Blog Center: Franciscan St. Margaret Health

So what’s the deal with anticoagulants and antiplatelets?

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 17:53:00 +0000

Anticoagulant medications are sometimes referred to as “blood thinners” which slow down the clotting process of your blood in the arteries and veins. Antiplatelet medication prevents the platelets from clumping together to form a clot. The point of these medications is too prevent the lack of oxygen rich blood to the heart, brain, lungs or other parts of the body. When the blood supply is blocked or stopped then injury or death can occur to those specific body parts, and could also be the result of your death. However, these medications do not dissolve existing clots, but they can prevent existing clots from getting bigger, and help prevent you from getting more clots.

So this means that you should only take aspirin under the direction of your doctor. Aspirin shares the same qualities for preventing blood clots. Just because it is over the counter, it does not make it okay to take with your anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications. In fact, make sure to check with your doctor before taking any vitamins, herb supplements or other over the counter medications when you are on anticoagulants or antiplatelet therapy. Also, limit your alcohol intake when on these types of medications. Alcohol, too, shares some of the qualities to stop blood from clotting.

Only your physician can decide which therapy is best for you. There are times when a person may require both. When you are taking these medications, you may need to have your blood checked frequently. This is important because the medicine can slow down the clotting process too much and cause life threatening complications. Report any abnormal bleeding to your doctor. For example, blood in your urine, stool and nose. Be alert to headaches, vision changes, dizziness, fever and vomiting when taking these types of mediations. Too much vitamin K in your diet can cancel the effects of your medication. So watch and monitor your intake with cabbage, vegetable oils, mayonnaise, and green leafy vegetables.

Okay, so now you know what the deal is with “anti-clotting” medication and how important it is to follow your doctor's directions when taking them.

Questions???
You can always ask the experts at our Anticoagulation Clinics in Hammond (219) 933-7937 or in Dyer (219) 864-2597.

Submitted by Karen Callahan, RN, and Renne Pfister, RN, Chest Pain Center Coordinators at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

The Chest Pain Centers at both Franciscan St. Margaret Health’s Hammond and Dyer campuses were the first accredited centers in Northwest Indiana and only two of 27 in the state. Accreditation by the Society of Chest Pain Centers means that you can be confident that our Emergency and Cardiac departments have the right specialists, processes and equipment in place to provide the highest level of care for patients experiencing chest pain.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease: What can I control?

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Mon, 12 Aug 2013 18:31:00 +0000

This month Franciscan Alliance posted an article on its website and in the Times of Northwest Indiana related to a story about a young tri-athlete that collapsed after a local Triathlon event in Hammond.
This story touches home for me for many reasons:

I happened to be one of the nurses working staff that day
I performed aggressive CPR on the patient
He and his wife are nurses
His children were in the waiting room while we working feverishly to save their father’s life
You could feel the love and strength “rooting” for him from the EMS, staff and his family

I cannot stress enough to all of you today how important it is to be healthy. The way you behave today will impact how you feel for the rest of your life.

The following are the uncontrollable and controllable .

Uncontrollable

These are factors you can do nothing about:

Age
Hereditary
Gender
Race

Controllable

These are factors you can do a lot about:

High Cholesterol
Smoking
Stress
High Blood Pressure
Inactivity
Poor Dietary Choices
Uncontrolled Diabetes
Obesity

For anyone that is internet savvy the resources are endless. And for those of you that are not, give me a call at (219) 932-2300, ext. 34830.

Lastly, our patient SURVIVED…he walked out of the hospital two weeks later with his wife and children at his side. There wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd as we all waved goodbye to our “Miracle Man.”

Health and Happiness.

Submitted by Karen Callahan, RN, Chest Pain Center Coordinator at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

The Chest Pain Centers at both Franciscan St. Margaret Health’s Hammond and Dyer campuses were the first accredited centers in Northwest Indiana and only two of 27 in the state. Accreditation by the Society of Chest Pain Centers means that you can be confident that our Emergency and Cardiac departments have the right specialists, processes and equipment in place to provide the highest level of care for patients experiencing chest pain.

Exercise – 5 Tips on How to Start and Stick with the Program

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Tue, 25 Jun 2013 16:16:00 +0000

I decided that I was going to start working out to lose weight, be heart healthy and for stress relief. That was in January, and it is now June. The point is, it is hard to get started. Research shows that if you start an exercise routine by 4 weeks you will have created a habit and make it much easier to stick with.

No matter what you choose to do, the key is to do something. Get your heart rate up. Doing 10 minute intervals throughout the day will bring you and your body positive results. I am 45 years old, and I can say the only thing I have been consistent with is the “on and off” program.

Here are 5 tips to help you get started with a program. Please make sure you speak with your doctor before starting a new program, and, if at any time you feel dizzy, chest pain or shortness of breath, stop what you are doing and call 911.

Set realistic and manageable goals. For example, I started a 10 minute cardio program 5 days a week and now I have been doing a 20 minute program 5 days a week.
Do not use food as a reward. I tend to think that after a great work out an ice cream treat would be nice, but do not sabotage your plan.
Find a workout buddy. Having a buddy to workout with, will help keep the motivation going.
Do your best and forget the rest. Beating yourself up for not being perfect will lead you to defeat.
Be creative. Variety is always the spice of life.

Happy Exercising!

Submitted by Renne Pfister, RN, Chest Pain Center Coordinator at Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

The Chest Pain Centers at both Franciscan St. Margaret Health’s Hammond and Dyer campuses were the first accredited centers in Northwest Indiana and only two of 27 in the state. Accreditation by the Society of Chest Pain Centers means that you can be confident that our Emergency and Cardiac departments have the right specialists, processes and equipment in place to provide the highest level of care for patients experiencing chest pain.

Diabetic children learn life skills at Omni basketball camp

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Mon, 24 Jun 2013 19:44:00 +0000

After receiving instructions on proper techniques, one of about 50 participants on hand takes a shot under the watchful eye of a coach during the third annual Moses E. Cheeks Slam Dunk for Diabetes Basketball Camp June 24 to 26 at Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness - Schererville, 221 US 41.

The free program, which includes coaches from The Chicago Bulls Training Academy (four were on hand at Omni), is offered for youths aged 5 to 18, who have diabetes.

Diabetes educators from Omni and from Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Michigan City, Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond, Franciscan Medical Specialists and other area hospitals, were on hand to monitor blood glucose levels and provide support.

The camps, which began in 2005, teach fundamentals of living with diabetes and offer a place where participants gain confidence in a safe, structured and supportive atmosphere, according to the camp website. The program is designed to teach participants the relationship between food, exercise and insulin, as well as basketball skills. It also is designed to teach campers how sports, illnesses and stress affect blood sugar levels, how to make corrections to insulin intake and to demonstrate that diabetes need not prevent one from living a full, active and productive life.

Campers received a Bulls team bag, t-shirt, player evaluation form and graduation certificate.

Monica Joyce, Slam Dunk for Diabetes director, who is being recognized nationally at the National American Association of Diabetes Educators conference this year, appeared at Omni June 25, where a marketing firm from California recorded the event and interviewed medical staff members, campers and parents for the presentation.

For more information on the program, which depends on donations, visit: www.slamdunkkids.net.

"Living Wall" added to hospital lobby

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 16:45:00 +0000

DYER | Just as the Living Wall at Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond offers a space to reflect on the compassionate care we are all blessed to provide to our many patients, so too does the new Living Wall at Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer.

We invite you to visit the Living Wall and encourage you to honor a loved one or celebrate a special occasion by making a gift to the Franciscan Alliance Foundation and designating your gift to one of the mission programs of Franciscan St. Margaret Health.

Gifts will be recognized by an engraved leaf, dove, or boulder; details can be found in the attached brochure, which are also located near the Living Wall. The new Living Wall was made possible by a generous gift from the Franciscan St. Margaret Auxiliary. Please consider building upon their momentum by making a gift today.

If you have any questions or would like a member of the Foundation office to meet you at the Living Wall, please call the Foundation office at 932-2300, ext. 32183, e-mail NIRFoundation@FranciscanAlliance.org or take a moment to review this brochure.

Church 'baby shower' donations benefit St. Monica Home

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 20:46:00 +0000

For about a dozen years, members of the St. Francis of Assisi Fraternity of the Third Order of Secular Franciscans at St. Liborius Catholic Church in Steger, Ill., have collected and donated baby items to St. Monica Home on the Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer campus.

The Daughters of St. Liborius spiritual adoption-baby shower program, which runs from fall through Mother’s Day, benefits, through prayers and the donations, unborn children and mothers-to-be at St. Monica, which, since 1994, has offered a medically sound and emotionally healthy residential environment for women aged 12 to 21 who are awaiting the birth of a child. The idea came when Art Martlink, father of parishioner Kendra Duncan, far right; saw information about the home while a patient at the hospital and recommended it as a fitting beneficiary.

Donated items include “Onesies,” diapers, baby bottles, receiving blankets and crib sheets. Also shown, from left, are Valorie Funchess and Ana Sanchez, St. Monica resident-advisers; Jeanette Dargert, parishioner; and Liz Guzman-Arredondo, St. Monica manager.

Stop Smoking: Do your heart, lungs...well, your whole body a favor

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:12:00 +0000

I do not smoke, so I can only imagine how hard it is to quit something that you enjoy doing, but your life depends on it.

I grew up with parents that smoked and I hated it. Did you know that when my parents decided to smoke that they were also making the decision for me to smoke? This is called “second hand smoking” and it is just as bad as actually being the smoker. It does not seem like a fair comprise to me, so I am going to give you five real good reasons why you should make every effort to "kick the habit."

The first one is heart disease, and it is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and the leading cause of death caused by smoking. Toxins in the cigarette smoke cause plaque to form in your arteries, which will lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can cause a heart attack.

According to the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. The risk of a stroke for a smoker is almost 2 ½ times that of non-smoker.

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 213,380 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed 2013. Tobacco use is also the number one cause of COPD (which includes chronic bronchitis & emphysema). When you quit smoking it will halt further damage. It is believed that 14 million are undiagnosed with COPD, and it is the fourth leading cause of death.

Finally, tobacco use can cause oral cancer (mouth cancer). It is estimated that 70% to 80% of all oral, head, neck cancers are due from the use of tobacco and heavy alcohol use.

It is not too late and if you quit smoking there are benefits to reap. For example, 20 minutes after you quit smoking your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature of hands and feet will have returned to normal. There are many benefits that continue for days, weeks, months and years.

Don't we deserve to take a breath of clean, fresh air? Here are some additional tips on how to quit: http://bit.ly/15Tbtap.

Submitted by Renne Pfister, RN, Chest Pain Center Coordinator at Franciscan St. Margaret Health

The Chest Pain Centers at both Franciscan St. Margaret Health’s Hammond and Dyer campuses were the first accredited centers in Northwest Indiana and only two of 27 in the state. Accreditation by the Society of Chest Pain Centers means that you can be confident that our Emergency and Cardiac departments have the right specialists, processes and equipment in place to provide the highest level of care for patients experiencing chest pain.

Franciscan St. Margaret Health nurses honored with Cortona awards by coworkers and physicians

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Tue, 14 May 2013 12:56:00 +0000

Juliet Howerton accepts her St. Margaret of Cortona
Physicians’ Choice Award from Marla Hoyer-Lareau,
Franciscan St. Margaret Health vice president of patient
services and chief nursing officer, at the Hammond campus.

It is said there is no higher form of praise than that expressed by one’s peers.

Four nurses, two each at Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond and its sister campus in Dyer, echoed that sentiment on May 13 when they received St. Margaret of Cortona Physicians Choice, and Nurses’ Choice, awards.

The annual awards are presented during the American Nursing Association’s National Nurses Week.

Juliet Howerton, who has spent the last eight of her 23 years at Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond as an interventional radiology nurse, received the Physicians Choice Award there, while Joan O’Drobinak, an Emergency Department nurse who has spent the last nine of her 29 years at the hospital as a case manager, received the Nurses’ Choice Award.

Joan O’Drobinak displays her St. Margaret of Cortona
Nurses’ Choice Award at the Hammond campus.

Howerton received her honor from Jay Patel, MD, an interventional radiologist, who called her “an exceptional nurse who holds the department together and exhibits outstanding leadership skills in her relationship with the two Franciscan St. Margaret Health facilities and with Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster.”

Howerton said she was “surprised, somewhat embarrassed and honored by the recognition.”

Emergency Department nurse Connie Gula, who said she was speaking for her coworkers, said O’Drobinak “represents the very best in the nursing profession. She goes out of her way to not only help the physicians and staff, but also engages the team approach to patient care in which she is an invaluable advocate who goes above and beyond to help those we serve ...”

O’Drobinak said she was shocked to hear she had won, adding, “I can’t tell you how much this means to me.”

Susan Rae Parker is shown with her St. Margaret of
Cortona Physicians’ Choice Award at the Dyer campus.

Susan Rae Parker, a 31-year nurse in the Franciscan St. Margaret - Dyer Intensive Medical Care Unit, was presented the Physicians’ Choice Award there from Ed Fara, MD, a pulmonary specialist, who said, “All of the physicians and staff appreciate her work. She is a great nurse and patient advocate.”

Parker said she was caught by surprise, adding, “I work with a great bunch of people – doctors and nurses alike.”

Arlene VanderZee, who has spent the last 17 of her 34 years at the Dyer campus as supervisor of recovery in the Same Day Surgery unit, was called an outstanding leader by Teresa Loden, director of surgery services.

Arlene VanderZee displays her St. Margaret of
Cortona Nurses’ Choice Award at the Dyer campus.

“Her leadership has gotten us through many changes and expansions in the department, including the Epic (electronic medical records system) implementation. She has a calm demeanor and is empathetic with patients’ -- an excellent nurse who lives our Franciscan values on a daily basis.”

VanderZee, who said she was “very shocked and surprised” by the honor, added, “It makes me feel good, but there are a lot of people who deserve this. I don’t feel that special.”

About the award
St. Margaret of Cortona joined the Third Order of St. Francis in the 1200s and chose to live in poverty, following the saint’s example. She founded a hospital for the homeless and impoverished in the city of Cortona, Italy and pledged her life to serving God through the hospital. She was canonized on May 16, 1728.

Celebrating National Nurses & Hospital Week 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Mon, 06 May 2013 16:07:00 +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!

New cath lab a blessing to Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer patients

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Fri, 03 May 2013 19:29:00 +0000

Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer president
Tom Gryzbek addresses the crowd during the
blessing ceremony of the newly renovated cardiac
cath lab on May 2, 2013.

Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer celebrated the opening of its newly renovated Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory during a blessing and dedication program May 2.

The $1.7 million project brings new, state-of-the-art Philips imaging equipment that is capable of 3D imaging and provides high-definition imaging and easy integration with CT, MRI and ultrasound images. These allow the medical team to view images with unprecedented clarity.

Cardiologist Michael Nicholas, DO, a longtime hospital medical staff member, said, "We look forward to the future with enthusiasm. It is fantastic that we are able to offer the best technology available to provide the best care for our patients."

Tom Gryzbek, hospital president, called the renovation an expression of Franciscan St. Margaret Health’s ongoing commitment to providing the best care for the patients, "who we are privileged to serve, who come to us 24/7, with sometimes life-threatening cardiac issues and who rely on us for our expertise, our technology, our care and our compassion."

Franciscan St. Margaret Health honors physicians for service to patients and staff members

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Thu, 02 May 2013 16:14:00 +0000

Two Franciscan St. Margaret Health physicians recently received St. Luke awards, which annually are given on behalf of nurses from both the Dyer and Hammond campuses to honor excellence in service to patients and staff.

Dr. Ravi Bhagwat is presented the St. Luke Award for
the Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond campus by
Tom Gryzbek, hospital president.

Ravi Bhagwat, M.D., a cardiologist who has been with Franciscan St. Margaret Health since he started practicing in 1987, received the award for the Hammond campus; while Ben Adeyemi, M.D., an anesthesiologist who began practicing in 2001 and has been with Franciscan Alliance since 2003, received the honor for the Dyer campus. Adeyemi recently was appointed director of anesthesiology for Franciscan Physicians Hospital in Munster.

Also known as doctor of the year honor, the St. Luke Award has been presented at Franciscan St. Margaret Health since 2008, “in recognition of extraordinary efforts in maintaining excellent rapport with nurses, providing educational mentoring and leadership and exhibiting a collaborative approach to patient care, which shows respect for the nursing profession and to the mission of the Sisters of St. Francis,” according Kathy O’Donnell, physician liaison.

Luke is the patron saint of physicians.

Dr. Ben Adeyemi is presented the St. Luke Award for
the Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer campus by
Tom Gryzbek, hospital president.

The awards were presented to the physicians by Tom Gryzbek, hospital president, during ceremonies packed with applauding nursing staff members and hospital officials at each campus.

Among nomination comments, nurses said Bhagwat is kind to staff members and patients alike and is an excellent teacher, who is loved by coworkers and all with whom he comes into contact.

Bhagwat thanked the nurses and said he was honored to work with them and grateful to Franciscan St. Margaret Health for the opportunity to practice there.

“I have no regrets; I am the happiest man today,” he added.

Nurses complimented Adeyemi, calling him one of the most caring and knowledgeable physicians on staff -- one who puts the needs of others first and is loved by patients, who are his priority. He also was lauded for being a “superuser” for the hospitals’ implementation of the Epic electronic medical records program – a role in which he helped the surgery department transition to the system.

Adeyemi said he was humbled and honored by the recognition, “that goes beyond me, to everyone who helps make the patient experience a good one.”

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

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Wed, 01 May 2013 13:17:00 +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.

Hospital celebrates National Donate Life Month with tree-planting service

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 20:15:00 +0000

In celebration of organ and tissue donors and recipients, Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer, in conjunction with Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donation Network and the Indiana Lions Eye and Tissue Transplant Bank, conducted a National Donate Life Month Gift of Hope tree-planting service April 26 on the hospital grounds, 24 Joliet St.

Linda Kraiko, senior director of patient services, hosted the event, which was presided over by the Rev. Henry Sequeira, hospital chaplain.

Diane Ranta, a registered nurse in the Same Day Surgery unit, told the story of her recently deceased husband, Tom, who was able to live longer, thanks to kidney and pancreas donations he received. “We see the last 13 years as a gift of another family’s love,” she said.

Shown are Alice Jenkins, Gift of Hope representative; and Michael Henderson, of the Lions transplant bank, as they do a ceremonial watering of one of the newly planted trees (meant to symbolize growth and hope), as did the other attendees. The trees were provided by Lake Shore Nursery.

Video Highlights

Managing Change

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:31:00 +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.

National Healthcare Decisions Day - Understanding Advance Directives

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:30:00 +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. Multimedia Encyclopedia

World-Class Cancer Treatment, Right Here at Home

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 18:32:00 +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.

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

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 22:15:00 +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. Margaret Health - Dyer earns Chest Pain Center reaccreditation

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 14:51:00 +0000

Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer recently received Chest Pain Center reaccreditation from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care, an international not-for-profit organization that focuses on transforming cardiovascular care by assisting facilities in their effort to create communities of excellence that bring together quality, cost and patient satisfaction.

Hospitals that have received accreditation (Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Hammond also has the designation and expects to be reaccredited later this year) have achieved a higher level of expertise in dealing with patients who arrive with symptoms of a heart attack.

To earn reaccreditation, Franciscan St. Margaret Health - Dyer engaged in rigorous evaluation for its ability to assess, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack. To the community, this means that processes are in place that meet strict criteria aimed at:

Reducing the time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis and treatment.
Treating patients more quickly during the critical window of time when the integrity of the heart muscle can be preserved.
Monitoring patients when it is not certain that they are having a heart attack to ensure that they are not sent home too quickly or needlessly admitted to the hospital.

Tom Gryzbek, Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer and Hammond president, was pleased with the latest accomplishment.

“We are very proud of our physicians and hospital staff in once again achieving this wonderful recognition and in being able to provide this level of quality care for our patients,” he said.

Added, Renne Pfister R.N., Dyer campus chest pain center coordinator, “In order for us to achieve accreditation and reaccreditation, it takes a strong collaborative team effort by all -- EMS, Emergency Department, and Cath Lab STEMI team. The Schererville Fire Department and the dispatch team also were instrumental in our reaccreditation process, as were our cardiologists.”

She advises patients to immediately seek treatment when experiencing symptoms, noting that many arrive in emergency departments more than two hours after the onset. The sooner a heart attack is treated, the less damage there will be to the heart, Pfister added.

For more information on the accreditation and certification processes, visit www.scpcp.org.

Physician-racing driver enjoys smooth sailing through careers

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 20:46:00 +0000

Jay Patel, MD, an interventional radiologist with Franciscan St. Margaret Heath - Dyer and Hammond, is making even more of a name for himself in Sports Car Club of America national competition, recently defeating two professional racing drivers to win a prestigious event.

“The race was in the SCCA Majors Series. This is where the best amateurs (Patel’s ranking) and semipro and pros race,” he said. “Although it was my first race of the year. I beat two professional drivers for the top spot -- they being Kyle Kelley, a NASCAR (National Association of for Stock Car Auto Racing) driver and Pratt Cole, a three-time SCCA national champion and World Challenge driver.”

The contest was the inaugural BF Goodrich SCCA Majors race and the first SCCA event ever conducted at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, the newest and one of best Formula 1 tracks in the world, Patel said.

“To have the inaugural win at this prestige race track puts me in the history books as the first winner at this track in my class. I have not raced in a national race in over nine months and while winning national races is tough, to win a Majors race is even tougher. Moreover, to win a BF Goodrich Majors race, at an inaugural race, at a track designed to challenge the best drivers in the world, on my first outing in nine months, with the competition that I had, is priceless.”

Patel attributed the win to being patient, precise and having the knowledge to gauge “when to go for it.”
“As I tell people, racing is like taking care of an emergent patient. The goal in medicine is to save the patient. The goal in racing is to get to the checkered flag first. There are many things that happen in between. You have to take a step back, work and drive at the subconscious level. If you think too much, you will make mistakes.”

While a Corvette and Mustang were dueling for the lead, Patel’s Porsche 911 passed them on the final turn of the last lap to earn the checkered flag.

“They did not even know that I won,” he said.

Patel added he will participate in SCCA Majors and some endurance races, this year against the best amateur and pro drivers, including in the National Championship race at the end of the season.

“My goal is to expand my racing resume, gain more exposure so as to attract more sponsors and move to racing in the United Sports Car Racing series,” he said.

But medicine remains his first love and priority.

“Being a doctor will always come first,” he said.

MAMMOthon - Grab the girls and go!

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 22:43:00 +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.

Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness - Chesterton employees save one of their own

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 15:44:00 +0000

Alan Nelson of Chesterton, center, says his recent, 67th birthday celebration was his best, since, if it weren’t for the efforts of five fellow employees at Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness - Chesterton, he may not have survived to see it.

Nelson, a personal trainer and group aquatics instructor, suffered cardiac arrest in December at Omni, later learning it was caused by a previously undetected heart defect. The employees administered CPR and employed an Automatic External Defibrillator. Paramedics arrived, administered Advanced Life Support procedures, and Nelson, who was revived on the scene, was taken to the Chesterton Health and Emergency Center and later to Franciscan St. Anthony Health - Michigan City.

Tom Bettenhausen, operations manager of Superior Ambulance Service-Indiana, which has a partnership with the Chesterton Health and Emergency Center, honored the employees’ efforts during a program at the hospital during February, which is American Heart Month, by presenting them an American Heart Association Emergency Cardiovascular Care Heart Hero Award.

Shown with their awards, are, from left: Stephanie Lambert, Julie Lunde-Giesick and Sarah Hott. Unable to attend were Kenin Zolper and Ashley Richardson. Also pictured, from left, are: Ken Sink, Superior Ambulance-Indiana general manager; Carrie Ranta, Omni operations supervisor; Bettenhausen, and Jill Schneider, Omni program supervisor.

Video: Spirit of Women - Day of Dance 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Franciscan St. Margaret Health) — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 21:26:00 +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. Margaret Health) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:16:00 +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. Margaret Health) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:11:00 +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. Margaret Health) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 15:38:00 +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.