New Patient Representative

A registered nurse with Penrose-St. Francis Health Services recently changed hats…to patient representative.

Ginger Karbousky, a registered nurse for 19 years at Penrose Community Hospital and the new St. Francis Medical Center, filled an open position on this two-person team dedicated to building relationships.
 
"I have a passion for customer service,” Ginger said. “Not just the care we give to our patients, but for the interactions we have every day with our peers, ancillary staff, and physicians." 

Patient representatives are known by a number of different titles, and wear a number of different hats: patient advocate, healthcare consumer advocate, patient relations specialist, patient ombudsman and the ever popular “complaint lady.”

"Ginger is already proving herself to be a great asset," said Kathy Parham, a fellow patient representative and Ginger's supervisor. "She has a solid background of team-building, conflict resolution and excellent communication skills.  Her many years as a RN advocating for her patients and staff coupled with her warm personality make her a natural for this position.  She hit the ground running and is eager to assist patients, associates, and physicians." 

The primary role of the patient representative is to advocate for the patient. In Colorado, the patient representative position is mandated by state statute for any acute care facility of 50 beds or more.  The state recognizes that patients can be in a very vulnerable position when faced with illness or injury and the resulting personal crisis that may occur as a result. 

The hospital environment, the avalanche of information, and the many decisions a patient and their family faces can be overwhelming.  Helping them navigate through this maze of unfamiliarity is a key role of the patient representative. 

“We attempt to explain the ‘whys and wherefores’ of what is happening to the patient, in language they can understand,” Kathy said.  “We answer questions, educate, explain patient rights and responsibilities, and facilitate communication between caregivers and departments.”

When patients and families have complaints, the patient representative can be a valuable resource to coordinate efforts to identify and solve problems throughout Penrose-St. Francis’ facilities. By identifying opportunities for quality improvement, potential liabilities, and communication breakdowns, patient representatives seek to improve patient and staff satisfaction and overall quality of care.

"I think the patient representative position was made for me, and I’m so happy to be here,” Ginger said.  “I love helping people and problem-solving.  I want to thank the staff at Penrose Hospital, St. Francis Health Center and the other PSF locations for welcoming me. It’s been great getting to know a whole new group of associates." 

Patient representatives interact with line staff, case managers, social workers, physicians, chaplains, patient accounts and management at all levels across the continuum of out and inpatient care. The goal is to keep the patient at the center of healthcare decisions.

Should patient issues arise on your unit, first enlist the help of your clinical manager or charge nurse, or the nursing supervisor after hours and on weekends.  If a workable solution cannot be facilitated at that level, please call the patient representatives for assistance.

For questions or assistance, please contact Kathy Parham at 776-5370, pager 528-9544, or Ginger Karbousky at 776-5370, pager 279-7537.

Doctors' Day

Today is National Doctors’ Day – A special day set aside to honor the dedicated men and women who partner with Centura Health and are the backbone of our local medical communities.

Show your support and customize your e-mail signature block with the Doctors’ Day message shown below.  It’s easy and just takes a few quick clicks of your mouse.

Directions:
- Save the attached Doctors’ Day artwork to your desktop
- In Outlook, go to "Tools", then "Options"
- Click on the "Mail Format" tab at the top
- Ensure "HTML" is highlighted for mail format
- Click on the "Signatures" button near the bottom
- Click the "Edit" button
- Place your cursor at the end of your current signature block and hit "Enter" on your keyboard two times to allow for space
- Right click on your mouse, and go to "Insert Image"
- Click on the "Browse" button
- Go to your Desktop and highlight the Doctors’ Day artwork you've saved
- Click on the "Open" button and click "OK"
- Click "OK" three more times to exit the windows and save your new signature block.
History of National Doctors' Day
The first Doctor's Day observance was March 30, 1933 in Winder, Georgia. This first observance included the mailing of greeting cards and placing flowers on graves of deceased doctors. The red carnation is commonly used as the symbolic flower for National Doctor's Day.

On March 30, 1958, a Resolution Commemorating Doctors' Day was adopted by the United States House of Representatives. In 1990, legislation was introduced in the House and Senate to establish a national Doctor's Day.

Following overwhelming approval by the United States Senate and the House of Representatives, on October 30, 1990, President George Bush signed S.J. RES. #366 (which became Public Law 101-473) designating March 30 as "National Doctor's Day."

Dr. Ted Lewis Obituary

Dr. Ted Lewis, 66, former Director of Medical Education for Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, died Wednesday at Penrose Hospital.

He was with PSF for over 32 years, first as a practicing physician and then 18 years in his former position until his retirement in December.

“Over a countless number of years, Ted served our patients and our staff in so many remarkable ways,” said Larry Seidl, Vice President of Mission Integration. “He had a deep love for the poor, a remarkable love of God, and was a role model for his empathetic understanding of patients and their human struggles.”

Dr. Lewis was recently awarded Leadership Pikes Peak’s highest accolade, the Makepeace Community Trustee Award.  The award, named for former Mayor Mary Lou Makepeace, honors a leader whose sustained involvement has had a broad and lasting impact on the Pikes Peak community. He was recognized for ensuring the community benefited from the latest research and best practices in health care.

Committed to sharing his knowledge and compassion, Dr. Lewis shared his time with a variety of organizations.  He worked with Colorado Haiti Project and served as a medical missionary.  He served on the District 12 school board; the board of directors for Cheyenne Village, the Peak Vista Foundation; the El Pomar Community Health Center; and the Episcopal Diocese of Colorado.

"Dr. Lewis was deeply concerned for the underserved,” said Dr. Jeffrey Oram-Smith, PSF Chief Medical Officer. “His caring nature is what made him a treasured asset to our medical community during his clinical years, and an accomplished leader in the field of medical education while serving Penrose St. Francis. With his work he has left us a legacy of excellence. With his life he has left a multitude of friends who will miss him greatly."

Dr. Lewis is survived by his wife Barbara, a daughter, two sons and several grandchildren. 

“He died with his family around him,” Larry said. “In the end, I think the Lewis family taught all of us something about family and the beauty of coming together.”

The PSF family will hold a memorial service in the weeks ahead; details to be announced.

Electrical Hazards

From the PSF Occupational/Environmental, Health, Safety and Security Office

During a recent inspection of the Penrose-St. Francis facilities, the Colorado Springs Fire Department noted several examples of the improper use of extension cords and power strips.

Several codes and standards regulate the use of these devices. The Joint Commission and the Colorado Department of Public Health/Environment use National Fire Protection Standard 99 as one of their accreditation and licensing documents. The standard stipulates that the use of extension cords is limited to immediate need.

Extension cords are intended to be temporary and not designed to substitute for an inadequate number or placement of electrical receptacles.

The City of Colorado Springs adopted the 2003 International Fire Code, which stipulates that extension cords shall not be a substitute for permanent wiring. Extension cords should also not be affixed to structures, extend through walls, ceilings, floors, under doors or floor coverings, nor should cords be subject to environmental damage or physical impact.

In short, with very few exceptions, extension cords shouldn’t be used in PSF facilities! If associates need an additional electrical outlet, please submit a work order.

Conversely, these codes and standards do allow for the use of power taps or strips. Power taps are essentially a combination of a multi-plug adapter provided with over-current protection and a flexible cord. The flexible cord length depends on the listing of the particular device, but some power taps are listed for lengths up to 25 feet.

Relocatable power taps must be of the polarized or grounded type and be listed. They should also be directly connected to a permanently installed electrical receptacle. That means one power tap can not be plugged into another power tap, which is called daisy chaining.

The restrictions on power taps are similar to those imposed on extension cords. Power taps cannot extend through walls, ceilings, floors, under doors or floor coverings, or be subject to environmental or physical damage.

For questions or more information, contact Dave Linebaugh at 776-2122.

For Your Spirit

Holy Week Services

Holy Week offers several opportunities for participation in contemplation and celebration of the sacred.

Palm Sunday, April 5
A commemoration of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem
Catholic Mass at 11 a.m. at Penrose Hospital and 11:30 a.m. at Saint Francis Medical Center.

Holy Thursday, April 9
Ecumenical Communion Service – A symbol of Jesus’ sacrifice for the brokenness of humankind
Foot Washing – a re-enactment of Jesus washing the feet of his  disciples and speaking the great commandment, “Love One Another”
Noon in both Chapels
Catholic Mass at 4 p.m. in both chapels

Good Friday Service, April 10
Meditation on the Last Seven Words of Christ–pondering the significance of the ancient sacrifice of Jesus in terms of contemporary issues of truth and justice
Noon in the Chapel

Easter Sunday, April 12 
The Resurrection and Renewal of Life–the triumph of good over evil, God’s joy visible on earth
Protestant Service at 9 a.m. in the Chapel
Catholic Mass at 11 a.m. in the Chapel

*All services televised on channel 15

Going Green

Did you know….The Penrose Hospital Cafeteria converted to “green” plastic ware?  By doing this, the Nutrition Services department assisted PSF in reducing landfill waste.  A plastic cup only takes nine months to breakdown compared to a Styrofoam cup that can take years to decompose.  A California based Science web site stated that if a Styrofoam cup is buried and not exposed to the sun it could take a million years to breakdown.  

Going Green Tip of the Week…When dining out bring your own reusable container for leftovers instead of using the restaurants Styrofoam container.

The Going Green Section of the Penrose Pulse was developed to educate and inform Penrose-St. Francis associates, physicians, and volunteers on how to Reduce and Reuse valuable resources.  For questions or to share a tip, please contact Ann Martin at 776-5111 or by email annmartin@centura.org.

Donate Life

Are you a registered organ and tissue donor?

Organ, eye and tissue transplants offer patients a new chance at healthy, productive and normal lives and return them to their families, friends and communities.

Transplantation is one of the most remarkable success stories in the history of medicine. It provides hope to thousands of people with organ failure. In addition, transplanted tissue offers hundreds of thousands of people active and renewed lives.

But transplantation requires the commitment of organ, eye and tissue donors. Unfortunately, the need for donors is much greater than the number of people who actually donate.

You have the power to change someone’s world by being an organ, eye and tissue donor. It’s about living. It’s about Life.

Facts about Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation:

FACT: People of all ages and medical histories should designate their decisions to be organ and tissue donors.

FACT: As an organ donor, you can save the lives of eight others, and save up to 100 through donated tissue.

FACT: Tissue is needed to replace bone, tendons and ligaments lost to trauma, cancer and other diseases. Corneas restore sight. Skin grafts help burn patients heal and heart valves repair heart damage or defects.

FACT: All major religions support organ, eye and tissue donation as an unselfish act of charity.

FACT: Donation should not delay or change funeral arrangements. An open casket funeral is possible.

FACT: In the United States, it is illegal to buy or sell organs and tissue for transplantation.

Be an organ, eye and tissue donor. 

For more information, visit ColoradoDonorRegistry.org or call (888) 256-4386.

News Briefs

Town Hall Meetings
All associates, physicians and volunteers are asked to attend one of Penrose-St. Francis Health Services’ Town Hall meetings March 31-April 4 at PSF locations. This meeting is an opportunity to hear directly from PSF leadership about what is happening in the organization and for you to ask questions. The meeting includes refreshments and door prizes.
Tuesday, 7:30 a.m. in the PH Gala Room; Noon in the SF Front Range Room; 3 p.m. in the EAP Classroom
Wednesday, 7:30 a.m. in the SFMC CR 1; Noon in the SFMC CR 1; 2 p.m. in the SF Summit Room; 6 p.m. in the PH Gala Room; 6 p.m. in the SFMC CR 1
Thursday, 7:30 a.m. in the PH Gala Room; 9:30 a.m. in the PH Gala Room; Noon in the PH Gala Room; 6 p.m. in the SFMC CR 1
Friday, 8 a.m. in the SFMC CR 4; 2 p.m. in the PH Gala Room
Saturday, 8 a.m. in the SFMC CR 1; 10 a.m. in the PH /Gala Room

Elizabeth Ann Seton "Nursing Excellence" Award
Each year during National Nurses Week in May, the PSF Nursing Department presents awards to members of the nursing staff and management who exemplify excellence in their work. Nomination forms are available on posters in all PSF lobbies or cafeterias as well as on units.  Or contact Kathy Creech, PSF Nursing Administration, at 776-5082, for an easy-to-fill-out form. Completed forms are due to Kathy by April 8.  For questions or more information, contact Rochelle Salmore at 776-5563.

You're a Good Egg
During the week of April 6-12, the Associate Satisfaction Team is sponsoring “You’re A Good Egg.”   This is an Egg-cellent free opportunity to rec-Egg-nize a co-worker for the great job they do each day. Team members will be stationed near all PSF cafeterias or other des-Egg-nated areas to Egg-plain the program during mealtimes.  This is open to all physicians, associates, volunteers, visitors and families. For questions or more information, call Dee Faricy at 776-5117.

Keep the Earth Clean: Pick up Butt’s! April 7
Help make the community a cleaner place. The first Tuesday of every month, from 11:30 a.m.- noon. Meet outside of PH/Outside Valet area. Receive HIIP Fitness credit by attending.

PSF Associate Campaign
The Penrose-St. Francis Health Services 2009 Associate Campaign is coming soon.  The Associate Campaign Hour Club Gifts may can be seen in the glass display case in front of the PH Cafeteria, at SFMC in the EVS Office, and on the foundation website, http://psffound.org/, click on Associate Campaign on left side of the home page. For more information, please contact the Penrose-St. Francis Health Foundation at 776-7060.

Relay for Life
The Colorado Springs relay for life is June 19 at Liberty High School. Help support the Penrose Cancer Center team by purchasing a long-sleeve t-shirt or a variety of jewelry. All proceeds benefit the local American Cancer Society and Relay for Life. T-shirts and jewelry are available for purchase in Medical Oncology, Suite CC #201 at Penrose Hospital. People interested in joining the team, may register at Medical Oncology or online at www.acsrelay.org. For more information or questions, please contact Mary Wolf or Gina Biondi at 776-5454.

Wine, for the Health of it!
April 16, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at The Warehouse, 25 West Cimarron Street
Includes Hors d’oeuvres, live band, and silent auction. Cost is $40 per person - unlimited tasting. Wine Basket Door Prize Entry with tickets purchased prior to April 1. RSVP by calling 719-776-8850 or purchase tickets online at www.setofcs.org. Wine Provided by Broadmoor Wine & Spirits. All proceeds going to SET Family Medical Clinics, which provides basic medical services and holistic health programs to uninsured, underinsured and low income people without discrimination.

TB Screening Reminder Now in LEARN
TB screening is required annually during associates' birth month, once a Quantiferon level is drawn.  To assist associates in remembering this requirement, a reminder will be assigned in LEARN the first day of one’s birth month.  The associate will receive an email stating that the assignment is in LEARN.  Ten days before the end of the birth month, the associate will receive an email notification if the LEARN reminder has not been opened. If the LEARN reminder has not been opened by the first day of the month following one’s birth month, another email notification will be sent.  Please note, this assignment is a reminder only:  the requirement is to complete the TB Screening tool available from Employee Health.  The LEARN assignment will be removed from LEARN by the 15th of the month following an associate's birth month.

Green Bags

By Jamie Janssen
Health Learning Center Dietetic Intern

Many people have made the choice to eat healthier, which often leads to larger amounts of fruits and vegetables purchased from the local market and stored at home.  

But many people find they often buy a plethora of these produce super foods only to have them go bad before they can be eaten.  There may be hope. 

A product known as Debbie Meyer Green Bags claims to keep produce fresh for days, even weeks longer, than plastic grocery store bags or traditional produce storage. 

The bags contain a mineral known as Oya in the form of Zeolite; a fine clay layer that absorbs ethylene gas given off by produce.  By absorbing this gas, the Green Bags claim to keep fruits and vegetables fresh up to 30 days. 

But do the bags work?
 
Most reviews are mixed, but a few pros and cons have been reported consistently among consumers. 

First, money is saved in the long run because the bags are reusable up to ten times each.  This also makes the bags more eco-friendly and results in less landfill waste.  The bags can be used for produce that is stored at room temperature, as well as produce stored in the refrigerator. 

However, food must be thoroughly dried before placing it in the bag, and any condensation build up must be wiped out regularly or the bags will not work effectively. 

Some consumers raved about the product, stating they would “never use anything else to store their produce again.” While others reported they had similar results with the free plastic bags found in the produce department of the supermarket. 

A number of consumers reported bananas appear to be vibrantly yellow and fresh on the outside, but this is deceiving.  When peeled, a mushy and overly ripe fruit was revealed. 

The most common problem appears to be moisture buildup inside the bags.  According to consumer reviews, the bags may work great if people are willing to wipe moisture out regularly.

There appear to be numerous pros and cons to this product, but the question main question: do consumers want to baby-sit their produce?

Health Learning Center

T’ai Chi – A form of ancient Chinese martial arts that works to improve body awareness, strength and coordination.  Monthly on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning the first Tuesday of each month at either 9 to 10 a.m. or 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.  The cost is $40 for the four-week session. Classes run April 7-30.
  
ZUMBA! – No experience or rhythm necessary. Latin based dance that is fast moving and lots of fun.  A great cardio workout with lots of movement.  Tuesdays, April 7-28, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The cost is $30 for the four-week session.

Exercising with the Physioball Level I – This four-week class will focus on core stability and strength, toning abdominals, lower back strengthening and stretching, upper and lower body musculature. A physioball will be given to each participant to encourage completion of weekly homework assignments. Class meets for 45-minutes once per week for four-weeks, April 6-27, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. The cost is $40.

Meditation – A body friendly meditation style using holistic movements and music to promote relaxation. The class will help you to quiet your inner dialog, reach a relaxed body and peaceful state of mind. Wednesdays, April 8-29, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The cost is $30.

Aquatics Classes – The Penrose Health Learning Center in cooperation with Colorado Sports and Spine. A structured class two to three times per week, concentrating on range of motion, overall strengthening and general cardiovascular conditioning.  All Aquatics classes are located at 1625 Medical Center Point (Union and Templeton Gap).  The cost is $46 per month for 2x / week or $66 per month for 3x / week.
- Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 10:30–11:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Monday/Wednesday: 5-6 p.m.
- Monday/Friday: 12:30-1:30 p.m
- Tuesday/Thursday: 8:30-9:30 a.m., 11:30-12:30 p.m., 12:30-1:30 p.m.

All classes require pre-registration / cancellation a minimum of 24 hours prior.A $20.00 no show fee will be billed to the participant if registration not cancelled 24 hours in advance. To register or for more information, please call the Penrose Health Learning Center at 776-3600. 

Cafeteria Menus

Penrose Hospital breakfast and lunch menu.

TODAY
Breakfast: Ham & Swiss Quiche; Lunch: Sloppy Joes, Chicken & Dumplings, Penne Pasta w/ Alfredo or Marinara, and Apple Raspberry Cobbler

TUESDAY
Breakfast: Sausage McMuffins; Lunch: Beer Battered Fried Shrimp, Beef Taco Bowls, Chili Rellanos, and Warm Chocolate Brownies

WEDNESDAY
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos; Lunch: Beef Stir Fry over Jasmine Rice, Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya, Calamari & Marinara Sauce, and Raisin Bread Pudding

THURSDAY
Breakfast: Belgium Waffles; Lunch: BBQ Pork Wings, Burgundy Beef Stew in Bread Bowl, Spinach & Cheese Ravioli, and Sunshine Lemon Orange Cake

FRIDAY
Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza; Lunch: Chik Filet Burger, Corned Beef & Cabbage, Gorgonzola Mahi Mahi, and Warm Cherry Cobbler

SATURDAY
Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza; Lunch: Popcorn Chicken, Meat Lasagna & Garlic Bread, Smoked BBQ Pork, and Blackberry Cobbler

SUNDAY
Breakfast: Belgium Waffles; Lunch: Country Fried Chicken, Honey Baked Ham, Sweet Potato & Marshmallow, and Apple Dumplings

For the SFMC menu, please call the daily menu phone line 571-1001.

Blood Drives

How Much Blood Does a Person Have?
A unit of blood is equal to one pint or two cups.
For every 25 lbs. of body weight, you have two pints.
A person weighing 125 lbs. has 10 pints of blood in circulation.
A person weighing 150 lbs. has 12 pints of blood. 

Donate blood today or anytime at one of these locations during April!

Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Mesa Ridge High School located at 6070 Mesa Ridge Parkway, Colorado Springs, inside the school outside the auditorium. Sponsored by National Honor Society.
    
April 6, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Vitamin Shoppe located at 2002 Southgate Road, Colorado Springs in the PSF Blood Vessel.
         
April 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., USAF Academy Arnold Hall, inside the Ballroom. Sponsored by Squadron 38.
       
April 14, noon to 4 p.m., St. Francis Medical Center located at 6001 Woodmen Road in the Blood Vessel.

April 15, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Pikes Peak School of Expeditionary Learning located at 11925 Antlers Ridge Drive, Peyton. Inside the School Gymnasium.

April 16, 8:30a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Pine Creek High School located at 10750 Thunder Mountain Ave., Inside the School auditorium.

April 19, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Temple Shalom located at 1523 E. Monument. In the Blood Vessel.

April 21, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., St. Mary’s High School located at 2501 E. Yampa in the Blood Vessel.

April 22, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Ingenix located at 1755 Telstar in the Blood Vessel.
    
April 22, 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., Ingenix located at 536 Chapel Hills Drive in the Blood Vessel.

April 23, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Colorado College located at 14 E. Cache La Poudre inside Worner Hall.

April 26, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., St. Francis of Assisi Parish located at 2650 Parish View inside the church.     

April 28, 9 a.m. to noon, ERA Shields Real Estate located at 5475 Tech Center Drive inside offices in the 3rd floor Conference Room.

April 29, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sand Creek High School located at 7005 N. Carefree inside the Field House.

April 30, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Horizon Middle School located at 1750 Piros Drive inside the school gymnasium.

HIIP News

LUNCH ‘N’ LEARN: “Healing Touch”
April 15, SFMC/Conf Rooms 2-3, 12:05-12:35 p.m. 
April 16, PH/E-Tower Gala Room, 12:05-12:35 p.m.
Healing Touch is a relaxing and nurturing energy therapy. Gentle touch assists in balancing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being while working with your energy field to support your natural ability to heal. It is safe for all ages and works in harmony with standard medical care. Health benefits include reducing stress/anxiety/depression/pain, strengthening the immune system, enhanced recovery from surgery, care for neck and back problems and much more. Join Myra Tovey, RNBS, CHPI, as she teaches an overview of the healing touch practice. 

Special Offer: Please join us for A Healing Touch Seminar May 30-31 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at PH/Cancer Center Rooms A-C. Registration is required and available at the Lunch ‘N’ Learn or by calling Liz Berardi at 776-7393.
 
HYPERTENTION INTERVENTION
Want to try another way to protect your heart?
April 3, 10, 17, and 24 from noon to 12:30 p.m. at the PH/E-tower basement aerobics room
Was your blood pressure high at the health screening? Did you ever want to try relaxation, guided imagery or meditation? Each of these can help protect your heart by lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, and bringing a sense of peace and calm. Join us for the Club HIIP Education class series on lowering your blood pressure.
Incentive: If you start class with high blood pressure and are able to lower it to within normal ranges by the fourth week, you’ll receive a $20 gift card to a place of your choosing! You must attend three out of the four classes to be eligible.

WEIGHT WATCHERS AT WORK: Free Info Session:
April 8 from 5-6 p.m. in the PH/Volunteer Conf Room
Now is your chance to join Weight Watchers at work. If 15-19 people sign up it will be a 13-week series and if 20+ people sign up it will be a 17-week series (with a cost savings per week overall). The 13-week series price this session is $156 and the 17-week series price is $186.  Meetings will be held on Wednesdays from 5-6p.m. at PH/Volunteer Conf Room.  For questions or more information, please call Michelle Somers at 776-5034.

FY09 HIIP EDUCATION CLASSES
Tasty Meals on a Tight Budget: Wednesday from 5-5:45 p.m. at HLC/Kitchen (1644 Medical Center Pt)
Active Mind and Memory: April 30 from 5-5:45 p.m. at PH/Cancer Center Rooms A-C

SELF CARE CLASS
April 7 from noon to 12:45 p.m. at ASC/1st Floor Skyline Room

COMMUNITY WALK
March for Babies Walk: April 25 starting at 9 a.m., America the Beautiful Park
Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the walk starting at 9 a.m. To join, simply visit www.marchforbabies.org and click on “Join A Team.” In the search box type in “Centura Health,” click on the “Centura Health” link and the team name “Centura Health- Penrose St. Francis” should appear. Click on this team and enter your information to create a personal profile. For questions or more information, please call Erin Heberlein at 776-7394.

HIKING CLUB
April 11 at 9 a.m., Paul Intemann Trail
Difficulty Rating: 2 boots, 2.5 miles
Directions:  Corner of Manitou Ave. and Ruxton Road in Manitou Springs. We will meet at the corner
of Manitou Ave and Ruxton Ave. and go up Ruxton to begin the trail at Spring Street.
**No restrooms so use facilities before you get to Manitou Springs. Bring water and sun screen! Dogs welcome on leash. For more information, call Lynette at 201-7554. This trail was reviewed in the Gazette Happy Trails on 3.11.09

PSF EXTENDED FITNESS CLASSES
Pick up a schedule at HIIP Wall pockets at all sites for registration forms.

St. Francis Medical Center
Yoga: Session 1: Starts, April 6 from 4-5:15 p.m. at the SFMC/2 floor hallway next to the HIIP Office for a 6 week session. 

Penrose Main
Pilates: Session 8: Starts Wednesday from 5-6 p.m. in the PH/E-Tower Aerobics Room for 5 wk session
Belly Dancing: Sess 3: Starts April 6 from 5-6 p.m. in the PH/E-Tower Aerobics Rm for 6 wk session
Nia: Sess 6: Starts April 14 from 4-5 p.m. in the PH/E-Tower Aerobics Room for 6 week session
Body Toning: Sess 6a/b: Starts April 20 from 11:45 a.m.-12:50 p.m. in the PH/E-Tower Aerobics Room for 6 week session
Yoga: Sess 5: Starts April 23 from 5:15-6:30 p.m. in the PH/E-Tower Aerobics Room for 6 week session

WELLNESS CENTER ORIENTATIONS
Please register for the orientations below via HealthCalc on My Virtual Workplace or call 776-5839, ext 2.
PH Wellness Center- April 9 at 8 a.m.
SFMC Wellness Center- April 16 at 5 p.m.
PH Wellness Center- April 21 at 4 p.m.
SFMC Wellness Center- April 22 at 11 a.m.
Anyone over 40 years old must have a physician’s form signed giving permission to use Wellness Centers.
*SFMC Wellness Center Orientations: Please note that if you used to have access to the PCH Wellness Center, you must attend an orientation at SFMC in order to gain access to that facility.

WALKING CLUBS
PH Walking Club: Every Thursday, 7:15-7:50 a.m. outside of valet. Contact Michelle Somers x5034
SFHC Walking Club:  Every Monday, 11:30 a.m. outside of the Foundation building. Contact Tracy x7085
SFMC Walking Club:  Every Tuesday, 10 a.m. and 12:30p.m. Meet outside 1st floor/valet entrance- Winter season- the group will walk the stairs indoors. Contact Rox x11064