Spring 2012 - Stormont-Vail HealthCare

Stormont-Vail HealthCare
Healthy Times
Dedicated to
Spring 2012
your health ...
for a lifetime.
i n t h i s i s s u e
family health
High-risk pregnancy care ............... 3
Eating healthy begins at home .......... 8
Power of love in family ............... 11
Lifestyles
Key to older driver safety ............... 2
Above The Golden Rule ................ 6
‘Couture for Cancer’ .................. 7
MEDICAL NEWS
Gold level standard of care .............4
Doctor’s orders – clinical studies ....... 10
Calendar
Calendar. ......................... 12
Support groups ................... 12
Family education ................. 13
Parenting programs ............... 13
HealthWise 55 ................... 14
Ensuring patient safety first
Taking care of patients and families is the
cornerstone of Stormont-Vail HealthCare’s
business. Each and every day, patients entrust
their health to clinicians and staff, and it is the
organization’s responsibility to provide a safe
and quality health care experience.
The goal of ensuring patient safety first has
always been at the forefront of Stormont-Vail,
but in 2011, the focus was sharpened to provide
the safest environment and experience possible.
In fall 2011, leadership rounds and a Patient
Safety First initiative, led by Carol Perry, RN,
vice president and chief nursing officer, and
Douglas Rose, M.D., chief medical quality
officer, focused on patient safety in hospital
areas. Other physicians and clinical staff rotate
in each week. Candid discussions are held with
staff in visited areas to learn about challenges
they face and opportunities to improve safety.
Areas in which patient safety rounds have
already been conducted include: Critical Care,
4 Pavilion, Surgery, PrePost, Post Anesthesia Care
Unit, Cardiac Catheterization Lab and
Cardiovascular Outpatient Center, Radiology,
Spine Center, Birthplace, Emergency
Department, Infusion Center, 7-North and
Neonatal IntensiveCare.
The rounds have resulted in meaningful
dialogue and changes that promote safety. In
addition, an organization-wide initiative called
“Patient Safety First” calls for staff to get back to
basics with these initial areas of emphasis:
• Washing hands,
• Using two patient identifiers,
• Using safe medication practices,
• Preventing falls, and
• Improving communication between
staff and patients.
Stormont-Vail HealthCare is a leader in
providing top-quality medical services and
programs to Kansans through primary care,
specialty clinicians and staff. It is also striving
to be the safest provider in Kansas.
–Anita Fry

Lifestyles
Self policing is key to older driver safety
Car crashes caused by older adults are declining
according to a new study by the Insurance
Institute for Highway Safety. The study found
that although older drivers tend to crash more
often than middle-aged drivers, the number of
crashes involving older adults has been
declining overall. This is good news for all
drivers, as those 65 years of age and older will
make up one in five drivers by 2030 according
to the U.S. Census Bureau.
This study surprised many who expected that
the historically high crash rates of older drivers
and the rapidly aging baby boomer population
would result in an increased number of car
crashes for this demographic.
The reasoning for the decline in crash rates
can’t be pinpointed, but one explanation is that
seniors are getting better at policing themselves
when it comes to their own abilities. Examples
of this range from small steps, such as avoiding
driving in unfamiliar areas or high traffic times
of day, to quitting driving all together.
Although this is positive news, older drivers
should still be cautious when behind the wheel,
as this population is still vulnerable when a car
crash does occur.
“Older drivers are more susceptible to
injuries,” said Richelle Rumford, RN, MSN,
Stormont-Vail TraumaCare outreach and
prevention coordinator. “They have higher
mortality rates from trauma because of
other health conditions that affect the
body’s ability to heal.”
There are a number of factors that can
contribute to making driving more challenging
for older adults. These may include limitations
in physical dexterity and motor skills, vision
and hearing impairments, and declines in
perception, judgment and reaction time.
Adverse effects of medications and certain
medical conditions can also interfere with
one’s ability to drive.
For the positive trends in the study to
continue, older drivers should be proactive by
being mindful of their limitations and making
safety a priority when behind the wheel. The
Kansas Department of Transportation offers
these safety tips for older drivers and caregivers:
Tips for older drivers
• Talk to your physician about your driving
abilities and any adverse reactions your
medications may have on your ability to
drive safely.
• Keep informed about traffic laws by checking
with your local law enforcement authorities
or the Department of Motor Vehicles.
• Be especially alert at the wheel. Try to
anticipate unexpected behavior by other
drivers and watch carefully for pedestrians
and cyclists.
• Try not to drive too slowly. It’s actually unsafe,
as you can obstruct traffic behind you.
• Avoid driving busy streets and highways
during morning or evening rush hours. Try
to plan your appointments and errands at
less-heavily traveled times.
• Keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. Have your
tires, belts, and fluid levels checked regularly.
Tips for child or spouse of an older driver
• Ride along with the older driver. Focus on the
driver’s speed control (too fast or too slow),
how they function at intersections (stopping
properly and judging other vehicles’ speed
accurately) and lane-changing techniques
(looking behind, checking mirrors).
• Make sure eye exams are conducted regularly
and talk to the doctor about your concerns.
• Keep track of little fender benders. Frequently,
these are tip offs that a bigger crash may be
just around the corner.
• Enroll the senior in a driver safety program
and get feedback from the instructor about
your loved one’s driving ability.
–Yvonne Etzel
Resources available
for senior drivers
Enroll in an AARP driver safety class.
HealthWise 55 has offered the AARP Driver
Safety Program for more than 20 years. The
two-day class is $12 for AARP members and
$14 for non-members. For class dates and
times, please turn to page 15. To register,
call Health Connections at (785) 354-5225.
Attend a CarFit check.
HealthWise 55 will be conducting CarFit*
checks at the following times and locations
for anyone 55 and older. Checks will be
conducted by appointment only. Call
HealthWise 55 at (785) 354-6787 to sign up.
May 3 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Southwest
YMCA, 3635 S.W. Chelsea
May 17 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. –
Kuehne-Thomas North YMCA,
1936 N.W. Tyler
May 21 9 a.m. – noon – Grace Cathedral,
701 S.W. 8th Street
Sponsored by: AAA, Aldersgate Village,
Stormont-Vail Rehabilitation Department
and Trauma Services, and AARP.
*CarFit is a national education program to help
mature drivers stay safe on the road. There will be
a checklist of items to review comfort and safety
in your vehicle. Recommendations may be given,
but no changes will be made to your car. Simple
solutions, such as learning safety features of your
car or acquiring adaptive devices that may help
you be more comfortable as you drive, may be
suggested. This will take approximately 20 minutes.
2

family health
Team delivers high-risk pregnancy care
Sometimes, being ordinary is a good thing,
especially when it comes to being pregnant.
Women with “low-risk” pregnancies can enjoy
routine checkups. However, in “high-risk”
pregnancy situations, the mother and/or baby
may have a health concern that makes the
pregnancy and/or delivery riskier than an
ordinary pregnancy. According to the March
of Dimes, more than 88 percent of live births
in Kansas in 2008 were full-term deliveries.
That same year, one in nine babies were born
preterm (less than 37 weeks gestation).
A not-so-ordinary pregnancy requires a
specialized physician to care for mother and
baby. Stormont-Vail HealthCare and Lincoln
Center OB/GYN, P.A. have partnered to bring
this specialized care to Topeka and other
surrounding communities. With Topeka’s only
High-Risk Delivery Team and the highest level
Neonatal IntensiveCare unit, Stormont-Vail is
the best choice for high-risk deliveries.
Once the mother’s physician has determined
she is “high risk,” she may be referred to
Stormont-Vail to be admitted in The Birthplace
and under the care of one of the six Lincoln
Center board-certified obstetricians. In addition,
John Evans, M.D., Stormont-Vail perinatologist,
will consult with the Lincoln Center physicians.
A perinatologist is a subspecialist of obstetrics
concerned with the care of the fetus and
complicated, high-risk pregnancies. Two genetic
counselors and three specialized sonographers
assist the physicians with more specific testing.
Todd Trobough, M.D., president of Lincoln
Center OB/GYN, P.A., said the physicians of
Lincoln Center will “continue to team with
Stormont-Vail to care for pregnant women. We
will work with the patient’s health care provider
to bring a safe transition to her birth.”
Some of the high-risk conditions treated by
this specialized team are: preterm labor,
pre-eclampsia, premature ruptured membranes,
and multiple gestations (i.e. twins, triplets).
Along with advanced monitoring systems
in The Birthplace patient rooms, experienced,
specially trained nurses care for high-risk
mothers, providing a perfect blend of natural,
supportive, high-touch mother and baby care.
If you would like to pre-register at The
Birthplace, please call (785) 354-6262 or visit the
Stormont-Vail website at stormontvail.org. To
make an appointment with a Lincoln Center
physician, call (785) 233-5101.
–Jennifer Tinajero
Join us:
Welcome Baby Jubilee
Heather Morrison, M.D.,
Lincoln Center OB/GYN
(lower right)
Stormont-Vail invites pregnant and soon-to-be pregnant couples
to an open house that showcases the services and amenities The
Birthplace and the Neonatal IntensiveCare (NIC) provide women
and their families during the labor-and-delivery process.
Refreshments, tours, door prizes and information on Birthplace
services and classes are provided. Physicians and other staff will be on
hand to answer questions about pregnancy and infant care. Vendors
and other community resource representatives also will be present.
Pregnant and soon-to-be pregnant couples are welcome to drop by
anytime during the open house. Enter for a chance to win a $250 gift
card to Babies “R” Us or a Medela breast pump. To attend the Jubilee,
please click “I’m Attending” on the Stormont-Vail HealthCare
Facebook event page or email us at marketing@stormontvail.org.
Find more details at stormontvail.org.
Mark Your Calendar for the Next Open House:
Please join us from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 20, at Pozez
Education Center, 1505 S.W. Eighth Ave. (Stormont-Vail’s main
campus). Park in the nearby parking garage.
3

Medical News
Stormont-Vail maintains gold level
standard of care for heart attack patients
The Stormont-Vail HealthCare Cardiovascular Service Line has
received the American College of Cardiology Foundation’s NCDR
ACTION Registry–GWTG Gold Performance Achievement Award for
2011 – one of only 167 hospitals nationwide to do so. This is the
third consecutive year that the facility has received this designation.
The award recognizes Stormont-Vail’s commitment and
success in implementing a higher standard of care for
heart attack patients, and signifies that Stormont-
Vail has reached an aggressive goal of treating
these patients to standard levels of care as
outlined by the American College of
Cardiology/American Heart Association
clinical guidelines and recommendations.
To receive the ACTION Registry–GWTG
Gold Performance Achievement Award,
Stormont-Vail consistently followed the
treatment guidelines established in the
ACTION Registry–GWTG for eight consecutive
quarters and met a performance standard of at
least 85 percent for specific performance measures.
Following these treatment guidelines improves adherence to American
College of Cardiology and American Heart Association Clinical
Guideline recommendations, monitors drug safety and improves the
overall quality of care provided to ST-elevation and non-ST-elevation
myocardial infarction patients.
“By implementing these gold-level standards of care
and protocols, Stormont-Vail has fully implemented
acute and secondary prevention guideline therapies
and treatment, which is a critical step in saving
patient lives, while improving outcomes for heart
attack patients,” said cardiologist Lambert Wu,
M.D., FACP, FACC, from the Cotton-O’Neil
Heart Center.
“The time is right for Stormont-Vail to be
focused on improving the quality of
cardiovascular care by implementing ACTION
Registry–GWTG. The number of acute myocardial
infarction patients eligible for treatment is expected
to grow over the next decade due to increasing
incidence of heart disease and a large aging population,”
It’s time for a change in heart
Guidelines aim to prevent heart disease in women
4
In 2005, the Cotton-O’Neil Heart
Center opened the Women’s Heart
Clinic, which was developed to help
women identify their individual risks
for developing heart disease and open
the door to preventing heart-related
illnesses, including heart attack.
The fact remains that the leading
cause of death in women remains
cardiovascular disease, which includes
heart disease, stroke and hypertension.
In 2011, the American Heart
Association issued guidelines
specifically for women because the
female gender has unique risk factors
that lead to heart disease and stroke.
These guidelines for women include:
• Avoid smoking and exposure to
smoke.
• Become physically active by getting
150 minutes per week of moderate
exercise and 75 minutes per week of
vigorous exercise.
• Practice risk reduction if you are
diagnosed with heart disease or
have a heart event.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Eat a diet rich in vegetables and
fruits, whole grains, high fiber.
Limit saturated fat, cholesterol and
sugar; avoid foods with trans fats.

said Kent Palmberg, M.D., senior vice
president and chief medical officer,
Stormont-Vail HealthCare.
ACTION Registry–GWTG is a partnership
between the American College of
Cardiology Foundation and the American
Heart Association with partnering support
from the American College of Emergency
Physicians, Society of Chest Pain Centers
and the Society of Hospital Medicine.
ACTION Registry-GWTG empowers health
care provider teams to consistently treat
heart attack patients according to the most
current, science-based guidelines and
establishes a national standard for
understanding and improving the quality,
safety and outcomes of care provided for
patients with coronary artery disease,
specifically high-risk provided to STelevation
and non-ST-elevation myocardial
infarction patients.
–Tami Motley
• Eat oily fish like salmon, which is high in
omega-3 fatty acids, or consume it in
capsule form if you have high cholesterol.
To learn more about your individual risks
for heart disease, consider scheduling a
women’s heart risk assessment. At $55, it
may be the best investment you could make
in yourself and for your family.
Carol Frazee, RN
5

Lifestyles
Going 30,000 steps above The Golden Rule
Stormont-Vail HealthCare strives to be the hospital of choice and the
employer of choice for northeast Kansas, and it employs many caring
professionals who provide top-notch customer service. In this issue of
Healthy Times, we would like to focus on one of our special employees
who goes above and beyond.
For Mike Elliott, transporter/courier for Stormont-Vail
HealthCare’s Infusion Center, his job really isn’t work to
him. It is an extension of his life. His philosophy is
The Golden Rule – treating those around you like
you would like to be treated. Mike is humble,
mild mannered, and a natural people person.
He puts people at ease every day, and he
provides excellent customer service – not
because it is part of his job, but because,
according to him, it is the right thing to do.
“I love my job. I get to visit with many
people every day,” said Mike. “Some of these
patients come in every week or at least once a
month and you get to know them and their
lives. I get to be a familiar face to them,
and I am someone they can trust to
make this process a little easier.”
During his eight-and-a-half-hour
shift, Monday through Friday,
Mike estimates he walks a total
of 12 to 14 miles a day, serving
an average of 26 patients. His
journey begins in the Infusion
Center, located on the second
floor of the Pavilion patient
tower. When he gets the call
from Registration that a
patient is ready to be
escorted, he heads their
way. He travels to one of
the three main entrances at
the hospital, back up to the
unit with the patient, down
to Pharmacy to get the
prescribed infusion or blood
product, and then, finally, back
up to the unit. He figures he
makes about 50 round trips to
and from the unit in a day. If an
average person takes 10,000 steps for every mile*, then Mike takes
close to 30,000 steps in one day.
Mike understands how frustrating maneuvering the halls of a
hospital can be. He has been a patient himself in the past. He tries
to take that into consideration when he encounters a patient who
might be struggling on a certain day.
“I try to talk with each patient to find out if they have any fears
about their infusion or any problems they have encountered,
and then I try to fix what the problem might be,” said
Mike. “Sometimes the problem happened before they
even came in that day, but I listen and try to help.”
A typical day for this walker starts at 6:30 a.m.,
45 minutes before his shift begins. He gets breakfast
in the Sunflower Terrace Cafeteria and then goes to
the unit to make coffee and see what needs to be
done to start the day.
“Mike is a huge help not only to me, but to the
whole nursing staff every day,” said JoEllen
Adams, RN, nurse manager for the
Infusion Center. “I know I can count
on him to not only transport the
patients and infusion medicine,
but also to step in and do
anything he can to make the
patient welcome and to help
on the unit.”
Mike gets his patients
coffee and checks to make
sure their rooms are ready.
He visits with them and
finds out how their families
are and follows up on
details of their lives that
he has made a point to
take an interest in. He
asks about their kids or
grandkids and remembers
what they like in their coffee.
The Infusion Center is open
seven days a week, 365 days a
year. Patients who need to be seen
never take a holiday. Sometimes
Mike doesn’t either. “Mike even
6

Lifestyles
came in and worked on Thanksgiving because he knew his patients
needed him,” Adams said. “If Christmas fell on one of his work days,
he would have been in here, too.”
Mike started at Stormont-Vail in 2006 as the shuttle bus driver for the
Transportation Department. When he took the position, he had come
out of retirement from a career that followed the path of mechanic,
service manager and construction worker. Retirement was not for him.
Customer service and helping people has been something that Mike
has enjoyed throughout his life, no matter what his profession was.
The Infusion Center was once an outpatient unit at the Cotton-
O’Neil Clinic at 901 Garfield. In March 2011, the unit was moved to
the hospital on 7-South to offer better service to the patients. When
the move occurred, Mike again went above and beyond and came in
on a Sunday to help move the unit so that it would be ready to start
seeing patients that next day. In September 2011, the unit moved
again to its current home in the Pavilion.
“The Infusion Center has seen many physical changes over the
past year or so, and Mike has been there to help his patients
transition,” said Adams.
When the unit lost its parking lot due to construction, Mike helped
his patients through the bump in the road and made the transition
as seamless as possible. Adams remembers Mike telling patients that,
wherever they were parked, they should flash their lights, and he
would come out and find them.
“Mike has been the best hire I ever had,” said Adams. “He is a
patient advocate, and he really cares how he does his job.”
At 73, Mike has no plans for slowing down. The people he serves are
his biggest satisfaction. And whatever he is doing seems to be noticed
by his patients as well. He has been nominated for four Above and
Beyond award recognitions from patients in the last four to five
months of 2011. Mike’s simple philosophy, his genuine love for his
patients, his energy and walking shoes have proven to take him
30,000 steps above The Golden Rule for Stormont-Vail patients.
–Linda Ruiz
* Source: www.thewalkingsite.com
ACS’s ‘Couture for Cancer’
features fashion and compassion
Fashion and home décor items from
world-renowned and local designers will
be featured at Topeka’s premier fashion
event in April – the American Cancer
Society’s Eighth Annual Couture for
Cancer, a shopping, social and charity
event. This year, Couture will be 4 p.m.
to 7 p.m., April 21, at the Topeka
Performing Arts Center (TPAC).
Couture for Cancer provides
women (and a few lucky men)
the opportunity to enjoy
designer fashion and
home décor from all
over the world as
well as local and
regional boutiques.
Attendees will
enjoy hors
d’oeuvres and
cocktails while shopping for clothes,
jewelry, handbags, home items, cosmetic
treatments, spa experiences and more.
Designers generously supporting past
Couture events include: Jenny Packham,
Katherine Kwei, Michael Kors, Robert
Graham and Rebecca Minkoff. Local
and regional retailers also continue to
support the event, including Boutique
Ten47, Gallery Classic, Porterfield’s and
RowHouse Restaurant. The Presenting
Runway sponsor is Stormont-Vail
HealthCare.
Reservations are
available for $75 per
lady. A limited number
of reserved seating
tickets are $100 each,
and special VIP seating
is $175 each. All attendees will receive a
“swag bag” full of fabulous items. “The
Man’s Table” reservations are also being
sold and include a man’s gift bag and
special amenities. Gentlemen’s tickets
are $500 each.
For more information, to purchase
tickets to this year’s Couture for Cancer
event or to volunteer in the fight against
cancer, please contact the American
Cancer Society at (785) 438-5607 or
email Stacie.Schroeder@cancer.org.
Information and online tickets for
the April 21 event can also be found
at www.topekacoutureforcancer.org.
For a sneak peek of the designer
fashions, handbags, jewelry and home
décor items that have been donated to
this year’s event, check out the Couture
for Cancer Facebook page.
7

family Lifestyles health
Eating healthy begins at home
Healthy eating habits begin at home, with mom and dad, and when a
child is taught healthy eating habits at an early age, it will stay with him
throughout his life. Consider these ideas to promote good nutrition in
the family:
• Keep an open mind and provide a variety of different foods from
each food group: whole grains, whole fruits, vegetables, lean protein
and low-fat dairy.
• Be a positive role model for your children: Prepare and eat a variety
of different foods. Try new fruits and vegetables often.
• Prepare a new recipe each week, featuring a new food item, such as
yams or mango. Children may not like a certain food the first time
you introduce it, but continue to offer it. They may accept it after
five or more times.
• Offer new foods at the beginning of meals or snacks when children
are hungry. Encourage them to try new foods in a matter-of-fact
manner rather than bribing or forcing. Before offering a new food,
discuss it. Talk about the color, texture, aroma, shape and size rather
than if it tastes bad or good. Be encouraging and provide a positive
and healthy food environment.
• Help children become accustomed to the same food
prepared in different ways and experiment together.
For instance, try vegetables raw, steamed, roasted
and grilled. You may be pleasantly surprised by
what your kids like or are willing to eat.
• Try not to let your food preferences influence
their choices. Listen to their ideas and be
open. As an example, I never knew what
asparagus tasted like until I was in college.
My mother did not like asparagus, so she
never prepared it while I was growing up.
• Read and discuss labels. Children whose
parents show them how to read nutrition
labels are more likely to read the
labels themselves and are less
likely to eat foods that have
little nutritional value. Kids
who have parents who
read nutrition labels
are also more likely
to participate in
sports. When
parents don’t
read labels or
buy junk food and de-emphasize nutrition, their children are
more likely to make the wrong food choices.
• Let your child help you plan and prepare meals. Cooking together
gives you a chance to discuss ingredients, their health benefits and
why they are important.
• Eat together as a family at mealtimes. When children eat meals
with their families, they are more likely to indulge in healthy
foods, such as fruits and vegetables, and avoid unhealthy snacks.
• Take your child with you grocery shopping. Show your child
different foods and explain the health benefits. If your child
sees you eating right and having fun choosing foods, he may
become interested in your choices and ask to try them.
• Avoid stopping at fast food restaurants. Planning ahead and
having quick, healthier options can help. For example, decide
on healthy snacks your child enjoys and put small servings in
sandwich bags within easy reach in your pantry.
• Remember the freezer: When you are in a hurry, frozen
ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables and meats, also can help you
to prepare a fast and nutritious meal. Use frozen vegetables or
meats in any recipe that calls for fresh or canned, such as
casseroles, soups, stir-fry, pasta or side dishes. Use
frozen fruits in pies, cobbler, sauces, salsas,
smoothies and hot or cold cereal. Frozen
vegetables are good to use year-round and
are especially handy and often on sale in
the winter months.
Canned and frozen food is usually
processed right after picking to preserve
as many nutrients as possible. The U.S.
Food and Drug Administration and the
International Food Information Council
report that nutrients in fruits and vegetables
are generally not lost during canning or
freezing, and that fresh, frozen or
canned versions of the same food
have relatively equivalent nutrient
profiles. Preparing meals with
frozen produce and following the
tips above are excellent ways to
get a wide variety of fruits and
vegetables into your family’s
diet and to help form overall
healthy eating habits for
your family for life.
–Melissa Moore, RD, LD
8

Chicken Taco Casserole
12 ounces chicken breast strips for stir-frying
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 medium onion, halved and thinly sliced
1 medium red or green pepper, seeded and chopped
1 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1-1/2 cups purchased salsa
4 6-inch corn tortillas, coarsely torn
3 ounces (3/4 cup) reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
1/2 of an avocado, pitted, peeled and chopped
Fresh cilantro leaves
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat an unheated large nonstick skillet
with cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat. In a
medium bowl, toss together chicken, garlic, and chili powder. Add to
hot skillet. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink,
stirring frequently. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
2. Pour oil into hot skillet. Add onion and sweet pepper. Cook over
medium heat about 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
Stir in spinach.
3. Coat a 2-quart square baking dish with cooking spray. Spread about
1/2 cup of the salsa into the bottom of the baking dish. Top with half
of the tortilla pieces, half of the chicken mixture, and half of the
vegetable mixture. Pour half of the remaining salsa over the
vegetables and top with half of the cheese. Repeat layers once, except
do not top with the remaining cheese.
4. Bake, covered, for 30 to 35 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle
with the remaining cheese. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with cherry tomatoes, chopped avocado and fresh cilantro.
Makes 6 servings.
Nutrition information per serving: 196 calories, 20 g protein, 15 g carbohydrate,
6 g fat, 43 mg cholesterol, 4 g fiber, 375 mg sodium
Asian Chicken and
Orange Lettuce Wraps
1/2 pound ground chicken or turkey
1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1-1/2 teaspoons ginger, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons brown sugar, packed
1-1/2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
7 drops red pepper sauce
2 oranges, washed, peeled, seeded and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
1 head iceberg lettuce, separated into lettuce cups
2 tablespoons Italian parsley leaves, chopped
1. In large skillet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, sauté chicken
over medium heat, crumbling and cooking until no longer pink.
Pour into dish, set aside.
2. Rinse out pan and spray with cooking spray. Sauté bell pepper,
onion, garlic and ginger for 2 minutes. Add meat to pan.
3. In small bowl, blend lemon juice, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame
oil, soy sauce and red pepper sauce.
4. Pour into pan and stir to coat chicken. Reduce heat and simmer,
stirring until sauce is absorbed, about 4 minutes.
5. Stir in orange pieces and parsley. Serve with lettuce cups.
Makes 4 servings.
Nutrition information per serving: 175 calories, 13 g protein, 21 g carbohydrate,
5 g fat, 33 mg cholesterol, 6 g fiber, 350 mg sodium
7

Medical News
Doctor’s orders
The benefits of clinical studies
Lambert Wu, M.D., FACP, FACC,
cardiologist, Cotton-O’Neil Heart Center,
929 S.W. Mulvane, Topeka, discusses the
importance of participating in clinical
studies and the benefits of clinical research
to health care.
Q. What are the benefits to research
volunteers when they are selected
to participate in a clinical study?
A. The Cotton-O’Neil Clinical Research
Lambert Wu, M.D., FACP, FACC Center has welcomed more than 3,000
people from our area into clinical studies
at Cotton-O’Neil Clinic. Each clinical study has guidelines, also known as
inclusion/exclusion criteria, about who can participate. Requiring participants
to qualify for certain studies allows for more reliable results from the research.
The benefits of volunteering for a clinical study differ from volunteer to
volunteer. But those who choose to participate in a clinical study are making
the conscious decision to be more active in their own health care. Other benefits
that patients have communicated include:
• Opportunities to gain access to new treatments that work to ease your
condition, which makes you one of the first to benefit.
• If you don’t gain access to new treatment, you may receive current standard of
care for your condition or gain the support of a team of health care providers,
who will likely monitor your health closely.
• The information gathered from your participation is important to the overall
results of the study – no matter the level of success you may feel about your
personal contribution.
“One of the best examples of how health care has benefited from clinical
research is in the area of cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Wu. Heart disease
remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. However, mortality rates for this
disease have declined greatly in all segments of the population due to clinical
studies that have successfully identified a list of risk factors for the disease. By
controlling such risk factors as hypertension, obesity, lack of exercise, smoking,
and high blood cholesterol through the use of drugs or behavioral changes,
there has been a decrease in the development and mortality of heart disease.
Additional clinical research has also opened the door to new and improved
diagnostic testing and treatment options.
“Procedures like cardiac catheterization, coronary artery bypass surgery,
balloon angioplasty, and clot-busting therapy have all originated through
clinical research studies,” added Dr. Wu.
Finding clinical studies in your area
Dr. Wu suggests the following websites to learn more about studies
going on in your area:
• www.clinicaltrials.gov
• http://clinicalresearch.nih.gov
• http://www.stormontvail.org/clinicalresearch/
clinicalmain.html
For more information about joining a clinical
study, call the Cotton-O’Neil Clinical
Research Center at (785) 368-0744.
–Tami Motley
10

family health
Chaplain witnesses
power of love in family
Laura (not her real name) didn’t ask for a chaplain. She’d been on
bed rest in The Birthplace for 10 days, so I went to see her. When
I introduced myself, I didn’t see signs of distress, even though the
computer indicated one of her twins was in trouble. She told me
her home church had her family on its prayer list, and
her pastor had made the two-hour journey to visit
her in the hospital. She guessed it wouldn’t hurt
to pray together. When I finished praying,
she burst into tears and confessed to me
she had prayed earlier in the day for God
to provide a sign to boost her faith; so
my visit seemed to her to be God’s
answer to her prayers.
I continued to visit this young
mother about every 10 days since
her pastor lived so far away. The
visits were short, but I was anxious
how her faith would be affected by
the outcome of the births. While
medical staff predicted Twin A
would either die in utero, or very
quickly after birth, Laura said she
expected God to work a miracle
and would use her family as a
witness to others.
On day 51 of her stay in the
hospital, I was the after-hours, on-call
chaplain. The nurse called me at 6:30
a.m. to tell me Laura was scheduled for
a C-section at 10 a.m. and had given
permission to ask me to visit her. The
nurse expressed concern for Laura still
expecting a “miracle.”
I went to Laura's room as soon as I arrived
at the hospital. She and the babies were
being monitored. With husband and
extended family around her, the mood was
light, expectant, happy. The family reported
their pastor was en-route to be with them
for the births, yet Laura asked for prayer.
Her husband laid his hand on her pregnant
belly, and I prayed with them for a miracle,
and for the ability to understand whatever
form the miracle might take. When we finished, I searched Laura’s
eyes, wondering if my prayer had been faithful to her belief. Before
I left, I told the family to call me if their pastor needed anything for
ministry and promised I would check with them later in the day.
As I was going to Laura’s room in the afternoon, her nurse stopped
me to tell me that Twin A had died. That’s when I began to perceive
the miracle. I saw it first in the immense compassion the nurse
had for Laura. As we talked, it became increasingly clear to me
that God had indeed worked a miracle. Twin A was born
severely deformed, though “beautiful” from her chest up.
Laura had been able to hold her in her arms until she died
two hours after delivery. Seven weeks premature, Twin B
was born nearly full-term size, and with only minor
breathing problems.
What a miracle came out of the faith of a mother who
determined not to give up on her babies and to love them
as long as they lived! A little over seven weeks in bed kept
both babies alive. And it might be said Twin A stayed alive
to give her brother more time in the womb and a better
chance of survival. The power of love in this family showed
me, indeed, how God can use even the most hopeless
circumstances to shine light into people’s lives.
Faith may be endangered when we presume
to dictate to God the form a miracle might take.
My concern for this family was their version of
“miracle” might be to leave the hospital with
two normal, healthy babies. But the miracle
– plural miracles, perhaps – I witnessed was
the power of love and faith that resulted
in a new mom meeting her daughter, a
heroine, who had partnered in love with
her to stay alive until birth, and to
protect life for her brother.
As for mom’s faith, God would use
their family to be witnesses to many.
I know I am second in line after
Laura’s nurse to see the mysterious
and awesome gifts God gives in
impossible situations.
–Janice L. Levering,
Stormont-Vail Chaplain
11

Calendar
march, april and may 2012
support & education groups
Depression and Bi-Polar Support Alliance
Sponsored in part by Behavioral Health Services at
Stormont-Vail West, meets at 6:30 p.m. on the third
Wednesday of the month at Valeo, 330 S.W. Oakley.
NAMI Connection Support Group
Weekly support group meets 6 to 8:15 p.m. each
Thursday through December in Pozez Education
Center.
Alzheimer’s Support Groups
The Alzheimer’s Association has three caregiver
support groups available as well as other support
services. Call Alzheimer’s Association at
(785) 271-1844 for days and times.
TrialNet Type 1 Diabetes Screening
Saturday, March 10 • 10 to 2 p.m. • Cotton-O'Neil
Diabetes and Endocrinology Center • 3520 S.W.
6th Ave., Topeka
The Cotton-O’Neil Clinical Research Center along with
the TrialNet Natural History Type 1 Diabetes Study is
making free screenings available for family members of
individuals with Type 1 diabetes. This screening event
will help researchers learn more about how Type 1
diabetes develops in “at risk” individuals. TrialNet is a
network of clinical trial centers dedicated to the study,
prevention and early treatment of Type 1 diabetes.
Those eligible to participate in the Natural History
Study must be: between the ages of 1 and 45 and have
a brother, sister, child or parent with Type 1 diabetes or be
between the ages of 1 and 20 and have a cousin, aunt,
uncle, niece, nephew, half-sibling or grandparent
with Type 1 diabetes. For more information, call
(785) 368-0434.
Topeka Celiac Support Group
The Topeka Celiac Support Group provides
information, support and knowledge of how to eat
safely to avoid gluten from grain-based proteins in
wheat, rye, barley and possibly oats. Meeting is
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, April 14 at
Pozez Education Center. For more information,
contact Sharon Larson, president, (785) 379-0479.
MOMS: Moms of Multiples Support Group
Support group for parents expecting or parenting
multiples. Monthly meetings on the fourth Thursday
of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. at Pozez Education
Center. For more information, call (785) 267-2955.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Group
First and third Thursdays of the month from 6 to 8
p.m. at Pozez Education Center. For information,
call (785) 354-5225. The Pregnancy and Infant
Loss Group, which has regular meetings to share
information and experiences, also has a blog for
members, which offers communication, resources and
support. If you are interested in learning more about
the blog, please email lrosen@stormontvail.org.
Topeka “HEALS” Support Group
A confidential peer support group that is also known
as Survivors of Suicide, “HEALS” stands for “Healing
After Loss by Suicide.” It is for those who have lost a
loved one by suicide. First and third Tuesdays of the
month in Pozez Education Center at 7 p.m. For more
information, call (785) 220-1368.
‘On the Road to Better Managing
Your Diabetes’ Class
This one-hour course is designed to be a refresher
class for those who have attended diabetes education
classes in the past. The class is offered on the first
Wednesday of every other month. Upcoming
classes are 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 7
and Wednesday, May 2 in the Diabetes Learning
Center classroom, lower level at 3520 S.W. Sixth
Ave. Your insurance will be billed for the cost of
attendance. Reservations: (785) 368-0416.
Living with Diabetes Support Group
Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Group meets at the
Cotton-O’Neil Diabetes and Endocrinology Center.
For more information on attending the support
group or classes, please call the Diabetes Learning
Center at (785) 368-0416.
Cancer Support Group
Meets Mondays at 11 a.m. in the library of the
Cotton-O’Neil Cancer Center, 1414 S.W. Eighth Ave.
For more information, call 1-800-354-0091.
Cancer Survivorship Education Sessions
Monthly educational session from noon to 1 p.m.
on the second Tuesday of each month at the
Cotton-O’Neil Cancer Center, 1414 S.W. Eighth Ave.
Bring your own lunch and get ready to learn. For
more information, call 1-800-354-0091.
Cancer Center Pet Therapy Program
Meets Wednesdays at 10 a.m. in the library of the
Cotton-O’Neil Cancer Center, 1414 S.W. Eighth Ave.
For more information, call 1-800-354-0091.
Art Therapy Class for Patients and
Families of the Cotton-O’Neil Cancer Center
Express yourself through art. No art skills needed.
Class meets 9:30 to 10:50 a.m. Wednesdays at
the cancer center. For more information, call
1-800-354-0091.
Tai Chi for Patients and Families
of the Cotton-O’Neil Cancer Center
Tai Chi Easy offers physical and mental benefits
no matter what your age or physical limitations.
Held at the Cotton-O’Neil Cancer Center. For more
information, call 1-800-354-0091.
Look Good Feel Better Educational Program
Program is offered at the Cotton-O’Neil Cancer
Center on a regular basis. For more information,
call 1-800-354-0091 or the American Cancer Society
at (785) 273-4422.
Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma
Support Group
Meets the fourth Tuesday of the month. For
information, call the Leukemia and Lymphoma
Society at (316) 266-4050 or 1-800-779-2417.
Stroke Support Group at KRH
A stroke support group is now meeting the first
Friday of each month at the Kansas Rehabilitation
Hospital. Meetings are 4 to 5 p.m. in the West Dining
Hall, first floor.
The support group is for patients and families
of those who have suffered a stroke. For more
information or to RSVP, call Mark Loretto at
(785) 235-6600, Ext. 571.
Post Polio Support Group
Meets quarterly at the Kansas Rehabilitation Hospital.
For more information, call (785) 232-8524.
Topeka Organ Transplant Organization
(TOTO) Support Group
A support group for transplant recipients, those
awaiting transplant, donor families and any family
members or friends who are involved or interested
12

calendar
in this subject. Group meets every other month, and
time and location vary. Contact Ginny Woods, RN,
at (785) 354-6417 or email ginnyw@stormontvail.org.
family education programs
To register for Family Education classes, call Health
Connections at (785) 354-5225.
And Baby Makes Four or More
(for children 5 and older)
March 14, April 25, May 16 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
• Pozez Education Center • $10 per family • Lori
Hamilton, occupational therapist
This class for potential siblings and their parents includes
a tour of The Birthplace, a video presentation and a
discussion of what to expect after the baby comes. The
special roles of big brother and big sister are explored.
Parents are able to address how they can help an older
child adjust to the new baby.
And Baby Makes Four or More
(for children ages 2 to 4)
March 7, April 18, May 9 • 6:30 to 8 p.m. • Pozez
Education Center • $10 per family • Lori Hamilton,
occupational therapist
This sibling preparation class includes a tour of The
Birthplace and provides structured activities to help
children verbalize their concerns and expectations about
when “the new baby comes.” This class is for children who
will soon be big brothers and big sisters, and their parents.
From Girl to Woman
Saturdays, March 10, April 14 and May 5 • 9 a.m.
to noon • Pozez Education Center • $25 mother/
daughter couple • Course pre-registration required •
Instructor: Libby Rosen, Ph.D., RN, associate professor
for pediatrics, Baker University School of Nursing
The time in a girl’s life between ages 8 and 12 is one of
dramatic physical and emotional changes. This program
for girls and their mothers will address menstruation and
other physical changes of puberty, the emotional upheaval
of adolescence, and communication techniques for mothers
and daughters.
From Boy to Man
Saturdays, March 10 and May 5 • 9 to 11:30 a.m. •
Pozez Education Center • $25/family • Course
pre-registration required • Instructor: Phillip Smetak,
RN, BSN
When we think of puberty and its changes, we usually
think of girls and the transition they make, but boys
experience puberty too. While usually starting later than
girls, the time in a boy’s life between the ages of 10 and
13 is filled with many physical and emotional changes.
These changes are exciting, but often puzzling, sometimes
embarrassing, and usually challenging to a young
adolescent. Join us for a discussion that will focus on the
physiological changes of puberty, the developmental tasks
of early adolescence and ways to improve communication
between boys and their parents. This class features time
for boys and parents together but also time for separate
facilitated discussion.
Parenting programs
To register for Parenting classes, call Health Connections
at (785) 354-5225 or online at stormontvail.org.
Welcome Baby
Sunday, March 11 and May 13 • 1:30 to 5 p.m. •
Pozez Education Center • $15 per family
This 3 -1/2 hour class will consist of updated information
for the whole family. Such topics include: an overview
of pregnancy with strategies to deal with common
discomforts, introduction to labor and birth, what to
expect, and choices and options during labor and delivery.
In addition, baby care tips, including car seat information,
a gift bag and community resources will be provided.
Finally, adjustment to parenthood and grandparenthood
will also be covered in this class. Mothers are welcome
to bring a family member or friend who provides support
during their pregnancy and beyond.
NEW - Preparing for Pregnancy:
A Pre-Pregnancy and Early Pregnancy Class
Pozez Education Center • Sunday, April 15 •
1:30 to 5:30 p.m. • $15 fee (payable at first class)
This class is designed to cover all early pregnancy-related
topics and gives you the opportunity to be proactive in
the process of your pregnancy and birth of your baby.
NEW - Dancing for Birth
6-week sessions, Thursdays, March 29 – May 3
or May 24 – June 28 • 6 to 7:30 p.m. • Pozez
Education Center • $50 for series or $15 for one
class (payable at first class)
This is a fun and exhilarating dance workout for prenatal
and postpartum women. Integrating several different styles
of world dance to prepare moms for the birth, by promoting
a more comfortable pregnancy, labor and birth. You will
gain strength and agility and become more at ease as you
prepare your body mentally and physically for your unique
labor, birth and mothering experience.
Childbirth Preparation I: For New Parents
Weekday evening and weekend classes available •
Please visit us online at stormontvail.org
for class dates and times • Pozez Education
Center • $60 (payable at first class)
Learn breathing and relaxation skills plus other pain control
measures. Included is information on late pregnancy, labor
and birth, early parenting experience and a tour of The
Birthplace. Classes are taught by experienced instructors and
are tailored to the adult learner with plenty of opportunity
for individuals and couples to explore their own personal
needs. Dress comfortably and bring two pillows.
Childbirth Preparation II: New and Review
A four-hour session • Please visit us online at
stormontvail.org for class dates • Saturdays,
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Pozez Education Center • $40
(payable at first class).
In this interactive class, you will learn and practice
different comfort measures, including positions and
movements to help you manage the discomforts of your
labor and birth. This is a great addition to a childbirth
class or as a refresher for those expecting again! Please
note: This class is NOT intended for first-time parents who
have not taken a previous childbirth class. A birthing ball
is provided for you to keep.
Natural Childbirth with Confidence
Six weekday evenings • 6:30 to 9 p.m. • Please visit
us online at stormontvail.org for class dates •
Pozez Education Center • $75 or $100 (price includes
Dancing for Birth TM series)
This class is designed for women and their support person
who would like an in-depth exploration of alternative ways
to deal with the pain of labor besides epidurals and IV
pain medications. The instructors, who have many years
of experience with laboring women will help participants
be aware of their strengths and abilities to cope with the
process of labor and the strategies that are effective for pain
control. There will be opportunities to examine potential
barriers to reaching individual goals and methods to
overcome those barriers. This class series is interactive and
uses videos, games and more to prepare you and help you
understand that birth is a normal, natural, and healthy
process! For an additional fee you may take this class and
Dancing for Birth TM .
eLearning Online Childbirth
Education Program
eLearning Online Childbirth Education Program is an
alternative for parents who cannot attend conventional
prenatal classes due to bed rest, scheduling conflicts
or time constraints. It is an interactive web-based
program that includes animated illustrations, videos and
voice-overs. It can be viewed on a PC or Mac. High-speed
internet is advised. Dial-up connections
will work but may have longer download times.
Upon registration, we will send you a code to access the
class. Once you log in with the code, you have six weeks
to complete the information at your own pace. The fee
also includes a tour of The Birthplace. Visit us at
stormontvail.org to register.
(Continued on page 16)
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calendar
HealthWise 55 Programs
for March, April and May 2012
HealthWise 55 is an organization sponsored by
Stormont-Vail HealthCare for those 55 years of age and
older who want to stay current on health information
and health resources. Membership is free.
For information about joining HealthWise 55 or about
services or programs, call (785) 354-6787 or stop by the
HealthWise 55 office at 2252 S.W. 10th (corner of 10th
& Plass).
The cost for Senior Suppers and Lunch Bunch is $5.
To help us have a more accurate count for meals,
please call in reservations as well as cancellations by
the Friday before each program. We understand this
is not always possible. Thank you for your consideration.
Where Healing Begins
Koffee Klatch • Aldersgate • Thursday, March 1 • 9:30
to 10:30 a.m. • Julie Harrison, RN, BSN, master’s Health
Care Leadership, Cotton-O’Neil WoundCare Center •
Free • Reservations: (785) 354-6787
Get Back to Living: After a Hospital Stay
Lunch Bunch • Thornton Place • Monday, March 5
• 12:30 to 2 p.m. • Amy Kincade, BS, RN, MBA,
administrative director of Continuum of Care, and
Jennifer Dunham, PharmD., coordinator of Medication
Safety and Pharmacy Informatics, Stormont-Vail
HealthCare • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Where Healing Begins
Lunch Bunch: Presbyterian Manor • Thursday,
March 8 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Julie Harrison,
RN, BSN, master’s Health Care Leadership, Cotton-O’Neil
WoundCare Center • $5 • Reservations:
(785) 354-6787.
Thyroid Gland: Function and Disease
Senior Supper • Pozez Education Center • Tuesday,
March 13 • 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. • Alan Wynne, M.D.,
FACP, endocrinologist, Cotton-O’Neil Diabetes and
Endocrinology Center • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Get Back to Living: After a Hospital Stay
Dessert and Coffee • Drury Place • Wednesday,
March 14 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Amy Kincade, BS, RN, MBA,
administrative director of Continuum of Care, and
Jennifer Dunham, PharmD., coordinator of Medication
Safety and Pharmacy Informatics, Stormont-Vail
HealthCare • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Get Back to Living: After a Hospital Stay
Dessert and Coffee • Lexington Park Independent Living
• Monday, March 19 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Amy Kincade,
BS, RN, MBA, administrative director of Continuum of
Care, and Jennifer Dunham, PharmD., coordinator of
Medication Safety and Pharmacy Informatics, Stormont-
Vail HealthCare • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Clinical Trials: Advancing Medicine
for Tomorrow’s Patients
Lunch Bunch • Brewster Place Main Building • Tuesday,
March 20 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Matthew Herynk,
Ph.D., oncology research and program development
manager, Cotton-O’Neil Cancer Center • $5 •
Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Diabetes: Medication Treatment
Dessert and Coffee • First Apartments • Monday,
March 26 • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Jenny Cole, PharmD.,
CGP, Stormont-Vail HealthCare • Free • Reservations:
(785) 354-6787.
Get Back to Living: After a Hospital Stay
Dessert and Coffee • McCrite • Tuesday, March 27 •
2 to 3 p.m. • Amy Kincade, BS, RN, MBA, administrative
director of Continuum of Care, and Jennifer Dunham,
PharmD., coordinator of Medication Safety and
Pharmacy Informatics, Stormont-Vail HealthCare •
Free • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Get Back to Living: After a Hospital Stay
Lunch Bunch • Atria Hearthstone • Wednesday,
March 28 • Noon to 1 p.m. • Amy Kincade, BS, RN,
MBA, administrative director of Continuum of Care, and
Jennifer Dunham, PharmD., coordinator of Medication
Safety and Pharmacy Informatics, Stormont-Vail
HealthCare • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Where Healing Begins
Lunch Bunch • Thornton Place • Monday, April 2 •
12:30 to 2 p.m. • Julie Harrison, RN, BSN, Masters/Health
Care Leadership, Cotton O’Neil WoundCare Center • $5 •
Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
A RoadWise Review
Senior Supper • Pozez Education Center • Tuesday,
April 3 • 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. • Jim Hanni, executive
vice president, Public Affairs, AAA Allied Group • $5
• Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
A RoadWise Review
Koffee Klatch •Aldersgate • Thursday, April 5 • 9:30
to 10:30 a.m. • Jim Hanni, executive vice president,
Public Affairs, AAA Allied Group • Free • Reservations:
(785) 354-6787.
Diabetes: Medication Treatment
Dessert and Coffee • Drury Place • Wednesday, April 11
• 2 to 3 p.m. • Jenny Cole, PharmD, CGP, Stormont-Vail
HealthCare • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Get Back to Living: After a Hospital Stay
Lunch Bunch • Presbyterian Manor • Thursday,
April 12 • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Amy Kincade,
BS, RN, MBA, administrative director of Continuum of
Care, and Jennifer Dunham, PharmD., coordinator of
Medication Safety and Pharmacy Informatics, Stormont-
Vail HealthCare • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Where Healing Begins
Dessert and Coffee • Lexington Park Independent Living
• Monday, April 16 • 2 to 3 p.m. • Julie Harrison, RN,
BSN, Masters/Health Care Leadership, Cotton-O’Neil
WoundCare Center • $5 • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
A RoadWise Review
Lunch Bunch • Brewster Place • Tuesday, April 17
• 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Jim Hanni, executive
vice president, Public Affairs, AAA Allied Group •
$5 • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Get Back to Living: After a Hospital Stay
Doughnuts and Coffee • First Apartments • Monday,
April 23 • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Amy Kincade, BS, RN,
MBA, administrative director of Continuum of Care and
Spring 2012 Vol. 9, No. 2
Healthy Times is a local, community newsletter,
providing information on health care concerns, issues
and interests for you and those you love. Published
quarterly by Stormont-Vail HealthCare, 1500 S.W. 10th
Ave., Topeka, KS 66604-1353, stormontvail.org
Editor: Anita Miller Fry
Advisers/Contributors:
Cindy Baird, ARNP
Melissa Moore, R.D., L.D.
Jennifer Tinajero
Nancy Burkhardt
Tami Motley
Carol L. Wheeler, RN, BSN, FACHE
Yvonne Etzel
Linda Ruiz
Connie Wood, RN
Lenora Kinzie, MLS
Design: jones huyett Partners
To receive your free subscription to
Healthy Times, call (785) 354-5225.
14

calendar
Jennifer Dunham, PharmD., coordinator of Medication
Safety and Pharmacy Informatics, Stormont-Vail
HealthCare • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Diabetes: Medication Treatment
Dessert and Coffee • McCrite • Tuesday, April 24 •
2 to 3 p.m. • Jenny Cole, PhD, CGP, Stormont-Vail
HealthCare • Free • Reservations: (785) 354-67877.
Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements:
What Should I Take?
Lunch Bunch • Atria Hearthstone • Wednesday,
April 25 • Noon to 1 p.m. • Katie Burenheide,
PharmD., Stormont-Vail HealthCare • $5 •
Reservations: (785) 354-6787.
Celebrate Older Americans Month
Bingo
Moose Lodge, 1901 N. Kansas Ave. • Monday, May 7
• 1:30 to 3 p.m. • Free • Sponsored by Women of the
Moose • Popcorn and drinks furnished.
T-Town lV, Barbershop Quartet
Senior Supper • Pozez Education Center • Tuesday,
May 8 • 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. • Rick Kready, Don Kready,
Don Suffron, and Guy Anderson • $5 • Reservations:
(785) 354-6787.
CarFit Checks
This national education program helps mature drivers stay
safe on the road. There will be a checklist of items to review
comfort and safety in your vehicle. Recommendations may
be given, but no changes will be made to your car. Simple
solutions like learning safety features of your car or acquiring
adaptive devices that may help you be more comfortable
as you drive may be suggested. CarFit Checks, which take
approximately 20 to 30 minutes, are scheduled in the
parking lots of the following participants:
• Thursday, May 3, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Southwest YMCA, 3635 S.W. Chelsea
• Thursday, May 17, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Kuehne-Thomas North YMCA, 1936 N.W. Tyler
• Monday, May 21, 9 a.m. to noon
Grace Episcopal Cathedral, 701 S.W. Eighth Ave.
Reservations: (785) 354-6787. Sponsors are AAA,
Aldersgate Village, Stormont-Vail Rehabilitation Department
and Trauma Services, and AARP.
healthwise 55 clinics
Blood Pressure Clinics
Free • No appointment necessary • Call (785) 354-6787
for more information.
• Every Tuesday • 10 a.m. to noon • HealthWise 55
Resource Center
• First Thursday • 9 to 10:30 a.m. • West Ridge Mall
(Entrance of Panda Restaurant)
• Second Thursday • 9:30 to 11 a.m. • Southwest YMCA
• Third Thursday • 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. • Oakland
Community Center, 801 N.E. Poplar
• Third Thursday • 9 to 10 a.m. • Rose Hill Place,
37th and Gage
• Fourth Thursday • 9 to 10:30 a.m. • North YMCA
SHICK Insurance Counseling • For any questions
concerning Medicare, Supplemental, Long-Term
Care Insurance or the Medicare Prescription Card •
HealthWise 55 Resource Center • Free • Call
(785) 354-6787 for times and appointment.
Medication Clinics • Thursdays, March 15, April 19
and May 17 • Bring questions about your medications
(prescriptions or over the counter) • 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
• HealthWise 55 Resource Center • Free • Call
(785) 354-6787 for an appointment.
Nutrition Clinics • Thursdays, March 22, April 26
and May 17 • 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. • HealthWise 55
Resource Center • Free • Call (785) 354-6787 for an
appointment.
AARP driving program
AARP Driver Safety Programs • Tuesday and
Wednesday, March 20 and 21 • Monday and Tuesday,
April 2 and 3 • Monday and Tuesday, May 21 and
22 • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Pozez Education Center • $12
per person for AARP members, $14 per person for nonmembers
of AARP • (Must bring your AARP membership
card at time of registration. Bring your HealthWise 55
membership card for a discount in the Food Connection
if you plan to eat lunch at Stormont-Vail) • Registration:
(785) 354-5225.
healthwise 55 exercise
Exercise Programs Available to
HealthWise 55 Members
• HealthWise 55 exercise group meets in the Fitness
Center at Pozez Education Center. The class meets
every Tuesday and Thursday, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Included
in the schedule: Chair Aerobics, Strength Training,
Balance and Flexibility. Cost is $25 for 20 classes.
• YMCA Exercise Programs, with special rates for
HealthWise 55 members.
• YWCA Exercise Programs, with special rates for
HealthWise 55 members.
• Kansas Rehabilitation Hospital offers aquatic exercise
classes, Wavemakers and Tai Chi.
• Kansas Department of Health and Environment,
“Walk with Ease” Program. Free.
Call HealthWise 55 at (785) 354-6787 to have a packet of
more detailed information regarding these exercise programs
mailed to you.
healthwise 55 on tv
Watch the following HealthWise television programs
available on Cox Cable channel 11, MyTV, the sister
channel of WIBW-TV. MyTV is also on cable channel
12 in Manhattan and Junction City and on channel
13.2 with an off-air antenna.
HealthWise After 55
“HealthWise After 55” airs from 11 to 11:30 a.m. on
the first and third Saturdays of each month. It offers
interviews on health topics of interest to seniors as
well as the 20-minute exercise segment. Sponsors are
AAA Travel and Insurance, Aldersgate Village and Kansas
Rehabilitation Hospital.
for Family Caregivers
“for Family Caregivers” airs the second and fourth
Saturdays of each month from 11 to 11:30 a.m. The
show highlights information for people who are
providing caregiving services to loved ones. Sponsors
are Brewster Place, Caregivers Home Health Care and
Jayhawk Patient Supply.
HealthWise 55 Notes
Senior Suppers Parking Information
For those attending Senior Suppers there is an
alternative to parking in the Stormont-Vail parking
garage. Atria Hearthstone is offering transportation
from the parking area of Grace Episcopal Cathedral
(west side of parking area) to Pozez Education
Center and back again. The bus will be at the
parking area at 4:50 p.m. and leave at 5 p.m. You
will be transported to the front entrance of Pozez.
At the end of Senior Suppers, you will be driven
back to your car. When you make your Senior
Supper reservations, please let us know you want
to ride the bus so we will not leave you behind.
15

1500 S.W. 10th Ave. • Topeka, KS 66604
stormontvail.org
NONPROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
TOPEKA, KS
PERMIT NO. 85
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calendar
Parenting Programs (continued from page 13)
Childbirth Preparation I:
For Parents Having Cesarean Sections
Please visit us online at stormontvail.org
for dates and times. • $30 (payable at first class)
Whether this is your first cesarean section or you are
having a repeat cesarean section, your delivery is an
event for which we would like to help you prepare.
You will find out what to expect from admission to
dismissal. We will watch films, show slides, have
open discussion, practice breathing and relaxation
techniques, and tour The Birthplace.
Childbirth Preparation I:
For Teens or Young Adults
Five-week series • Please visit us online at
stormontvail.org for dates and times •
Free • (certain restrictions apply)
Classes are designed for teens, young adults and
their support people. Included are discussions about
pregnancy, labor and parenting, and ways to cope and
deal with labor. Information to assist new parents in
caring for and enriching their baby’s early years plus a
tour of The Birthplace is provided. Dress comfortably.
Breastfeeding Basics
First Monday of each month (except for holidays)
• March 5, April 2, and May 7 • 6:30 to
8:30 p.m. • Pozez Education Center • $10
This informal introduction to breastfeeding provides
pregnant women and their families an opportunity to
learn all they need to know about breastfeeding before
their babies are born. Classes are designed to help
families prepare for their breastfeeding experience by
providing information on how breastfeeding works,
how to get started, problems that may arise and how
to incorporate breastfeeding and working.
Pumping for Your Baby
Every Tuesday • 1 p.m. • Breastfeeding Clinic,
Stormont-Vail Regional Health Center • Free
Designed for women planning to work outside of the
home or for those who are breastfeeding but want the
flexibility to be away from their baby at times. Class
provides information and options for expressing milk
from the breast, breast pumps and how to choose one,
pumping techniques, milk storage and maintaining
adequate milk production. Babies welcome.
Pre-registration not required.