christian cares • 2016 issue 2

2016 ISSUE 2

THE HEALTH & WELLNESS MAGAZINE FROM YOUR NEIGHBORS AT CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL

Provider Spotlight

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GE

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6 Conquering Colon Cancer

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Check Out Our Great Events & Classes!

Nursed Back to Health

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Christian Cares / 2016 / Issue 2

This column, typically called the “First Word,” is most likely my last in Christian Cares, as I will be retiring in August. A nationwide search is underway to identify my successor, who I’m sure will bring new energy, perspective and vision to Christian Hospital, continuing to serve the families of this community. I have thoroughly enjoyed my nine years at Christian Hospital, and am grateful for the opportunity BJC HealthCare has provided me to serve you.

Successfully Achieving a Goal

When I first came to Christian Hospital, I was naturally asked what my vision was for the hospital. My answer was simple: I wanted Christian Hospital to become known as an excellent community hospital that provided extraordinary care to patients. I also saw Christian Hospital becoming a valued employer and community service provider that helped improve and sustain this community. Due largely to the efforts of many talented and dedicated physicians, staff and volunteers over the years, I’m proud to say we’ve achieved that goal.

Award-winning Patient Care

Patients who come to Christian Hospital get a care experience from a provider that has been recognized by Medicare, accreditation agencies and others as being in the top 25 percent of national hospitals in areas such as stroke care, heart care and heart surgery. Over 60 percent of patients and families who have used Christian Hospital in the past few years have rated their overall experience as “excellent,” and nearly all the rest have given a “very good” or “good” rating. Of course, our aspirational goal is for everyone to rate their experience as “excellent,” something I know my successor will continue to strive for.

Committed to the Community

Beyond direct patient care, Christian Hospital has always been a significant provider of community benefits, offering hundreds of annual health screening and educational opportunities to thousands of individuals and families. And Christian Hospital has an ever-growing presence and leadership role in many community organizations such as local chambers of commerce, business development organizations and civic groups. Christian Hospital, as sponsored and supported by BJC, is an integral part of the fabric of the community. And the physicians, staff and volunteers of Christian Hospital work to bring more value to you and your loved ones every day.

I know that the next president of Christian Hospital will find the same dedication, talent and support that I have enjoyed, and will leverage that to provide the best possible care to patients and families; building an even stronger and positive presence here. It has been my privilege to serve you.

Wishing you peace and good health in the years to come,

Ron McMullen, FACHE President, Christian Hospital

Ron’s Last Word

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Visit us at ChristianHospital.org

2016 ISSUE 2CONTENTS

4 GIVE IT TO ME STRAIGHT, DOC

5 RENOVATED GI LAB

6 FEATURE: CONQUERING COLON CANCER

9 PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT

10 FEATURE: NURSED BACK TO HEALTH

12 EVENTS & CLASSES

15 FOUNDATION NEWS

6

10Conquering Colon Cancer

“Why I Choose Christian Hospital”

14Nursed Back to Health

A New Look, Expanded Content You may notice this issue of Christian Cares has a fresh, new look. But that’s not all that’s new. We encourage you to go online to view additional content about the patients and the caregivers featured in this issue, at ChristianHospital.org.

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I’ve heard warmer temperatures can cause extra stress on my heart. Is that true? How can I keep my heart healthy?

Q

A MATT FRALEY, MD

CARDIOLOGIST

With the summer months upon us, it’s important to take precautions when it comes to your heart

health. While warm weather brings cookouts and outdoor activities, it also brings the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Hot temperatures and high humidity can cause your heart to work harder than it does other times of the year. But don’t worry, there’s a few simple things you can do to keep your heart healthy.

“Exercise is an important component of heart health. Take advantage of the warm weather by getting outside and being active, but be smart about it. Ease into it and limit activity based on your own symptoms,” says Matt Fraley, MD, a cardiologist at Christian Hospital.

In the warmer months, your heart works harder to keep blood and oxygen pumping to your muscles, while your body cools itself off by sweating. If exercising outdoors, try to fit your workout in during cooler hours, like in the early morning or late evening. On particularly hot days, consider bringing your workout indoors. It’s also advised to monitor your heart rate while exercising, especially for those at

risk of heart-related conditions. Stay within your doctor’s recommended range for you.

It’s also especially important to stay hydrated. Your body cools itself off by sweating, and the loss of fluids can cause your body to dehydrate, which in turn makes your heart pump faster. Prevent dehydration by drinking more water throughout the day, not just when exercising.

It’s important to take care of your heart during any season, by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “Eat a low-fat diet, exercise regularly and watch your weight,” recommends Dr. Fraley.

Those at risk of heart attacks or other heart-related conditions should take extra precaution in warm weather, and consult their doctors about safe activities.

By making a few small changes to your usual routine, you can avoid dehydration and heat-related illnesses when the temperatures are hot and the humidity is high. Enjoy those warm and sunny summer months safely; keeping your heart healthy and happy.

Matt Fraley, MD, is with The Heart Care Group, located on the campus of Northwest HealthCare. If you or a loved one need a cardiologist, please call 314.953.6300 to schedule an appointment.

Give it to Me Straight, Doc

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Additional Hospital Renovations

In the last two years, as part of our commitment to deliver Your Best Medicine, we've improved and modernized several patient floors, and also completely renovated the cafeteria, shown at right, which opened in August 2015.


PRIVATE PATIENT BAYSPROCEDURE ROOMS

Renovated GI LabOPENING JULY 2016

The gastrointestinal (GI) lab renovation on the 2nd floor of Christian Hospital is progressing on schedule for a tentative July 5 completion. Currently, it’s more than 50 percent complete, with walls up in the private patient bay areas.

Progress on private patient bay corridor is shown in this construction image. The 15 rooms expand the capabilities for the team to treat patients.

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traceyburns

Sticky Note

Marked set by traceyburns

Conquering Colon Cancer

Watch Cheryl and

Dr. Raj discuss her

health care journey at

ChristianHospital.org

6 Christian Cares / 2016 / Issue 2


Conquering Colon Cancer

When Cheryl Koniuszy’s colonoscopy results revealed a tumor earlier this year, she knew she needed surgery. On the recommendation of her doctor, she came to Christian Hospital and surgeon Nishant Raj, MD — and was immediately ready to be admitted.

“I really liked Dr. Raj right from the start. He doesn’t hold any punches, but he doesn’t scare you half to death either. He’s very calm, but he tells it like it is,” Cheryl says. “I knew right away he was the right surgeon.”

Dr. Raj performed a laparoscopic colectomy, which is a procedure to remove part of the colon. It’s a minimally invasive approach that can bring earlier, speedier recovery and less pain. “When you have a patient with stage 3 cancer who needs more therapies than surgery alone, as Cheryl did, laparoscopic surgery, instead of traditional open surgery, allows that patient to be seen earlier by the oncologist and to be given chemotherapy at an earlier date,” Dr. Raj explains.

The surgery was successful, allowing Cheryl, 67, to commence chemotherapy almost immediately. Shortly after the colectomy and just weeks after her last chemo treatment, Cheryl was cancer free and back home gardening, swimming, watching Cardinals baseball games and enjoying her grandchildren — who live just a few houses away in her Troy, Ill., neighborhood.

Looking back on her experience at Christian Hospital, Cheryl says, “Of all the hospitals I’ve been in — and I’ve worked at hospitals and been in others for surgical procedures — this by far is the best. I would recommend Christian Hospital to anyone who needs any sort of surgery or medical care.”

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Minimally Invasive Colectomy Helps Grandmother Heal

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Cheryl not only appreciated the exceptional clinical care she received, but also the warm and friendly feel of the hospital. As Dr. Raj explains, “One of the benefits of Christian Hospital is that we have everything here. As a BJC HealthCare facility, we have all the capabilities and amenities of big, academic hospitals, but in a community setting.”

Dr. Raj also understands Cheryl’s appreciation of Christian Hospital’s welcoming ambiance. “This is truly a community hospital. We treat each other like family,” he says. “I love coming into work every day. I love the people I work with and I love the patients that I get to help.”

Cheryl placed a lot of trust in Dr. Raj and the expert gastroenterology and oncology teams at Christian Hospital, and says she’s glad she did. “I would so highly recommend — and have recommended — Christian Hospital and its surgical staff to anyone,” she says. “I’m feeling stronger every day, and I know I have that entire team to thank for it.”

To learn more about our surgical team and the procedures we offer, call 314.747.WELL or visit ChristianHospital.org.

“ This is truly a community

hospital. We treat each

other like family. I love

coming into work every

day. I love the people I

work with and I love the

patients that I get to help.”

Christian Hospital’s Surgical Expertise

Christian Hospital’s surgical team performs a wide variety of

advanced procedures with some of the latest technology available,

like our new Hybrid Room. For more information on the procedures

we perform, visit ChristianHospital.org.

NISHANT RAJ, MD SURGEON AT CHRISTIAN HOSPITAL


Sue Hofmann, ANP-BC, joined Christian Hospital in November 2015, as a nurse practitioner

specializing in diabetes care with BJC Medical Group Specialists of North County. While relatively new to the team, Sue has been a nurse for more than 35 years and has dedicated most of that time helping patients with diabetes.

Sue received her master’s degree in nursing education and her post-master’s certificate as a nurse practitioner from Maryville University in St. Louis, where she is now an adjunct nursing instructor. Her education allows her to provide excellent care for her patients, by helping them manage their diabetes and educating them on leading a healthy lifestyle.

She previously worked as a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE), alongside an endocrinologist. Sue tells her patients, “You drive the car, but you still need the roadmap. In diabetes, I have to be able to explain the complex parts so patients understand the disease and can manage it in their daily life.” The lifestyle component of diabetes care is critical and Sue believes educating patients is key to this, a principle she instills in her nurse practitioner students.

Sue recognized the strong community feel at Christian Hospital. “There’s a real presence of bonding and a connection in wanting to help people,” Sue says.

To schedule an appointment with Sue, please call 314.953.8799.

Ramakrishna Venkatesh, MD, who prefers patients

call him “Dr. Venky,” is a Washington University physician practicing at Christian Hospital. Dr. Venkatesh is board-certified in both surgery and urology, and is trained in minimally invasive urological techniques and robotic surgical techniques. He specializes in treating a variety of conditions that include prostate cancer, renal cancer and urolithiasis with a focus in treating kidney stones and kidney cancer.

One of the most advanced methods he uses to treat kidney cancer, while preserving as much kidney function as possible, is robotic surgery. “The da Vinci method allows patients to recover faster by causing far less damage,” says Dr. Venkatesh. He is also a proctor for robotic surgery, teaching these methods to

surgeons and urologists. He also serves on the Laparoscopic, Robotic & New Surgical Technology Committee of the American Urological Association, helping others in the urological community learn the most advanced technological skills.

After completing his general surgery residency at Bangalore University in India, Dr. Venkatesh completed research and clinical fellowships in endourology and laparoscopy at Washington University in St. Louis.

What he likes most about Christian Hospital is that patients enjoy the convenience and personalized attention of a smaller community hospital, while receiving the same exceptional care of larger hospitals.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Venkatesh, please call 314.362.8200.

SUE HOFMANN, ANP-BCNurse Practitioner

Provider Spotlight


RAMAKRISHNA VENKATESH, MDUrological Surgeon

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Neuro Team Cares for One of Their Own In January, when 43-year-old Kim Clark started to experience stroke symptoms — chest pain, tingling in her left arm, foggy thinking — she initially dismissed them. Which is a little surprising, given Kim is an RN and the patient care manager of the neurology floor at Christian Hospital. “As a nurse, you don’t think that this can happen to you,” she explains. “I distinctly remember thinking at the time ‘I see stroke patients all day long, I know the symptoms. But there’s no way this is happening to me right now.”

But it did happen. When the tingling in her arm turned to numbness, she quickly made her way to Christian Hospital’s emergency room. By that time, her arm was completely limp and she wasn’t able to move it. A stroke occurs when blood flow to an area of brain is cut off. When this happens, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and begin to die, which causes abilities controlled by that area of the brain, such as memory and muscle control, to be lost.

After an EKG, a CT scan and an assessment on the NIH Stroke Scale, her neurologist ordered an infusion of tissue plasminoen activator or TPA, a drug that busts through blood clots. “Ten minutes into the infusion, I was able to move my arm again,” she recalled.

Maria St. George, RN, a hospital supervisor who has known Kim for many years, took charge of communication with Kim’s family. “I knew that Kim was getting excellent care in the ER. I was more concerned about her children and her sister, who was distraught. You have to look after the family as well as the patient,” Maria says.

Kim was moved to the ICU. “They gave me amazing care, but it wasn’t because I’m a nurse manager on staff. I actually had never met anyone on that team before.” A day later, she moved to the 10th floor neurology unit — the unit she manages — where everyone knew her.


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Shabori Smith, RN, a stroke-certified nurse on the 10th floor, saw Kim’s name on the chart and asked, “Is this my Kim? Our Kim?” It’s that kind of teamwork and camaraderie that Kim has cultivated among her staff.

Initially, Kim thought, “They’re going to let me bend the rules. But that didn’t happen. I was just like any other patient in their care. I wasn’t their boss. I was Kim, the patient who’d just had a stroke, and needed their help. I was so proud of my staff. They met me where I was. That’s why I love this hospital.”

“Having Kim as a patient was nerve-wracking at first. I wasn’t nervous about taking care of her and providing excellent care to her, like I do to every other patient. I was nervous because she’s my manager,” Shabori recalled. “But Kim was a great patient, even when I kept bothering her every four hours, doing neuro checks, and explaining to her the things that I was doing,” Shabori says with a laugh.

Christian Hospital is consistently recognized for its excellence in stroke care. “We’re always on the top of stroke care, and I think it’s because we stay so focused. All our neurologists, nurses and other specialists are all great,” Shabori explains. It’s this kind of dedication that led to Christian Hospital receiving a Stroke Honor Roll rating of Gold Plus from the American Stroke Association.

In addition to world-class clinical skills, the stroke team excels as compassionate caregivers and team members. Maria credits Kim for creating such a caring environment: “Kim shows a lot of compassion, not only for her patients, but also for her staff. She is a true leader. No matter how busy it is, everyone works together because we’re all here for the same purpose and that’s excellent patient care.”

Just a few short weeks after her stroke, Kim was back at work, managing the neuro team. “I’m just blessed to be here, back where I belong. Having gone through it, I just have that much more of an appreciation of the level of care we provide every patient, every day.”

Watch Kim and her team talk about Christian Hospital’s stroke care and her experience at ChristianHospital.org


Know the warning signs. Think F-A-S-T. Early stroke detection and treatment is key for good outcomes.

If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you’ll know when the first symptoms appeared.

To learn more about Christian Hospital’s stroke services, please visit ChristianHospital.org/MedicalServices/StrokeServices.

FACE DROOPING

ARM WEAKNESS

SPEECH DIFFICULTY

TIME TO CALL 9-1-1

Visit us at ChristianHospital.org 11


Saturday, August 20 9 – 1 1 a.m. Christian Hospital Detrick Building Atrium 11133 Dunn Road

Nearly 400 North County residents took the challenge in January and lost nearly a ton. Literally!

What is Just Lose It?

It is a 12-week weight loss challenge to take charge of your health and make those lifestyle changes you have been meaning to make. We will be there to help with tips, classes, incentives and weigh-ins each week to keep you motivated. Because biometric numbers are also an important measurement, we will be offering FREE blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol screenings.

Here is your chance to improve your health with some help from your friends at Christian Hospital, City of Bellefontaine, City of Florissant, Ferguson Bicycle Shop, Lincoln University, Graham Outpatient Rehabilitation and the YMCA.

Want to join?

To Register:

Call 314.747.WELL (9355) or 1.877.747.WELL (9355) anytime from June 1 to August 16 to register for the kick-off on August 20. You must be 18 years of age or older to register, and must attend the kick-off to be entered in the competition. The challenge is limited to the first 500 people, so be sure to call early.

Attend the kick-off on Saturday, August 20 at Christian Hospital’s Atrium between 9 and 11 a.m. Registration will take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour. Bring $15 for your registration fee in cash or a check made out to Christian Hospital.

The Just Lose It Weight Loss Challenge

8:30–1 1 a.m. FREE Screenings Cholesterol, Glucose and Blood Pressure

2016 Christian Hospital Orthopedic Fair

Saturday, September 17 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Registration is required. Space is limited.

Graham Medical Center 1150 Graham Road

Call 314.747.WELL (9355) or (toll-free) 1.877.747.WELL (9355)


Learn about the extraordinary orthopedic and rehabilitation services that Christian Hospital has to offer.

There will be refreshments, tours, SHAPE (Senior Health And Physical Exercise) demos, physician lectures

featuring orthopedic and pain specialists, informational booths and so much more. You don’t want to miss it!

FREE screenings include hearing, blood pressure, grip strength, posture, balance and lung function

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Stay Active and HealthyFor a complete schedule and up-to-date event information visit: ChristianHospital.org

Call 314.747.WELL (9355) or (toll-free) 1.877.747.WELL (9355) to register for all Christian Hospital Events & Classes.

Events & Classes

Exercise

SHAPE Exercise(Senior Health And Physical Exercise) is designed for people 55 and older. Physician consent required.

YogaCalm your mind and increase your concentration and enhance your ability to cope with stress.

Tai ChiResist illness, combat stress and fatigue, and increase flexibility through meditation in motion.

Boot CampFat-burning and strength-training exercises that will help you gain endurance, strength, flexibility and speed.

ZumbaLearn to swivel, pivot and shake your way to fitness through the popular Latin dance-inspired class.

Blood Drive

American Red Cross Blood DriveOpen to the general public. Walk-ins are welcome; appointments have priority.

Cancer Care

Look Good, Feel BetterAnyone currently undergoing or finishing cancer treatment is invited to experience a free makeover from certified cosmetologists.

Seniors

Better Choices, Better Health–Diabetes®OASIS Community Health Facilitators

Workshop to manage diabetes with lifestyle and health tips.

Peer-Led Discussion GroupsEnjoy fellowship and conversation on a variety of topics while making new friends or reconnecting with old ones.

Fit for Function, Preventing Age-Related Muscle LossLearn about new research proving basic strength training can reverse age-related muscle loss.

Matter of BalanceOASIS Community Health FacilitatorsWorkshop that will share factors that can lead to a fall and practical tips to keep yourself on your feet.

Understanding Elder CareLearn how to protect yourself, your family and your finances.

Medicare Update 2017Certified Missouri CLAIM Medicare counselors will lead this workshop so you can learn what changes are anticipated for Medicare in 2017.

Heart & Lung

Free Lung Function Screening

Mental Health

Center for Senior RenewalDay treatment programfor older adults (over 60 years old) suffering from anxiety, depression, grief, loss or isolation.

Christian Hospital Recovery CenterIntensive outpatient program (IOP) for adults (18-60 years old) suffering from mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults.

Christian Hospital Auxiliary Fundraisers

Geneva Distributing Linen SaleLinens include comforter sets, blankets, and sheet sets (800 and 900 thread count).

Lionne Designs Jewelry SaleGenuine silver, gold, gems and natural stones with hundreds of items from $12 and up.

Shoe Roads ProductionTeaming with Laurie’s Shoes, this sale offers a fine selection of footwear.

Support Groups

All support groups are free and cover a variety of topics.

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Jill Sauer, RN, Patient Care Manager 4 Years of Service

I Choose Christian Hospital

My team gives extraordinary care.

I love knowing they make a good

connection with our patients.



The Christian Hospital Foundation

would like to introduce our new

Legacy Prints Program. We are

enhancing the walls of the newly

renovated floors/areas at Christian

Hospital with scenic images to

provide therapeutic support and

offer a welcome distraction to our

guests during what could be very

stressful times in their lives.

We are offering an opportunity to sponsor a limited number of pieces. Each gift will be recognized with a plaque adjacent to the piece, with the wording of your choice.

For more information, please visit the Foundation’s website at ChristianHospital.org/foundation or contact Mindy Copp at 314.653.5162 or [email protected].

The Christian Hospital Foundation creates opportunities for individuals and organizations to provide vital support that directly improves the health and wellness of our community. We support efforts such as patient care, advanced medicine and technology, community benefit programs and staff education.

Legacy Prints

Thank you

to everyone who participated

and volunteered in our annual golf

outing on May 16 at Norwood Hills

Country Club.

Foundation News

1620

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NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDST. LOUIS, MO

PERMIT NO. 2067

This information has been sent to you because we believe you may have a need or interest in

our services. For address changes or mailing list removals, call 314.747.WELL or 1.877.747.WELL.

This magazine is produced as a service to the community. Please direct inquiries to:

Bret Berigan, Managing Editor / Christian Hospital / 11133 Dunn Road / St. Louis, MO 63136

Christian Hospital11133 Dunn RoadSt. Louis, MO 63136

Find us at:

facebook.com/ChristianHospital youtube.com/ChristianHospital

Christian Hospital: 314.653.5000 Northwest HealthCare: 314.953.6000

For a complete listing of events, health & wellness tips and more, visit ChristianHospital.org

If you need a physician or need to make a change, just give us a call and speak to one of our physician referral experts. In addition to providing detailed information about any of our physicians, they can also make an appointment for you during your call.

Find a Physician & MoreCall 314.747.WELL (9355) or (toll-free) 1.877.747.WELL (9355)

christian cares • 2016 issue 2

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