Winter 2007 [PDF]

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

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Portland, OR Permit No. 2901 Redwood Memorial Hospital 3300 Renner Drive Fortuna, CA 94450

St. Joseph Hospital 2700 Dolbeer St. Eureka, CA 95501

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Welcome, Dr. Join Luh

Health Link

Help others help you—add ICE (in case of emergency) entries to your cell phone so others can quickly call your contacts if there is an emergency. American College of Emergency Physicians

blueprint eXcellence

For

numbers to know

New construction at St. Joseph Hospital wearing hard hats and bearing shovels, (left to right) deborah proctor, st. Joseph health system chief executive officer; Joe mark, st. Joseph hospital chief executive officer; John Gierek Jr., board of trustees chair; sister Joleen Todd, st. Joseph health system–humboldt county vice president of mission integration; and dennis leonardi, vice chair and incoming chair of the board of trustees, break ground during the rainy ceremony on oct. 19.

eiGhTY-Five Years aGo, the Sisters of

a healthy smile You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed. It’s also smart to replace your toothbrush after an illness, such as a cold or the flu. American Dental Hygienists’ Association

think positive, live longer People with a positive attitude tend to live longer than people with a more negative outlook on life. Mayo Clinic Proceedings

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St. Joseph of Orange arrived on the North Coast. Then, as now, changing and saving lives to enhance the health of this community was their priority. Today, through our “Blueprint for Excellence” construction project, St. Joseph Hospital (SJH) is taking another huge step in fulfilling that mission. The Blueprint is a plan for Humboldt County’s new state-of-the-art patient care facility, which will ensure that we can meet the needs of the community for decades to come.

seismic saFety

SJH was built in 1952. Unfortunately, parts of our facility do not conform to the current California earthquake safety code. Like many hospitals across the state, SJH faces a deadline of 2013 to comply or close its doors. After careful study, we found that retrofitting the existing hospital would be just as expensive as construction of a new building. Plans have been drawn up for a facility that is seismically compliant. Initial estimates show the cost to be in excess of 118 million. Through the SJH Foundation, we will ask our community to join us in making this

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investment in our health possible through personal philanthropic support. Implementation of the Blueprint for Excellence began on Oct. 19 with a special groundbreaking ceremony on the hospital’s campus.

Follow our progress

st. Joseph hospital wishes to welcome radiation oncologist Join Y. luh, md. most recently, dr. luh has served as chief resident of the department of radiation oncology at the university of Texas health science center at san antonio, in the cancer therapy research center. he is fluent in four languages, including spanish. dr. luh is the author of several research projects, scientific papers, books, articles and presentations. he has experience in prostate seed implants, GYn high-dose-rate brachytherapy, mammosite brachytherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery. dr. luh joined the partnership of michael harmon, md, director of the department of radiation oncology at st. Joseph hospital, on aug. 1. st. Joseph hospital is in the process of purchasing a high-dose-rate remote afterloader so that new treatment modalities may be initiated. “i am very excited to have dr. luh join our medical community,” dr. harmon says. “dr. luh was aggressively recruited by several university health centers but has decided to pursue private practice and will bring his expertise to humboldt county. i am looking forward to the many new developments on the horizon.”

Construction will last 30 months. We will keep the community informed every step of the way through press releases and a special telephone hotline featuring recorded updates. The new patient care building will stand directly in front of the existing hospital. The beautiful, three-story building will follow the slope of the hillside. Included in the facility will be a new emergency department, additional surgical suites, a new gift shop, a new and improved front lobby and admitting area, and clinical labs. The new hospital will also house patient care rooms, family visiting areas and an intensive care unit, as well as a new surgery area, including pre- and postoperative care facilities. For more information on the Blueprint for Join Y. luh, md, (left) has joined the Excellence construction project, please call partnership of michael harmon, md, director of the department of radiation --. oncology at st. Joseph hospital.

3 CoMpassion SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH 6 support FOUNDATION THANKS DONORS 9 alzheiMer’s HOME SAFE HOME ! baCk to sleep STEPS TO PREVENT SIDS

Gastrointestinal Disease breathing (especially for kids with asthma), a hoarse voice or a sore throat, says Dr. Tolia. Rarely, children also may lose weight or not gain as they should because it’s difficult or painful to swallow, she adds. However, these symptoms are more pronounced in infants and younger children. Tell your pediatrician if you notice symptoms of GERD in your child, or if your child throws up blood or green or yellow fluid.

To find a doctor to treat your child’s tummy aches, go to www.stjosepheureka.org and click on “Find a Physician.” Making changes in your child’s diet—such as avoiding soda, caffeine, and fatty, spicy or acidic foods—can help. A doctor also can prescribe medicine to treat GERD.

Diarrhea Most kids under 3 will have one to three epi-

Taming kids’ tummy aches Tummy aches in children are nearly as common

as “owies.” But what causes a sore belly, and when is it serious? Parents may need to do some detective work to find out, says Vasundhara Tolia, MD, of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN). That’s because stomachache is a pretty wide-ranging term. A sore belly could be “the result of emotional stress or an infection,” she says. “Or it could be related to some physical problem.” To narrow things down, here are the basics on three gastrointestinal problems that can affect children.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) IBD refers to inflammation in the intestines that’s not due to infection

Celiac disease

take a pass on gluten

You’ve probably heard about lactose intol-

erance, a condition in which people have sensitivity to dairy products. Drinking milk, for example, can make them sick. Celiac disease is similar to lactose intolerance. But instead of being sensitive to dairy products, people with celiac disease are sensitive to gluten—a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. It affects one in every 250 people, and the tendency to develop it can be inherited, according to the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG). Eating foods containing gluten damages the lining of the small intestine in someone with celiac disease. This

or other known causes. The two main types are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. The exact cause of these diseases isn’t known, but the tendency to develop them does run in some families. Symptoms can include diarrhea, bloody bowel movements, weight loss, poor growth and abdominal pain. Report any of these signs to your pediatrician. A doctor can order blood work and other tests to check for IBD. Problems can usually be treated with medication, but sometimes surgery is needed, Dr. Tolia says.

GERD (heartburn) Gastroesophageal reflux disease

(GERD) happens when food and stomach acid go back up the tube that connects the mouth and stomach. In children, this can cause stomach pain above the belly button, heartburn, regurgitation or vomiting, difficulty can lead to symptoms that include diarrhea or constipation, bloating and gas, and irritability, reports the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. In children the disease can delay growth or the onset of puberty. It also can result in anemia, itchy rash and thin, fragile bones. Celiac disease is usually diagnosed with a blood test and by using a device called an endoscope to remove a small tissue sample from the intestine. An endoscope is a thin, long tube that is inserted into the intestine through the mouth while a person is sedated.

Feeling better Celiac disease is treated with a ­gluten-

free diet. Avoiding foods that contain the protein ­allows the intestine to heal and return to normal. However, you must stay on the diet to keep symptoms from returning. Foods to avoid if you have celiac disease include: ● Breads, cereals and baked goods prepared from wheat, barley or rye. FA L L

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sodes of diarrhea each year, NASPGHAN reports. Diarrhea may be the result of a viral or bacterial infection, food poisoning, a reaction to medicine (especially antibiotics) or food, or a digestive problem, such as lactose intolerance or food allergies. Drinking lots of soda pop that contains high-fructose corn syrup is another potential cause, adds Dr. Tolia. “It’s often overlooked, but too much fructose can cause diarrhea, bloating and even cramps,” she says. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration—infants 3 months and younger are at the greatest risk for this. Call your doctor if your child has a decrease in wet diapers or a lack of tears when crying, or is excessively sleepy. Mild diarrhea usually goes away on its own after three to six days, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

See a doctor

While a tummy ache may just be the result of indigestion, don’t be reluctant to get medical help if it seems more serious or is recurrent, Dr. Tolia says. “If you feel there’s a problem that seems serious—that’s affecting your child’s quality of life—you should see a doctor about it,” she says. For more information about gastrointestinal diseases that can affect children, go to the NASPGHAN website, www.naspghan.org. ● Pasta prepared from wheat, rye, barley or semolina. ● Salad dressing, gravy, sauce or soup prepared with ingredients that contain gluten. ● Creamed or breaded vegetables. Foods OK to eat include: ● Corn and rice. ● Unprocessed fruits and vegetables. ● Breads and baked goods prepared with cornmeal or with flour made from corn, potato, rice or soy. ● Cereals prepared from soy, corn (hominy), rice, cornmeal or quinoa. ● Noodles or pasta made from rice or other non-gluten ingredients. ● Beef, chicken or fish. ● Milk and unprocessed cheese. ● Dried beans, nuts and peanut butter.

Get help If you think you may have celiac disease, contact your physician. You can also learn more about the disease at the ACG website, www.acg.gi.org.

A History of Compassion A Continuing, Compassionate Presence

Sister Cecile Golden jubilarian ● 25 years in Humboldt County ● Spiritual seeker ● Home visitor ● Quiet demeanor ● Subtle humor ● Paced

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In the rural area of Le Puy, France, in the 1600s, a group of women seeking deeper meaning in life were compelled by circumstances of war and poverty to band together and go out in the streets to minister to the orphaned, the sick and the poor. The “Mandate” of these women still guides the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange to this day. In the early 1900s, in rural Eureka, California, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange was founded. A small group of young women from La Grange, Ill., were seeking opportunities to serve the people of God. In the first decade of their service in education, Eureka was hit by a devastating flu epidemic. The sisters were sent to care for the neighbors who were afflicted and the families who were torn by illness and death. In 1918, the sisters began work on their first hospital in order to serve the greater population in need of care, thus beginning their institutional services to the sick.

Sister Jo Ann Family ● Friends ● Pictures ● Terrific memory ● A people person ● Teacher ● Math whiz ● Lover of all things Italian

As we move into this new millennium, we see true health is much more than the treatment of disease and illness in a hospital or clinic setting. The future of health is rooted in the entire community’s focus on being healthy in mind, body and spirit. The emphasis for individuals and communities, then, should be on personal decisions that prevent health problems and improve quality of life. Now, at this time in our history, the Sisters

of St. Joseph in ministry in Humboldt wish to enter into a community conversation about health in all its dimensions. In order to begin to hear your thoughts on a variety of topics, we will use Health Scene to put forth some questions in the next issue. Please look for it and let us know your thoughts. We look forward to creating new connections with you. —Sisters Cecile, Jo Ann, Joleen, Maria Goretti, Marie Jeannette, Michaela and Patricia

The Mandate

“...they will divide the town into various sectors; visiting the sick and through persons associated with their congregation, they will try to find out what disorders exist in each sector, so that they may remedy them through their own efforts...or through persons who have influence...” —17th century documents Sisters of St. Joseph

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At the dawn of a new millennium, a seemingly insignificant group of women hold fiercely to the belief that the grace of active, inclusive love has the power to illuminate our broken, fragile, mysterious world. Relying on the strength of our God, we dare to witness to: ● HOPE in the midst of diminishment. ● INCLUSION in time of alienation. ● COMMUNITY in an era of individualism. ● HEALING in the face of racism. —Sisters of St. Joseph Serving Humboldt County since 1912

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Quiet ● Avid reader of English mysteries ● Swims or walks daily ● Irish heritage ● Self-disciplined ● Loves solitude

Sister Maria Goretti Loving teacher ● Infectious laugh ● Deeply prayerful ● Happy by nature ● “No one is a stranger”

Sister Marie Jeannette Child advocate ● Approachable ● Good laugh ● Energetic teacher ● Community participant

Sister Michaela Creative ● Extensive reader ● Educator ● “Wholly irreverent” ● Change agent ● Mentor

New Millennium



Sister Joleen

Sister Patricia Gracious ● Hospitable ● Shy ● Creative ● Open to change ● Sensitive ● Great storyteller

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news, views & tips C HA R I T Y C A R E

When hospitals pay for patients who can’t

MEDICAL CARE

Is it an emergency?

These days we often have lots of health care choices. For example, you’ll hear the terms urgent care and emergency care. But what’s the difference between the two, and when might you use each one? For starters, urgent care facilities are where you can go—instead of a hospital—when you need care right away for an illness or injury that is not life-threatening. These centers are typically open evenings and weekends—when you might not be able to see your regular doctor. They often offer fast, convenient service—you don’t need an appointment—and generally cost less than an emergency room visit. You might visit an urgent care center for a minor cut or burn, for example. Or maybe for an ankle sprain, ear infection, sore throat, fracture or some other not-so-major malady that still needs medical attention sooner rather than later, says the National Association for Ambulatory Care. On the other hand, you don’t want to go to an urgent care center if you’re dealing with a major medical crisis—for example, if you or someone else has a head injury, is bleeding severely or is badly burned. Such problems should be treated in a hospital emergency department instead. In fact, anytime you think you or someone else could be significantly harmed or die unless medical care is given immediately, that’s an emergency, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). The ACEP says the following can indicate emergency help is needed: ● Chest pain that lasts two or more minutes. ● Uncontrollable bleeding. ● Sudden or severe pain. ● Coughing or vomiting blood. ● Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. ● Sudden dizziness, weakness or vision changes. ● Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea. ● Change in mental status, such as confusion or difficulty awakening someone. While some signs might seem like obvious emergencies, other times a life-threatening situation isn’t so obvious. Experts say it’s best to err on the side of caution and seek emergency medical help if you think it’s needed. Our Urgent Care Center is moving from the General Hospital campus to St. Joseph Hospital in late December 2007.

When you think of charitable organizations, you probably don’t think of hospitals. Yet every year hospitals throughout the U.S. spend billions of dollars treating people who can’t pay for their care. “Because you don’t have health insurance doesn’t mean that you don’t get sick or in an accident,” says Carmela Coyle, senior vice president for policy for the American Hospital Association (AHA). “It’s every hospital’s mission to treat patients in need of emergency care, whether they can pay for it or not.” When a patient is unable to pay for medical care at a hospital, the costs are often written off as charity care.

what is charity care? Any hospital with an emergency department is required by law to treat and stabilize all patients who arrive seeking medical care. “Treatment is provided, no questions asked,” Coyle says. If a patient is treated at a hospital and is unable to pay for the services, the unreimbursed costs fall into one of two categories: bad debt or charity care. Bad debt consists of services for which the hospital expected, but did not receive, payment. Charity care is defined as services provided for which the hospital does not expect to receive payment because it has determined the patient is unable to pay. Some hospitals use a formal process to identify who can and cannot pay for health care before billing. Other hospitals use the billing process itself to identify patients who are unable to pay. Charity care consists of both reduced payment and no payment for medical services.

a costly endeavor Current government estimates

place the number of Americans without health insurance at more than 1 million. And there are many more people who are underinsured. In 200, the cost of uncompensated hospital care— which includes both bad debt and charity care—totaled about 27 billion, according to the AHA. “All of these unfunded costs are left on the hospital’s doorstep,” Coyle says. With so many people unable to pay for health care, hospitals are constantly looking for ways to both provide quality service and to survive financially. To offset the costs of charity care, hospitals are often forced to increase charges for medical services. Hospitals also rely on donations from community members and businesses to help cover the costs of charity care. But even with community support, many hospitals still end up losing money each year due to uncompensated care. “The ability of hospitals to offset these losses varies dramatically throughout the United States,” Coyle says. “With more and more people who can’t afford health care, it puts a lot of pressure on hospitals. It’s become a real societal problem.” For more on hospital charity care, visit the AHA website at www.aha.org.

st. Joseph hospital’s urgent care center open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, on the general hospital campus the ucc is designed to treat minor illnesses and injuries, including coughs, colds, sore throats, flu and minor sports injuries such as strains and sprains. patients are seen on a walk-in basis. the urgent care center is moving in late december 2007 to st. Joseph hospital.

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news, views & tips

Redwood Memorial Hospital celebrates  years of birthdays

Sock hop for health

Members of the community celebrated with staff and physicians at Redwood Memorial Hospital (RMH) in September to honor those who were born or had a baby in the last half-century at RMH. Hailed by event organizers as the hospital’s biggest birthday bash ever, RMH’s 50 years of service to the Humboldt County community, especially the Eel River Valley, brought generations of community members to the special, one-day event in front of the Redwood Women’s Health Center. Refreshments, booths, raffles and prizes—and, of course, birthday cake—were on hand. During RMH’s 50 years of operation, one of the highlights was the first baby born at the hospital. Born at :37 p.m. on March 19, 1957, to the Essig family of Hydesville, the first Redwood baby received a “key to the city,” and the Fortuna Chamber and Merchants Committee paid the 200 delivery bill in full. Each month since March, RMH has been marking its half-century as part of the community, and the celebration will continue throughout the year with a variety of activities and events like the 50th birthday celebration. Other notable festivities have been staff and department highlights, the Concert on the Green, and the Eel River Valley Family Health, Resource and Wellness sock-hop party.

Redwood Memorial Hospital celebrated 50 years of service to the community at the Ninth Annual Eel River Valley Family Health, Resource and Wellness Fair on Oct. 6 at the South Fortuna Elementary School. Community members received low-cost wellness screenings, health and wellness information and enjoyed a 1950s-

misty dewberry (born at rmh in 1978) holds her daughter, halley, born in april at rmh. dewberry has another child, Jed, who was born at rmh in 2005. dewberry’s mother, Kim hixson basteyns, was the second girl born at rmh when it opened in 1957.

style Wellness Dance party. RMH staff members served birthday cake, gave out prizes and dressed up in their favorite 1950s outfits, complete with poodle skirts and bobbie socks.

redwood memorial hospiTal’s FiFTh annual concerT on The Green: held each september in the hospital garden, this event celebrates the healing power of music and features local musicians. shown here are saint John and sinners with our own Jason Trevino on drums.

Hospital accreditation: Why it should matter to you

When it comes to quality, safe health care, you probably want to know whether your hospital is doing the right things—and doing them well. That’s why you may be interested in something called accreditation. It’s a way for hospitals to make sure they’re meeting national quality standards when it comes to your care and safety.

though it’s not required. But by doing so, they’re “making a statement that they’re willing to do more than the minimum sort of governmental expectations for a hospital organization,” says Darlene Christiansen, executive director of accreditation and certification services at the Joint Commission. “They’re willing to go through that extra step to try to ensure the quality and safety of the services they’re providing,” she says. Both St. Joseph Hospital and Redwood Memorial Hospital are accredited.

how it works The Joint Com-

seal oF approval

Established by medical professionals more than 50 years ago, the Joint Commission is a national nonprofit group that accredits nearly 15,000 health care organizations, including some ,500 hospitals in the U.S. Most hospitals seek this accreditation,



mission has established more than 250 standards that focus on safety and quality of health care in areas such as infection control, medication management, patient rights and education, medical errors prevention, and how a hospital verifies that doctors and nurses are qualified and competent. Hospitals strive to incorporate these established standards into their day-today practices. “And then we come around with a team of experienced surveyors to evaluate whether or not they have done that FA L L 2 0 0 7 5

successfully,” Christiansen says. At least every three years, the Joint Commission dispatches an expert team of health care professionals to conduct an on-site hospital survey, which includes interviews with senior hospital leaders, doctors and nurses. “But most importantly we have a technique we call the ‘tracer,’” Christiansen says. Added to the process in 200, the tracer method involves tracking a patient’s hospital stay and following the course of treatment—from the emergency department, for example, to post-surgical recovery and points in between, Christiansen says. “Our surveyors will follow the path of that patient, reviewing the medical records and talking to caregivers about the services provided at each one of the steps,” she says. The goals, according to Christiansen, include making sure that “nothing fell through the cracks” and that “the services provided were always consistent with the standards that we’ve published.” In addition, surveyors observe patient care as it’s being provided and often talk with patients themselves.

ongoing perFormance

Following the survey, the Joint Commission issues a

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report that may list areas for improvement and ultimately includes an accreditation decision. Accreditation isn’t automatically renewed, so hospitals must reapply and be evaluated again to remain accredited. An accredited hospital’s commitment to quality standards doesn’t end with the survey, however. The Joint Commission also updates hospital staff on changes in standards and requires hospitals to report any changes in their services. In addition, hospitals perform periodic self-assessments to ensure compliance, and they report on how common conditions, such as heart attacks and pneumonia, are treated—information that’s available to the public at the Joint Commission’s website, www.jointcommission.org. Click on “Quality Check.” You can view hospital accreditation reports and compare information about quality and safety at the site. In addition, the Joint Commission accepts input from consumers and reviews any complaints.

eXternal validation Accreditation

is a way for hospitals to seek an outside assessment of how well they’re doing. And it gives consumers something to look for when choosing a hospital that provides quality care, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Donors

please accept our St. Joseph Hospital and Redwood Memorial Hospital are able to offer quality health care to our community because of your generosity and support. Thanks to you, our faithful donors, the possibilities are endless for health care in Humboldt County. Please accept our gratitude for your contribution, and please join us in recognizing the many donors to our hospitals from July  through Sept. , . St. Joseph Hospital Foundation tributes In honor of John and Arnella Ahrens Christine Minegar In honor of Cortney Bolen Sandra Bolen In honor of Ronel Bolen Sandra Bolen In honor of Tiffani Bolen Sandra Bolen In deep honor and lasting love of Nance Madlin Cernoc Bella and R. E. Hoadley, DVM In honor of Sister Peggy Detert J. P. and Barbara Welsh In deep honor and lasting love of Eve Angeletti Fena Bella and R. E. Hoadley, DVM In honor of Don and Betty Raffaelli’s th wedding anniversary Jon Mitts Jr. In memory of Elvira Bonomini John and Leslie Selvage In memory of Vicki Brown Noma Brown In memory of Sister Peggy Detert Donna Alvarado Mike and Mary Jordan Michael Leebolt Carolyn Olds Ruth Rice Jack and Michele Rieke Patti Roth Rebecca Simone In memory of Leverne Edson Rose Dinsmore In memory of Daniel Gilkey Judith Gilkey In memory of Diana Pell James Pell In memory of Zorada Simmons Darrell Simmons In memory of Janice Slack Rose Dinsmore In memory of Theresa Thompson-Lombardo Xeff and Meri Scolari In memory of Muriel Waldron-Smillie Patricia Waldron



in-kind donors A Taste of Class Catering Abruzzi’s Art of Wine Gallery Avalon Restaurant Baroni Designs Bella Baskets Best Dry Cleaners Big Blue Cafe Big Louie’s Pizzeria Michael and Audrey Bode John and Margaret Campbell Carpet Express Cher-Ae-Heights Claire Josefine Professional Organizer Crepes, Coffee & Cream Cutten Inn Restaurant Deo’s Sandwich Shop Detail Doctor ELT Enterprises Bruce and Faye Emad Eureka Natural Foods Finnegan & Nason Auto Supply Fortuna Wheel & Brake Gabriels Owen and Ruth Gailar Gallagher’s George and Kathy Hayes Holly Yashi Design Sister Carol Marie Kelber Lost Coast Brewery Lost Whale Bed & Breakfast Inn Barbara MacTurk Marie Callendar’s Clare Marie Mission Linen Service Morningstone Ken and Marita Musante Northcoast Co-op Old Town Coffee & Chocolates Jeff Pauli Perfect Palate Personal Choice Hank and Cathy Ray Pierson Pierson’s Building Center Plaza Design Ray’s Food Place Redwood Coast Music Festivals Redwood Pharmacy Robert Goodman Winery Samurai Restaurant Melvin Schuler, Jr. Leo Sears and Judy Billingsley Shafer’s Ace Hardware Siggins Jewelry Center Silpada Bud and Liana Simpson Sjaak’s Fine Chocolates Spotlight Video St. Joseph Hospital HIM Department Starbucks Coffee

Tetrault Tire Tomo Japanese Restaurant Vellutini Baking Company Vern’s Furniture Wayne Maples Plumbing and Heating Cash donors Linda Jo Alexander William Alfkin Ronald and Nancy Allen Donna Alvarado Anonymous David Arivett John and Valerie Arminio Phillip and Sally Arnot Brian and Laurel Baker Cathy Ballard Edith Barlow Barnum Timber Company Bear River Casino Rod and Theresa Beard Beauty Connection Stephen and Ellie Beckman Jess Bedore Beverly and Norman Bensky, MD Elsie Berti Bill Davidson Bail Bonds Catrina Bindell Sandra Bolen Robert and Lorinda Brannigan Tara Brewer Bob and Shari Britt Noma Brown Maureen Brundage John and Arlene Burger Cortnee Burgess Deborah and John Burke, MD Shawna Burrow Andy Butch and Susan Vogt-Butch Griselda Caballero John and Margaret Campbell Rick and JoAnne Center Tomas Chavez Coast Central Credit Union Coastal Pathology Medical Assoc. Coldwell Banker Commercial Pacific Partners Property Mgmt. Cook & Associates Ann Cornwell Cottage Realty Lee Cunningham Pete Day John and Violet Deim Miriam Detert Rose Dinsmore Edge Wireless Eureka Internal Medicine Evergreen Pulp, Inc. Douglas and Paula Felden Fidelity National Title

sJh Foundation

Peter Cottontail invites friends to celebration

The Fifth annual peter cottontail and Friends easter celebration will be held saturday, march 15, 2008, at the elks lodge in eureka from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. last year’s event was our most successful yet, raising more than $15,000 to support pediatric services at st. Joseph hospital. more than 350 guests came and enjoyed the day filled with characters, carnival games, a raffle and auction, lunch, and goody-filled easter eggs. The event would not have been possible without the generous support of the many individuals and businesses that donated in-kind items for our raffle and silent auction and the event sponsors who made cash donations. so remember, peter cottontail and friends are coming to town again in 2008! if you would like to volunteer or support this event, call the st. Joseph hospital Foundation office at 707-269-4200.

sJh Foundation

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Monte Carlo 00 Egyptian Nights! walking into the arcata community center on sept. 15 was like entering a new world. The fabulous decorations set the tone for a night to remember that brought in more than $65,000 in cash and in-kind donations for the st. Joseph hospital renewal and modernization program. Guests enjoyed food, drinks, a Texas hold ’em tournament, and performances by the isis winged dancers and the band vintage soul. The support of the community and the many volunteers made this night a success.

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First National Bank Charitable Foundation Virginia Fox Norton Fredlund Dawn Fredrick-Seibert Ralph and Shirley Fullmer Halby and Laurie Garrison Janette Garrison George Petersen Insurance Agency Ted Mason and Cecilia Giacomini Helen Gibbens Steve Gilbert Judith Gilkey John Girdis John and Teri Goossens Joe Gossi Jerry Graves Ron and Linda Grimm Larry and Elizabeth Hall Margo Hall, MD Bud and Joan Hamilton Kathleen Hampton Janet Hansen Rory and JoAnn Hanson Harper Motors Company Judi Harrigan Brent and Paulette Hawkins George and Kathy Hayes Raymond and Terry Heinze Scott and Danette Heller Bernat Herskovets Shawne Herskovets M. Barbara Hill Bella and R. E. Hoadley, DVM Humboldt Area Foundation Humboldt Merchant Services Humboldt Moving and Storage Humboldt Pulmonology Mark Huschle Mike and Mary Jordan Dawn Jorgensen Dave and Ronda Keating Hugh and Fern Kelly Stephen Kennedy Michael and Tina Kerrigan Mary Kingston Gregory Kirsch Spencer and Stephanie Koch Carolyn Lane Timothy and Kimberly Laney Ben and Paula Lawson Michael Leebolt Les Schwab Tires Elliott Levin Jacque and Ralph Lightner Mad River Lumber, LLC James and Heather Marek Joseph and Peggy Mark Allan Matthew, MD Edwin and Linda Mattson Eris McCarthy Laurie McCollister Lynn McKenna Beth McPherson Ken and Lynne Meece Jennifer Mempin Sylvia Milota Christine Minegar Bob and Roxanne Moore Michael and Linda Moreland M. J. and Janette Muldon Ken and Marita Musante Ida Newell Bryan and Gail Newman North Valley Bank O & M Industries Carolyn Olds Order Within Dawn O’Rourke Kyra O’Rourke-Girard Pearson’s Grocery James Pell Pete Belak Construction Gary and Kathryn Philip

Gregory and Sharon Pierson Pierson’s Building Center Pierson’s Investment Company Bryan Plumley and Kimberly Floyd Steve and Sandy Popko Deborah Proctor Erlene Purcell Charles Queen Thomas Quigley Brent and Linda Rasmussen Carl Redlich Redwood Capital Bank Redwood Coast Cellular James Reid Karen Renz Reprop Investments, Inc. Ruth Rice Richard and Emily Levin Foundation Jack and Michele Rieke Joe and Michele Rogers Patti Roth Daniel and Abigail Royse DeAnna Ruiz Andy and Yvette Rybolt Robert and Barbara Sampson Karen Schaefer Ann Schmalz Xeff and Meri Scolari Ronald Scott Leo Sears and Judy Billingsley Security Lock and Alarm Raquel and Melvin Selinger, MD John and Leslie Selvage Sequoia Personnel Service Shafer’s Ace Hardware Tim Shelley Lisa Shirk Darrell Simmons Rebecca Simone Barbara Slade Tina Smith Bob and Marie Sorci Ralph Sorenson Jean Soulburg Margaret Soulsburg Andrea Spittler St. Joseph Health System St. Joseph Hospital Volunteers Marie Stamm, Charitable Trust Victor Starr Janice Stewart Jean Stoller Richard and Deborah Storre Fred Sundquist, Jr. Tom and Sandy Sutton Tim Talbert Tracy Taylor David and Josephine Tom Alvin and Sarie Toste Colleen Toste Umpqua Bank Patricia Waldron Harry and Jean Walker Dorothy Walls Laurie Watson Stone and David Stone Wayne Maples Plumbing and Heating J. P. and Barbara Welsh Marc Whinnem Richard and Joan Whitaker Mark and Susan Whittaker Ann Folker Wieland and Lawrence Wieland, MD Dax and Marie Williamson Michelle Winter Frank Zazueta, MD, and Paula Edwalds Marilyn and George Zibilich, MD

Redwood Memorial Foundation tributes In memory of Lonnie Foltz Renner Petroleum In memory of Dr. Edward and Bert Holland Jon Mitts Jr. In memory of Kathleen McVey Elwynn Johansen In memory of Betty Rock Mary Bareilles William and Karen Bartleson Irma Biasen Lalia Blake Wendy Crews Lorraine Jordan David and Angela Lakey In memory of Frances Scalvini Doris Scalvini In memory of Dr. Charlton Schwartz Lowell and Esther Allen David Andersen Jimmie Ballinger Norma Beck Tom and Carol Benninghoven Thomas and Carol Bess Phil Bransetter Ken Christen Herb and Karen Colby Joan Curtis Philip and Virginia Dwight Warner and Marilyn Forsell Margaret Goble Lori Hendrick Richard and Carol Holland Dean and Dana Hunt Harold and Naomi Hunt James and Louise Lauffenburger James and Mary Loudon Eugene and Dianne Lucas Eris McCarthy Merritt Minnick Michael and Linda Moreland Richard and Jeanne Nash Alice Petersen Camille Marie Regli Regli Jerseys Larry and Merryl Renner Renner Petroleum Gerald and Donna Richardson Dean Solinsky Ed Tanferani James and Gail Timmons Linda Treadwell Vettro Corp. Mary Vides Edward and Mary Wise In memory of Jessica Toste Larry and Pat Francesconi in-kind donors Pam and Jack Bellah, MD C & C Market Rick and JoAnne Center Kim Eubanks Fortuna Florist Hansen Wire Rope Imagination Photography Linda’s Hallmark PALCO PALCO Pharmacy Pepper’s Restaurant Jerry and Gail Sisson Trisha Stanley

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cash donors Lowell and Esther Allen David Andersen Anonymous Sister Marie Jeanette Ansberry Mary Baker Jimmie Ballinger Mary Bareilles William and Karen Bartleson Beacom Construction Rod and Theresa Beard Norma Beck Pamela and Jack Bellah, MD Tom and Carol Benninghoven Robert and Mary Besanceney Thomas and Carol Bess Irma Biasen Larry and Linda Biondini Lalia Blake Virginia Bornemann Phil Bransetter Tara Brewer Elma Burns Rick and JoAnne Center Ken Christen Chris and Sheri Christensen Herb and Karen Colby Kay Connors Wendy Crews Joan Curtis Kenneth and Virginia Dunaway Dale and Myrna Eubanks Robert and Erica Field Warner and Marilyn Forsell Fortuna Motors, Inc. Halby and Laurie Garrison Walter and Becky Giacomini Jeff and Mary Glavich

Margaret Goble John and Teri Goossens Gerald Gouthier Growing Family Sue Thomas and Lyne Hagan Barbara Hill Edward J. Hill Richard and Carol Holland Dean and Dana Hunt Harold and Naomi Hunt John Egan and Rene Imperiale-Egan Elwyn Johansen Allen and Louanna Johnson Lorraine Jordan Dave and Ronda Keating Everett and Dian Keesee David and Angela Lakey Timothy and Kimberly Laney George and Beverley Langdon James and Louise Lauffenburger Patrick and Nancy Lee Shirley Lipa James and Mary Loudon Eugene and Dianne Lucas John and Christa Lyons Eris McCarthy Bernice McWhorter Joseph and Joyce Mitchell Jean and John Montgomery, MD Michael and Linda Moreland Patrick Murphy Ken and Marita Musante Richard and Jeanne Nash Sue Norman Jeffry and Sandra Northern as trustees for Jenna Northern Evelyn Ogle

Alice Petersen Deborah Proctor Charles Queen Camille Marie Regli Regli Jerseys James Reid Larry and Merryl Renner Renner Petroleum Gerald and Donna Richardson Joseph and Michele Rogers Arlene Rose Steve and Christine Ross George Sanguinetti Judy Santshe Doris Scalvini Russell and Elizabeth Shorey Jerry and Gail Sisson Dean Solinsky Bob and Marie Sorci Ralph Sorenson Van and Patricia Stanley Melvin and Sharon Thomsen James and Gail Timmons Linda Treadwell Vettro Corp. Mary Vides Douglas and Wendy Wallace Laurie Watson Stone and David Stone Marc Whinnem Mark and Susan Whittaker Della Williams Edward and Mary Wise J. A. and E. A. Wunderlich Brigid Young

RM Foundation

Benefit Ball a success The Redwood Memorial Foundation’s Benefit Ball was held Nov. 3 at the River Lodge in Fortuna. Each year, the much-anticipated annual gala brings together employees, Sisters, physicians and a very supportive community to benefit Redwood Memorial Hospital. Auction items captured the theme of the evening—“Island Magic”—and included trips to the Fiji Islands, Mandalay Bay, Napa County and

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Catalina Island. Guests danced into the night and enjoyed the music of Delta Nationals. C & C Market and Deli provided the catering. The Benefit Ball committee donates the proceeds from the event to an area of the hospital’s greatest need. This year’s Benefit Ball proceeds will go toward purchasing a centralized fetal monitoring system for Redwood Memorial Hospital.

W e l l n e ss Diabetes

taking care of your feet is crucial

Your feet deserve more than a little kind-

ness. After all, when you need to go somewhere, they’re always there for you. So if you have diabetes, return the favor: Give your feet some extra care and help them stay healthy. That’s important because diabetes can raise your risk for serious foot problems. For example, if you have nerve damage from diabetes, you might not feel an injury—or even a blister—on your foot. Poor circulation and high blood sugar can then hamper healing of the wound, which can lead to infection and deep sores. Severe cases may even require amputation, notes the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).

put your feet first

Why you’re Never too old for a good night’s sleep Changes come with age, and that’s often a good

thing. Just think how much wiser you are now than when you were a kid! No matter what your age, though, you’ll probably never grow tired of a good night’s sleep. But like many older adults, you may sleep less than you should. There are many possible reasons for less-than-stellar sleep. As people age, for example, they often have trouble falling asleep, spend less time in deeper sleep and awaken more often at night than younger folks, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). Yet older people need as much sleep as younger adults do—on average seven to nine hours per night, reports the NIA.

How’s your sleep?

Insomnia is the most common sleep complaint among younger and older adults alike, according to the NIA. If you have insomnia, you might: ● Take a long time falling asleep (more than 30 to 45 minutes). ● Wake up often at night. ● Wake up early, unable to fall asleep again. ● Wake up tired. Insomnia may be caused by stress, anxiety, depression, disease, pain, medication, poor sleep habits or other problems, notes the National Sleep Foundation (NSF). Underlying disorders such as sleep apnea, a treatable condition in which breathing pauses during the night, can also cause sleep troubles. People who have sleep apnea often snore heavily at night and feel drowsy by day. In addition, medical problems or medications for conditions such as blood pressure, colds or allergies may interfere with restful sleep. You may be able to improve your sleep by making some

changes in your sleep habits, such as these suggested by the NIA and the NSF: ● Go to bed and get up at the same times each day. ● Exercise regularly, but finish at least three hours before bedtime. ● Avoid napping. ● Start a relaxing bedtime routine, such as bathing, reading or listening to soothing music. ● Get some natural light in the afternoon. ● Avoid caffeinated drinks late in the day. ● If you worry at night, write your concerns in a “worry book” and close it until morning. Don’t just toss and turn, either. If you’re still awake and not drowsy within 15 minutes after going to bed, get up, and return to bed when you’re sleepy.

What about sleeping pills?

Prescription sleeping pills may be an option if you have trouble falling asleep, but they’re usually not considered a long-term ­answer to sleep problems. Talk to your doctor. Some sleeping pills may have side effects that are particularly dangerous for older adults, such as an increased risk for falls. Even nonprescription sleep aids can be a problem for some older adults, according to the NSF.

When troubles persist

Sleep patterns may change as we age, but experts say poor sleep isn’t a normal part of aging. See a doctor if you have concerns or if your sleep problems last for more than two to three weeks and leave you too tired to function normally, advises the NIA. FA L L

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What’s good for your diabetes can be good for your feet. So work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar under control and practice healthy habits, such as exercising, avoiding smoking and controlling cholesterol. Good foot care and vigilance also can help you avoid problems. Consider these tips from the AAFP, American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the National Diabetes Education Program: ● Check your feet daily, and tell your doctor if you notice problems such as redness, cuts, swelling and blisters, pain that doesn’t go away, numbness or tingling. If you have trouble seeing the bottoms of your feet, ask someone to look at them for you or use a mirror. ● Wash your feet daily with mild soap and lukewarm

Foot care is important for everyone with diabetes, but you need to be especially vigilant if you have foot problems. water. Dry them well by patting them with a soft towel, especially between the toes. To help your feet stay dry, dust them with nonmedicated powder before wearing socks, stockings or shoes. ● Check with your doctor before treating calluses, corns or bunions. ● Cut your toenails straight across, not into the corners. Tell your doctor if you have ingrown toenails. ● Apply lotion only on your feet—don’t put it between your toes. ● To help avoid injury, don’t go barefoot. Wear shoes that fit well, and each time you wear them, check inside for torn ­linings or objects such as gravel that could harm your feet.

See your doctor Foot care is important for ­everyone with diabetes, but you need to be especially vigilant if you have foot problems, such as loss of feeling or changes in the shape of your feet. Also, have your feet checked at least once a year by your doctor—or at every visit if you have problems with them, advises the ADA.

Long Life Alzheimer’s disease

how to Make your home a safe one

When mental faculties begin to fail, people

with Alzheimer’s disease can make mistakes that are dangerous to their well-being. However, you can find ways to increase safety in your own home. This will allow the person with Alzheimer’s to live with fewer restrictions, more mobility and increased security, say experts at the National Institutes of Health. Accident prevention begins with a safety check of every room. If you need help, call on an experienced Alzheimer’s caregiver, an occupational therapist or the Alzheimer’s Association (800-272-3900, or www.alz.org). Here are a few suggestions to get you started: Around the house

Kyphoplasty

tures. It often starts out as a sharp pain in the bone. After several weeks, muscle fatigue and pain can set in as back muscles strain to lend support to your weakened spine.

Shoring up the spine

When to consider surgery The first line of treat-

Balloons and cement might not sound like

high-tech equipment for spine surgery. But they are the major tools of kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive procedure now being used to treat compression fractures caused by osteoporosis. Kyphoplasty is a refinement of a similar procedure called vertebroplasty, which also uses cement to stabilize fractures in the spinal column. But kyphoplasty adds an extra step—the use of a balloon—to help straighten your posture.

ment for compression fractures is nonsurgical—a short period of bed rest and medication for pain, according to both the AAFP and Dr. Rao. Wearing a soft back brace can help too. If pain continues, however, your doctor might suggest either vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. For each procedure: ● You lie face down on the operating table. ● One or two small incisions are made over the fracture.

Kyphoplasty is available at St. Joseph Hospital. Call 707-268-0190, option 6, for more information.

What is a compression fracture? Your spine

contains a series of individual, ringlike bones called vertebrae. Like any bone, a vertebra can break or fracture. When the break causes the vertebral body to collapse on itself, it’s called a compression fracture. Most compression fractures occur in older women whose bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, the brittle bone disease. Falling off a chair, tripping or even stepping out of a bathtub can cause a compression fracture, depending on how severe the osteoporosis is. As many as one out of every four postmenopausal women has a compression fracture, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). But many don’t know it. “Up to 23 percent of these women have no symptoms at all,” says Raj Rao, MD, a spokesman for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). They only find out that they have a collapsed vertebra when it shows up years later on an incidental x-ray, he says. But many people do feel pain from compression frac

● In kyphoplasty, a deflated balloon is inserted into the vertebral body and then inflated, reversing the collapse. The balloon is then removed. ● Acrylic cement is inserted into the vertebra to stabilize it.

Risks and benefits

All surgeries carry risks, and kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are no exception. The cement used in both of these procedures can irritate or even damage adjacent nerves. It also has the potential to leak out of the vertebral body it’s injected into. On the plus side, both vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are outpatient surgeries, which means you’ll likely go home the same day. Most people require no physical therapy, says the AAOS. But your doctor will probably put you on a bone-strengthening regimen.

Talk to your doctor Ask your doctor if you are at

risk for osteoporosis and what you can do to help prevent compression fractures. You can find more information on all these ­topics at the AAOS website, www.aaos.org. FA L L

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● Display emergency numbers and your home address near all telephones. (You may need them in a hurry.) ● Make sure that all outside doors and windows have secure locks. Hide a spare house key outside in case the person with Alzheimer’s locks you out of the house. ● Cover unused electrical outlets with childproof plugs. Remove portable space heaters. If you use portable fans, be sure that objects can’t be placed into the blades. ● Use textured strips or nonskid wax on hardwood floors, and nonskid strips or mats in the tub or shower to prevent slipping. Remove scatter rugs and foam pads. ● Install night-lights in hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms and the kitchen. ● Place decals at eye level on sliding glass doors, picture windows and furniture with large glass panels. Kitchen and laundry

● Remove knobs from the stove, or install an automatic shutoff switch. ● Get rid of artificial fruits and vegetables or food-shaped kitchen magnets that might appear to be edible. ● Insert a drain trap in sinks to catch things that may clog plumbing. ● Consider disconnecting the garbage disposal. ● Lock the door to the laundry room, if possible. Other­ wise, lock laundry products in a cabinet. Bathrooms and bedrooms

● Remove the bathroom door lock to prevent locking from the inside. ● Install grab bars. A color that contrasts with the shower, tub or walls is easier to see. ● Move the bed next to the wall or place the mattress on the floor to help avoid falls. Lockups

Lock up the following items or keep them out of reach: ● All prescription and over-the-counter medicines. They should also have child-resistant caps. ● Breakable or dangerous items, such as cleaning products, knives, guns and ammunition, scissors, blades, small appliances, and china. Because Alzheimer’s progresses at a different pace in each person, you may need to periodically review your safety measures to keep up with changes in behavior and function.

Long Life

Cool, cool water

Drink up to stay healthy

Cars need oil to run well, and the

Looking ahead An advance directive spells out your wishes for end-of-life care End-of-life issues  are difficult to think about.

Even so, people who care for you shouldn’t have to guess how you want to be treated when you are seriously ill or dying. Planning for your future health care is appropriate at any age. It’s best to begin by discussing your wishes with your family, your doctor and any others who may play a role in your care. Then put your wishes in writing.

Advance directives  Legal

tools called advance directives can make sure your health care wishes are carried out if you can’t speak for yourself. Some people use preprinted forms, while others write their own directives. These documents must be properly witnessed to give them legal status. Other people prefer to hire an attorney who knows what laws apply and how to prepare documents that will meet legal requirements. At a minimum, you should consider having the following types of directives, recommended by the American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association: ● A living will describes the type of medical treatment you would like to receive if you become terminally ill or are permanently unconscious or in a vegetative state. You may give specific instructions about receiving or refusing certain life-prolonging procedures, such as feeding tubes, artificial breathing or surgery. If you are uncertain about what procedures to specify, ask your doctor. ● A durable power of attorney for health care names another person as a proxy to make medical decisions for you. This responsibility takes effect when it has been determined that you are unable to make your own decisions. It applies at any time you are too ill to speak for yourself—not just at the end of life. Be sure that the person you select is willing to abide by your living will. ● A combination document combines elements of a living will and durable power of attorney for health care. When your directives are complete: ● Add your doctor’s contact information and make pho

tocopies. Keep the original documents in a safe but easily accessible place, and tell others where you put them. Do not keep advance directives in a safe deposit box, since other people may need access to them. ● Keep a copy of each document for yourself. ● Have the documents entered into your medical file at the doctor’s office and at your hospital. ● Give copies to your proxy and to anyone who might be involved in your health care, such as family or friends.

human body needs water. We need it to help the body’s organs work properly and to help the body get rid of wastes. The trouble is, if we don’t get enough water, we can become dehydrated. Older people, especially, tend to be at risk for this condition. Effects of dehydration can include kidney failure, constipation, urinary tract and respiratory infections, and slow healing of wounds. Getting enough water can help prevent these problems.

Replenishing fluids Staying hydrated is a balancing

act, explains the American Dietetic Association (ADA). We lose about two and a half quarts of fluid each day through bodily functions such as sweating and urinating. To stay healthy, we must replenish it. However, replacing lost fluids can get harder as we age. A big reason is that we tend to lose some of our sensation of thirst as we get older. We may not feel the urge to drink as often as younger people. Also, taking medicines for high blood pressure, heart disease and other conditions may make us lose more Advance directives are not set in concrete. You can fluids than we ordinarily would. change or cancel your documents at any time. If you For these reasons, it’s especially important to drink make changes—for example, you appoint a new health plenty of water or fruit or vegetable juice. The National care proxy—contact anyone who may be affected. Institute on Aging recommends drinking about eight If you move to a new state, find out if your original glasses daily. documents are still legal in that state. Consuming alcohol and drinks with caffeine, however, You can download advance directive forms for can do more harm than good since they increase how free at www.caringinfo.org. much fluid we lose through urine, warns the American Medical Association. Drinking water and other beverages isn’t the only way to stay well hydrated— Sometimes it comes down to this question: If you are seriously ill or eating certain foods can help also. injured, would you want someone to use cardiopulmonary resuscitaAccording to the ADA, foods with a tion (CPR) to help you stay alive? high water content include lettuce, waYou could leave that decision to medical professionals, or you termelon, broccoli, grapefruit, carrots could make your own choice by using a DNR order. and apples. DNR stands for do not resuscitate. A DNR order is a request not You may need more fluids when it’s to have CPR performed if your heart stops or if you stop breathing. It hot outside. is accepted by doctors and hospitals in all states, according to the If your doctor has advised you to limit American Academy of Family Physicians. fluids for health reasons, ask what you DNR orders may be used in hospitals, nursing homes or your own should do during hot weather.

Come to an advance directive workshop at St. Joseph Hospital. Call 707-445-8121, ext. 7520, for dates.

DNR orders: Your life, your choice

home. The order should be placed where it is easily accessible. A good place to post it is over your bed. If medical personnel don’t know you have a DNR order, they are legally obligated to try to revive you. Paramedics called to your bedside are required to give CPR if they do not see a correctly completed DNR order. Should your medical condition improve, you have another choice: You can request that your DNR order be cancelled at any time.

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Warning signs Signs you may be dehydrated include having a dry or sticky mouth or dark yellow urine. If you have trouble staying hydrated or have questions about how much fluid you’re getting, talk to your doctor.

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news, views & tips

Journal Digest

G R A N D PA R E N T S

Take steps to help prevent SIDS Once upon a time, parents put their infants to sleep in a crib on a soft mattress on their tummies, surrounded by blankets and stuffed toys. If you’re a grandparent, you probably remember those days. But you might not know that almost everything in that first sentence is now on the list of Things Not To Do at baby’s bedtime. That’s because most of those practices have been linked to sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS—the as-yet-unexplained phenomenon of babies dying in their sleep. Even though health experts don’t know for sure what causes SIDS, they have identified a number of factors that increase a child’s risk. The most notable of these risk factors is sleeping on the stomach. Since 1992, when the American Academy of Pediatrics began urging parents to put babies to sleep on their backs, SIDS deaths have dropped by more than half. Parents, of course, have been the major target audience for SIDS-prevention messages. But approximately 20 percent of SIDS deaths occur when the baby is in the care of someone other than the parents.



If you come to the rescue when mom and dad need a night off, the following safety guidelines from First Candle are meant for you too: ● Always put your grandchild to sleep on his or her back, whether for the night or just a nap. ● Keep in mind that the best place for the baby to sleep is a safety-approved crib with a firm mattress. If you have any questions about a crib’s safety, call the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at 800-638-2772. Or visit www.cpsc.gov. ● If you don’t have a safe crib, use a safety-approved bassinet, portable crib or playpen. ● Remove all blankets, quilts, pillows, bumper pads and any other soft items from the baby’s sleep area. ● Keep the baby’s head and face uncovered during sleep. ● Don’t put the baby to sleep on a couch, waterbed, adult bed covered with a quilt or comforter, or any other soft surface. ● Don’t expose your grandbaby to cigarette smoke—it increases the risk of SIDS.

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Coping when you have a UTI Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the cause of more than 8 million doctor visits a year, says the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Women are more likely to get UTIs than men; about 0 percent of women and 12 percent of men will get at least one infection in their lifetimes. A UTI can be a very uncomfortable experience. But once you know you have it, your doctor can give you medicine that will clear up the infection. A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and get into the bladder. Symptoms of a UTI include: ● A constant urge to urinate. Despite this urge, often only a small amount of urine is passed. ● Pain or stinging while urinating. ● For women, a feeling of pressure above the pelvic bone. ● For men, a feeling of fullness in the rectum. ● Urine that smells bad or looks cloudy. UTIs are usually treated with a brief course of antibiotics. After a day or two of taking an antibiotic, you may feel better. But be sure to finish all of your medication. Unless the UTI is fully treated, the infection can come back. If you have a kidney infection as a result of your UTI, you’ll have to take a longer course of antibiotics. Because women are prone to UTIs— and to having them frequently—doctors suggest that every woman should: ● Urinate whenever the need is felt; don’t resist the urge to go. ● Make a habit of drinking plenty of water. ● Always clean from front to back after a bowel movement. ● Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays and douches—they can irritate your urethra. H E A LT H

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caring For the dying is tough, but worthwhile Providing end-of-life care to someone can be both a challenging and rewarding experience, according to the results of a national survey. Researchers surveyed 182 family members and friends who cared for disabled older adults during their final year of life. While many of these caregivers reported that looking after someone who was dying was a strain emotionally, physically and financially, more than two-thirds said caregiving was rewarding. About 70 percent of the caregivers said their role made them feel good about themselves and made them appreciate life more. The caregivers provided an average of 43 hours of care per week, and nearly 85 percent provided daily assistance. Less than 5 percent of the caregivers reported participating in a caregiving support group or using respite care—in which someone temporarily takes care of the person who is ill, thus giving the main caregiver a break. Archives of Internal Medicine, Vol. 167, No. 1

kids’ Flu vaccine may protect whole Family Children who receive an influenza vaccine at school can help protect the whole family from the flu. Researchers selected 28 schools to take part in a national study. All kids age 5 and older at 11 of the schools were offered influenza vaccines. Nearly half of the students at these schools accepted the offer. Children at the other 17 schools were not offered the vaccines. Families of children in all of the schools were asked to record all flulike symptoms, medications and doctor visits during the seven days leading up to a predicted peak flu week in their state. The number of people who reported any flu symptoms was significantly lower among families with children who had been vaccinated at school. Only 32 percent of adults in a household with a vaccinated child became ill, compared with 44 percent of adults in the other group. The New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 355, No. 24

Look us up at www.stjosepheureka.org or www.redwoodmemorial.org.

CALENDAR of Events

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Diabetes Support ■ Eureka: Wednesdays, Nov. 28, Dec. 26, Jan. 23, 7 to 8:30 p.m. General Hospital campus, Burre Room Features a variety of information and guest speakers to help people with diabetes. Free. Call the Eureka Community Resource Center at 707-442-5239. ■ Rio Dell: Third Saturday of the month, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Facilitated by Cynthia Dobereiner, a local member of the Diabetes Consumer Action Group. Free. Call the Rio Dell Community Resource Center at 707-764-5239.

Annual Health Fair Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 Bayshore Mall Our Annual Health, Resource and Wellness Fair is an educational and entertaining event that showcases a variety of hospital programs and features free health screenings, giveaways and community booths from local health and safety agencies. Don’t miss it!

Mended Hearts Second Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m. St. Joseph Hospital, Conference Room 1 Call Stan at 707-443-2529 for more information.

Weight Watchers Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. weigh-in, 5 p.m. meeting St. Joseph Hospital, Conference Room 1 New members are welcome. $11 per meeting.

COMMUNITY

Redwood Memorial Hospital Tours

Second Sunday or third Thursday of the month Get to know Redwood Memorial Hospital! Join us for a tour. For questions or to sign up, call 707-725-7270.

Eureka Assistance Eureka Community Resource Center Prescription assistance programs, Healthy Families, Medi-Cal, AIM and Renters Rebate application assistance. Get health care referrals, hygiene supplies and more. For more information, call 707-442-5239.

Rio Dell Assistance

Apoyo Durante el Amamantamiento

Clases Para Madres y Padres Nuevos

esp aÑo

l!

El martes, 27 de noviembre, 6 a 8 p.m.

Sibling Preparation Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. to noon This class is designed to help prepare young brothers and sisters (2 to 10 years old) for the arrival of the new baby.

Basic Infant CPR Tuesday, Dec. 4, 6 to 10 p.m. This class teaches the principles of infant and child resuscitation.

Breastfeeding and Bagels Saturday, Dec. 8, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. This class will cover the how-to’s of breastfeeding, common problems, working, weaning and more. Bagels will be served.

Willow Creek Assistance

Prepared Childbirth Class

CHILDBIRTH CLASSES AT SJH

To register, call 707-269-3605. For a complete list of classes, visit our website, www.stjosepheureka.org.

C O N TA C T U S st. Joseph hospital. . . . . . . 707-445-8121 redwood memorial hospital 707-725-3361 community resource centers (eureka, willow creek, blue lake and rio dell). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 707-442-5239 heart institute (information line) . . . . . . . . 707-269-3770 cancer program . . . . . . . . . 707-269-4242 The surgery center. . . . . . . 707-444-3882

■ Mondays, Dec. 10 to Jan. 28 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. ■ Sundays, Dec. 16 to Jan. 20 5 to 7 p.m. This course is designed to prepare expectant couples for the emotional and physical aspects of childbirth. Comfort measures and breathing techniques are taught.

Hospital Orientation

Tuesday, Dec. 18, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This is an evening class for families who have previously given birth. Labor review, comfort measures and time for relaxation are included.

Prenatal Yoga Fridays, 1:30 to 3 p.m. Stretching, strengthening and relaxation to help you prepare for labor.

CHILDBIRTH CLASSES AT RMH

To register, call 707-725-7325. For a complete list of classes, visit www.redwoodmemorial.org. e n esp Las clases acerca del aÑo l! embarazo adolescente, la educación prenatal, la actualización para el parto y el amamantamiento están disponibles en español también.

Prenatal Education Class Saturday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Information about labor and delivery, relaxation, breathing techniques, medication and anesthesia, cesarean births, breastfeeding, and the newborn.

Childbirth Refresher If you have had prenatal classes within the last five years, you may wish to take a refresher class before the birth of your next little one.

Hospital Orientation If you are around 37 weeks pregnant, you can register for a pre-admission appointment and tour.

■ Tuesday, Dec. 11, 6 to 7:30 p.m. ■ Sunday, Dec. 16, 3 to 5 p.m. Spanish Language Classes en esp ■ En español: el lunes, a Ñ o RMH also offers teen pregnancy, prenatal l ! education, childbirth refresher and breast3 de diciembre, 6 a 8 p.m. An in-depth look at the birthing rooms in feeding classes in Spanish. the childbirth center at St. Joseph Hospital.

HEALTH SCENE is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of ST. JOSEPH HEALTH SYSTEM– HUMBOLDT COUNTY (SJHS–HC), 2700 Dolbeer St., Eureka, CA 95501-4799, telephone 707-445-8121, www.stjosepheureka.org, www.redwoodmemorial.org.

Joe mark

President and CEO, SJHS–HC

laurie watson stone

VP Fund Development and Public Relations, SJHS–HC

bob brannigan

VP and COO, St. Joseph Hospital

Joe rogers

VP and COO, Redwood Memorial Hospital

For more about our services, classes and events, visit us online at www.stjoseph eureka.org or www.redwoodmemorial.org. For questions and comments about Health Scene, please call 707-269-4264 or e-mail [email protected].

l!

Childbirth Refresher Class

Rio Dell Community Resource Center Business counseling, mobile medical appointments, vocational counseling, kids’ clothes closet, hygiene supplies and more. For more information, call 707-764-5239. Willow Creek Community Resource Center Healthy Families, Medi-Cal application assistance, pharmacy assistance, foodstamp application assistance, clothing vouchers, emergency food and more. For information, call 530-629-3141.

esp aÑo

El miércoles, 12 de diciembre 1:30 a 3:30 p.m.

Llame al 707-269-3605 para obtener información acerca de nuestras clases en español. en

en

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Information in HEALTH SCENE comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. Copyright © 2007 Coffey Communications, Inc. HST21070h

Fall 2007