‘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, call Marlene Lewis, 618-463-7701.

Recent Awesome cards went to:

• Christine Stahl, MCU
• Hannah Bernard, New Vision
• Sarah Davis, SCU
• Indi Harp, MCU
• Michael Roach, MCU
• Sonja Slavuljica, cardiology
• Katie Wear, MCU
• Teshira Young, MCU
• Amy Toenyes, MCU
• David Riedel, MD, digestive health
• Trish Stemmley, digestive health
• Diane Mize, digestive health
• Nancy Coates, MCU
• Amy Green, EMS
• Sharon Ambrose, SCU

Justin Chapman named EMS squad leader

Justin Chapman

Justin Chapman has been chosen as the new squad leader for AMH EMS. He will be appointed to Squad 2.

Chapman has been with the AMH EMS team for 12 years and has worked in the positions of EMT, paramedic, field training officer (FTO) and now squad leader.

“Justin has demonstrated an outstanding ability to learn the roles and responsibilities of the squad leader position, and he has also been instrumental with the FTO program as it relates to training new AMH employees and new EMT and paramedic students,” says EMS manager Jason Bowman. “Management believes Justin will excel in his new position. Please join me in congratulating Justin and welcoming him to the AMH EMS leadership group.”

AMH celebrates EMS Week

AMH hosted a picnic adjacent to the ambulance bay May 24 to celebrate National EMS Week. Chalk art was placed in front of the bay door, giving thanks to all of the EMS staff for the great work they do throughout the community. | Photo by Dave Whaley

Seven BJH, WU employees receive medical ethics practicum certifications

Seven BJH and Washington University employees recently earned medical ethics practicum certifications. The group completed both core medical ethics instruction and hands-on work with educational events, policy development, case consultation and work on scholarly projects to earn their certificates.

“I am extremely proud of all of the honorees who have volunteered long hours in service to the ethics committee and to the patients of Barnes-Jewish Hospital,” says Kim Carmichael, MD, practicum director. “Their experience, education and dedication will continue to serve our medical community, particularly as we are in the process of developing a moral distress consultation team.”

The honorees and their practicum projects include:

• Ahmmad Abuirqeba, BA, WU clinical research assistant-surgery, Moral Distress Consultation Service
• Ellen Hiatt, MDiv, BCC, BJH staff chaplain, ob/gyn oncology and medical ICU ethics committee lead-consult, Case Consultation Meta-analysis
• Alyssa McConnell, BS, DPT, BJH physical therapist, Moral Distress Consultation Service
• Soraya Nouri-Wolverson, MD, WU pediatric cardiologist, ethicist community member, BJH Ethics Committee Projects: Case Consultation Meta-Analysis
• Cheryl Palmer, MDiv, BCC, BJH spiritual care services manager, ethics committee lead-consult, Three Wishes Project
• Taylor Patskanick, WU Brown School MSW/MPH student, Moral Distress Consultation Service
• Elizabeth Wright, MSW, LCSW, BJH social worker, Moral Distress Consultation Service    

The medical ethics practicum program is free to full- or part-time BJC and Washington University employees of one year or more, with documentation of HIPAA certification and their supervisor’s approval.

For more information about the medical ethics practicum, go to www.ethicspracticum.com.

Blood drive on WUMC campus July 11

A blood drive will be held 7 a.m.-4 p.m., July 11, in the Washington University Medical Center link near the Sprint/TFC Customer Center. All medical center employees are encouraged to donate.

To register a time to donate, visit redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code BJH. Walk-ins also are welcome, but registering is the best way to ensure you’ll be able to donate in a timely manner.

The hours of noon-1 p.m. and 3-4 p.m. are blocked off exclusively for walk-in donations.

Donors also can shorten their donation time by using RapidPass. RapidPass offers donors a way to complete their donation questionnaire from a laptop, workstation or most mobile devices prior to visiting a drive. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/
RapidPass the day of the drive to answer the screening questions. You must print out the results and bring a copy with you or be able to show the results on a mobile device at the drive to avoid completing the questionnaire again.

The Washington University Medical Center is the largest consumer of life-giving blood in the St. Louis region, and this is an opportunity for team members to support this important lifeline.

Tips for a successful donation include:

• hydrate
• wear something comfortable
• maintain a healthy level of iron in your diet before donating                      
• bring a list of medications you’re taking
• bring an ID
• bring a friend
• relax

See more about these tips at redcrossblood.org.

Carla Menkes takes home ‘Move It Master’ title

BJSPH’s Carla Menkes was the winner of April’s Move It Challenge. She logged 2,659 “move it” minutes in April, winning a gift card to Dick’s Sporting Goods for her efforts.

Linda Smith and Sue Weitz also won gift cards for the participation drawings.

BJSPH team members moved a total of 15,934 minutes, and PWH participants moved 11,238 minutes for a total of 27,172 minutes.

The BJC SCC Help for Your Health Committee invited team members to participate in a four-week challenge in April to increase their “moving minutes” each day. Individuals who met their goal for the four weeks were entered into a drawing for a gift card.

Carla Menkes displays her Dick’s Sporting Goods card that she won for logging 2,659 “move it” minutes in April. | Photo by Linda Smith

Finetti promoted to VP of patient care services, CNO

Yoany Finetti

Yoany Finetti, RN, MSN, has been promoted to vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer for BJWCH. In her expanded role, Finetti will serve as the designated strategic and executive leader for all aspects of clinical care provided by the BJWCH team and will work collaboratively with nursing and clinical operations leadership across BJC.

This expansion of Finetti’s responsibilities is consistent with creating an integrated, seamless and patient-centered care continuum, says BJWCH president Trish Lollo

Over the past four years, Finetti has successfully led many key BJWCH initiatives, including EPIC implementation, elevation of professional nursing practice and establishing the patient care employee engagement champion team. In addition, she effectively partnered with Washington University leadership to bring tele-ICU to BJWCH and expand Washington University Physicians’ presence on the campus.

Finetti also has been a vocal advocate of system-wide approaches to improving patient care and has cultivated strong relationships with the BJC Center for Clinical Excellence, Supply Plus and Goldfarb School of Nursing.

“I’ve had the pleasure to work directly with Yoany for the past 18 months,” says Lollo. “Her thoughtful guidance and leadership have been critical in ensuring that our organization affords all patient care providers the resources and support needed to accomplish our mission.”

Finetti joined BJC in 1999. Prior to joining BJWCH in May 2014, she held several administration roles at Barnes-Jewish Extended Care and Missouri Baptist Medical Center. She has more than 24 years of experience, serving in a variety of leadership roles to improve patient care and nursing practice.

“I am grateful for the confidence that the Barnes-Jewish West County team has in me to bring patient care services into one united team,” Finetti says. “I have enjoyed forming wonderful relationships across BJC and Washington University, and look forward to continuing to partner with my colleagues to influence how we all will deliver excellent patient care — now and into the future.”

Dawn Mathes

Caring and compassionate, Mathes helps whenever needed

Dawn Mathes, community support specialist II, is “always kind, nice and positive, no matter what the situation,” says one of her co-workers at BJC Behavioral Health-Southeast.

Mathes has been known to help fellow team members outside of regular hours, staying late or even being available when out with family and friends. She once provided step-by-step help to a co-worker via a video call.

Mathes is a mentor to staff and treats everyone, clients and co-workers, the same, her co-workers say.

For these reasons, Mathes was chosen as the May service excellence award winner at her site.

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.”

Ramatowski named BJC vice president of employment and benefits law

Christine Ramatowski

Christine Ramatowski has been promoted to vice president of employment and benefits law.

“This new role and expansion of her responsibilities is consistent with the increased volume and complexity of BJC’s human resources, compensation and benefits matters,” says BJC senior vice president and general counsel David Aplington.

Ramatowski’s expanded responsibilities will provide greater support for BJC HR teams’ strategic initiatives.
She will continue to regularly interact with and advise BJC HR professionals and other leaders throughout BJC to provide timely, practical legal and strategic advice.

Ramatowski joined BJC in 1994 as the first in-house attorney focused on labor and employment matters. Over the past 24 years, she has assumed increasing levels of responsibility for a wide variety of HR matters.

Ramatowski manages internal and external legal teams responsible for handling BJC’s employment and benefit litigation matters, proactive employee relations (PERs) initiatives and related matters.

Ramatowski received her undergraduate degree from Northwestern University and her law degree from Washington University.

Cardinal Health honors BJC supply chain for sustainability efforts

Cardinal Health Sustainable Technologies, a leading provider of single-use medical device collections and reprocessing services, recently recognized BJC HealthCare as one of its sustainability award winners for 2018. Three award subcategories are being recognized this year:

• Best in Class — Hospital systems that have demonstrated the highest overall reprocessing unit volume
• Sustainability Leader — Customers that have identified a sustainability coordinator (or equivalent) and have taken additional steps to drive sustainability awareness (internal newsletters, campaigns, etc.)
• Sustainability Breakthrough — Customers that have shown the most significant improvement in reprocessing and recycling efforts, measured in either capture rate or an increase in aggregate units

BJC HealthCare and the other award recipients were cited for leading the health care industry in sustainability efforts and raising the bar for environmental excellence. Last year, BJC collected 304,326 used medical devices, diverting 27,190 pounds of waste from landfills.

Those at the presentation of the Cardinal Health Best in Class Award included, from left, Jemal Dents, Cardinal Health; Barb Jany, Memorial Belleville; Cindy Wilson, Memorial East; Patsy Stapleton, Barnes-Jewish Hospital; Jill Sauer, Christian Hospital; Carri Dehart, St. Louis Children’s Hospital; Cathy Koeln, Barnes-Jewish Hospital; Cheryl Stallo, Boone Hospital; Shane Wolf, BJC supply chain; Jacob Lyonfields, BJC supply chain; Joe McMillen, BJC supply chain; Scott VanGennip, Cardinal Health; and Marisha Loren, Cardinal Health. | Courtesy photo

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. Roane-Blaker joins Christian Hospital

Dr. Catherine Roane-Blaker

Catherine Roane-Blaker, MD, a board-certified ob/gyn with more than 30 years of experience, is a member of BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Christian Hospital. She practices on the Christian Hospital and Northwest HealthCare campuses.

Dr. Roane-Blaker earned her medical degree in 1983 at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston and completed her ob/gyn residency at Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas.

Dr. Roane-Blaker has spent the past 20 years specializing in gynecologic care, education and procedures. She is passionate about this specialty because it provides the opportunity to get to know her patients throughout their lifetime, focusing on preventive care and education. “I enjoy taking the time to get to know my patients personally and fully explain medical conditions and recommended procedures because I want them to be able to make informed decisions about their care,” she says.

Dr. Roane-Blaker provides gynecologic care, treating such conditions as chronic pelvic pain, infertility, vaginitis, vulvar conditions, adnexal masses, endometriosis, prolapse, fibroids, adenomyosis, abnormal uterine bleeding and post-menopausal bleeding. She also performs gynecologic procedures, including colposcopy, LEEP, hysteroscopy, transvaginal ultrasound, hysterectomy, and minimally invasive or laparoscopic procedures.

Dr. Roane-Blaker’s practice can be reached at 314-653-5599. Her Christian Hospital location is at 11125 Dunn Road, Medical Office Building 2, Suite 406, St. Louis. Her Northwest HealthCare location is at 1225 Graham Road, Suite 2320C, Florissant, Mo. Learn more about her at bjcmedicalgroup.org.

‘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 earns EMS Gold Plus Award

Christian Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Plus Award for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks.

Every year, more than 250,000 people experience an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the deadliest type of heart attack caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it’s critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication.

The Mission: Lifeline initiative provides tools, training and other resources to support heart attack care following protocols from the most recent evidence-based treatment guidelines. Mission: Lifeline’s EMS recognition program recognizes emergency medical services for their efforts in improving systems of care to rapidly identify suspected heart attack patients, promptly notify the medical center and trigger an early response from the awaiting hospital personnel.

“Christian Hospital is dedicated to providing optimal care for heart attack patients,” says Brian Hokamp, CH EMS chief. “We are pleased to be recognized for our dedication and achievements in emergency medical care efforts through Mission: Lifeline.”

“EMTs and paramedics play a vital part in the system of care for those who have heart attacks,” says Tim Henry, MD, chair of the Mission: Lifeline Acute Coronary Syndrome Subcommittee. “Since they often are the first medical point of contact, they can save precious minutes of treatment time by activating the emergency response system that alerts hospitals to an incoming heart attack patient. We applaud Christian Hospital for achieving this award in following evidence-based guidelines in the treatment of people who have severe heart attacks.”

Community clothing closet available to patients

Every hour, patients come through the hospital doors for emergency medical attention. Sometimes clothing is destroyed to complete immediate emergency procedures. Sometimes a patient’s attire may be in poor condition due to hardship.

During each patient’s stay, CH’s goal is to ensure patients receive excellent care and service. In the event of clothing being destroyed or unavailable, the case management team has created a clothing donation closet. The closet is designed to help patients in need of basic necessities, as well as ensure their sense of dignity, before they leave the hospital.

Here’s more about the clothing donation closet:

• Any patient can take advantage of these generous gifts.
• Donated items are free and gently used.
• Donated items are provided by the community.
• Donations must be washed and in good condition.
• The closet currently needs socks and sweatpants.
• Formal attire is not accepted.

For more information, contact Carla Palumbo, 314-653-5149 or carla.palumbo@bjc.org.

Your Best Medicine with Kathy Romack

Kathy Romack

Kathy Romack, a technical coordinator in the CH laboratory’s flow cytometry and hematology department, has worked in the CH lab for 32 years.

In your job, how do you provide patients with your best medicine?
I started working the night shift and performed in all areas of the lab. From there I went to toxicology and then to hematology. In the last year, I’ve been technical coordinator for flow cytometry and hematology. I think the longevity of my employment and having the expertise and experience is how I provide my best medicine with the type of testing we do. The flow cytometry lab is a very specialized division of hematology. Within the last year we obtained a new piece of state-of-the-art equipment, so that’s another way we provide our best medicine. We also have the benefit of having three hematopathologists in our laboratory, which is a huge plus!

What is your favorite thing/or most rewarding about your job?
I like everything about my job. I think it always comes down to the people. We’ve all been here so long. We’ve been through weddings, children and now, with a lot of us here 30-plus years, we’re getting into the grandchildren. I enjoy the work I’m doing today just as much as I did 32 years ago.

Why do you choose to work at Christian Hospital?
No. 1, I live in the community. I’m about 10 minutes from here. I think it’s very beneficial to work in the community in which you live. We’re serving the people who are my peers and neighbors.

Temporary chapel established during lobby renovation project

The temporary chapel at CH, which is adjacent to the Courtyard Café back entrance, across from occupational health, is open around the clock.

The facilities team created the temporary space to ensure staff, patients and family members have a place to worship, pray and meditate during the lobby renovation project, which will be completed later this fall.

The chapel offers a place of spiritual renewal to staff, patients and visitors of all faiths. Catholic Mass is celebrated at 10 a.m., Sundays, and 11:45 a.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Roman Catholic communion is distributed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

The temporary chapel at CH, which is adjacent to the Courtyard Café back entrance, across from occupational health, is open around the clock. | Photo by Bret Berigan

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

Memorial lab tech earns degree with help from BILD

Vicky Douglas began working at Memorial Hospital Belleville in 1989, when she was just out of high school. Over the years, she had thought about going back to school, but the high cost of tuition had been a barrier.

In 2016, however, after working for seven years as the hematology lead tech in MHB’s lab, she decided to pursue her bachelor’s degree. Thanks to Memorial’s affiliation with BJC HealthCare, Douglas found that tuition was no longer a barrier.

She was able to participate in an academic partnership program through the BJC Institute for Learning and Development (BILD).

Douglas began taking classes in the fall of 2016 and received her bachelor’s degree in health care management in March from College for America, a fully accredited, nonprofit degree program through Southern New Hampshire University.

To learn more about employee opportunities to expand knowledge and grow academically with BILD, visit https://www.bjclearn.org/yourdegree.html.

Vicky Douglas

Call for abstracts for 12th Annual Research and Quality Symposium

Memorial Regional Health Services’ 12th Annual Research and Quality Symposium — “The Power of Three: Strength, Knowledge, Resiliency” — will take place from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 16, at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.

Abstracts are now being accepted for poster presentations related to evidence-based practice, quality improvement projects or research projects. Abstracts submitted can be for either completed or in-progress projects.

Abstracts of 250 words or less must be submitted to diane.ashmann@bjc.org by Sept. 28. Notification of selection will be via email by Oct. 5.

Criteria for evidenced-based project or quality improvement project abstract — Consider using an evidence-based practice model (for example, the Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice) in your submission. Include the project triggers, importance of the project to the organization and to team members, and relevant literature review. Define the project structure, process and outcome data. The outcomes should be clinically focused and describe how the evidence-based practice applies to nursing practice.

Criteria for research study abstract — Include the following in your abstract submission: significance of problem, research purpose, study framework, study design, research findings/outcomes, and general implications to practice, education or theory.

The first author of each poster abstract is responsible for the proper assembly, mounting and presentation of his/her poster. Submitters should be available to discuss the poster and answer questions during the assigned session times. If the submitter is unable to participate in the poster session, a substitute must be ready to discuss the poster and answer any questions. Project posters may be formatted on a printed poster no larger than 36-by-72 inches.

Email your abstract to diane.ashmann@bjc.org or call Diane Ashmann, DNP, RN-BC, 618-767-2263, for more information.

Pharmacist celebrates 50 years at Memorial

Family, friends and pharmacy employees past and present gathered recently to surprise and celebrate pharmacist Brad Dunck’s 50 years of service to Memorial Hospital.

Dunck started his career at MHE on June 2, 1968, as a pharmacy student — and he’s been there ever since.

His three daughters and six of his nine grandchildren also attended the surprise celebration, with two family members traveling in from Wisconsin. Dunck’s daughter Kristi Matschiner is a pharmacist with Progress West and Barnes-Jewish St. Peter’s hospitals. His wife, Maureen, is a retired Memorial nurse.

All of his co-workers agree that Dunck is well respected and well liked in the pharmacy department. “Because of Brad’s experience and tenure, he is an invaluable resource and exceptional role model, especially with his ICU experience and his ability to stay calm when the department becomes very busy,” says Brian Mann, pharmacy operations manager.

Dunck has seen many changes in pharmacy over the years, including the department’s growth; the increased number of medicines available, such as antibiotics, and knowledge of all the interactions; and collaboration with clinicians in the units and with patient treatment plans.

Dunck continues to enjoy his work and says the current team is one of the most outstanding he has worked with in his career. “We have a very talented, intelligent, team-oriented group that is most motivated to care for patients. I continue to learn from them every day,” he says. “I come to work happy every day, because I have a job I love.”

Brad Dunck, center, enjoys a surprise party with co-workers, family and friends in honor of his 50 years of service to Memorial Hospital. | Photo by Natalja Cooper

#Celebrate60 — Memorial Foundation Employee Campaign exceeds goal

Memorial leaders thank all who made a contribution or pledge to this year’s Memorial Foundation Employee Campaign and helped Memorial #Celebrate60. Twenty-three percent of employees participated, shattering the $46,000 goal by raising $63,234.

“The old saying ‘charity begins at home’ applies to the employee campaign, as well as to the campaigns conducted with board members, physicians and Auxiliary members, because it’s this support that sets the tone and lays the foundation for other fund raising Memorial conducts in the community throughout the year,” says Anne Thomure, Memorial Foundation executive director.

The walls at MHE and MHB were covered with bricks by the end of the campaign.

Employees’ gifts were designated as follows:

This year’s Memorial Foundation Employee Campaign shattered the $46,000 goal by raising $63,234. The walls at MHE and MHB were covered with bricks by the end of the campaign. | Photo by Andy Nicholson

Award winners honored during Nurses Week

During Nurses Week, MBMC honored the recipients of the annual Nancy A. Ross, RN, Excellence in Nursing Awards. Congratulations to all of the winners, who were recognized for their commitment to providing excellent care to MBMC’s patients. | Photo by Randall Hyman

Tricia Skaggs

Skaggs exemplifies MoBap’s core values

Tricia Skaggs, therapy services program assistant, was the January Employee of the Month.

“Tricia has been a part of the therapy team for years,” her colleagues say. “She exemplifies MoBap’s core values of excellence, teamwork and efficiency. We have been so lucky to have her as part of our team — and we all work better and more efficiently because of her.”

Nanci Gausling

Gausling goes above and beyond for patients, co-workers

Nanci Gausling, laboratory, was the February Employee of the Month.

“Nanci always goes above and beyond for both patients and co-workers,” her nominators say. “She always has a smile on her face and arms wide open to help. I have seen Nanci display the same behavior in the café or hallways to our patients and guests.

“Nanci is a very caring and giving person who will always go above and beyond to help others, even if it means the sacrifice of herself. We wish there were more ‘Nancis’ around, because to me she is the true meaning of what MoBap stands for.”

Tricia Hamm

DAISY winner Hamm is the definition of iCREATE

Tricia Hamm, interventional radiology, recently was honored with a DAISY Award. A co-worker nominated her for making a patient’s birthday special.

“We didn’t know it was the patient’s birthday, but when Tricia found out, she went out of her way to find a birthday cake, balloon, candy and a card.

“With a long hospital stay, it’s the little things like this that make a big difference,” her nominator says. “Tricia is the definition of our iCREATE values and a welcome addition to interventional radiology. She is a wonderful resource for our new nurses.”

Naketia Wilson

Wilson is caring, efficient

Naketia Wilson, a cook in Mayfield’s Café, was the March Employee of the Month.

“Naketia is great at his job!” his nominator says. “He is very polite and caring to employees and guests in the cafeteria. His efficiency during the lunch rush is truly amazing. He is careful and thorough with every order. Naketia always seems happy to serve and assist with his customers’ needs.”

Jenniefer Christ

DAISY winner Christ is extraordinary

Jenniefer Christ, general medicine, earned the most recent DAISY Award.

“Jenniefer is extraordinary,” her nominator says. “She was warm and inviting from the very beginning. She is incredibly knowledgeable. She communicated with us thoroughly and clearly every step of the way. She advocated for my spouse.”

Molly Richard

Richard was ‘front and center’ during Epic go-live

Molly Richard, peri-operative services, was the April Employee of the Month.

“Molly has been the one constant in our department,” her nominator says. “In her capacity as an educator, she provided support in all facets of the transition to Epic, for both local and system needs. Her positive attitude helped many on this journey. Her focus was both patient-centered and staff-centered.

“As go-live became a reality, Molly was front and center during its most crucial time, from the very first weekend and to the immediate days that followed. She continued to share her knowledge, skill and attitude within peri-operative services to make our transition to Epic successful.”

Mary Byrne

DAISY winner Byrne was comforting and kind

Mary Byrne, a nurse in the ICU, earned the most recent DAISY Award.

“Mary Byrne has gone above and beyond to make a significant impact on the lives of others,” says her nominator, whose relative was in Byrne’s care.

“I probably ‘bothered’ Mary about 15 times that day. She always had a smile on her face. She was so comforting and so kind.

“She would answer about a million questions. (I was high maintenance.) But she never complained. She was always kind and attentive.”

Ultimately, the family member passed away. “Mary gave me a hug,” her nominator says. “I was inconsolable. But somehow, Mary had a way to make me feel better. Her kind words and strength gave me comfort.”

MBSH laboratory receives new waiting room furniture

Funds from last year’s MBSH Employee Campaign provided funding for new laboratory waiting room furniture. The new furniture has a smooth, easily cleaned surface and distinctive design that pairs well with existing décor and will give a more positive experience to waiting patients.

“The laboratory staff appreciates the generosity of the employee campaign and their contributions, ensuring that we give the best patient care and experience while in our facility,” says laboratory manager Cherie Monzyk.

Lab staff and employee campaign committee members checking out the new waiting room furniture are, standing, from left, medical lab tech Christina Schatz; Michelle Williamson, Fidelity Communications HR benefits coordinator; and Bobbi Jean Busse, Fidelity Broadcasting billing and traffic clerk; and seated, Cherie Monzyk, laboratory manager, left, and Gayle Peebles, IS/HIM manager. | Photo by David Hartwick

Hospital Auxiliary funds two Cufflator manometers for respiratory therapy

The respiratory therapy department was selected by the MBSH Auxiliary to receive two additional Cufflator manometers. They eliminate the need for syringes, electricity or other complicated connections required to check cuff pressure. They also may be left in place for constant monitoring.

“We are grateful that the hospital Auxiliary bought the extra manometers for our unit,” says Matt Knight, respiratory therapy manager. “These new devices will greatly improve the care we offer to our patients.”

With the new Cufflator manometers purchased with funds from the MBSH Auxiliary are, from left, respiratory therapy student Emily Kight, respiratory therapist Tina Clark and respiratory therapy manager Matt Knight. | Photo by David Hartwick

American Red Cross honors Dr. Rhonda Cooke

Dr. Rhonda Cooke

Rhonda Cooke, MD, was recognized by the American Red Cross (ARC) at the Sullivan Community Center blood drive June 4. David Chambers, ARC donor recruitment account manager, and Julia Huelsmann, ARC senior account manager, were on hand to express their appreciation to the Sullivan community for years of hosting much-needed blood drives.

Chambers expressed his thanks on behalf of ARC, giving credit to the Sullivan community, MBSH Auxiliary, hospital officials, donors and volunteers for their continuous support in making past blood drives successful.

Huelsmann then expressed appreciation for Dr. Cooke’s tireless efforts to encourage blood donations and monitor utilization for the community blood supply. She also talked about Dr. Cooke’s dedication to the many other humanitarian programs that she promotes and coordinates, including an effort to collect and distribute supplies to the Texas victims of Hurricane Harvey.

Dr. Cooke, a board-certified clinical pathologist and transfusion medicine specialist, serves as medical director for the MBSH, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, Progress West and Barnes-Jewish St. Peters hospitals laboratories. She also works closely with ARC in St. Louis to promote blood donations.

In addition to the Sullivan blood drive, ARC hosted its seventh annual Heroes Breakfast June 5 at St. Louis Union Station to “Celebrate the Heroes That Walk Among Us.” At that ceremony, the ARC presented Dr. Cooke with the Community Impact Award.

“Dr. Cooke definitely makes a difference in our community with the selfless work she does to benefit others,” says Cherie Monzyk, MBSH lab manager. “We are so proud of her and totally agree that she is well deserving of these honors.”

Oncologist Dr. Melissa Rooney joins MBSH

Dr. Melissa Rooney

Oncologist Melissa Rooney, MD, has joined the MBSH medical staff and will see patients in the hospital’s Specialty Clinic.

Dr. Rooney earned her medical degree in 2007 from the Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Illinois. She completed an internal medicine residency in 2010 and a hematology/oncology fellowship in 2014. She then completed an intensive course in cancer risk assessment at City of Hope in Duarte, California, in 2016.

Dr. Rooney is board certified in internal medicine, oncology and hematology. She has served as an instructor of medicine in the Washington University School of Medicine division of hospital medicine and is on staff at St. Luke’s Hospital. She has received numerous honors and awards and contributed to a number of peer review publications.

“We are extremely pleased to have Dr. Rooney join our group of oncologists to offer treatment to our patients at MBSH,” says Tony Schwarm, MBSH president. “She’s an expert in her field and will provide excellent care at our hospital.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Rooney in the Specialty Clinic, call 573-468-7054.

Dawson offers extended clinic hours

Kayla Dawson

Kayla Dawson, FNP, now offers extended evening hours at the MBSH Medical Clinic. Dawson will be available for patients from 2-8 p.m., each Monday, so patients can be seen after normal business hours.

Dawson is board certified in family practice. She earned a bachelor’s degree in 2011 from the University of Missouri-Columbia, her BSN from Goldfarb School of Nursing in 2013 and her MSN from South University in 2017. She also has experience as a staff nurse in the MBSH emergency department, ICU and float pool. She also cares for patients in the hospital’s Wound Care center.

“We welcome Kayla to the Sullivan Clinic to offer these additional hours of coverage for the convenience of our patients,” says Chris Gaskill, regional practice manager. 

Call 573-860-6000 for an appointment.

MBSH Auxiliary purchases thermometers for ED

The MBSH Auxiliary recently provided funds to purchase two temporal thermometers for the emergency department.

The Exergen thermometer works by scanning the patient’s temporal artery, located close to the surface of the skin. Because the temporal artery receives blood directly from the heart, this thermometer is extremely efficient.

“We appreciate the generosity of our Auxiliary in helping us get these much-needed thermometers for the emergency department,” says Johna Carpenter, ED team lead/charge nurse.

Johna Carpenter, ED team lead/charge nurse, right, shows a new thermometer to Vanessa Breen, ED team lead/charge nurse. | Photo by David Hartwick

Sullivan leadership class makes blankets for hospital patients

Students from Sullivan Middle School’s Lighthouse III class made blankets for MBSH patients and delivered them to the Cancer Infusion Center and the mother baby unit at the hospital before the school year ended. This initiative was part of their service learning project in the Lighthouse III class.

“It was very thoughtful for the students to make these warm blankets for our patients. We appreciate their help in making our hospital so inviting in our community,” says Natalie Counts, community health educator. 

Sullivan Middle School students deliver blankets for the Cancer Infusion Center at MBSH. | Photo by David Hartwick

Eagles Club donates to MBSH Cancer Infusion Center

Mike Burch, Meramec Valley Eagles, third from left, presents a check for $250 earmarked for the Cancer Treatment Center to, from left,  MBSH executive director Lisa Lochner and oncology nurses Terri Brown, Bridget Hulsey, Michelle Miller and Crystal Stoltzfus. The donation was the result of proceeds from the Eagles’ recent raffle night. | Photo by David Hartwick

Gibson selected as May Star Service Team Member

Carolyn Gibson

Carolyn Gibson was selected as the May PHC ICARE Star Service Team Member. Gibson, a patient access representative, has worked at PHC and formerly at Mineral Area Regional Medical Center for a combined total of nearly 14 years.

Excerpts from her nomination read, “Our Star Service employee for May opens the department each morning and ensures that her co-workers have what they need to begin their day. She provides great customer service to all her patients and greets them with a smile. She strives for excellence in her work to ensure that each patient has a positive experience from start to finish. She helps out whenever and wherever she is needed without hesitation. She is fun to work with and friendly to all of her customers. An excellent face of Parkland!”

Gibson says she likes the variety in her job.

“I have the same duties, but different people and circumstances — each day is always different,” she says.  “And I love the people I work with.” 

Gibson says she was very surprised to be selected.

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

Carla Menkes takes home ‘Move It Master’ title

BJSPH’s Carla Menkes was the winner of April’s Move It Challenge. She logged 2,659 “move it” minutes in April, winning a gift card to Dick’s Sporting Goods for her efforts.

Linda Smith and Sue Weitz also won gift cards for the participation drawings.

BJSPH team members moved a total of 15,934 minutes, and PWH participants moved 11,238 minutes for a total of 27,172 minutes.

The BJC SCC Help for Your Health Committee invited team members to participate in a four-week challenge in April to increase their “moving minutes” each day. Individuals who met their goal for the four weeks were entered into a drawing for a gift card.

Carla Menkes displays her Dick’s Sporting Goods card that she won for logging 2,659 “move it” minutes in April. | Photo by Linda Smith

Remembering Answer Line nurse Jan Fenton

Jan Fenton

Jan Fenton, RN, Answer Line, had a passion for helping sick and injured children. She saved many lives in her 16 years at SLCH, all with the Answer Line.

Fenton died in a multi-vehicle car crash in April. She was 55.

Her colleagues share memories:

• “Jan was refreshingly genuine … good-hearted to children, parents, animals and co-workers alike … and could find humor in the most bedraggled circumstances.” – Diane Dubois, RN, Answer Line
• “Jan brought so much knowledge and joy to the Answer Line. An amazing nurse, great friend and true leader in every way. I’ll miss her sarcastic wit and our many talks, texting and instant messaging. You made me laugh every shift I worked with you. May you rest in peace in God’s heavenly kingdom. Until we see each other again my friend!” – Mimi Empson, RN, Answer Line
• “I do not have one particular story about Jan, but many, many small moments. She made me laugh more times than I can count. In doing so, she helped me by lifting my spirits. On particularly rough days, Jan made all the difference. She did the same for many other staff members.” – Pam Flotte, RN, Answer Line
• “As a charge nurse, Jan’s ‘can do’ attitude paired with her extraordinary sense of humor carried the team through many difficult shifts. I find peace in understanding that great sense of humor was a reflection of her happiness and healthy perspective on life. We miss her so much.” – Lisa Swerczek, RN, Answer Line assistant nurse manager
• “Jan’s absence on the Answer Line is irreplaceable. A strong leader and team player were just some of her great qualities. But what I will miss most is her sense of humor. She had the ability to brighten any situation.” – Meghan Harrison, RN, Answer Line assistant nurse manager

SLCH shines at Annie Malone Parade

SLCH and BJC staff and their families marched in the Annie Malone parade in downtown St. Louis May 20. SLCH and Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center work together to improve the lives of children, particularly those in medically underserved areas. SLCH received an award for having one of the top floats in the parade.| Photo by Tim Mudrovic

Car Care for Kids: Maintenance that makes a difference

Inspired by the SLCH mission to do what’s right for kids, the St. Louis Auto Dealers Association and BG Products Inc., a supplier of high quality fluids and professional equipment, are proud to partner to provide maintenance that makes a difference for kids at SLCH.

This June, July and August, participating dealerships and BG Products are donating a portion of the proceeds from every service involving BG products to the SLCH Transport Team.

If you’ve been putting off getting your car ready for summer, wait no longer. Want a fuel system with that oil change? How about new brake fluid with those brake pads? The more love you give your car today, the more love kids at SLCH will feel tomorrow.

Visit StLouisChildrens.org/CarCare for a list of participating dealers and to learn more about Car Care for Kids.

Mark Dwyer

Mark Dwyer named TRISL CEO

Mark Dwyer has been named chief executive officer of The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis, effective Oct. 11. Dwyer replaces Tara Diebling as she moves to her new role as CEO of HealthSouth’s Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital.

Dwyer, who began his career in rehabilitation as a physical therapist, has served in a variety of rehabilitation leadership roles throughout his 30-year career. Most recently, he served as the director of rehabilitation services and sports medicine at an acute care hospital in Kansas. On top of his responsibilities as a health care leader, Dwyer served as an adjunct instructor and lecturer for physical therapy students in the university setting.

“His strong rehabilitation leadership knowledge, coupled with his experience in direct patient care as a physical therapist, makes Mark a perfect fit to lead the staff at The Rehabilitation Hospital of St. Louis,” says Troy DeDecker, president of the central region for HealthSouth. “In addition, his commitment to patient care and achieving exceptional results will help our hospital return patients back to the community safely and at their most optimal levels of independence. We are grateful to have him as part of our team.”

Dwyer earned a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy and a master’s degree in health services administration with a concentration in outcomes from Kansas University. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

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