Cancer Research

Improved Cancer Research, Treatment ‘Critical’ to our Community

By Margaret Sabin
President & CEO, Penrose-St. Francis Health Services

A few years ago, Congress officially declared the month of May as National Cancer Research Month. Without the work of thousands of cancer researchers worldwide, many of our lives would be very different.  In my lifetime, cancer research has helped to increase survival rates and improve the lives of millions of people – including friends, family members, and colleagues. 

In the 1940’s, only one diagnosed cancer patient in four survived, on average.  By the 1960’s, as research and treatments advanced, the average survival rate was up to one in three, and today, 50 percent of all patients diagnosed with cancer will survive for an extended period of time.  The American Association for Cancer Research estimates that there are 10 million cancer survivors living in America today.

Not only are many more patients surviving their original cancer diagnosis, but they are also enjoying a better quality of life while being treated.  Again, thanks to the work of cancer researchers, surgery is in many cases less radical and invasive, and chemotherapy side effects are better managed through new medications.

But despite impressive progress in research and treatment, cancer remains much harder to prevent and cure than many other diseases.  Cancer collectively strikes half of all men and one in three women in the U.S., and the overall death rate, adjusted for size and age of the population, dropped just 5 percent in the past 50 years.  By comparison, the death rate for heart disease dropped 64 percent in the same time period.

More needs to be done to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment, and reduce the death rate.  Here in Colorado Springs, the Penrose Cancer Center was selected as one of 16 facilities in the country to participate in the National Cancer Institute’s Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP) because we believe that improved cancer research and treatments are critical to our community. 

The NCCCP is a three-year pilot program that is testing how a national network of community cancer centers can both expand cancer research and deliver the latest, most advanced cancer care to many more people, right in their hometowns.

The Penrose Cancer Center is currently participating in 55 clinical trials.  Local patients have gained access to the latest treatments being tested, while researchers can quickly expand their pool of patients – with a goal of developing more effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Over time, we also hope to participate in studies that require the collection of biological specimens,  and, with permission, to link patient medical information to NCI’s electronic patient data network, called the Cancer Biomedical Informatics Grid™ (caBIG™). Expanding the amount of patient data available to cancer researchers will greatly contribute to our knowledge and treatment of cancer.

Experts have estimated that if the government spent $335 billion, cancer could be cured.  Imagine a world where cancer was no longer a threat to men, women and children!  While I can’t provide $335 billion to make this happen, I am hopeful that the efforts of cancer researchers everywhere – and the oncology doctors, nurses and researchers on the front lines here in Colorado Springs – will continue to reduce the impact of cancer for all of us. 

Star Associates

The Rewards & Recognition Committee chose to spotlight the Centura Pillar of People for the Winter Quarter 2009. The following associates have been recognized by their peers because they demonstrate consistent behavior of excellence in respect by “smiling, making eye contact, and greeting everyone in a friendly manner.”

Penrose Hospital Star Associate: Gloria Jones, Housekeeping
Nominated by: Mickey Zay
Gloria Jones is a housekeeper at the John Zay Guest House. She arrives with a smile and a friendly hello for both the staff and guests staying at the house. She is also courteous to the guests by asking them how they are. One guest commented that they were eating in the Penrose Cafeteria and Gloria recognized them, came up to their table, and asked about the well being of their loved one. She has gotten more than one thank you card from guests after they have left the house. She is also always willing to go the extra mile when her services are needed. Mickey Zay wanted to recognize Gloria and feels that she deserves to be commended for her cheerful and professional attitude toward everyone at the John Zay Guest House.

(Photos by Julie Cox)

St. Francis Medical Center Star Associate: Arne Severson, Transport
Nominated by: Teri Schofield
Arne Severson goes beyond his job description every shift that he works and is often praised by the departments that he serves for going the extra mile. His “can-do” attitude, easygoing personality, and friendly smile make him a pleasure to work with. He takes time to speak with the patients he transports so they understand what is going on and where they are going. He always ensures the patients have the necessary paperwork when leaving the unit, including the SBARQ form, even if he has to take the time to find the nurse. Arne works with departments to ensure on-time transfers and pick-ups and he has been instrumental to keeping all of the wheelchairs and stretchers outfitted with the conversion charts for the safe transport of patients on oxygen. As he moves throughout the facility, he takes time to notice possible issues within the building or with the equipment and reports it if necessary. He has been in his position for six months since the opening of SFMC and has helped the department grow from 10-12 openings a day to its present size of 40+ transports a day. Arne is truly a Star Associate at SFMC!

Also nominated by: Frank Thornburg
Arne is the backbone of the SFMC Patient Transport team. He helped get this department started when it moved from PCH to SFMC and expanded it. He receives numerous Share cards thanking him for “going above and beyond” his normal duties. He is a patient advocate, always staying with the patient until he hands them off to the next department. When Arne is not busy in Patient Transport, he helps on the Med Surg floor delivering meal trays and attending to patients’ needs. Ask any manager at SFMC, and they will say that when Arne is on-duty, their patients get to and from their tests in a timely, efficient manner. Arne is courteous and pleasant to both patients and staff alike and truly models PSF’s core values.

St. Francis Health Center Star Associate: Glen Brumbaugh, Central Scheduling
Nominated by: Rochelle Salmore
Glen Brumbaugh is the kind of person who always answers the phone with a smile. He then continues to happily help register patients who show up without calling ahead to pre-register. He is also quick to help when unusual problems arise when trying to check in patients on Meditech. Rochelle Salmore wrote that in 10 years, she has never heard Glen say “I can’t do that, I’m too busy.” In fact, he often helps out areas of PH that call him when they have an influx of patients to register over the phone. He is always friendly and respectful to all he comes in contact with.

Also nominated by Judy Marquith, Glen’s supervisor
Comments Judy has received about Glen:
“I have found Glen to be an employee with outstanding SHARE standard. He goes the extra mile every time I see him interact with patients, families, and fellow employees.”

“I wanted to bring to your attention the outstanding job Glen does on our inpatient admits. Also, Glen goes out of his way to bring our admits down to us within minutes of admitting them.”

Off-Campus Star Associate: Brenda Pate, Human Resources
Nominated by: Jill Clark
Jill Clark has worked with Brenda Pate for quite some time and does not mean it lightly when she says that Brenda is always helpful. Regardless of what may be occurring, Brenda will help whoever asks and even those that don’t ask. If she sees someone in the hall looking lost, she is the first one to stop and ask if she can be of assistance. Brenda always does the right thing whether that is to walk someone to a destination, defuse a bad situation, arrange meetings, or just hold someone’s hand. She is a wonderful resource for any information or process you can think of. Jill describes Brenda as a problem solver, never too busy to handle situations as they arise, a fun team player, friendly, happy, and inspirational. Brenda is a wonderful advocate for PSF by presenting a positive attitude everywhere she goes.

Honorable Mentions: The Rewards & Recognition Committee would like to congratulate the following Associates who were also nominated this quarter:

Katy Ahrens:  ICU (SFMC)
Demethrea Barnhill:  9th Floor Surgical (PSF)
Elaine Benton: Radiology (PSF)
Merlyn Bernabe:  Blood Bank (PSF)
Heidi Bouwens:  Occupational Health (PSF)
Alice Burgess:  Health Information Mgmt (SFMC)
Michele Butorac:  Labor & Delivery (SFMC)
Tami Charles: Nutrition Services (PSF)
Julie Cox:  Marketing (PSF)
Angela Crowder:  Medical Oncology (PSF)
Heather Daniels:  Profile EAP (UMC)
Stanley Darnell:  Security Badge Access (SFMC)
Jane Dodder:  Patient Safety/Risk Management (PSF)
Lisa Dykes:  NICU (SFMC)
Rebecca Englebardt:  Radiology (PSF)
Susan “Colene” Geier:  Flight For Life (SFMC)
Kim Hassell:  Environmental Services (PSF)
Victoria Jack-Blue:  GI Lab (SFMC)
Eileen Johnson:  Emergency Department (SFMC)
Debra Kaye:  CSSC  (UMC)
Angela Kinney: CCOM  (Pueblo)
Cesyl Lawrence: Imaging (PSF)
Janet Lee: 3 East (SFHC)
Alicia McCall: Information Desk (SFMC)
Clare Miller: 3 East (SFHC)
Janette Moser: Post Partum (SFMC)
Terry Murray: 3 East (SFHC)
Katherine Peterson: 4th Floor (PSF)
Catherine Piccinni: GI Lab (PSF)
JoAnn Pinto: Ambulatory Care (SFMC)
Aida Redd: Environmental Services (SFHC)
Patricia Robinson: Labor and Delivery (SFMC)
Tahlia Ruschoni: Inpatient Rehab (PSF)
Phil Russell: Cytology (PSF)
Teresa Sanders: 3 East (SFHC)
David Schwartz: CVU (PSF)
Timothy Snell: Emergency Department (SFMC)
Andrea Soder: CAH Administration (PSF)
Chris Sprague: Radiology (SFMC)
Patricia Townsell: MICU (PSF)
Christine Vandenberg: Cardiac Rehab (PSF)
Holly Walsh: Chem Lab (PSF)
Wallace Williams: Laboratory (PSF)
Georgia Ann Woelk: Nursing Staff Office (PSF)
Kevin Wood: 5th Floor (PSF)

H1N1 Influenza

From Dr. Steve Brown, Centura chief medical executive, and Sharon Pappas, Centura chief nursing executive

Centura Health hospitals are taking proactive steps to protect patients, visitors, associates and community members from the H1N1 influenza virus.

An internal Web site has been established to meet the demand for information about H1N1. The site can be found in My Virtual Workplace. Look under the “Reference” tab for “Flu Information,” or for the rotating banner on the right side of the home page of My Virtual Workplace. It contains links to the official government sites with updated information, several video podcasts from the Centers for Disease Control, a link to information in Spanish, and many other posted resources.

Steps all Centura hospitals are taking to protect our patients and visitors: 
1.  In accordance with the Colorado Department of Public Health guidelines, associates are to use techniques and personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks with all who present with signs or symptoms of the flu
2.  Encouraging hand hygiene
3.  Limiting the number of persons who interact with any who have signs or symptoms of the flu 

Steps all Centura hospitals are taking to protect our associates:
We are asking all associates who develop a fever of 100.4 or higher, along with flu-like symptoms, to stay home and contact their primary care physician for additional instructions.

Steps all Centura hospitals are taking to protect our community: 
1.  Signs are being placed at all hospital entry points that discourage visitation by those who may have flu symptoms, outline appropriate recommendations for the masking of individuals with symptoms, and give directions on how to seek appropriate care.
2.  ncouraging those with signs or symptoms of the flu to STAY AT HOME to limit chances of exposure and spread of whatever illness they may have
3.  Wash hands thoroughly and frequently. Use soap and water, and rub hands with soap for at least 15 seconds before rinsing.
4.  Cover your cough and sneeze. It is best to cough into your sleeve, or cough/sneeze into a tissue. Wash hands thoroughly afterwards. 

Signs and symptoms to watch for: 
- Fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, PLUS:?
- Cough and other upper respiratory infection symptoms
- Body aches
- Cough, runny nose
- Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea
 
If you or anyone you know develops the above symptoms, instructions are to:
1.  Stay at home to limit your exposure to other individuals as much as possible. Especially stay away from highly populated locations, such as the grocery store, group functions and gatherings. It is best to stay home until your symptoms are resolved. 
2.  Cover your cough.
3.  If your symptoms worsen: contact your primary care physician or your local emergency department. 

For more information on this topic, visit the “Flu Information” site in My Virtual Workplace, or contact your local infection control leaders, chief medical officer or chief nursing officer. You may also contact the Colorado Helpline at 1-877-462-2911.

Nurses Week

Each year during National Nurses Week, May 6-12, the PSF Nursing Department presents awards to members of the nursing staff and management who exemplify excellence in their work.

These nurses were nominated by their colleagues. Six winners will be selected and announced Friday. The 2009 Seton Nominees are as follows:

RN Preceptor
Carolyn Cusic, PH 11th
Crystal Robson, PH GI Lab
 
RN Rising Star
Kate Peterson, PH 4th
Karen Sublett, PH 11th
 
RN
Cyndy Wacker, FCN
Sandra Snedaker, PH 9th
Mackenzie Mudd, PH 5th
Eileen Johnson, SFMC ED
Catherine Piccinni, PH GI Lab
George Hubbs, MOS
Gail Albritton, PH 11th
Kim Booton, CCOM
Shirley White, CVU
Joy Hennigan, PH ED
 
C.N.A.
Jackie Meany, PH 4th Floor
Timothy Snell, SFMC ED
Laticia Tucker, SFMC PreOp
Rose Mitchell, PH 11th

******************************************************

Celebrate Nurses’ Week 2009 with these professional development classes May 6-12. Classes are free and registration is not required.  Contact Hours is 1.0 for each class. Seating is limited and first come, first served. As a courtesy to the instructor, please arrive on time.  People more than five minutes late will not be allowed to attend the class.

May 6 at SFMC Conference Rooms 1-2
8-9 a.m.: Transfusion Reaction Acute Lung Injury (TRALI)—Dr. Javier Bogarin
9:15-10:15 a.m.: Half Full, Half Empty…You Decide. Nancy Bader, EAP
10:30-11:30 a.m.: Courageous Conversations. Laurie Kennedy, Dir Learning/Leadership Dev, Centura
11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.: Why is Poop Brown??—Susan Baker DNS & Deb Nussdorfer MSN
1-2 p.m.: Resolution Through Sharing (Grief) – Nancy Palacios RNC and Brook Poe RN
2:15-3:15 p.m.: Connecting Spirituality and Health in Nursing Practice—Cyndy Wacker MS/ED
3:30-4:30 p.m.: Rock, Paper, Scissors: Making Ethical Decisions—Kate McCord MSN, CNO

May 7 at Penrose Main in Alpine/Cascade Rooms
8-9 a.m.: Safe Detox for all Ages – Dr. Phil Ballard
9:15-10:15 a.m.: Why is Poop Brown??—Susan Baker DNS & Deb Nussdorfer MSN
10:30-11:30 a.m.: Creating the Future You Want; What Does Your Job Give You? Rob Ryder
11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.: Gangs—Officer Cummings
1-2 p.m.: Nobody Knows the Pain I Feel (Suicide Awareness/Prevention)—John Gentzel BSN
2:15-3:15 p.m.: Half Full, Half Empty…You Decide. Nancy Bader, EAP
3:30-4:30 p.m.: Patient Family Centered Care (PFCC)—Panel Discussion

May 8 at Penrose Main in Alpine/Cascade Rooms
8-9 a.m.: “Sit Like an Egyptian” (Ergonomics)—Deborah Burrell, OTR
9:15-10:15 a.m.: Davinci GYN Procedures—Dr. Dirk Pikaart
10:30-11:30 a.m.: Drug & Alcohol Awareness Program for Medical Staff, Parents and Teens-Dr. David Ross

May 11 at Penrose Main in Cancer Center B & C
8-9 a.m.: Courageous Conversations. Laurie Kennedy
9:15-10:15 a.m.: Rock, Paper, Scissors: Making Ethical Decisions—Kate McCord MSN, CNO
10:30-11:30 a.m.: Voices of Nurses—Panel Discussion
11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.: Sepsis: What’s Bugging You?—Olinda Spitzer MSN
1-2 p.m.: Fentanyl—Dr. Scott Ross & Dan Chatelain MSN
2:15-3:15 p.m.: Cyberknife—Dr. Anuj Peddada
3:30-4:30 p.m.: Transfusion Reaction Acute Lung Injury (TRALI)—Dr. Javier Bogarin 

May 12 at SFMC Conference Rooms 4-5
8-9 a.m.: Wilderness Trauma and Emergency Surgery — Dr. Roger Nagy
9:15-10:15 a.m.: Sepsis: What’s Bugging You?—Olinda Spitzer MSN
10:30-11:30 a.m.: Nobody Knows the Pain I Feel (Suicide Awareness/Prevention)—John Gentzel BSN
11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.: Creating the Future You Want:  What Does Your Job Give To You?  Rob Ryder
1-2 p.m.: Patient Family Centered Care (PFCC)—Panel Discussion
2:15-3:15 p.m.: “Sit Like an Egyptian” (Ergonomics) Deborah Burrell, OTR
3:30-4:30 p.m.: Fentanyl—Dr. Scott Ross and Dan Chatelain MSN

SFMC Wins Again!

St. Francis Medical Center was honored with the "Award of Excellence for Decorative Concrete" for the parking structure.
 
At the 41st annual American Concrete Institute Awards April 24, Stresscon Corporation, RTA Architects and GE Johnson Construction were honored for creative, innovative, aesthetic and imaginative uses of concrete.
 
“Next time you're at SFMC, take a little time to notice the exterior designs in the concrete of grasses blowing in the breeze,” said Joel Ladefoged, SFMC Plant Operations Manager, “it really is beautiful.”

The hospital’s nature theme is carried out in design features throughout the hospital, both inside and out, and links it to its setting on the plains of northeastern Colorado Springs.

Dennis Cates of Stresscon Corporation, Bob McClaran of RTA Architects, Dave Kenney of GE Johnson Construction, and Joel Ladefoged, Facilities Manager at SFMC, show off the "Award of Excellence for Decorative Concrete" for SFMC. (Courtesy Photo)

News Briefs

Benefits open enrollment
The benefits open enrollment window runs through May 22 (at noon), and is your once-a-year opportunity to make changes. To see your current benefit options at any time, log on to My Virtual Workplace and click Associate Services, and then Employee Self Service. Log in to Lawson using your same MVW username and password; click on Benefits, then Current Benefits. If you have benefits questions, contact your human resources department, or call the Benefits Service Center toll-free at 888-622-1111.

PSF Associate Campaign
The Penrose-St. Francis Health Services 2009 Associate Campaign is going on now! PSF's goal is $315,000. For more information, please contact the Penrose-St. Francis Health Foundation at 776-7060, or click on the link below and make a pledge today: repository/newsletters/Photos/Penrose/May 4, 2009/PSFPledgeForm.pdf

Keep the Earth Clean: Pick up Butts!
Help make the community a cleaner place Tuesday, 11:30 to noon, meet at PH/Outside Valet area.  Receive HIIP Fitness credit by attending. Pick up Butts is the first Tuesday of every month.

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.

Health Learning Center

All classes require pre-registration / cancellation a minimum of 24 hours prior. A $20 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. 

Wellness Classes: 

T’ai Chi – A form of ancient Chinese martial arts that works to improve body awareness, strength and coordination.  Monthly - Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning the first Tuesday of each month.  Class begins Tuesday and runs through May 28, from 9 to 10 a.m.  The cost is $40 for the 4-week session.

New! Great Grillin’! –Clean up the grills, get out the aprons and get ready for spring and summer cooking fun.  Get a taste of the season at this class. Try marinades, recipes, learn fun techniques and sample the food.  Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m.  The cost is $25.

Exercising with the Physioball Level II – A progression from Level I with additional core stability and strength training exercises that may be performed using the physioball. Circuit activities will be included.  Exercising with the Physioball Level I is required prior to enrolling in this class. Bring your own physioballs. 45-minutes once per week for four-weeks. Mondays, today through June 1 (Skip May 25, Memorial Day), 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. The cost is $20.

Self Defense – Beginning self defense course for the general public.  Learn safety techniques and ways to increase vigilance. Thursdays, May 7-28, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The cost is $30 for the four week session.

NEW! Jalapeno Nia - Body Mind Spirit Fitness to sassy, sultry and latin inspired music and movements. Nia combines the energies of the Martial Arts, Dance Arts and Healing Arts to bring overall cardiovascular fitness and well-being.  The music of this genre will inspire you to have fun while conditioning your body, mind, spirit and emotions.  Wednesdays, May 6-27, 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 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Flight Nurse Award

A Flight For Life nurse at Penrose-St. Francis won the Emergency/Flight Nurse of the Year Award at a regional emergency management and trauma conference.

Flight Nurse Colene Geier was recognized for her accomplishments by emergency responders from across the region at the 5th Annual Plains to Peaks Regional Awards Program April 25 in Burlington, Colo.

Colene has been with Flight For Life Colorado since 2006. She was a paramedic for four years and licensed in two states before going to nursing school. As a nurse, she worked in trauma and surgical, ICU and emergency department settings in three other states.

“Right from the start, Colene’s depth of experience and energetic personality stood out as an asset for the program,” said Louise Palermo, PSF Emergency Management Services Business Manager. “Some of the stories from her paramedic days are pretty hair-raising.”

Colene’s experience has enabled her to mentor other flight nurses in the fine points of ICU care, and she lobbied for new hires to be well-grounded in critical care.  As a result, the south state flight nurse crew has more depth in critical care.

“Colene is a no-nonsense person who doesn’t like to tiptoe around,” Louise said. “She’ll get right to the heart of a matter and endeavor to ‘advance and overcome’.”

When Flight For Life moved from Penrose Hospital to it’s new hangar at St. Francis Medical Center, Coleen was instrumental in planning and organizing the new hangar. She spent many hours in this activity, some during her time off. 

“If you want someone who can be counted on to get the job done, Colene is at the top of the list,” Louise said. “She has voluntarily taken on numerous projects and always seems to end up leading the charge.”

Colene led the charge at work while at the same time she led the charge at home.  She had to be the sole parent for her two small children while her husband was deployed twice to Iraq. 

“During the many months that he was away, including much of her second pregnancy, she was uncomplaining, consistent and full of her usual southern charm and delightful humor—a steady contributor despite the complexities of her life,” according to Colene's nomination for the award.

Congratulations Colene!  Well done!

Stroke Awareness

Did you know that up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable, yet it is expected that nearly 795,000 people will have a stroke in 2009? It would take more than eleven XLIII Super Bowl stadiums to hold all of those people! There are many ways to stop stroke by taking personal steps to manage risk factors.

Did you know that most strokes can be treated if symptoms are recognized F.A.S.T.? Using the F.A.S.T. method of symptom recognition and response can save lives. 

Did you know that “hope” can be a key element of any stroke recovery and re-establishing a high quality of life? Having hope and knowledge about recovery options, recurrent stroke risk and how to become a self-advocate are important steps to consider no matter where a person is in their recovery journey. 

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. The goal of this annual campaign is to raise public awareness about stroke in the hope of reducing the incidence and impact of stroke in America. National Stroke Association’s 2009 campaign efforts surrounding this important awareness month are focused on spreading awareness about the continuum of stroke: prevention, symptom recognition and recovery.

Prevention
Risk factor management is part of stroke prevention. Americans can Stop Stroke by understanding and managing common risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation (a type of heart disease), diabetes, excess weight, smoking, excessive alcohol use and transient ischemic attack (TIA). Talk with your doctor to establish a plan for better risk factor management.

Symptom Recognition
Time is critical in stroke. It is vital to understand stroke symptoms in order to seek immediate medical treatment that can save lives and reduce disabilities. Act F.A.S.T. by recognizing and responding to stroke symptoms using the F.A.S.T. method – help improve opportunities for treatment at the same time. Every minute that brain cells are deprived of oxygen during stroke, the likelihood of brain damage increases. Treatment can be more effective if given early on. Find a certified stroke center across the country that specialize in the treatment of stroke.  For a listing of these hospitals visit www.stroke.org and click on the emergency stroke center locations.

• F = FACE - Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• A = ARM - Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• S = SPEECH - Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?
• T = TIME - If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to call 9-1-1.

Recovery
Stroke recovery can last a lifetime. Spread Hope about recovery by understanding post-stroke issues, encouraging active recovery participation and secondary stroke prevention. Learn about treatment options, exercises to increase mobility and other ways to live a high quality of life no matter any disabilities or other side effects from stroke.

National Stroke Association is committed to reducing the incidence and impact of stroke through increasing awareness and educating Americans about stroke. Understanding risk factor management, symptom recognition and response and the realities of how stroke recovery can be are important for the health and well-being of everyone in your life. For more information on stroke and stroke prevention, call National Stroke Association at 1-800-STROKES or visit www.stroke.org.

Guest House Award

The John Zay Guest House was recognized during the 2008-2009 21st Annual Community Design Awards Wednesday at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in the Partnership Category of the competition.

Representing their respective organizations and accepting the awards were (left to right):  Johnny Rea, Penrose-St. Francis Health Services; Diane LeBlanc, Penrose-St. Francis Health Foundation; Sister Lou Krippel and Mickey Zay, John Zay Guest House; Kathi Braden, Kathi Braden Interiors; Beth Parker, Vantage Homes Corporation; and John Rickman,  HBA Cares.  The John Zay Guest House is a “home away from home” for patients of PSF hospitals. (Courtesy Photo)

Lighten Up Colorado

Lighten Up Colorado Registration Open For Every Resident of Colorado – Get Fit And Be A 2009 State Games of America Athlete

Every resident of Colorado now has the chance to take part in a great team wellness program to improve physical fitness and create new healthy habits and be an athlete in the State Games of America, July 30-August 2, in Colorado Springs!

It’s Lighten Up Colorado, and it’s a special eight-week program designed for everybody, with team sizes ranging from five-10 entrants in three divisions- Novice, Intermediate and Advanced exercise experience.

Stay tuned for more information on how to register to become a member of a Penrose-St. Francis team.  For now, begin thinking about your team name and who you would like ask to participate with you. The deadline for registration is May 22.

Lighten Up Colorado costs $15 per person and includes:  
1 - A 2009 Lighten Up Colorado t-shirt ($2.00 extra for XXL)
2 - FREE entry into the State Games of America 5K Run/Walk & Opening Ceremony
3 - A gold, silver or bronze medal for the top 3 teams in each category
4 - The top team in each category will be recognized at the State Games of America Opening Ceremony on July 30 at the Colorado Springs World Arena.
 
Every participant gets benefits that include automatic entry into the State Games of America 5K Run/Walk on August 2 at Memorial Park, a State Games of America tee-shirt, participation in the State Games of America Opening Ceremony on July 30 at the Colorado Springs World Arena in the official parade of athletes, and more. 

The official kickoff event will take place on May 26 at Jack Quinn’s Restaurant in Downtown Colorado Springs.

Lighten Up America is a program designed to promote physical activity and good nutrition. The goal is to impact individual behavior and the culture of work sites and communities. A team based program, it is designed to help Americans make positive lifestyle changes during the course of five months.

For more inforamtion about Lighten Up Colorado, visit the website at www.LightenUpColorado.org

Going Green

Did you know...the average lawn can generate as much as eight tons of yard waste per acre each year, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection?  

Going Green Tip of the Week…It’s that time of year again to begin cutting our lawns.  Why not practice “grasscycling.” Grasscycling is the natural practice of leaving lawn clippings on the lawn when mowing.  The clippings quickly decompose returning nutrients to the soil.  Grasscycling reduces the amount of water and fertilizer requirements, mowing time and disposal costs. 

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.

Administrative Professionals

Penrose-St. Francis Health Services celebrated Administrative Assistant Professionals Day April 22 by honoring the administrative team at a celebratory luncheon at Penrose Hospital.

More than 40 administrative professionals attended, along with PSF leadership and other support staff. 

“It was a wonderful time to connect, network, and enjoy the accolades from our VIP’s,” said Jill Clark, administrative assistant to the chief medical officer. 

This was the first year PSF brought the administrative team together for a special tribute. 

A highlight of the luncheon was a poem set to music and sang to the tune of Yackety, Yack – Don’t Talk Back! 

Next year, Administrative Professionals Day will be celebrated at St. Francis Medical Center.   


We toast to Secretaries … “Administrative Professionals”
Lest we forget our thanks to pay!
For those who serve with hearts of gold,
To praise them for their tasks untold.
YAKKETY YAK! Please call back!

 
(Courtesy Photos)

Blood Drives

Tuesday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Lewis Palmer Middle School, 1776 Woodmoor Drive, Monument, Inside the School Gymnasium

Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Navigators, 2820 N. 30th Street, Inside the Offices 

Thursday, 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Delta Airlines, Inside the Colorado Springs Airport

May 12, Noon – 4 p.m., St. Francis Medical Center, The Blood Vessel
 
May 13, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Goodrich, 1275 Newport Road, The Blood Vessel

May 14, 9 a.m. – Noon, Remax Advantage Realty, 5590 N. Academy Blvd, The Blood Vessel

May 15, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., CarMax, 4010 Tutt Blvd., The Blood Vessel

May 17, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Calvary United Methodist, 4210 Austin Bluffs, The Blood Vessel

May 20, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Gazette, 30 South Prospect, The Blood Vessel

May 21, 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., Our Lady of the Woods Catholic Church, 116 West Street, Woodland Park, Inside the Church

May 26, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Synthes, 1051 Synthes, Monument, Inside the Building

May 28, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., College America, 3645 Citadel Drive S., The Blood Vessel

May 31, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Divine Redeemer Catholic Church, 1520 E. Yampa, Inside the Church

Cafeteria Menu

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

Penrose Hospital daily lunch menu.

TODAY
Breakfast: Eggs Florentine & Mornay Sauce; Lunch: Shepard's Pie, Chicken Pineapple Teriyaki, Garlic Butter Salmon Cakes, Blackberry Cobbler

TUESDAY
Breakfast: Sausage, Egg, & Cheese McMuffins; Lunch: Santa Fe Chicken Eggrolls, Tri -Pepper Beef Fajita's, Beef Chimichanga, Cinnamon Churros

WEDNESDAY
Breakfast: Breakfast Burritos; Lunch: Chicken Tenders, Spaghetti & Meatballs, Beer Battered Cod w/ Steak Fries, Chocolate Lava Cakes

THURSDAY
Breakfast: Belgium Waffles; Lunch: Pork Chops in Apple Brown Sauce, Honey Mustard Salmon, Baked Potato Bar, Warm Apple Cobbler

FRIDAY
Breakfast: Green Chili Cheese Omelet; Lunch: Fried Catfish, Beef Bacon Cabernet Stew, Chicken Breast Marsala, Apple Cranberry Crisp

SATURDAY
Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza; Lunch: Beer Battered Cod, Meat Lasagna, Chili Dogs, Warm Apple Dumplings

SUNDAY
Breakfast: Belgium Waffles; Lunch: Country Fried Chicken, Cabbage Rolls, Patti Melts, Cherry Apple Cobbler

Club HIIP

MAY LUNCH ‘N’ LEARN: “Journey to the Peak of Excellence”
Penrose-St. Francis Health Services is using the ANCC Magnet Model as a roadmap to excellence.  Kate McCord, PSF Chief Nursing Officer, and Deb Nussdorfer, Magnet Coordinator, will show the map, highlight the strengths in the organization and discuss strategies that will improve patient care and satisfaction as well as energize the work environment.  Research shows that outcomes are better for both patients and staff when this model is used.  Join us and take time to ask, “How am I making a difference every day?” All Aboard!
May 13, SFMC/Conf. Rms 2 & 3, 12:05-12:35 p.m.
May 14, PH/E-Tower Gala Room, 12:05-12:35 p.m.

NATIONAL EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND FITNESS DAY MAY 21
Celebrate “National Employee Health & Fitness Day” with a staircase showdown at PH & SFMC
A competitive and non-competitive staircase showdown up five flights of stairs to celebrate PSF’s fit staff! Participate for fun during the non-competitive times or race up the stairs in this timed challenge during the competitive sessions.  The fastest competitors in each category will receive a $20 gift card to Dick’s Sporting Goods. Each participant receives HIIP fitness credit.
May 21, PH- Meet at the E/Tower Wellness Center Lobby; SFMC- Meet at the 1st Floor Lobby
Non-competitive - 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Competitive - *Noon and *4 p.m.
*Can you beat our CEOs or COOs – Margaret Sabin, Nate Olson, Mark Hartman, or Jaime Smith?
What about our fit physicians - Dr. Lippert, Dr. Tanabe, Dr. Oram-Smith, Dr. Roshon?  Our radical RNs – Gina Wamble or Mimi Stilson?
 
HIIP REPRESENTATIVE MEETING
COME CELEBRATE THE END OF FY09 AND INVEST IN FY10! 
Join the HIIP Staff as we wind down the Fiscal Year 09 and get ready for our new set of classes and events for FY2010.  Mark your calendars for this exciting HIIP Rep meeting.  Please make every effort to be there or send someone in your department to attend.  Hope to see all of you there with a lot of energy and enthusiasm about the upcoming HIIP events! Lunch and a summer treat is provided. Please RSVP to the HIIP office at 776-7393 by May 20. 
May 26, 12:30-1:30 p.m., PH/E-tower basement Gala Room
May 27, Noon-1 p.m., SFMC/Conf Room 3 (Garden Level)

HEALING TOUCH SEMINAR
Healing Touch is a relaxing, nurturing energy therapy. Gentle touch assists in balancing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, while working with the energy field to support the body’s natural ability to heal. Safe for all ages and works in harmony with standard medical care. Health benefits include reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and 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 the art of the healing touch practice. The cost for PSF Associates is $75 for the class, and $86.25 for the class and 16 CEs; for Community Members, $150 for the class and $172.50 for the class and 16 CEs. For more information contact Liz Berardi at 776-7393.
May 30-31, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Penrose Main/Cancer Center Rooms A-C.
*Payments are due to the HIIP office no later than May 28 to reserve a spot. 
*Class is limited to 24 people. Must have 10 participants or class will be cancelled.

FY09 HIIP EDUCATION CLASSES
How to get Started with Exercise: May 20 from 7:30-8:15 a.m. at SFMC/Wellness Center

SELF CARE CLASS
May 28 from 5-5:45 p.m. at SFMC/Conference Room 1

COMMUNITY WALKS
Alex Hoag Run for Sunshine: Saturday, Security Service Field (Formerly Sky Sox Stadium)
Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the 5K Run at 8:30 a.m., the 5K Walk at 8:35 a.m. The Children’s Run follows the 5K. For more information visit www.alexhoagrun.org

Multiple Sclerosis Lifelines Walk: Saturday, Monument Valley Park
Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the walk at 9 a.m. To sign up visit http://www.nationalmssociety.org/chapters/walk-ms-colorado-chapter/index.aspx

HIKING CLUB
May 16 at 9 a.m., Goose Gossage Park
Kids and dogs are welcome; please keep dogs on leashes. Since most of the route is paved, strollers are a good option for small kiddies. And for anyone who needs to cut the route short, just turn around and complete the walk.
Difficulty/Rating: Easy
Trail Length: 3 miles
Directions:  From I-25 take Fillmore East, Turn Left on Mark Dabling, end at the park, park in the lot next to the soccer fields. Address: 3950 Mark Dabling Boulevard.  Walk Leaders: Rox Norris (HIM) and Nancy Palacios (Birth Center). For questions on the day of the hike contact Nancy at 290-2733.

PSF EXTENDED FITNESS CLASSES
Pick up a schedule at HIIP Wall pockets at all sites for registration form
Penrose Hospital
Pilates: Session 9: Starts Wednesday from 5-6 p.m. in the PH/E-Tower Aerobics Room for five weeks
Bootcamp:  Starts May 19 from 6:15-7 a.m. in the PH/E Tower Aerobics Room for six weeks
Nia: Session 7: Starts May 26 from 4-5 p.m. in the PH/E-Tower Aerobics Room for six weeks

WELLNESS CENTER ORIENTATIONS
Please register for orientations via HealthCalc on My Virtual Workplace or call 776-5839, ext 2.
PH Wellness Center- Thursday at 8 a.m.
SFMC Wellness Center- May 13 at 11 a.m.
SFHC Wellness Center- May 15 at noon
PH Wellness Center- May 19 at 4 p.m.
SFMC Wellness Center- May 21 at 5 p.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 had 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 776-5034
SFHC Walking Club:  Every Monday at 11:30 a.m. outside of the Foundation building. Contact Tracy 776-7085
SFMC Walking Club:  Every Tuesday at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., meet outside 1st floor/valet entrance- Winter season- the group will walk the stairs indoors. Contact Rox 571-1064.