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PHELPS COUNTY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Communication Center Archives |
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July 2006 Press Releases Pam Lowry, RN, a consultant in allergy therapy, conducted training for the staff in the basic techniques of skin testing including dose calculations and treatment of reactions. Phelps County Regional Medical Center employees Rebecca Russell and Pat McMullin received training as allergy therapists. “We are pleased to offer this service to the community,” said Cagle, DO, FAOCO, who is an ENT (ears, nose and throat) specialist at the clinic. “Everything is done within the clinic, so when you leave here, you will know what is causing your allergies.” Along with a patient’s medical history, skin tests can confirm whether signs and symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing and skin rashes are caused by allergies. They can also identify the specific substances that trigger allergic reactions. IDT involves injecting a small amount of allergen under the top layers of the skin to make a small bump (4 mm) under the skin. If you are allergic, then this bump grows to a larger size. The size of this bump or welt is then measured after 10 minutes. In general, skin tests are most reliable for diagnosing allergies to airborne substances such as pollen, pet dander and dust mites. Cagle explained that it is not unusual to have 40-60 sticks as part of the skin testing, and that normally, it may take 1 ½ to 2 hours for normal skin testing. “We’re not only finding out what you are allergic to, but how sensitive you are,” he said. “In treatment, you want your allergy shots to be dosed correctly for each of the things you are allergic to.” For example, if a patient is allergic to dust mites and grass, but more allergic to the dust mites, the allergy shots would need to be adjusted to reflect that difference. “Not one allergy shot fits all,” Cagle said. “Your treatment is based specifically on your needs.” Cagle has completed more than 100 hours of academy courses in allergy treatment and has 15 years of allergy clinic experience. “We do environmental allergens, both indoor and outdoor,” Cagle said. “The most common are grasses, weeds, animal dander and molds.” For patients with runny or stuffy noses, puffy or itchy eyes, post nasal drip, sneezing, or an itchy throat, allergies may be the culprit. Cagle said it normally takes 10-12 weeks for a patient to see improvement after allergy shots, but it is good to start the shots during a low season. For more information, call the clinic at 573-364-9000. _____________________________________________ Consider Being a Nurse/ posted September 13, 2006  The nursing profession is the largest career in health care. Some nurses, such as the ICU nurses pictured, select a specialty area. ROLLA - SUMMER 2006 - Health care careers offer competitive salaries and benefits, flexible hours and a wide range of specialties – from medical records to information technology and management to pharmacy, nursing, radiology and much more. Career possibilities are virtually unlimited, with the added reward of knowing you are making a difference in the lives of patients and their families, noted Carol Gadbury, nursing development coordinator at Phelps County Regional Medical Center. Registered nurses (RNs) constitute the largest single healthcare profession in the United States. Since World War II, hospitals in the United States have had to cope with cyclical shortages of nurses. In 2000, the national supply of full-time registered nurses was estimated at 1.89 million while the demand was estimated at 2 million, a shortage of 110,000 orsix percent. By 2020, the shortage is projected to grow to an estimated 808,400 nurses or 29 percent. The nursing shortage is not limited to registered nurses, but also includes nursing faculty, licensed practical nurses (LPNs), nursing assistants and home health aides. LPNs play a vital role in providing health care in rural communities, Gadbury said. Nurses are the backbone of the health care system. They combine science and technology with people skills, like communication, problem solving, critical thinking and compassion, to touch peoples' lives at a time when they need help. Nurses play a key role by promoting health and teaching prevention, helping patients and families to understand and cope with illnesses and emergencies, and promoting healthier communities. The nursing profession is the largest career in health care. It also is one of the 10 health care occupations with the largest number of new jobs. Nurses can choose the age group, specialty and setting that will best fit their interests, lifestyle and personality. A nursing career provides endless opportunities for different challenges, roles and professional growth. The largest group of nurses works in hospital settings, including emergency departments, operating room, medical surgical, pediatric, obstetrics/gynecology, oncology, psychiatry and critical care environments. Nurses can serve in a variety of roles within these different settings, including the following: clinician/staff nurse; manager/administrator; educator; advanced practice nurse; clinical instructor; clinical specialist; college/university faculty; nurse practitioner; staff development specialist; nurse anesthetist or researcher. For more information about nursing as a career, contact Gadbury at 573-458-7164. ### top _____________________________________________ Stay Cool This Summer/ posted September 1, 2006  ROLLA - SUMMER 2006 - Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable, yet annually many people succumb to extreme heat. Historically, from 1979 to 1999, excessive heat exposure caused 8,015 deaths in the United States. During this period, more people in this country died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined. In 2001, 300 deaths were caused by excessive heat exposure. Carolyn Tilford, community health educator at Phelps County Regional Medical Center, cautions local residents to use care to prevent heat-related illness. “People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to compensate and properly cool themselves,” she said. “The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just isn't enough. In such cases, a person's body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs.” Several factors affect the body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Other conditions related to risk include age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug and alcohol use. Tilford explained that because heat-related deaths are preventable, people need to be aware of who is at greatest risk and what actions can be taken to prevent a heat-related illness or death. The elderly, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases are at highest risk. However, even young and healthy individuals can succumb to heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather. Even short periods of high temperatures can cause serious health problems. Doing too much on a hot day, spending too much time in the sun or staying too long in an overheated place can cause heat-related illnesses. Know the symptoms of heat disorders and overexposure to the sun, and be ready to give first aid treatment. For more information, contact Tilford at 573-458-7695. _____________________________________________ PCRMC Auxiliary makes Donation for ICU / posted August 1, 2006  Pictured are (from left): Jean Dunham, auxiliary past president and parliamentarian; Yvonne Meloy, auxiliary president; John Denbo, hospital CEO; and Jim Marcellus, PCRMC board chairman. The Phelps County Regional Medical Center Auxiliary donated $400,000 for the new Intensive Care Unit at the hospital. “I am thankful to all the Auxiliary and Volunteer Services members for their hard work and efforts in raising the monies that provide the Auxiliary the opportunity to support PCRMC’s strategic initiatives such as the Intensively Caring For You project,” said Tina Pridgeon, director of the Auxiliary and Volunteer Services. Area Residents Pursuing their Dreams in Nursing / posted August 8, 2006 Thanks to funds from the Phelps County Regional Medical Center Auxiliary, seven area residents are pursuing careers as registered nurses and have agreed to work for two years at PCRMC after graduation. “The Auxiliary is pleased to provide this additional funding for the “Grow Your Own” project because the money directly supports registered nursing careers within our own hospital,” said Tina Pridgeon, director of the Auxiliary and Volunteer Services. Since the program started, seven students have received scholarships to support them in a registered nurse program. Four of the students recently attended an Auxiliary board meeting to express their appreciation. “The program has actually helped my family a lot because it has taken the pressure off them on how to get money to send me to college,” said Andrea Odom of Dixon. She is enrolled at Missouri State University in Springfield. Amy Taggart of Rolla is attending Truman State University and is currently employed at PCRMC as a patient care assistant in psychiatric services. "I love helping people and it is a passion that I have,” Taggart said. “This is something I want to do for the rest of my life.” For Jessica Rosemann of Bourbon, the program allowed her to study at the University of Missouri. “I probably wouldn’t have thought about Mizzou without the funds from the program,” she said. “It has given me more options.” Ashley Havelka of Owensville enjoys the atmosphere at PCRMC, which is another benefit of the program. “It is a smaller hospital that allows greater opportunities to work in different areas,” she said. “The program helped me decide where I wanted to go to school, which is Maryville University. “Nursing directors from PCRMC interviewed applicants interested in a registered nursing degree from attendees at the Nursing Academy held annually at Rolla Technical Center,” said Carol Gadbury, nursing recruiter. “The fact that they are attending a variety of schools will enrich the environment at PCRMC. Some of them may be our future managers and clinical specialists. We are so thankful to the Auxiliary for helping us grow our own.” Members of the Phelps County Regional Medical Center Auxiliary know that the end of life can bring opportunities to others. Dr. Jeffery Kerr, D.O., Installed President-Elect of Association / posted July 21, 2006 ROLLA - SUMMER 2006 - Jeffery A. Kerr, D.O., of Rolla, has been installed as president-elect of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons (MAOPS), the professional association representing the osteopathic physicians in Missouri. Kerr is a 1985 graduate of the A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed his post-graduate training at PCRMC. Kerr is a member of the American Osteopathic Association, the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons, Missouri Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, the Central Ozarks Osteopathic District Association, the American Medical Directors Association, American Geriatrics Society and is the current president of the Missouri Association of Long Term Care Physicians. Kerr also serves on the Missouri State Board of Senior Services at the request of and by appointment Governor Matt Blunt. He has been a trustee on the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons Board, a delegate in the MAOPS House of Delegates, the body establishing policy for the profession in Missouri, served on various state committees, served as a delegate to the American Osteopathic Association, and is founder of the Association’s Young Physician Committee. Kerr is also president of the Central Ozark Osteopathic District Association. In addition to his involvement in professional associations, his commitment is to geriatric medicine. Kerr enjoys sharing his knowledge and expertise, and lectures at osteopathic and medical organization meetings on geriatric medicine, stressing quality of care issues extensively. Kerr resides in Rolla with his wife, Sandy, and their two children. Phelps County residents interested in becoming a registered nurse are eligible for the $1,000 James Foundation Nursing Scholarship (three awarded), the $1,000 Martha Prater Nursing Scholarship (one awarded) and the $1,000 Emily Barnes Nursing Scholarship (two awarded). Applications for these scholarships are available by contacting Tina Pridgeon, PCRMC’s director of auxiliary and volunteer services, at (573) 458-7939. Three $1,000 Allied Health Careers Scholarships will be awarded to students training in their chosen allied health career. Applications are available at the financial aid office, Rolla Technical Center (RTC), 500 Forum Drive in Rolla. Those interested in pursuing a career as a licensed practical nurse may apply for the $1,000 Blanche Gray Scholarship (two awarded), or the $3,000 Auxiliary Scholarships that are available in $500 or $1,000 increments. Applications are available at RTC. Applications for the registered nurse scholarships must be received in the PCRMC Volunteer Services office by June 30. Applications for the allied health careers and LPN scholarships must be submitted to RTC by October 1. For more information about the scholarships, call (573) 458-7939.
MS is a chronic, unpredictable neurological disease that affects the central nervous system. There is no cure for MS, but medication can help slow the course and/or symptoms in some patients. For more information, you may call (573) 458-7695. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects individuals differently. Many people experience tremors, rigid muscles, slowness of movement and balance problems. Management of Parkinson’s symptoms can be complex, but medications and therapies can help improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s Disease. For more information about these and other educational programs at PCRMC, please call Carolyn Tilford, community educator, at (573) 458-7695. Better Breathers Club and Support Group at PCRMC / posted June 4, 2006
If so, you are invited to join others like you for new information, ideas and fellowship at a Better Breathers Club and Support Group. The group will meet at 12:30 p.m., June 3, in Private Dining Room 1 at PCRMC. Pulmonologist Dr. Nikhat Salamat will be the guest speaker. The Better Breathers Club and Support Group is for people with long-term respiratory disease, their families and friends. This is an opportunity to share concerns, solutions and common problems with others. For more information, call 573-458-7695. ###
The meeting is co-sponsored by Phelps County Regional Medical Center and Rolla Apartments. Dr. Jerome Lisk, of the Parkinson’s Clinic of the Ozarks, will be the guest speaker. Refreshments will be provided by Glaxo-Smith-Kline Pharmaceuticals. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects individuals differently. Many people experience tremors, rigid muscles, slowness of movement and balance problems. Management of Parkinson’s symptoms can be complex, but medications and therapies can help improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s. The Parkinson’s Clinic of the Ozarks, located in Springfield, offers clinical and social assessments. During the half-day program, Parkinson’s patients are evaluated by a board-certified neurologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist, registered nurse and social services worker. The clinic’s goal is to improve care and symptom management for the more than 2,400 people with Parkinson’s in the clinic’s service area, which includes parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas and Oklahoma. For more information about the support group meeting, contact Carolyn Tilford at (573) 458-7695. Car Seats and Booster Seats Added to Courtesy Vans / posted May 12, 2006
Representatives from the Allergy and Asthma Consults of the Ozarks, LTD will be conducting the screening, which is geared for people who are experiencing breathing problems, such as chronic coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and exercise-induced breathing difficulties. The screening is being offered nationwide by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, representing board-certified allergists. “Our goal is to raise community awareness and ensure that area residents have access to a board-certified allergist,” said Peggy White, pediatric nurse practitioner. “The screening is open to people of all ages.” The screening will coincide with National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month. In addition to helping identify people at risk for asthma, the screening also provides an opportunity for people who already know they have asthma to talk with a specialist about their disease and how to keep symptoms under control. Many people with under-treated, or undiagnosed, asthma are not only making unnecessary lifestyle compromises, but also putting themselves at risk for irreversible lung damage. Asthma affects an estimated 21.9 million Americans, is more common in children than adults, and is responsible for nearly 5,000 deaths per year. An asthma attack is often triggered by allergens such as dust, pollen, animal dander; certain drugs; respiratory illnesses; physical exertion such as soccer, basketball, playing certain band instruments, or singing; and environmental irritants such as wood smoke, air fresheners, perfume, and candles. Once asthma is diagnosed, experts recommend aggressive treatment with allergen avoidance and medication. “If you already have asthma, there are some signs that will determine that it is not under control such as using an inhaler more than twice a week, using it more than once a day or using more than two inhalers in a year,” White said. “These are clues that tell you that you need to get your asthma under control.” Because inflammation of the lungs and airways plays a critical role in the development of asthma, the most effective medications to prevent long-term damage and decrease asthma severity are those that prevent inflammation. These medications help to normalize lung function, while rescue medications help to relieve acute symptoms. Today, more effective treatments than ever are available to help people control their asthma and live normal, productive lives. “We will have plenty of information available and will be able to show new innovations in asthma devices,” White said. For more information, please call (573) 368-7000. Eighth Annual Benefit Golf Tournament a Huge Success / posted May 5, 2006 ROLLA - SPRING 2006 - In spite of overcast skies and weather forecasts predicting rain, golfers enjoyed a full-day of play at Oak Meadow Country Club, followed by an evening meal. It was a welcome change for last year’s participants who braved the cold, rainy weather. The all-day event raised more than $45,000 for Phelps County Regional Medical Center’s (PCRMC) new Intensive Care/Step-Down Unit. “We would like to thank our sponsors and participants for making this such a successful event,” said Suzanne Paule, director of foundation and public relations at PCRMC. “We appreciate all the support for the ICU campaign.” Paule emphasized the important role the sponsors play in making the tournament successful. The Town & Country Bank team of Greg Doss, Gene Gaddy, Dave Dearth and Joe Morgan won the event with a 22-under-par 48, which was two strokes better than their winning score for last year’s tournament. The Peterson Group and Schindler Elevator team of Phil Peterson, Doug Roach and Gary LaGrand was second with a 52. First Community National Bank team of Mark Perkins, Scott Perkins, Alan Vickers and Kenneth Barnes was third with a 54. Be Aware of the Latest Medicare Phone Scam / posted April 24, 2006 If you have Medicare, beware of callers asking for money and your checking account information. The callers may say that they will help you enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. The typical amount of money they ask for is $299, so the scheme is called the “$299 Ring.” You can report these calls to your police department or call 1-877-SAFERX (1-877-772-3379). No Medicare drug plan can ask a person with Medicare for bank account or other personal information over the telephone. Never give that kind of information to a caller. You should contact your police department if you think someone is trying to take money or information from you illegally. Legal Medicare drug plans will not ask you for payment over the telephone or the internet. They must bill you for the monthly premium. Typically, this is through an automatic payment from your monthly Social Security check. Some people pay the monthly premium by check or an automatic payment from their checking account. People with Medicare should be on the lookout for anyone trying to take advantage of them and take steps to protect themselves by remembering:
If you have questions or concerns about Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE. ### Zeta Tau Alpha and Kappa Sigma make Donation to the Foundation / posted April 24, 2006 ROLLA - SPRING 2006 - Members of Zeta Tau Alpha and Kappa Sigma recently donated $600 to the Phelps Regional Health Care Foundation to be used for the Breast Center Mammography Fund at Phelps County Regional Medical Center. Family Size
For more information, please call (573) 458-7788. ### ROLLA - SPRING 2006 - While medical advances are prolonging life, they have also created new health issues. To address the needs presented by patients with special health issues, a new specialization has emerged in nursing – Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) nursing. Phelps County Regional Medical Center (PCRMC) has three of the 60 WOC nurses in Missouri, and they are skilled in the treatment, education and rehabilitation of people with wound, ostomy and continence conditions. They are Retta Sutterfield, RN CNS CWOCN; Connie Swenty, RN MSN CWOCN; and Joyce Leuthart RN BSN CWOCN. Sutterfield and Swenty are joined in PCRMC’s WOC department by Peggy Taylor, RN. They see patients in the hospital, clinic and home health care setting. WOC Nursing focuses on the care of patients who are debilitated by chronic wounds, ostomy conditions or continence disorders. The profession traces its roots to 1968 when an ostomy patient realized how important post operative support was to recovery. Sometimes surgery results in an opening in the patient’s body for the discharge of body waste and health professionals must be adequately prepared to address the patient’s medical needs. The scope of practice in the field eventually evolved to include patients afflicted with chronic wounds caused by conditions such as pressure ulcers, diabetes and venous insufficiency, as well as individuals suffering from fecal and urinary incontinence. The demand for WOC nurses continues to grow. Not only is the population aging, but also individuals who are 85 years of age and older, is increasing too. In fact, the 85 years of age and older age group is the fastest-growing age range in the U.S. and is most likely to take prescription drugs that result in bowel and bladder problems. The demand for WOC nurses will continue to be spurred by the aging of the population as well as the increase in diseases, such as diabetes, where the development of wounds, such as foot ulcers, can be a serious complication and impair wound healing. The need for WOC nurses has grown so much in recent decades that some nurses have even carved out specialties within the specialty itself. “This is an important service for patients, and we are pleased to provide them with the specialized care that they need,” Sutterfield said. top Phelps County Regional Medical Center (PCRMC) has been conducting internal patient satisfaction surveys for a number of years. A few years ago, a decision was made to get external feedback nationally by comparing PCRMC patient satisfaction results with other hospitals. To do this meant that patients would be surveyed after they left the hospital. The surveys are administered through Press Ganey Associates, and are sent to all discharged in-patients and randomly, based on daily volume in the areas of out-patient, ambulatory surgery, home health and the emergency department. Every Monday, the directors review the patient satisfaction surveys for trends and comments. The survey results from the fourth quarter of 2005, which were released recently, and three of PCRMC’s service areas were recognized for high achievements. Here is a breakdown of those scores:
“We post quarterly results all over the hospital and we try to do things to support departmental efforts,” Wieties said. “We also look at the surveys for mention of employees, so they can be recognized.”
ROLLA - SPRING 2006 - Phelps County Regional Medical Center is now offering a free shuttle service for patients and visitors to and from the hospital parking lot. This service is provided in addition to the Transportation Van Program, which is a complimentary service provided by the Auxiliary, for patients needing transportation to PCRMC and its affiliated physicians' offices. The shuttle, named the Happy Hauler, is a 2005 Ford Freestar SEL purchased by the PCRMC Auxiliary. Instead of purchasing a new one, the Auxiliary members decided to provide better service for patients and visitors by purchasing a minivan. “Our Auxiliary felt it was really important,” Pridgeon said. “Denny Ford Lincoln Mercury provided us additional savings, which was very instrumental in allowing us to upgrade to a minivan.” The vehicle was purchased in January, and efforts were made to find drivers. Two drivers, Larry Jontz and Richard Vogeler, have been hired, both of whom will be CPR certified. The seven-passenger van features increased cargo room for strollers and carry-on belongings. In addition, it is equipped with dual power sliding doors (for better accessibility for patients and the driver), power seating, front and rear climate control, CD and cassette player and quad seating with a fold-flat third seat option. “This is a great service and now patients and visitors don’t have to worry about weather conditions when trying to walk to and from the parking lots to the hospital,” said Joe Phelps, transport supervisor. “We can get them to their hospital appointments and to visit their loved ones in the comfort and convenience of a new van.” The drivers will follow routine routes throughout the parking lots and will take passengers to and from the main and north entrances. The east and emergency entrances will be treated as special pickups, and hospital personnel will contact Phelps by phone to schedule those stops. Signage indicating shuttle stops will be posted for patients and visitors. “The return of the Happy Hauler has been a goal the Auxiliary has been planning for awhile, and it is exciting to have it back in operation,” Pridgeon said. The Auxiliary raises its funds by operating the gift shop, Repeat Boutique, Lemon Tree Grill, vending machines, book fairs and various hospital fundraisers. ###
ROLLA - SPRING 2006 - Phelps County Regional Medical Center will sponsor several free activities in April. Carolyn Tilford, community educator, will speak about stroke prevention. The support group provides general information regarding diabetes, and anyone impacted by the disease is invited to attend. Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles. For more information, contact Aggie McEachern, diabetes education, at (573) 458-7697. The support group, co-sponsored by Heritage Park and PCMRC, provides information about the disease and allows participants to exchange ideas. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability to learn, reason, make judgments, communicate and carry out daily activities. As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may also experience changes in personality and behavior, such as anxiety, suspiciousness or agitation, as well as delusions or hallucinations. Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, new treatments are on the horizon as a result of accelerating insight into the biology of the disease. Research has also shown that effective care and support can improve quality of life for individuals and their caregivers over the course of the disease from diagnosis to the end of life. It is free and open to the public. For more information, call (573) 364-2311. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by fatigue, widespread pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons, and multiple tender points — places on your body where slight pressure causes pain. Previously, the condition was known by other names such as fibrositis, chronic muscle pain syndrome, psychogenic rheumatism and tension myalgias. Although the intensity of your symptoms may vary, they'll probably never disappear completely. It may be reassuring to know, however, that fibromyalgia isn't progressive, crippling or life-threatening. Treatments and self-care steps can improve symptoms and your general health. For more information about these and other educational programs at PCRMC, call Carolyn Tilford at (573) 458-7695. ### Three Stories, One message About Colorectal Cancer / posted March 20, 2006
ROLLA - SPRING 2006 - Three different women. Three different stories about colorectal cancer. Despite the differences, they delivered a similar message – early detection is key to successful treatment of colorectal cancer and screening is essential for people over age 50. For the more than 50 people attending a “Lunch and Learn” program at Phelps County Regional Medical Center (PCRMC) last week, that theme was repeated by the speakers in an effort to raise awareness about colorectal cancer and to encourage people to learn more about prevention of the disease through regular screening and a healthy lifestyle. Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon and/or rectum. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women, striking them in equal numbers, and is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Colorectal cancer has a 90 percent cure rate when found early during screening. While many people believe that colon cancer only happens to people over age 50, the three speakers were visible proof that it can happen to anyone, regardless of age. A WIFE’S PERSPECTIVE “I have never had a colonoscopy,” said Shonna McFarland of Newburg. “I’ve never done a prep. I’ve never had the surgery. I don’t have the scar. I don’t have cancer, but I have had, done and experienced it all except for the actual diagnosis of cancer.” The program was held in memory of Shonna’s husband, Michael, who was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2001 at the age of 24. He died December 28, 2005, at the age of 28. Shonna spoke to the audience about her late husband and explained how colon cancer impacted their lives. “Mike was experiencing rectal bleeding for a week when he went to the doctor,” she said. “There was a family history of colon cancer, and when he had a colonoscopy, polyps were found. The doctor advised Mike to have a scope every year no matter what.” Mike was 18 at the time. Less than a year later, he was having symptoms again. By the time he was able to get in to see the same doctor, the bleeding had stopped. “The doctor told him he could not help him if there were no symptoms,” Shonna said. “This left a bad taste in his mouth and a mindset that if he was not having any symptoms, then he wasn’t going to go to the doctor.” Five years later, the battle began November 12, 2001, with a diagnosis of stage III colon cancer. It was five days after his 24th birthday and eight days after the McFarlands celebrated their one-year anniversary. “Mike had been experiencing severe cramping, fatigue and weight loss for the previous month before I convinced him to go to the doctor,” Shonna said. “Fortunately, this doctor listened to what Mike had to say about his family history.” The doctor ordered blood work to be done and scheduled a colonoscopy. The following day, he was admitted to the hospital with a hemoglobin of 5.5, with the range for a normal male between 13 and 15. "Two days later came the colonoscopy and the words that Mike had colon cancer,” she said. Mike had 90 percent of his colon removed, along with 35 lymph nodes in which three on top of the tumor were affected. He had just enough colon in order to function. “He recovered quickly because of pure determination and his young age,” Shonna said. “He received chemotherapy and remained cancer-free until August of 2003.” At that time, Mike found an enlarged lymph node in his neck. A biopsy confirmed the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes. He once again received chemotherapy, and had about seven months before the pain and cramping returned. A scan in July of 2004 showed spots on his liver, so he completed another round of chemotherapy. By spring of 2005, he was unable to eat and was losing weight. He had started out at 295 pounds in March of 2004, and a year later, he was down to 165 pounds. “Cancer shut off part of his digestive system and Mike had to have another major surgery to reroute his intestines so he could eat again,” Shonna explained. However, by mid-June, the couple was back on the Harley headed to South Dakota on vacation, once again showing how determined Mike was to continue fighting. “Days of sitting around doing nothing were worse than feeling a little bit puny and doing something to feel better,” Shonna said. In November, he took a turn for the worse, and had a grand mal seizure, swelling in his brain and lost his vision. “For the next seven weeks, Mike lived his life to the fullest and held nothing back from his friends and family,” she said. “He was given a second chance.” When Shonna thinks about Mike’s illness, the fact that he was active in his treatment and doctor appointments stands out. “He was not afraid to ask questions or question a nurse or a doctor,” she said. “He wanted to know. As caregivers, this is an important role that you play. If you don’t understand what a nurse or doctor says, ask questions until you get the answer. You will become your own educator.” Having friends and family provide support is important for those dealing with cancer. “People I know and others who have heard Mike’s story have gone to have a colonoscopy,” Shonna said. “Hopefully our story or one of the other speaker’s stories will be an eye opener for you to get a colonoscopy and not put it off any longer.” COLONOSCOPY PROVIDES ANSWERS Tiffany Taylor of Cabool didn’t think that her rectal bleeding could have been anything other than hemorrhoids. But after it worsened and she started losing weight, she went to a series of doctors. “One doctor saw a spot during a sigmoidoscopy, but told me it was nothing to worry about, and another actually felt a mass, but told me it was hemorrhoids,” she said. “Everyone made the bleeding and constipation sound normal. I was told that I had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and colitis, and that I should eat more fiber.” Finally, after hearing Katie Couric talk so much about colorectal cancer, Taylor insisted on getting a colonoscopy. At age 30, she was diagnosed with stage IV rectal cancer. She had radiation, chemotherapy and surgery. After treatment, her bowels weren’t functioning well and she was admitted to the hospital multiple times with complications. She had a temporary colostomy, but chose not the reverse it. Last year, small spots on her lungs started growing, but doctors didn’t know if they were cancerous. To be sure, Taylor had radiofrequency ablation (RFA), a procedure in which a needle is inserted into the area around the spots, and tines on the end of the needle generate heat to destroy the targeted tissue. Taylor has been cancer-free for almost three years, and continues to monitor her health. She is an activist in her community, and has created several local colorectal cancer awareness projects, including two billboards. She is also featured in the 2006 Colondar, a calendar of men and women living with colorectal cancer. More information is available at www.colondar.com. FACING THE SYMPTOMS Frankie Hicks of Belle was diagnosed at the age of 27 with colorectal cancer. She emphasized that if it hadn’t been for her mother insisting that she go to the doctor, she likely would have ignored her symptoms. Two years after having a benign growth removed from her bowels, she told her mother than she consistently had been seeing blood in her stool, a problem she had ignored for quite some time. She was also losing weight without dieting. At her mother’s urging, she finally sought advice of a doctor who recommended a colonoscopy. The procedure revealed a stage III cancerous tumor, which doctors removed after five weeks of radiation and chemotherapy to reduce its size. The tumor was caught just in time. Now, Hicks has become an advocate of endoscopy procedures and has made sure everyone in her family gets checked regularly. “Hopefully I can save someone else’s life, the way my mom saved mine,” she said. While colorectal cancer often develops with no symptoms – which is why screening for the disease is so crucial – some symptoms can occur, particularly in the advanced stages of the disease, including:
If you have any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, see your health care professional immediately. Though these symptoms may be caused by several other conditions, you need to be tested to find out why you have them. The luncheon was sponsored by PCRMC, AstraZeneca and Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., as part of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. To learn more about colorectal cancer prevention, go to PCRMC's online health information section. ### PCRMC announced its support of DVT Awareness Month (March) as officially recognized by U.S. Senate Resolution 56, joining a national effort to raise awareness of DVT and its potentially fatal complication, pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT is a medical condition that occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one of the large veins, usually in the lower limbs, leading to either partially or completely blocked circulation. It may be caused by a variety of risk factors and triggering events, including cancer, obesity or restricted mobility as a result of acute medical illness, stroke, major surgery or respiratory failure. “With our focus on providing exceptional patient care, we are proud to support this national campaign,” said Dr. Jay Crump, PCRMC chief medical officer. “While this condition costs hospitals an estimated $340 million annually nationwide, it takes a far greater toll on human lives. Awareness of the risk factors paired with appropriate preventative measures can reduce the incidence of this condition.” DVT symptoms may include tenderness, pain in the leg, swelling and discoloration or redness. Anyone experiencing these symptoms, especially if they fall into one of the risk categories, should seek medical attention. The condition may result in health complications such as PE and even death if not diagnosed and treated effectively. PE can occur when a blood clot or fragment of it breaks loose from the wall of the vein and migrates to the lungs where it blocks a pulmonary artery or one of its branches. PE signs and symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, coughing up blood and fainting. According to the American Heart Association, DVT affects up to two million Americans annually. Of those Americans who develop PE, up to 200,000 will die each year, more than from breast cancer and AIDS combined. Most Americans (74 percent) are unaware of DVT, according to a national survey sponsored by the American Public Health Association. Risk reduction measures for DVT include early mobilization, sequential compression devices to promote blood flow and anticoagulants and/or blood-thinning drugs. The Coalition to Prevent DVT has spearheaded DVT Awareness Month efforts since its launch in March 2003. Melanie Bloom, widow of NBC correspondent David Bloom, is serving as the national patient advocate in support of the coalition’s efforts to make this a national public health priority. PCRMC to host "Lunch & Learn" / posted March 7, 2006 The event is being held in memory of Michael McFarland, who was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2001 at the age of 24. He died December 28, 2005, at the age of 28 from colon cancer. “He was diagnosed and treated here,” said Janet Rankin, clinical coordinator for endoscopy. “Most people think they have to wait until they are in their 50s to get screened. That’s not true.” The speakers will be emphasizing early screening and detection, related to their personal experience with colorectal cancer. Tiffany Taylor, of Cabool, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at age 30. She has been cancer-free for almost three years and is an activist in her community. Shonna McFarland, wife of the late Michael McFarland of Newburg, will speak about their battle with colorectal cancer. Frankie Hicks of Belle was diagnosed, at the age of 27, with colorectal cancer. Frankie will share her story as a colorectal cancer survivor. Anyone interested in the luncheon should call (573) 458-7860 by March 15, 2006, and leave a name, phone number and the number of people attending. The event is sponsored by PCRMC, AstraZeneca and Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. To learn more about colorectal cancer, go to PCRMC's online health information section. ### Cancer Care Services Awarded Prestigious Honor / posted March 2, 2006
“While the standards are very rigorous for the approval process, being chosen an OAA winner is a tremendous honor,” said Jason Sharp, director of radiation oncology at PCRMC. The OAA designation will be added to PCRMC’s record that is available through the “Find an Approved Program” online database on the American College of Surgeons CoC web site. Receiving care at the CoC-approved Cancer Care Services at PCRMC assures that patients will have access to: ### Two individual Cancer Support Groups are available for current and/or recovering cancer patients, family members and caregivers. The Cancer Support Group is a free service of PCRMC and is open to all community members. “Cancer is an anxious time for a patient and his or her family,” says Mary Graham, M.D., medical director of Radiation Oncology. “Questions abound the patient with thoughts such as ‘why me,’ ‘what should I have done to prevent this,’ and ‘what is my best treatment?’” Graham continued. “We are providing cancer patients and their caregivers with a strong support system to provide tools and support with which to cope with this disease.” “Sometimes a cancer patient’s caregiver is overlooked during the process, which is unfortunate” says Jason Sharp, B.S., R.T., director of Radiation Oncology. “During this time many people are concerned about the physical and emotional condition of the patient, but don’t realize that the caregiver may be facing emotional challenges, too. That’s why we have a separate support group specifically tailored for caregivers,” Sharp said. Randee Jo Feco, Psy.D., psychologist at PCRMC, says the Cancer Support Group will help cancer patients and their loved ones by encouraging a positive attitude and developing a network of friends who are facing a similar situation. “The Cancer Support Group is formatted to encourage both groups (cancer patients and caregivers) to really talk about the situation. My hope is that when they go home they have open communication, which is so important during a health complication,” Dr. Feco continued. “We want both parties to acknowledge their own feelings and be able to cope with the condition. Both parties have the power to take control their situation, instead of allowing their illness to control them,” Dr. Feco said. CANCER SUPPORT GROUP “Within each of the discussion topics we have small breakout sessions to discuss specific topics,” Dr. Feco said. “For example, during the Physical Change discussion topic we talk about the possibility of patients loosing their hair, a loss in weight and the difficulty of performing activities of daily living, which in the past may have seemed trivial,” she said. Beverly Ricker, R.N., B.S.N., O.C.N., director of medical oncology says all people affected by cancer should attend. “I think this is a wonderful opportunity for patients, their family members and caregivers because professional guidance will be offered during each session,” Ricker said. “Guidance and support is so important when dealing with cancer and this is something that will be offered throughout their entire cancer care continuum,” she said. Please call (573) 458-7500 for the next Cancer Support Group meeting. It is free of charge and individuals affected by cancer are encouraged to attend. ### Fall 2006 Opening for New Medical Office Building / posted March 1, 2006 ### The fair, slated from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., will be held in Private Dining Rooms 1 and 2 at the hospital, located at 1000 W. 10th St., in Rolla. Admission is free. “We will have representatives from all different nursing units who will show the variety of jobs available,” said Carol Gadbury, nursing recruiter. “We will provide tours of the facility, and participants will have an opportunity to talk with the schools about their nursing programs.” Like hospitals around the country, PCRMC is working on ways to minimize a national nursing shortage. Gadbury explained that nursing has been called the hottest new career for men, and is ideal for those seeking a second career path. Last year’s nursing fair drew about 120 participants, Gadbury said. She explained that the fair will draw a wide variety of people ranging from mothers seeking a career after their children have grown to recent high school graduates. Representatives will be on hand from Central Methodist University, East Central College, Lincoln University, Rolla Technical Center, St. Louis University, Texas County Technical Institute, University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing and Waynesville Tech. Call toll free at 1-866-890-8533 for more information. “We’ve been doing these surveys for several years now,” said Frank Lazzaro, director of human resources. “We have seen consistent improvement in the results of the surveys. Our overall score in 2005 is up 8 percent when compared to the 2004 survey.” With 63 percent of PCRMC’s 1,332 employees responding, the survey results netted the hospital a 2005 National Employee and Leader Satisfaction Award from Sperduto & Associates for the Greatest increase in employee satisfaction, fewer than 2,000 employees category. According to Sperduto & Associates, scoring .3 and above in a category is considered significant. The following factors were measured as part of the survey: compensation; department head; benefits; additional rewards; job security; communication; work pressures; your goals and objectives; treatment; mission/goals – organization; coworkers; corporate image; opportunity for advancement; goals – department; your job; quality; supervision; patient safety; top management and previous survey review. Fifteen out of 20 of the key factors were rated similar to the norm in terms of employee satisfaction. This indicates PCRMC employees feel about the same on these issues as employees in other health care facilities. The results indicated that employees are most satisfied with their compensation, benefits and department head. They were also significantly more satisfied than other health care employees with the rewards they receive and job security. The survey will be administered again in September 2006. Carolyn Tilford, community educator at PCRMC, said the event was modeled after an event held last year at another medical facility. “I got a flier and patterned our fair after that,” Tilford said. The event was divided into three areas: lipid profile screens, heart healthy luncheon and free tours/cardiac health screens. “We had 71 total participants throughout the day,” Tilford said. The event was open to the public, with a $15 fee required. It drew a varied crowd with participants of all ages. Participants came from Rolla, St. James, Newburg, Edgar Springs, Owensville and Waynesville. A heart healthy lunch was served with Dr. Tom Martin, PCRMC cardiologist, speaking to the group about cardiac risk factors. While heredity, gender and age are all risk factors for coronary artery disease, they are not controllable or modifiable risk factors. However, people can control or change risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, stress and behavior. Cindy Christian, coordinator of cardiac rehab services, spoke to the group about reducing stress, followed by a lecture from Bridget Bahr of cardiac rehab about reading food labels. The afternoon session featured free cardiac health screenings that including blood pressure screening, a nutrition assessment, self cardiac risk assessment, body composition, target heart rate and oxygen saturation. Participants were also provided tours of the cardiac cath lab and the cardiac stress lab. ### Renowned Magician Makes Special Stop at PCRMC / posted February 22, 2006
ROLLA - February 17, 2006 - Physical, occupational and speech therapists, along with their patients, noticed that “magic” was in the air as well-known magician Kevin Spenser recently made a special visit to Phelps County Regional Medical Center (PCRMC.) Spenser, who travels nationwide and internationally with his “Theatre of Illusion” show, also is the creator of a therapeutic magic show that he, along with David Copperfield, created nearly twenty years ago. On Friday, February 10, Spenser performed at UMR’s Leach Theater. But, Spenser didn’t leave town without giving PCRMC therapists and rehabilitation patients a personal show demonstrating how magic can be incorporated in therapy sessions. “I have been teaching therapeutic magic for the past twenty years across the U.S., China, Italy and Canada and one thing I noticed is how much fun the patients have while learning this,” he continues. “Mainly because magic amazes and interests so many people. Everyone wants to learn magic,” he said. Spenser notes that while patients enjoy learning magic, they may also improve their psychomotor and social skills without even knowing it. “Many times a patient will work in a therapy session a couple times a day, however when combining magic a patient will repeat their therapy more often because it’s fun and will share their tricks with other people,” Spenser said. SPECIALLY TAILORED Kevin Spenser has appeared on nationally syndicated television shows such as Fox News “Fox and Friends” and CBS “The Early Show.” Spenser has also partnered with international research and hospital facilities in Hong Kong, Rome and Toronto to share statistical findings on the benefits of therapeutic magic. Physicians | Career Center | PCRMC Services | About PCRMC | Visitor Information |
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