Alton Memorial has ‘Awesome’ employees

If you know of an employee, physician or volunteer who deserves recognition, let AMH know by completing an “Awesome” form. Forms are available in the hospital waiting areas and at nurses stations. A member of the leadership team will present your honoree with an “Awesome” badge sticker.

Completed forms may be dropped off at the information desk or sent to the development office. For more information, contact Jeanne Truckey, 618-433-6047.

Recent Awesome cards went to:

• Linda Smith, obstetrics
• Susan Means, obstetrics

Parish retires after 20 years at HMI

Clinta Parish, a physical therapist in the Human Motion Institute for the past 20 years, right, is congratulated by HMI manager Sue Walker Sept. 20 as Parish celebrates her retirement. | Photo by Dave Whaley

‘United we stand’ at Alton Memorial Hospital

The AMH United Way committee visited two local United Way agencies during its annual road trip Sept. 26. The committee stopped for this photo in front of Impact, an Alton agency dedicated to helping people with disabilities. The committee also visited the Essic Robinson Head Start Center, which provides early childhood education. The AMH United Way campaign goal is $78,000. The campaign officially kicked off with an agency fair in the hospital’s connector lobby Oct. 3. | Photo by Dave Whaley

AMH is safe and secure

The AMH security team stands near the department’s new security vehicle. Oct. 9-15 is National Hospital Safety and Security Week. Thanks to everyone who keeps all BJC employees, patients and visitors safe. | Photo by Dave Whaley

Goldfarb School of Nursing 2018 Homecoming event is Sept. 28

The Barnes-Jewish College Alumni Association invites alumni to join students, faculty and staff at the annual Homecoming celebration from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sept. 28, at Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College’s Duncan Campus,
4483 Duncan Ave., St. Louis.

The day includes lunch, a free T-shirt (while supplies last) and a fun-filled afternoon of entertainment and attendance prizes. Attendees will also have an opportunity take part in on- and off-site community service projects.

Join in for the day, or for just the celebration. For more information, and to register, visit BarnesJewishCollege.edu/Homecoming.

Barnes-Jewish receives Antimicrobial Stewardship Centers of Excellence designation

Barnes-Jewish Hospital is a recipient of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Centers of Excellence designation from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA).

The program, launched in 2017, recognizes institutions that have created stewardship programs led by infectious diseases physicians and ID-trained pharmacists that are of the highest quality and have achieved standards established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“As one of only 25 hospitals in the country to be awarded this designation, we’re extremely proud of our clinical teams that have worked hard to implement these new CDC standards,” says Katherine Henderson, MD, BJH executive director of clinical outcomes and quality, and assistant chief medical officer. “This is another safety and quality achievement for the hospital that allows us to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.”

Look for this article on BJCnet to see the other institutions receiving the designation.

“Each year, more than 700,000 people worldwide die due to antimicrobial resistant infections,” says IDSA fellow Paul Auwaerter, MD, MBA, FIDSA. “Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest threats facing health care on a global, national and individual level. IDSA has had a longstanding commitment to fighting antimicrobial resistance through its research, education, training and policy efforts.

“The Centers of Excellence program recognizes institutions that share our commitment by establishing antimicrobial stewardship programs that foster optimal therapies that protect patients from dangerous antimicrobial resistant infections, while safeguarding our vulnerable drug supply,” Dr. Auwaerter adds. “IDSA is proud to partner with each of these institutions in turning the tide against antimicrobial resistance.”

The IDSA Centers of Excellence program places emphasis on an institution’s ability to implement stewardship protocols using its electronic health record system and providing ongoing education to its medical staff. A workgroup of infectious diseases physicians and ID-trained pharmacists developed the core criteria for the Centers of Excellence program, building upon the criteria detailed in the CDC’s Core Elements of Hospital Antibiotic Stewardship Programs.

Lari Harris

Lari Harris retires

Facilities engineering painter Lari Harris retired June 8 after 44 years of service.

Happy belated EVS Week to EVS team members at BJSPH and PWH

Marie Desir, left, and Shell Parris, along with other members of the BJSPH and PWH environmental services team had their cake and ate it, too, during Healthcare Environmental Services Week, Sept. 9-15. | Photo by Josh Smith

Shout out to all water loggers

PWH occupational therapist Sarah Turner logged her water intake for August and is the winner of the BJSPH and PWH Help for Your Health water challenge. Her prize? A Yeti water bottle. | Photo by Tina Bowen

Upcoming Auxiliary-sponsored sales will offer scrubs, socks and Santas

Check out these upcoming events sponsored by the Auxiliary:

• Scrubs/compression socks sale: The Auxiliary will sponsor a sale from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Oct. 25 and 26, at BJSPH. There will be two vendors, Scrubs & Beyond and ATN. ATN sells compression socks that have been designed by a nurse.
• Holiday sale and quilt raffle: This event will take place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 15, at PWH and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 16, at BJSPH. The drawing for the prizes will be held at 3 p.m., Nov. 16, at BJSPH. Tickets are on sale at the BJSPH and PWH gift shops.

Save the date for holiday meals

Mark your calendars now for the BJSPH and PWH holiday meals:

• Breakfast served by senior leaders, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 2, at PWH
• Breakfast by Chris’s Cakes, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 12, at BJSPH
• Breakfast by Chris’s Cakes, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 13, at PWH
• Breakfast served by senior leaders, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 16, at BJSPH

Watch for more information closer to December.

Congratulations to BJWCH Professional Development Program recipients

Congratulations to the BJWCH Fall 2018 Professional Development Program recipients, including:

• Level 3-P
  • Michelle Arthur, RN
  • Jess Davis, RN
  • Angie Fruhoff, RN
  • Lana Shapiro, RN
  • Mary Pat Sheahan, RN
• Level 4-P
  • Allison Dykes, RN
  • Vicky Grillo, RN
• Level 5-P
  • Amy Bauer, RN

From left, Michelle Arthur, Vicky Grillo, Lana Shapiro, Jess Davis and Angie Fruhoff enjoy the Professional Nurse Development Program ceremony Oct. 2. Not pictured: Mary Pat Sheahan, Allison Dykes and Amy Bauer. | Photo by Kelly Pahl

Flu shots now available

The 2018-2019 influenza season is approaching. To provide a safe environment for staff, patients, visitors and family members, occupational health will administer a quadrivalent flu vaccine during the times listed below.

If you are unable to attend one of the scheduled sessions, contact occupational health, 314-996-8337. In addition, the emergency department will provide the flu vaccine between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m (as patient
volume allows).

If you require an egg-free vaccine or a high-dose vaccine, contact occupational health.

Flu vaccinations will be available the following dates and times:

• Oct. 9, noon-1:30 p.m., HR Huddle Room
• Oct. 10, 2:30-4 p.m., Conference Room D
• Oct. 11, 2:30-3:30 p.m., Conference Room D
• Oct. 15, 8-10 a.m., Conference Room B
• Oct. 18, 2:30-4 p.m., Conference Room D
• Oct. 22, 8-9 a.m., Conference Room D
• Oct. 31, noon-1 p.m, Conference Room B
• Nov. 5, noon-1:30 p.m., Conference Room D

Clubhouse Trivia Night scores a touchdown

Michael Hunt, BS, Friends in Action Clubhouse unit staff, celebrates another winning Trivia Night. The annual fund-raiser raised more than $3,500, which will be used to purchase a point-of-sale system for the Clubhouse store and floral shop, with the balance going toward the education fund, which assists members in attending mental health-related events and conferences throughout the year. “We received so many compliments on our Trivia Night this year,” says Anna Portell, Clubhouse supervisor. “We are so grateful to the three top teams, who donated their winnings back to us, and to all of our sponsors, including our friends and colleagues at Parkland Health Center.” | Courtesy photo

Corporate Health Services honors employees at year-end banquet

Jane Myers

BJC Corporate Health Services held its 2017 Employee Recognition Banquet in November. The event showcased the award-winning teams and individuals from CHS who have contributed to the overall success of the organization.

More than 100 colleagues, business partners and guests attended the event at the Clubhouse at the Norman K. Probstein Golf Course in Forest Park. Guests enjoyed a reception, dinner, photo booth and awards ceremony.

For the first time in CHS history, the Leadership Award was presented to two individuals. Jane Myers, business manager, and Sandy Swan, program manager, occupational health and ergonomics, were recognized for their outstanding contributions and commitment to CHS clients.

Sandy Swan

“CHS has a dual focus on internal and external clients,” said Patrick Venditti, CHS executive director. “Both Jane and Sandy manage high-performing teams that exceed their clients’ expectations and position CHS for continued success. They are dynamic leaders who take great pride in their teams and their work.”

Client recognition awards were presented to Shelley Penrod, transcriptionist; Wanda Hughes, patient access representative; and Andrea Tobiasz, nurse practitioner. These special awards recognize the individuals who were most frequently mentioned during client satisfaction telephone surveys. In addition, Joseph Klipsch, facilities coordinator, received special recognition for always going “above and beyond” to take care of his colleagues.

Three individuals received awards for living ICARE service values in 2017. They included Aaron Gutjahr, exercise physiologist; Kelly Bini, occupational therapist; and Connie Kopec, EHR analyst. “Demonstrating ICARE values is key to our success in every patient and client encounter,” said Diane Palmer, RN, director of clinical operations. “Our 2017 awardees are being recognized for their commitment to these values and practices.”

“The past year has been a memorable one for CHS,” said Venditti. “We’ve made significant strides in many areas, thanks to our dedicated team of professionals. The Employee Recognition Banquet is our special time to celebrate and recognize the individuals and teams that make CHS a great place to work and receive care.”

Oasis Institute presents “Courageous Aging: Your Best Years Ever Reimagined”

Ken Druck, PhD, author, educator, executive consultant and media expert, will host two programs in St. Louis based on his best-selling book, “Courageous Aging: Your Best Years Ever, Reimagined.”

“Aging Courageously: A Community Conversation” will take place from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Sept. 26, at Maryland Heights Community Center, 2300 McKelvey Road, Maryland Heights. The panel of authors and experts includes Bob Chapman, president/CEO, Barry-Wehmiller Companies; Brian Carpenter, PhD, professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University; Nancy Morrow-Howell, PhD, MSW, director of the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at Washington University; and Patrick White, MD, BJC Hospice chief medical officer. After brief comments on facing the challenges and opportunities of getting older, there will be a community conversation. The cost is $9. For more information or to register, call 314-862-4859, ext. 24.

A daylong “Courageous Aging Workshop” will be offered from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Sept. 27, at the Center of Clayton, 50 Gay Ave., Clayton.

Topics include:

• overcoming age-related fears and changes that weigh heavily on our hearts and hold us back
• harvesting newfound opportunities for emotional freedom, joy, humility and peace
• watching ourselves, parents and kids get older, and navigating change and transitions
• putting our psychological, legal, financial and spiritual “houses” in order

The workshop will be limited to the first 25 people to register. The cost is $120. For more information or to register, call 314-862-4859, ext. 24.

Trivia supports Wings pediatric program

Do you love trivia? If so, gather a group of friends or co-workers together for Magellan’s 16th annual trivia night benefiting the BJC Hospice pediatric program, Wings. Proceeds from the event will go toward grief and camp programs for children.

Trivia takes place Feb. 24 at the Machinist’s Hall off St. Charles Rock Road. Doors open at 6 p.m.; trivia begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $160 per table or $20 per ticket.

For more information, contact Patti Kasperski, pekasperski@magellanhealth.com or 314-387-5133.

For more information about the Wings program,
visit bjchospice.org/wings.

Dr. Trudell joins maternal-fetal medicine practice

Dr. Amanda Trudell

Amanda Trudell, DO, MSCI, has joined Town and Country Perinatology at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She is dual certified in obstetrics and gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). Dr. Trudell joins Michael Paul, MD, and women’s health nurse practitioners Megan Sipes and Emily Murphy in the practice. She has also been appointed program development director for maternal-fetal medicine at MBMC.

Dr. Trudell was born and raised in the suburbs of Detroit and earned her undergraduate and medical degrees at Michigan State University. Dr. Trudell then moved to St. Louis to complete her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center. During her residency, she was awarded Best Resident Research Project and received the highest score on the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology annual exam on multiple occasions.

After her residency, Dr. Trudell completed a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine at Washington University School of Medicine. During her fellowship, she developed skills and interests in clinical research with the support of mentors within the department of obstetrics and gynecology, as well as faculty involved in the Clinical Research Training Center (CRTC).

She completed a master of science in clinical investigation (MSCI) degree at WUSM. Dr. Trudell received the Outstanding Citizenship Award from the CRTC, which is awarded to the clinicians deemed to be the most engaged, respectful and willing to provide support to peers and the program.

Dr. Trudell’s clinical research interests include stillbirth prediction and prevention, intrauterine growth restriction, and non-invasive prenatal testing. She has presented at national meetings such as the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Trudell has authored book chapters and peer-reviewed publications in internationally recognized journals including the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Journal of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, and was the site principal investigator on a multi-centered randomized controlled trial. She continues to participate in clinical research and mentorship.

Prior to joining BJC Medical Group, Dr. Trudell practiced maternal-fetal medicine for another health system, where she was co-chair of the perinatal safety committee and a faculty member and research mentor for the obstetrics and gynecology residency program.

“I am excited to join BJC HealthCare and look forward to developing collaborative relationships and fostering a team-based approach to optimize the health care of women with high-risk pregnancies and their babies,” Dr. Trudell says.

Dr. Trudell was recently awarded a Hollis Fellow Award by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology District VII for excellence in mentorship and education, which will give her the opportunity to advocate for women’s health on a regional level.

“I am passionate about contributing to the work to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality,” Dr. Trudell says. “I am actively working with statewide leaders on the development of systems to address the maternal morbidity and mortality crisis in the state of Missouri.”

Amanda Trudell, DO, MSCI, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She practices at Town and Country Perinatology, 3009 N. Ballas Road, Building C, Suite 351, St. Louis. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit bjcmedicalgroup.org or call the practice, 314-996-6800.

‘Use A Lift: Get A Gift!’

BHC’s safe patient handling committee created the “Use A Lift: Get A Gift!” campaign to encourage patient care staff to use mechanical lifts in the care of their patients. 

All staff who used a lift during the campaign were able to enter their names in a drawing for a $25 gift card. Drawings were held every two weeks for three months. 

Gift cards were donated by Michael Szewczyk, MD.

Team members demonstrate use of a mechanical lift. | Courtesy photos

Bethany Blattel, RN, BSN, displays a “Use a Lift: Get a Gift” gift card.

CH Explorers Medical Post begins Oct. 9

The CH Explorers Medical Post hosted an open house and registration Sept. 11 for high school students ages 14-20. Interested students can also register at the Oct. 9 meeting.

The Explorers will meet from 6-7:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month, October through April,
giving students an opportunity to explore a variety of areas within health care as potential career choices.

For more information, contact the CH volunteer office, 314-653-5032, or Julie Monken, 314-256-3052 or
julie.monken@scouting.org.

CH president Rick Stevens, center, welcomes interested students and family members to an open house for the CH Explorers Medical Post. | Photo by Bret Berigan

Mark your calendar for Employee Health Fair 2018

The fair is for employees, volunteers and retirees and includes blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and body mass index screenings; information booths; pulmonary function testing; and flu shots. Those who participate in the wellness screening will receive lunch (sandwich, chips and drink) and a chance to win prizes from the CH health literacy team.

Fair dates, times and locations include:

• Northwest HealthCare
  
  • Oct. 12, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Community Room
• Christian Hospital
  
  • Nov. 2, midnight-2 a.m., hospital lobby
  • Nov. 12, 3-7 p.m., Atrium
  • Nov. 13, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Atrium

Career Resource Center available at NWHC Siteman construction site

CH and BJC have partnered with Tarlton Corp. to create a community resource at NWHC for careers in construction and health care.

The Career Resource Center, located in a trailer on the Siteman construction site at NWHC, creates a space for high school students and community agencies to gain knowledge on career opportunities within these industries. This includes recruitment, training and career development through technology and real-life interaction, while also highlighting the potential of these careers.

The Career Resource Center is open one day a week for scheduled high school visits and the third Saturday of each month for community groups and individuals to stop by.

To schedule a visit or for more information, email BeyondToday@tarltoncorp.com.

Bryan Hartwick, CH human resources vice president, left, and Charyl Mitchell, clinical education specialist stationed at the center, are pictured at the Career Resource Center’s July 31 open house. | Photo by Bret Berigan

Christian Hospital to host candidate forum

BJC government relations is coordinating Candidate Roundtables across the organization, including a forum at CH from 3:30-4:30 p.m., Oct. 10, in Conference Room A.

Area candidates will give brief remarks followed by a question-and-answer session for attending employees. RSVP is requested to ensure enough seating for all who attend. For more information, contact Sean Grove, BJC government relations external affairs manager, sean.grove@bjc.org.

RSVP at https://chne.eventbrite.com.

Lori Weatherspoon welcomed as new CNO

Lori Weatherspoon

Lori Weatherspoon joined the CH team as the new vice president and chief nursing officer Sept. 28. Weatherspoon replaces Gilbert Harding, who served as CH’s interim CNO since last fall.

Weatherspoon moved back to her hometown of St. Louis from Florida, where she was serving as the chief nursing officer at HCA Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, the only Level II trauma center in the tri-county area. She has also held nursing senior leadership roles at HCA Overland Park Regional Medical Center in Overland Park, Kansas, and HCA Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Altogether, she has two decades of experience in emergency medicine, intensive care, patient safety, health care informatics technology and acute care settings.

Weatherspoon holds a master’s degree in health administration from Webster University and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Rockhurst University. She is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Executives, Missouri Organization of Nurse Leaders, Greater Kansas City Black Nurses Association and American College of Healthcare Executives, among others.

CH Sleep Disorders Center reaccredited

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has reaccredited the Sleep Disorders Center at NWHC, making it the longest AASM-accredited sleep center in north St. Louis County and within BJC. It has maintained its AASM accreditation since 2003.

AASM-accredited centers are recognized as providers of the highest quality of care who continually uphold the most stringent standards. Since it opened in 1987, the Christian Hospital Sleep Disorders Center has helped thousands of people achieve restful sleep. The center’s physicians are diplomates of the American Board of Sleep Medicine, and its sleep technicians are registered or registry eligible.

In addition to in-lab testing, the sleep lab at NWHC has branched out into home studies and continues to look for new ways to better serve the community and improve sleep health.

Several team members participated in the discussion sessions with the on-site surveyor and provided many contributions to ensure this accreditation, including: Gary Goldstein, MD, pulmonary medicine co-medical director; Royal Eaton, MD, pulmonary medicine co-medical director; Mark Wald, MD, pulmonary medicine co-medical director; Ajitesh Rai, MD, neurology; John Ford, pulmonary manager; Janice Dixon, outpatient rehab supervisor; and Dennis Suttmoeller, sleep center coordinator.

Claude Williams

Claude Williams retires

Claude Williams, facilities lead maintenance, retired Sept. 28 after nearly 13 years of service to Christian Hospital.

Evelyn’s House manager named Hospital Hero of the Month

Ann Short, RN, Evelyn’s House manager, was named the most recent Hospital Hero of the Month. Short was nominated by one of her peers through the Missouri Hospital Association for her dedication to BJC’s hospice house, Evelyn’s House.

Here’s an excerpt from Short’s nomination: “Ann is an incredible manager and goes above and beyond for the staff and the patients every day. She is flexible and always willing to listen to my updates on the patients and their needs when considering admission to the hospice house. She is very supportive of her staff and realistic on how many nurses are needed to care adequately for the patients. The feedback from the families has been very positive on how well their loved ones were cared for at the hospice house. Ann is a perfect fit for the job and always very flexible and professional when dealing with all the staff at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.”

“Ann is a very special person. She has a heart of hospitality,” says Stacy Olinger, BJC Home Care Services vice president. “When patients and families come to Evelyn’s House, she makes them feel as if they were at home. She provides the best in end-of-life care and is very deserving of this award. We are all proud of her.”

Ann received a certificate, pin and $100 gift card.

To recognize your own hospital hero, visit http://bit.ly/HeroThankYou.

Ann Short, center, is pictured with Stacy Olinger, RN, MSN, BJC Home Care Services vice president, and Patrick White, MD, BJC Hospice chief medical officer. | Photo by Jessica Mabb

Friends of Wings selected as Schnucks Charity of the Month

The Schnucks supermarket at 6920 Olive Blvd. selected the Friends of Wings as the latest beneficiary of the Schnucks – Bags 4 My Cause Program. For the entire month of April, every time a reusable Giving bag is purchased at this location, Friends of Wings receives $1. 

Aligned with BJC Hospice since 2001, Friends of Wings funds and mobilizes people around programs and services that support every moment of the hospice journey and celebrate the love that will never end. Programs are designed to provide moments of normalcy and joy, nurture healing, preserve memories and connect people with others sharing a similar experience — an experience that for most will be the most challenging of their lives. By making these programs possible, Friends of Wings is privileged to have positively impacted the journey for thousands of individuals across the St. Louis region.

Boy Scout builds birdhouses for Evelyn’s House patients and their families

Four tall, bright and colorful birdhouses are spaced evenly across the backyard of Evelyn’s House for residents and their families to enjoy watching birds from the patio of their guest suite.

The birdhouses were built and painted by Cameron Moseley, 17, a boy scout from Troop 641, in Creve Coeur, Mo. Nathan Rain, BJC information services, is his Scoutmaster.

Moseley, a life-ranked scout, built the birdhouses as his Eagle service project. He had to apply for approval for the project from the Boy Scout Council. Once approved, Moseley received donations from BJC and Home Depot to purchase supplies. Doing research, he found that these stand-alone birdhouses, sitting on a matching wooden pole with a solid wooden base, appear heavy enough to withstand usual wind gusts. “I hope Evelyn’s House guests and families get to see a variety of birds,” he says.

Rain’s son, Andrew, 12, helped Moseley with the birdhouses, and Boy Scout committee chair Scott Moseley and his wife helped Cameron transport the birdhouses to Evelyn’s House.

“Cameron did such a wonderful job on the colorful bird houses,” says Ann Short, RN, Evelyn’s House manager. “They are ingenious with a hinged door for easy cleaning. The birdhouses will provide hours of birdwatching enjoyment for our patients and families, and we hope to see some birds nesting soon, as we see quite a few bluebirds in the area.”

From left, Andrew Rain, Scott Moseley, Cameron Moseley, Evelyn’s House manager Ann Short, RN, and Nathan Rain are pictured with the birdhouses Cameron Moseley built and donated to Evelyn’s House. | Photo by Margie Schaffer

Family Care Birthing Center team supports SAFB families

Family Care Birthing Center managers Stacy Mauch, left, and Natosha McEvers participate in the Scott Air Force Base Family Fall Picnic Sept. 28. | Courtesy photo

Veronica Reiff earns September Employee of the Month honors

Veronica Reiff

Veronica Reiff, MHE ambulatory surgery clinical support specialist, was named the September Employee of
the Month.

“Veronica consistently provides quality service and functions as a resource to both technicians and nurses,” says one colleague.

Reiff has worked at Memorial for six years.
She rotates throughout multiple departments, including the admissions testing center, outpatient surgery and the post-anesthesia care unit.

The most rewarding part of her job, she says, is the continuity of care. Reiff sees a patient for pretesting, then again on the patient’s surgery day. Seeing a familiar face helps comfort the patient, she says.

“Her positive demeanor and caregiving attitude help promote a good patient experience and better outcomes,” her colleague says.

Birk is named new pharmacy director

Ryan Birk

Ryan Birk has been named pharmacy director of MHB and MHE. He was previously pharmacy manager at MHE for three years. Prior to that, he worked at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

In his new role, Birk is responsible for regulatory compliance, system integration, and operational and clinical initiatives.

His leadership philosophy is “Outstanding patient care takes a Phamily.” He considers the pharmacy department a family, all working toward the same goal of achieving excellent patient outcomes.

Birk says the most rewarding part of his job is having the ability to make a difference in patients’ and employees’ lives.

MCC professional contributes to the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses

Anne Ruggiero

Anne Ruggiero, CRRN, rehabilitation nurse at Memorial Care Center since 2012, was nominated to be part of a panel for the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses in Washington, D.C., in October.

Ruggerio will sit on a technical expert panel on the development of a unified post-acute care payment system. Research Triangle Institute is convening the panel as part of its contract work for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to develop a technical prototype of a post-acute care payment system establishing payment rates according to patient characteristics rather than care setting.

Ruggerio has been an ARN member since 2006. She has been a nurse for 28 years, with 25 years in the post-acute field.

The VSP is back in school

The Vocational Skills Program (VSP) is back in session at MBMC.

VSP, a Special School District program that provides support and services to students and their families, helps students gain the skills to prepare for employment and independent living.

Students spend one to three years in the program, usually after they complete their four years of high school.
The students volunteer in the areas of food service, interoffice mail, physical therapy and facilities. They also perform light clerical services for various departments. The VSP students provide MBMC with 3,800 volunteer hours a year.

Students benefit from VSP by improving self-esteem, developing problem-solving skills and becoming familiar with the expectations of the workplace, while exploring a variety of career paths.

“Our students appreciate the wonderful volunteer opportunities they receive and the friendships they have developed here at MoBap,” says Sheila Gates, VSP special school district teacher. “We have a great group of energetic and conscientious workers!”

In addition to MBMC, Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children’s hospitals participate in the program, along with more than 180 businesses in the St. Louis area. MBMC has participated in the VSP program since 1990.

The Vocational Skills Program (VSP) is back in session at MBMC, with VSP students volunteering in various areas of the hospital. | Photo by Elizabeth Neidrauer

MBSH welcomes Dr. Firwana to Cancer Treatment Center

Dr. Belal Firwana

Belal Firwana, MD, will be providing hematology/oncology services in MBSH’s Cancer Treatment and Infusion Center. Dr. Firwana is board certified in internal medicine and hematology/oncology.

Dr. Firwana completed his medical education at Damascus University, Syria, in 2011. He completed an internship and residency at the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2015 and a fellowship at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences earlier this year. He is affiliated with both Missouri Baptist Medical Center and MBSH.

“We are pleased to have Dr. Firwana join our group of providers in our Cancer Treatment Center,” says Lisa Lochner, operations vice president and medical staff director. “He has been trained in the latest methods and technology of providing care and treatment to cancer patients and will be a tremendous asset to our staff.”

MBSH conducts annual Employee Health Fair

The MBSH annual Employee Health Fair, Sept. 20, gave employees the information they need to complete their annual health risk assessment for the BJC Medical Plan — and helped them become aware of their personal health risks and how they can improve their overall health.

Screenings offered included blood pressure; height, weight and waist measurements for body mass index; and finger-stick bloodwork to determine total cholesterol, cholesterol ratio and blood sugar numbers. The health professionals personally reviewed the results with each employee and offered suggestions for follow-up when the outcomes were outside of normal ranges.

The A1C blood sugar test also was offered again this year, providing a blood sugar average over three months, for employees who have abnormal blood sugar numbers or are diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Each participating employee received coupons totaling $4.50 for the hospital café as an incentive to purchase healthful food choices for an upcoming meal.

“We really appreciate representatives from the Help for Your Health team coming to MBSH to conduct the fair for our staff,” says Kathy Reed, human resources manager. “Not only does it give employees an insurance benefit, it also makes them aware of areas in their personal health that they can improve.”

BJC community health services team members provided screenings and information at MBSH’s Employee Health Fair Sept. 20. They are, from left, standing, Mimi Rende, RN, BSN; Diane Zych, registered dietitian; Nancy Toivonen, RN, BSN; Doris Stoehner, RN, BSN, MA; Teresa Swain, RN; and Donna Fischer-Faust, MA, exercise physiologist; and, seated, Sue Wild, RN, BSN; Donna Schott, community health educator; Mary McFerson, DTR, wellness specialist; and Mary Swearingen, RN. | Photo by David Hartwick

MBSH participates in Sullivan High School homecoming parade

With help from the maintenance team, the MBSH activities committee created a float for the Sullivan High School homecoming parade. The float depicted the parade theme, “Around the World,” with a football field, goal post and spinning globe complete with the Sullivan Eagles and Pacific Indians mascots circling it.

Parade participants enjoyed passing out candy and supporting the SHS football team. The MBSH float was awarded third place in the parade, and the Eagles went on to win the game 51 to 27.

“We really appreciate the support of our employees who put the float together and walked the parade route,” says Kathy Reed, human resources manager. “Our hospital was well represented in the Homecoming Parade.”

MBSH employees participate in the 2018 Sullivan High School homecoming parade. | Photo by David Hartwick

Steve Layton is Star Service Team Member for August

Steve Layton

Steve Layton is the ICARE Star Service Employee for August. Layton is a lab assistant who has worked at PHC for six years.

Excerpts from his nomination read: “He has a strong sense of commitment and accepts responsibility while working closely with his co-workers. He has a positive attitude and is responsible for a multitude of tasks, including customer service to floor and ER nurses. He is committed to excellence in all aspects, including attendance, quality of his work and work ethics.”

“I like making things work. I just really enjoy being that integral cohesion between the lab and all the other departments,” says Layton. He says he appreciates the recognition, although he doesn’t like being noticed.

ICARE is PHC’s patient experience service initiative and stands for Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.

PHC named Missouri Breastfeeding Friendly Worksite

PHC recently earned a Gold Level Breastfeeding Friendly Worksite Award from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS) Missouri Breastfeeding Coalition. PHC was recognized for supporting employees, as well as patients and visitors, who choose to breastfeed their infants by providing a designated “Mother’s Room” for nursing mothers.

The Missouri Breastfeeding Friendly Worksite program was created by the MDHSS in 2013 to bring an increased awareness about the importance of worksite lactation support. The program recognizes employers with policies supportive of their breastfeeding employees. Such policies provide a flexible work schedule for milk expression breaks; offer a private space, other than a bathroom, where the employee can pump or breastfeed; and ensure easy access to a safe water source and place to store milk. In PHC’s case, the private space is also offered to patients and visitors.

“We want our employees, patients and visitors who are new mothers to know that we support their decision to continue breastfeeding,” says certified lactation consultant Tara Wadlow, FNP, Medical Arts Clinic. “We are extremely pleased to be designated as a Missouri Breastfeeding Friendly Worksite.”

PHC received a Gold Level Breastfeeding Friendly Worksite Award from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Missouri Breastfeeding Coalition. Outside PHC’s designated “Mother’s Room” (available to breastfeeding employees, patients and visitors) are, from left, Dr. Kimberly Borchers; Tara Wadlow, FNP; Alyssa Trautman, MS, RD, LD; Lisa Schlientz, MPH, IBCLC, state breastfeeding coordinator; and Lisa Helvey, nurse manager of PHC’s obstetrics department. | Photo by Carla Crocker

Happy belated EVS Week to EVS team members at BJSPH and PWH

Marie Desir, left, and Shell Parris, along with other members of the BJSPH and PWH environmental services team had their cake and ate it, too, during Healthcare Environmental Services Week, Sept. 9-15. | Photo by Josh Smith

Shout out to all water loggers

PWH occupational therapist Sarah Turner logged her water intake for August and is the winner of the BJSPH and PWH Help for Your Health water challenge. Her prize? A Yeti water bottle. | Photo by Tina Bowen

Upcoming Auxiliary-sponsored sales will offer scrubs, socks and Santas

Check out these upcoming events sponsored by the Auxiliary:

• Scrubs/compression socks sale: The Auxiliary will sponsor a sale from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Oct. 25 and 26, at BJSPH. There will be two vendors, Scrubs & Beyond and ATN. ATN sells compression socks that have been designed by a nurse.
• Holiday sale and quilt raffle: This event will take place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 15, at PWH and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 16, at BJSPH. The drawing for the prizes will be held at 3 p.m., Nov. 16, at BJSPH. Tickets are on sale at the BJSPH and PWH gift shops.

Save the date for holiday meals

Mark your calendars now for the BJSPH and PWH holiday meals:

• Breakfast served by senior leaders, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 2, at PWH
• Breakfast by Chris’s Cakes, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 12, at BJSPH
• Breakfast by Chris’s Cakes, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 13, at PWH
• Breakfast served by senior leaders, 6-9 a.m., Dec. 16, at BJSPH

Watch for more information closer to December.

Nurse nominated nationally for Daisy Award

Abigail Saracino, RN, newborn ICU, earned a Daisy Award for nursing excellence.

Saracino’s compassion and care touched a family during a traumatic time. They were worried their baby might die.

The preemie, Molly, weighed only 3 pounds at birth. Saracino’s interaction comforted the family.

The family nominated Saracino at the national level on the Daisy Foundation’s website.

“Every time she sees us, even if she isn’t our nurse for the day, she still comes and talks to us and asks us how it’s going,” wrote the father. “She stands for all the values of nursing. No matter how bad it might have been during those days, she really brightened my day and I am forever grateful.”

Molly’s first friend, whom she met in the newborn ICU, is Clay, left. | Courtesy photos

From left, vice president Peggy Gordin presents the Daisy Award for outstanding nursing to Abigail Saracino, newborn ICU. Six-month-old Molly, held by her mother, Kate Howell, was a 3-pound preemie. The Howells nominated Saracino for the award.

Pam AuBuchon, child life services, retires after 23 years

Pam AuBuchon, child life services, retired in September after 23 years of service. AuBuchon most recently covered the 10th floor.

She had the longest tenure of anyone in her department. She also coordinated patient visits by the Cardinals, Blues and others, hectic events where she sometimes needed to be in two or three places at once.

Department manager Jill Malan says AuBuchon was an informal leader who went beyond her job description to help others.

“I enjoyed working with all the families and being a part of something bigger,” AuBuchon says. “It’s rewarding to hear families say, “Everyone here has been so wonderful” and “What a great hospital” and to see a patient come so far in their recovery because of all that we do.

“I want to thank everyone I have come in contact with over my 23 years of employment here. I’m grateful because so many people have played a role in my development as a child life specialist and person.”

Joining Pam AuBuchon, center, at her reception are current and past child life team members Dana Abendschein, Courtney Coffman, Stacy Sedlack, Jill Malan, Julie Huegerich, Pat Walker, Jamie Cook and Ericka Seidel. | Courtesy photo

Housekeeper earns ‘Unsung Hero’ Award

Families and colleagues alike notice the positive attitude of Deara McGinnist, environmental services.

For her efforts, McGinnist received the Washington University department of pediatrics annual Unsung Hero Award. The award, presented by Gary Silverman, MD, PhD, SLCH pediatrician-in-chief, surprised McGinnist.

McGinnist cleans the 10th floor, and the team there sent a note praising McGinnist to her supervisor, Kimberly Milton.

The note included the following family comments:

“WOW! JUST WOW! Ms. Deara is our ROCK STAR! Her daily ‘How are you doing?’ and smile gave us a reason to smile in a dark time in our lives. Her excellent service day after day was OUTSTANDING!”

The note was shared at a 10th floor team meeting. Many on hand chimed in to say how hard McGinnist works every day. They also appreciate how proactive she is in working with the charge nurse on any issue in which she can help, such as patient discharge.

“We recognize people who quietly and professionally do a great job every day,” Silverman says. “You can tell she wants to be here. She’s a pleasure to be around, and she’s the ultimate pro.”

Deara McGinnist, middle, celebrates with her 10th floor colleagues, from left, Gianna Bergh, Alexis Howes, Elizabeth Vancil and Erin Hart. | Courtesy photo

Tamanaha lauded for nursing excellence

Tara Tamanaha

Tara Tamanaha, mechanical assist, earned a Daisy Award for nursing excellence.

During a period of high ECMO census, Tamanaha volunteered to change her shift for a month to provide continuity for these patients. ECMO stands for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and is a procedure that uses a machine to take over the work of the lungs and heart. It’s a last hope intervention for the sickest of patients.

“Tara does more than what is expected,” says Nicole O’Connor, mechanical assist manager and nurse practitioner, who nominated Tamanaha for the award. “For example, she mentors her colleagues. She also extends our relationships with families by arranging for follow-up care or sending bereavement cards to those who are grieving.”

Save dates for annual employee health fair

Attend the annual Employee Health Fair. It offers free flu shots and annual screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.

The fair takes place at the following times:

• Oct. 22, 7 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Oct. 23, 4-8 p.m.
• Oct. 24, 1-7 p.m.
• Oct. 28, noon-4 p.m.
• Oct. 29, 5-11 a.m.
• Oct. 30, 5-11 a.m.

The fair location will be announced later this month.

For more information or to volunteer, call Marsha Flowers, food and nutrition services, 314-454-4249.

High Five winners announced for the first half of 2018

The final service area award recipients have been selected from dozens of High Five nominations received each month. The award recognizes outstanding efforts in advancing care and service for patients, families and each other.

Each month, an award recipient is selected for four categories: clinical care, nursing, patient support services and hospital support services. The following staff earned awards during the first half of 2018:

• Clinical care — Jessica Buettner, hematology/oncology; Laura Dalla Costa, neurosciences; Janet Huntspon, float pool; Amanda Mulcrone, pediatric residents; and Rose Suggs, respiratory care
• Nursing — Melissa Alferman, interventional radiology; Lacey Bender, neurosciences; Kelciera Matthews, float pool; Tanya Morris, newborn ICU; Kayla Sommer, operating room; and Tara Tamanaha, advanced extracorporeal circulatory life support
• Patient support services — Lacheta Crump, public safety; Elyse Dugo, newborn ICU; Hannah Heimos, child life services; Colin McLaughlin, child life services; and Richard Scales, central processing and distribution
• Hospital support services — John Bohne, surgery; Dominic Cannon, engineering; Kenneth Jackson, environmental services; Deborah Springer, communications/marketing and performance excellence

Nominate someone for a High Five online or use your High Five desktop icon to do so.

Dr. Christina Gurnett named SLCH neurologist-in-chief

Dr. Christina Gurnett

Christina Gurnett, MD, PhD, a professor of neurology at Washington University School of Medicine, has been named director of the division of pediatric and developmental neurology at WUSM and neurologist-in-chief at SLCH.

Dr. Gurnett is the associate director of the Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences and director of the Clinical and Translational Core of the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center. She treats patients at SLCH, where she specializes in pediatric epilepsy and neurodevelopmental disorders.

“This is an extraordinary time to care for children with complex neurological disorders, as we are poised to take advantage of major technological advances and gene discoveries to improve the quality of life for children and their families,” Dr. Gurnett says. “I am honored to lead the exceptional clinicians and investigators of the division, who exemplify the strengths of the Washington University neuroscience community.”

Also a professor of orthopedic surgery and pediatrics, Dr. Gurnett runs an active research program focused on understanding the genetic basis of musculoskeletal and neurological disorders. She leads a multicenter effort with Matt Dobbs, MD, the Dr. Asa C. and Mrs. Dorothy W. Jones Professor of Orthopedic Surgery, to identify the genetic basis of scoliosis. Her research group also is developing new methods to quantify the functional effects of every possible genetic change in important human disease genes.

Dr. Gurnett earned her medical and doctoral degrees at the University of Iowa, where she also completed a residency in pediatrics. She came to St. Louis in 2000 and completed a pediatric neurology and pediatric epilepsy fellowship at WUSM and at SLCH and Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

TRISL team celebrates anniversary with ice cones

In celebration of its one-year anniversary in St. Charles County, TRISL supplied complimentary Kona Ice cones to all employees, visitors, patients and families at BJSPH and PWH July 6.

“We would like to share our gratitude with the community, as well as our business partners at BJC HealthCare, for contributing so much to the success of our first year serving patients with high quality, top notch acute rehabilitation,” says Mark Dwyer, TRISL CEO. “Our team looks forward to many more successful years to come.”

TRISL in St. Charles County has cared for more than 525 patients during its first year in operation.

TRISL admissions team members Angela Jones and Rafael Munoz enjoy Kona ice cones in celebration of TRISL’s one-year anniversary in St. Charles County. | Courtesy photo

Happy 104th birthday, Johnnie

It was an exciting day at VNRC Jan. 18, as Johnnie Rivere celebrated her 104th birthday.

Rivere, a resident at Village North since 2005, lives independently in her own apartment. She loves to smile, sing and talk with people about a variety of subjects. She plays cards and enjoys eating out at restaurants. 

She says there’s no secret to being 104, but she does say that she has lived her life treating people the way she would want to be treated. 

Village North threw a birthday celebration for Rivere, complete with friends, a piano player playing her favorite songs, balloons, a champagne toast and plenty of cake.

Johnnie Rivere celebrates her 104th birthday at Village North Retirement Community.
| Courtesy photo