospital officials and representatives of organ donor agencies, including the Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network, the Indiana Lions Eye and Tissue Transplant Bank and Life Line Stem Cell Services. The hospital partners with those agencies to facilitate organ, eye, tissue and stem cell donations.

Franciscan St. Anthony Health donor witnesses will present testimonies of how their lives and those of loved ones have been affected. They include Linda Belcher, an Emergency Medical Services educator, whose son was a heart transplant recipient; Jean Miller, Emergency Department nursing manager, whose son was a vascular tissue recipient; and Julie Parent, an Alverno Information Services business analyst, who was a kidney donor.

City Council President Andrew Kyres, on behalf of Mayor David Uran, will present a proclamation honoring the observance. An 11 a.m. Mass will follow in the chapel.

A donor registration drive will take place from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. outside of the cafeteria, near the main lobby.

According to Donate Life-Indiana, more than 117,000 persons nationwide, including nearly 1,500 Hoosiers, await life-saving transplants.

For more information on the Donate Life program, visit: DonateLifeIndiana.org.

Video from 2012 Event

April 27, 2012: Heartfelt and heartwarming stories of organ donors and recipients were told during the fourth annual National Donate Life Month observance at Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point. Franciscan Alliance proudly partners with Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network, Indiana Lions Eye & Tissue Transplant Bank and Donor Services of Indiana to facilitate organ, eye and tissue donation.

March comes in like a lion – with diarrhea!

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:40:00 +0000

Just when you think winter season is finishing up – a cold blast of weather hits and a few snowflakes are hitting the ground. We pediatricians are still feeling the winter blues with plenty of children getting different illnesses. Even though it has not been a bad season weather-wise, we have seen the influenza infections of December and January change to the March of acute gastroenteritis.

Let’s talk about Rotavirus. Ask any parent who has had a child with this gastroenteritis infection and they will change their look to agony and say “no, not that!”

The flu is trickling away with the snow coming and melting, yet the community of Northwest Indiana is braving the surge of gastroenteritis illnesses. Many GI viruses lurk in the community but the rotavirus is a particularly bad bug. This is a seasonal virus seen winter through spring that can be passed person to person. In 2006 an oral vaccine came out for young infants to protect against the most common strains of this illness. Unfortunately some children did not get the vaccine or were in the age group older than 8 months when the vaccine was available. These children are now very susceptible to this virus and it loves company.

Did you know it only takes 10 spores of this virus to cause illness? That is a super virus that packs a punch. The symptoms of rotavirus infection are not specific compared to other lovely diarrhea viruses such as adenovirus and norovirus, but usually the child has non-bloody foul rotten egg smelling green diarrhea with abdominal cramps. Vomiting and fever can occur. The younger the child the more concern we have for dehydration. There is no specific medication to treat this viral infection. We pediatricians recommend electrolyte replacement fluids to rehydrate and sometimes we need to give intravenous fluid.

How do you prevent this virus from causing illness? Just like your mother always said, “WASH YOUR HANDS!” Washing hands often and before eating is a good habit. The virus is spread from diarrhea exposure and from the spores contaminating food, water and objects touched by hands contaminated from the diarrhea. Contain the diarrhea in the ill child and wash those hands after diaper changing or bathroom visits with the toilet trained child.

Can adults get this illness?? We are not as likely as our children – but let me tell you I have spent a Christmas break as a 28 year old pediatric resident with rotavirus infection and that was a gift I did not want any child or parent to get!!

I see spring around the corner and with the change of season comes the decline of this and other winter illnesses. So think warm weather, keep hands well washed, and on to the spring season- hopefully not too busy with allergies!

Dr. Lisa Gold is a pediatrician practicing in Crown Point, Indiana, at the Franciscan Physician Network - Crown Point Pediatric Health Center.

Congressman salutes Franciscan St. Anthony Health paramedics who assisted in Superstorm Sandy efforts

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 21:58:00 +0000

U.S. Rep. Peter Visclosky, D-Merrillville, congratulated, presented letters of commendation and spent about 45 minutes hearing the experiences of Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point-affiliated paramedics, who volunteered to travel to New Jersey to assist in Superstorm Sandy relief operations.

U.S. Rep. Peter Visclosky chats with Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point-affiliated paramedics, who assisted in Superstorm Sandy relief efforts, during a commendation program at the hospital March 8.

“Would you do it again?” Visclosky asked the group at one point, receiving a resounding reply of, “Absolutely, we learned a lot.”

“Whatever we were asked to do, we carried out with 100 percent efficiency and teamwork. The locals were impressed with how we performed any mission given,” said Tom Bettenhausen, Superior Ambulance Service-Indiana operations manager, who also serves with Crown Point Fire and Rescue and is Indiana Department of Homeland Security District 1 Emergency Medical Services Task Force leader.

As such, Bettenhausen headed the local contingent, which consisted of four ambulances, three of which were staffed by community-based medics who are under the medical direction of Franciscan St. Anthony Health.

The hospital’s EMS Academy trains the majority of emergency medical technicians and paramedics in south Lake County.

Besides Bettenhausen, the Franciscan St. Anthony-affiliated team honored included:

Eric Schmitt, Mark Baumgardner and John Sarver, Crown Point Fire and Rescue
Eric Eshelman, Lakes of the Four Seasons Fire Department
Brian Beach and Don Strom, St. John Fire Department

Also on hand were Superior Ambulance medics Joseph O’Parka and Dale Waters.

U.S. Rep. Peter Visclosky (right-center) presented letters of commendation March 8 to Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point-affiliated paramedics who volunteered to assist in Superstorm Sandy relief efforts. Shown to Visclosky’s left is hospital President David Ruskowski. Paramedics, from left, include: Joseph O’Parka, Eric Eshelman, Don Strom, Brian Beach, John Sarver, Mark Baumgardner, Eric Schmitt, Tom Bettenhausen and Dale Waters.

The group was among those from Indiana’s 10 Homeland Security districts that responded to a nationwide request from New Jersey officials for resources, as the storm was bearing down on the area.

More than 30 ambulances from Indiana were part of the overall team, which departed early on a Sunday morning and returned early on the following Friday.

The local group assisted personnel in Brick Township, mostly with rescue and evacuation efforts that were needed, following the surge of ocean water that inundated the area for miles inland. The medics also provided backup for 911 calls.

Visclosky spoke of his respect for what the group accomplished.

“I am grateful for their services, not only to our local community, but for their dedication to help others in our great country.”

In the letters, he told the medics they should be proud of the support they offered victims and fellow first-responders, calling their volunteerism inspirational and commendable.

MAMMOthon - Grab the girls and go!

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 22:45:00 +0000

You know MAMMOGRAMS are the best defense you and your best gal pals have against breast cancer.

Make an appointment for your next screening mammogram during the Franciscan Alliance MAMMOthon.

Chat it up with the girls. We have refreshments, prize drawings (chance to win an iPad mini!) and chair massages (availability limited). Make a day of it. Reserve your spot today!

MARCH 20

6 AM - 7 PM
FRANCISCAN ST. ANTHONY HEALTH
301 West Homer Street • Michigan City
Appointments: (219) 877-1980

APRIL 17

9 AM - 6:30 PM
FRANCISCAN HAMMOND CLINIC
A department of Franciscan Physicians Hospital
7905 Calumet Avenue • Munster
Appointments: (219) 836-3600
Physician referral required.

APRIL 19

7 AM - 7 PM
FRANCISCAN ST. MARGARET HEALTH
5454 Hohman Avenue • Hammond
Appointments: (219) 933-2635

APRIL 19

6 AM - 7:30 PM
FRANCISCAN ST. ANTHONY HEALTH
1201 S. Main Street • Crown Point
Appointments: (219) 757-6250

APRIL 25

7 AM - 7 PM
FRANCISCAN ST. MARGARET HEALTH
24 Joliet • Dyer
Appointments: (219) 933-2635

Most insurances accepted. Physician referral required only at the Franciscan Hammond Clinic location. A limited number of appointments are available.

Video: Spirit of Women - Day of Dance 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 21:25:00 +0000

Feb. 10, 2013: Franciscan Alliance's second annual Day of Dance event, as part of our Spirit of Women campaign. More than 900 joined us at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville to "Get Their Dance On" and focus on women's health through a myriad of events, including dance instruction and performances, health screenings and discussions with local doctors.

Health care anytime, anywhere: MyChart app now available for mobile devices

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:12:00 +0000

Want to access your medical records on the go? Now, when you sign up for Franciscan Alliance's MyChart(available as the MyChart app on iTunes or through the Android Market), you get secure, on-the-go access via the iPhone®, iPad© iPod touch® or Android phone.

With MyChart, you can send secure messages to your doctor, view most test results and upcoming appointments and view current medications, allergies and immunizations.

Download the MyChartMobile App

For iPhone and iPad

Visit the iTunes app store to download the MyChart app. Then select Franciscan Alliance as your provider.

iTunes - Download the MyChart app.

For Android

Visit the Android Market to download the MyChart app. Then select Franciscan Alliance as your provider.

Android Market - Download the MyChart app.

Get started with MyChart today!

First, sign up for MyChart through your Franciscan Physician Network office.
Download the MyChart app from either iTunes (for iPhone, iPad) or from Android Market.After you download the app, select Franciscan Alliance as your health care provider. You’ll see our logo and list of physician organizations as one of the choices.

For additional information, check out our frequently asked questions.

FEATURES:

Test Results - You are able to view your test results that have been released to your MyChart account
Messages - View and reply to messages from your provider’s office
Appointments - View future appointments and the summary from past appointments
Get Medical Advice - Send medical advice messages to your provider’s office
Health Maintenance Reminders - View your health maintenance reminders
Health Summary - View your health summary, such as Medications, Allergies, Immunizations, Health Issues
Proxy Access - View other accounts to which you have access in MyChart.

FAQs:

What is MyChart?

Why would I use MyChart?

Epic MyChart offers true mobility, instant access and optimized convenience. Users are not required to be in front of a traditional desktop or laptop computer to access the benefits of the MyChart system. Typical users would be patients who travel frequently, salespeople who spend a lot of time on the road, students, and those who have come to rely on an Apple or Android mobile device for internet access and messaging.

How do I get MyChart?

To use the mobile MyChart app, you must first have a MyChart account. If you do not already have a MyChart account, please ask for your access code at your next Franciscan Physician Network clinic visit.

The app is free. To get it, you need an iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Android. From one of those devices, go to the App Store application. Alternatively, you can access the App Store on a desktop or laptop computer, download the app, and install it when the mobile device is synched.

How do I sign up?

Patients who wish to participate will be issued a MyChart activation code during their Franciscan Physician Network office visit or following an inpatient hospital discharge. This code will enable you to login and create your own user ID and password. If you were not issued an activation code, ask to sign up during your next office visit.

Is MyChart secure?

Yes, security which is a crucial component to the MyChart iPhone and Android apps, which uses the same bank-level security that is used for other sensitive data transferred via the Internet.

World Day of the Sick 2013: Prayers for the sick and our caregivers

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:07:00 +0000

If easily accessible over-the-counter pain medication is a hint, most of us perhaps would rather avoid pain and suffering. Not Aline. Aline was only twenty years old when she discovered that she had a heart ailment. Confronted with the fragility and limitation of life, Aline took an unusual path. She faced her infirmity unconditionally to the point that she would even pray for suffering. Apparently she saw something essential that can only be known after having passed through the dark night of suffering and pain. She saw her infirmity as a gift and a confirmation that God took her seriously. And that recognition enabled her to compassionately (com-passion: to suffer with) relate and help others in their suffering. Nine years later, Aline founded a religious community in Olpe, Germany, dedicated to the care of the sick and the poor. Today, 150 years later, Aline is known as the Venerable Sister Maria Theresia Bonzel, the founder of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Perpetual Adoration.

Monday, February 11, 2013 will mark the 21st World Day of the Sick. Established in 1992 by Pope John Paul II, this day has three consistent themes. First, it offers us an opportunity to reflect and recommit ourselves to be compassionate in our care for the sick. When we have known suffering ourselves, we can relate well with another’s suffering. And when we can trust and see God in suffering, He will also show us the gift therein. Second, it reminds us to pray intensely and sincerely for the sick. And third, this day recognizes and honors YOU and all persons who work in health care as caregivers. Thanking YOU and all those who care for the sick and elderly.

Mission/Spiritual Care Team

Video: Heart Attacks Have Beginnings

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 15:41:00 +0000

Did you know? Recognizing and treating a heart attack right away improves your chance for survival. The typical American -- male or female -- waits 2 hours before calling for help.

Franciscan Alliance's dedicated Chest Pain Center's - emergency and cardiac teams - are available around-the-clock to stop a heart attack in its tracks with quick diagnosis and intervention, preventing further damage to the heart.

Check out our video - a collaborative effort from the Franciscan Alliance hospitals in Northwest Indiana. Our heart and emergency teams from all facilities are passionate about how we take care of patients with Chest Pain and Acute Coronary Syndrome Signs and Symptoms. The video demonstrates how a patient is identified and cared for when they are experiencing a heart attack. Viewers can gain knowledge and actually see the process from the Emergency Medical Systems (pre-hospital) standpoint through the Emergency Department visit and into the Catheterization Lab.

My Television is My Trainer

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 20:41:00 +0000

Though gym membership traditionally increases in January, February can find many of us wanting to stay out of the cold and work out at home. For those who do stay home, the television is often our "trainer" through the use of exercise DVDs and gaming systems that offer fitness programs. With more people having access to these at-home workout programs, it's important to look at the pros and cons of using your television as your personal trainer.

Pros:

Working out at home can give you more time with your family. For those who are working long days, eliminating the drive to and from the gym and working out with or by your family can offer you some much needed time together.
Working out at home offers you flexibility. Rather than having to make a certain fitness class at a certain time, you can choose when to work out. Whether it's early morning or later at night, you are in charge.
Working out at home offers you privacy. Some people are uncomfortable exercising in front of others and would prefer to work out alone.
Working out at home can offer you a wide variety of exercises. You can customize your workout on many of the gaming systems or rent/buy a variety of different fitness DVDs. You are not stuck taking a certain exercise class just because it fits the time you can exercise.
Weather is not an issue when you work at inside the home.

Cons:

Working out at home can suffer from many distractions. The phone rings; the laundry is piled up; the kids are arguing, etc. All of these can distract you from the important task at hand - improving your health.
It can be easy to skip your workout when you exercise at home. Without accountability to a class, trainer or even a workout buddy, it can be easier to skip your workout "just this once." And again. And again.
Some people don't work out as intensely as they need to when working out at home. For some, having a teacher, trainer or classmates to push you a little increases your intensity and results!
Your exercise form can suffer when working out at home. Having the proper form when lifting a weight or doing aerobics is important both for the results you wish to achieve as well as to prevent injury. Having a teacher or trainer can help you maintain the proper form while exercising.

So, what to do? If you work out at home, pay special attention to your exercise form to prevent injury. Make exercise a priority and commitment. Use a heart rate monitor to help you stay in your training zone. If you find it too hard to keep your commitment to better fitness by exercising at home, get to the gym regularly, letting your family know that you are giving them the best gift possible - a healthier you! No matter what you choose, make this the year that exercise becomes a habit you will keep for the rest of your life.

This article was published in the February 2013 edition of the Completely Well newsletter from WorkingWell - an occupational health network of Franciscan Alliance providing a comprehensive approach to employers with job-related health needs.

Who's afraid of the RSV?

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 15:28:00 +0000

I know all of you are aware of influenza infections this winter, and I hope by now you have gotten a flu shot or nasal spray if not medically contraindicated. I don’t want to be an alarmist, but you need to know there is more than influenza illness, ear infections, strep throat or pneumonia that can impact an infant’s health. Have you heard of RSV? It means respiratory syncytial virus and causes acute respiratory tract infections in people of all ages. RSV is a significant virus in the winter season. It is one of the many viruses that cause a URI or “cold.”

RSV causes a URI or cold in almost all children at least once before they are 2 years old. Majority of the time the illness remains mild but 20 to 30% of the time the virus can cause lower respiratory infection and cause wheezing or pneumonia. About 60,000 children are hospitalized each year due to RSV infection and about 500 of these children will die. Any infant can have an RSV infection but we are worried about certain high risk infants. Infants that are born premature, especially before 32 weeks of pregnancy, or who are born with severe lung or heart disease are considered high risk.

Symptoms

Are similar to a common cold and are a runny nose, nasal congestion, coughing, and possibly a low-grade fever.
Worse symptoms include wheezing, rapid or difficult breathing, poor appetite and irritability.

Treatment
If your infant’s doctor is suspicious of RSV a simple nasal swab can be done in the office to test for the virus. Most of the time nasal suctioning and home URI care is advised. We know keeping the infant well hydrated is definitely important in treatment. Sometimes wheezing is helped with inhaled medication. If the infant shows concern of respiratory function or need for supplemental oxygen hospitalization is required.

Prevention
What can be done to prevent RSV?

Don’t smoke. If you do smoke always keep it outside and not in your car with your infant inside.
Everyone needs to wash their hands before touching your infant.
Try and avoid exposing your infant to crowded areas like shopping malls.
Avoid having sick people with cold symptoms, a fever or runny nose around your infant.
There is an antibody called Palivizamab, also known as Synagis that can be used as a prevention medication for RSV infection. The medication is indicated for certain at risk infants. If the infant has chronic lung disease, a history of prematurity less than 35 weeks or certain types of congenital heart disease they may get this monthly injection during the months RSV is in the community. This medication is very costly and does not help in treatment of the disease. If you think your infant is high-risk and you have questions about this medication ask your child’s doctor.

Stay warm, stay away from illness and enjoy your healthy infant!

Dr. Lisa Gold is a pediatrician practicing in Crown Point, Indiana, at the Franciscan Physician Network - Crown Point Pediatric Health Center.

Now Pinning - Go Red for Women

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 16:52:00 +0000

National Wear Red Day is Friday, February 1, 2013. We've created a Pinterest board to get you in the spirit...and to showcase some fashion ideas, recipes and health info to help you and your friends celebrate and support the movement.

Check it out...and don't forget to Go Red for Women on February 1! http://pinterest.com/franciscannwi/go-red-for-women/.

Down in the Dumps? 6 Tips for Dealing with Seasonal Depression

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Crown Point) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 15:16:00 +0000

There are many descriptions for depression - feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. During the fall and winter months, we may experience seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), likely due to the cold weather and lack of sunlight.

No matter what type of depression you have and how severe it is, the following self-care steps can help:

Get enough sleep.
Follow a healthy, nutritious diet, and limit the use of alcohol.
Exercise regularly.
Get involved in activities that make you happy.
Consider meditation, tai chi, or other relaxation methods.
Spend time with family and friends.

People who have had repeated seasonal depression should talk to a mental health care professional about prevention methods. Starting treatment during the fall or early winter, before the symptoms of SAD begin, may be helpful.

For more information on seasonal affective disorder and other forms of depression, visit our Online Health Library.