Welcome to Sheridan Memorial Hospital
1401 West 5th St. Sheridan, WY — 307.672.1000
News and Community
The Women’s Health maternity classes will be conducted online via Zoom through a HIPAA secure account during April and May. The classes will still be conducted on the 1st (prenatal) and 3rd (breastfeeding) Mondays of each month from 6 pm – 8 pm unless patients are notified otherwise by the instructor.
Patients must sign-up by calling the Women’s Clinic at 307-672-2522 or by calling Women’s Health at 307-672-1110. Upon sign-up patients will be asked to provide their email address in addition to their phone number and they will also need to create a free online Zoom account if they do not already have one. After sign-up patients will be contacted by the instructor for further Zoom meeting instructions.
Sheridan Needs You. Help Us Save Lives
Sheridan Memorial Hospital (SMH) is seeking emergency healthcare volunteers to help with our COVID-19 response. We have seen hospitals around the country, and the world, experience patient surges exceeding normal capacities. We expect a similar surge in Sheridan County within three weeks and are assembling a pool of volunteers to join our team and work alongside our dedicated, hardworking, highly trained staff to provide skilled, compassionate care for our community.
We are looking for healthcare professionals including active, student, or inactive/retired physicians, advanced practice clinicians (physician assistants and nurse practitioners), Respiratory Therapists, RNs, LPNs, CNAs, paramedics, EMTs, mental health professionals, social workers, medical technicians and therapists, and people with experience as health aides or in medical offices. We are also very interested in hearing from all other health professionals.
If you are interested in helping us deliver care to Sheridan County in this challenging time, please click here to access the initial application form. We will process responses and get back to you with information on the next steps as quickly as we can—typically within three days.
Meanwhile, and for all Wyomingites, the most helpful thing you can do is stay at home and follow the guidance set out by the Wyoming Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control. It is especially important to stay home when sick, limit contact with others as much as possible, maintain 6-ft of distance from others when possible, wash your hands thoroughly and often, and disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently. The more Wyomingites follow these guidelines, the easier our job will be—fewer people will get sick, need hospitalization, or risk death. If you have symptoms, call the hospital’s dedicated phone number (307) 672-1004. For more information about COVID-19 or other ways you can help the hospital during this time, please visit our Novel Coronavirus information page here.
We look forward to receiving your volunteer intake form.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital (SMH) continues to be diligent in ensuring the hospital is fully resourced to take care of the community. The community has reached out in unprecedented ways to offer their help.
“We have received offers from all across the community,” said Mike McCafferty, CEO. “It really is humbling and exciting to see our community come together to take care of one another.”
One of the ways SMH is looking for community help is in production of homemade facemasks and other personal protective equipment (PPE). Because of the COVID-19 outbreak, there is a nationwide shortage of PPE. The community can play a part in helping SMH conserve PPE by donating items beginning Monday, March 30.
“We have seen other hospitals and communities doing this, specifically with homemade facemasks, and we can use these masks for patients to take home with them for additional protection,” Said Dr. John Addlesperger, Chief Medical Officer. “This will help us conserve masks for staff and those patients admitted to the hospital.”
While asking community members to exercise social distancing, SMH has set up a process and drop off location to keep everyone safe.
Drop Off Location
Sheridan Memorial Hospital Downtown Location
61 S. Gould Street – Works Street side of the building (Community Conference Room Door)
Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
A phone number will be listed on signs and Conference Room doors upon arrival to reach SMH staff.
Once contacted, SMH staff will come out to your car for pick-up of the masks.
Details about making and delivering fabric masks
- The pattern and video is the same as being used
in other communities
- Use tightly-wove cotton fabric on both sides, with different fabrics on each side so it is easy to differentiate the inside and outside if removed.
- Collected masks will be washed and sent to SMH Quality Control to be prepared for immediate distribution.
- While we appreciate all contributions, there will be no items accepted on Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Main Campus to ensure safety of all community members, patients, and staff.
Organizations wanting to donate other brand new PPE such as N95 masks, gowns, nitrile gloves, Tyvek coveralls, goggles, or other eye protection, please feel free to reach out to our Supply team to coordinate these drop-offs at purchasing@sheridanhospital.org.
Other types of PPE may be needed in the coming weeks. If community members would like to be contacted directly, please call the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation at (307) 675-2620 or email jasmineslater@sheridanhospital.org to be added to the list.
How to Make a Face Mask — NOTE: We have found that some masks need to be larger than previous instructions — 4/13/2020 – New sizes below
What you will need:
- Cotton fabric, a colorful print is best.
- Rope Elastic, beading cord elastic will work (you may also us 1/8” flat elastic)
- 4/13/202 Update: Cut the elastic 8 1/2” long and tie a knot at each end (DO NOT knot the ends of the flat)
- Can’t find elastic? If you can’t find elastic to make the ear loops, you can make a mask with fabric ties instead. You can use ready-made 1/4″ twill tape or cut long strips of the same tightly woven cotton fabric you are using for the rest of the mask. Whichever option you choose, you’ll want to cut 4 pieces about 18″ long, and attach one strip to each of the corners.
Be sure any fabric design is placed horizontally:
- Put right sides of cotton fabric together
o 4/13/2020 update — please cut 10″ x 6″ pieces of fabric
- Starting at the center of the bottom edge, sew to the first corner, stop. Sew the elastic with the edge out into the corner. A few stitches forward and back will hold this.
- Sew to the next corner, stop, and bring the other end of the same elastic to the corner and sew a few stitches forward and back.
- Now sew across that top of the mask to the next corner. Again put an elastic with the edge out.
- Sew to the next corner and sew in the other end of the same elastic.
- Sew across the bottom leaving about 1.5” to 2” open. Stop, cut the thread. Turn inside out.
- Pin 3 tucks on each side of the mask. Make sure the tucks are the same direction
- Sew around the edge of the mask twice.
Instructional YouTube Video: How to Make a Surgical Face Mask
A heartfelt, THANK YOU to our Human Resources department. Healthcare Human Resources Week–the third week of March–is designated to recognize human resources professionals in healthcare organizations for their important role. We salute our HR department for the many ways they care for our employees so they can keep taking care of you!
March is National Nutrition Month and a great opportunity to recognize our incredible Registered Dietician Nutritionists at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Our RNDs are experts in food and nutrition and are qualified to support a variety of patient needs including meal planning, nutritional counseling, assessments, progress tracking and much more. To learn about the common reasons to consult an RND, check out the link below:
If you’re interested in seeking the expert, science-based advice of our RNDs, contact your primary physician for a referral today.
On March 11th we celebrated Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day and we were able to learn some fun facts about each of our RNDs. Get to know them below!
Jordan McCoy MS, RDN, LD (Outpatient/Dialysis Dietitian)
Q: Favorite way to spend a Saturday afternoon?
A: Fly fishing on either the Big Horn River (MT or Thermopolis) or the North Platte with Trinity, my
Boyfriend.
Q: What was the last thing you took a photo of?
A: A rainbow trout at the North Platte in Casper.
Q: Does pineapple belong on pizza?
A: Of course….as long as there is lots of cheese to go with it.
Q: Favorite pie?
A: No pie, only cake!
Q: Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall?
A: OHHH hard to pick! How about SUMMALL a mix of Summer and Fall.
Q: Morning person or night person?
A: Morning! Bring on 4 a.m.
Megan Sexton MS, RDN, LD (Clinical Dietitian)
Q: Favorite way to spend a Saturday afternoon?
A: Hiking in the Big Horns with my two fur-babies.
Q: What was the last thing you took a photo of?
A: The walk-in shower we just remodeled ourselves.
Q: Does pineapple belong on pizza?
A: Absolutely not! No warm fruit for me.
Q: Favorite pie?
A: Doesn’t really matter, I’m in it for the crust.
Q: Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall?
A: Fall for all the hiking, fishing, hunting, and crisp air I can get.
Q: Morning person or night person?
A: Morning, my bedtime keeps getting earlier.
Sarah Sommers RDN, CDE, LD (Outpatient Dietitian/Diabetes Education Coordinator)
Q: Favorite way to spend a Saturday afternoon?
A: Cross country skiing in the Winter or canoeing the Tongue River in the Summer.
Q: What was the last thing you took a photo of?
A: A snow-covered landscape with the Bighorns in the background.
Q: Does pineapple belong on pizza?
A: The more veggies on the pizza the better…but I don’t want fruit on my pizza.
Q: Favorite pie?
A: Do brownies count?
Q: Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall?
A: Definitely Winter – I love the crisp cool mornings and the snow! But ask me in the Fall and I might say then too.
Q: Morning person or night person?
A: Morning without a doubt.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital is very proud of our RNDs and the amazing work that they do to provide our community with excellent patient-centered care.
By Cassie Mullins, RN Cardiopulmonary Rehab Supervisor at Sheridan Memorial Hospital
In Sheridan, we are lucky to have many services to support heart health, from the cardiology team at the Heart Center, to our Cardiac Catheterization Lab and state of the art ICU at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. After having a heart attack, being diagnosed with heart failure, or after a heart procedure like a coronary artery bypass, coronary stent placement, or valve replacement, Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s nationally accredited Cardiopulmonary Rehab program provides support to help you recover.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds in the United States, and heart failure was a contributing cause of 1 in 8 deaths in 2017. After a major cardiac event, many are scared or uncertain of what to do to get themselves back on track. This fear and uncertainly can come from both being told something went wrong with your heart and from trying to learn a whole new set of “rules” to follow. New foods, new medications, new appointments, and new recommendations regarding physical activity can lead some to feel overwhelmed and underprepared for living a healthy life as a heart disease survivor.
Cardiac rehab plays a huge role in reducing the potentially devastating effects of heart disease. It is here that patients are given guidance and structure to help develop the necessary skills to face their new reality.
In cardiac rehab patients see other people like themselves exercising, socializing, and learning how to manage their heart disease with help from nurses, pharmacists, and dietitians. The foundation of cardiac rehab is physical activity. We monitor your heart rate and rhythm with a heart monitor that you wear during exercise, and check your vital signs before, during and after exercise. This information ensures that staff has the ability to see how your heart is reacting to physical activity in real-time. We work with patients to encourage a slow and safe increase in physical activity. In addition to exercise, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Cardiac Rehab program we also provide education on cardiac disease, exercise safety, a heart-healthy diet, stress management, and medications.
Cardiac rehabilitation is recommended by the American Heart Association and covered by Medicare and many insurance companies. Studies have shown that participating in cardiac rehab substantially reduces the risk of death for individuals who have received a qualifying diagnosis or cardiac procedure. People who attend cardiac rehab programs live longer, are less likely to have a heart attack, and are less likely to be hospitalized. Yet most eligible patients don’t participate at all, let alone complete the recommended number of sessions.
Cardiac rehab has three phases. The first phase is the time immediately after a heart attack or procedure. The second phase is the monitored exercise phase. During this time your doctor can order 18, 24, or 36 closely monitored exercise sessions for you to complete. We encourage our patients to work up to exercising 3 times a week with us. After graduating from the second phase, we encourage our patients to continue to exercise! During the third phase, we provide the opportunity for our patients to continue exercising in our gym with less monitoring. The ultimate goal is for our patients to feel safe and confident participating in whatever kind of exercise they enjoy doing, whether that is in a cardiac rehab setting, at home, or in the community.
If you have had a heart attack, heart failure, or a heart procedure, ask your doctor if you could be eligible to be enrolled in cardiac rehab. For more information call Cardiopulmonary Rehab at Sheridan Memorial Hospital (307) 672-1062.
By Megan Sexton, RND
Which came first: the junk food or the memory decline? This question is being investigated currently by researchers and has revealed a strong correlation between a diet high in sugar and saturated fat with decreased memory function. The mounting evidence points to the significant impact a Western pattern diet likely has on the neurocognitive functions of our hippocampus (a small region in the brain). Our hippocampus is thought to be the control center that regulates motivation, emotion, learning, and memory. Bottom line: as saturated fat and sugar increase presence in a person’s diet, memory function declines.
The term Western pattern diet has been used interchangeably with the standard American diet and is defined as a high intake of red meat, processed meat, pre-packed foods, fried foods, high-fat dairy, refined grains, high-fructose corn syrup, and high-sugar beverages. Additionally, as these food-types increase, the amount of whole fruits, vegetables, fish, legumes and whole grains consumed decreases. Consuming a standard American diet carries other proven complications such as the increased risk for diabetes, heart disease, stroke, constipation, and weight gain. In other words, the evidence for people of all ages to move away from a standard American diet is very compelling and has been long-standing. But the rapidly growing evidence for the negative impacts of an American diet on memory function should make older adults prioritize evaluating their personal diet.
When I ask older adults why they depend on pre-packaged foods, fast-foods, and convenience foods for the majority of food choices, several explanations emerge. The decrease in energy and mobility, flavor and texture changes, dental issues, income restraints, and emotional life events (such as moving homes or loss of partner/loved-one) are the most common reasons. While these are valid reasons to seek out ways to ease the burden of food choice, we can’t ignore the probable impact these foods are having on memory decline.
There are several ideas that can be implemented to help consume high-quality foods for older adults. Sheridan has wonderful resources in Meals-on-Wheels and Designing Dinners that offer homemade meals that can be brought home for reheating. Grocery discount days, grocery delivery and a variety of grocery price-points all help to alleviate some of the cost burdens. I also encourage older adults to think outside of the box; quality food items don’t have to be combined into a whole meal to be beneficial. Having nutritious foods that require minimal assembly can make up the bulk of your calorie intake. Foods such as eggs, packaged tuna or salmon, low-fat cottage cheese, low-fat cheese sticks, low-fat Greek yogurt, hummus, nut butters without added sugar, mixed nuts, microwaveable frozen vegetables, low-sodium canned beans, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, whole-grain bread, microwaveable brown rice, and more.
The social and emotional aspects of mealtimes need to be addressed as well. Older adults have experienced significant changes to where and with whom they dine, and when these changes happen, the effort of grocery shopping, meal planning, and meal preparation can often be extremely daunting. My suggestion: don’t force old habits. Instead, attempt to establish new routines, keep nutritious snacks nearby and keep yourself on a schedule that includes sleep, activity, socialization, and eating. It can be helpful to reach out to various friends/family for reoccurring group meals, attending a community lunch, or rethinking the size and frequency of your in-home meals.
The aging process is difficult for numerous reasons, and to this point, I think we ought to arm ourselves with as much research-based knowledge as possible. While the research is concerning for the standard American diet and memory decline, it also informs us of some nutrition habits that can directly be addressed. Use the resources in our community and in your personal life to decrease the saturated fat and sugar you consume, by reducing the amount of pre-packaged foods, fast-foods, and convenience foods. Your brain will thank you.
Sara Smith Maguire, M.D. FACS
It may not be the most glamorous subject, but talking about colorectal cancer saves lives. Among cancers affecting both men and women, it is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the US. Unlike many cancers, we have effective tools to help decrease the development of colorectal cancer and identify its presence at an earlier stage.
The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age, with more than 90% of the cases we see being diagnosed in people age 50 or older. There are many factors that are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Some of these risk factors are related to lifestyle choices and are therefore modifiable. Maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, not using tobacco, avoiding heavy alcohol intake and eating a balanced diet that limits intake of red or processed meat can all help decrease your risk. Some risk factors can’t be changed; these include increasing age, a family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases and belonging to certain ethnic groups.
Colorectal cancer may cause symptoms as it grows. These symptoms include seeing blood in or on your stool, unintentional weight loss, a change in bowel habits and weakness or fatigue caused by a low blood count.
Screening is the practice of looking for cancer or pre-cancer in individuals without symptoms. Screening is incredibly effective when it comes to colorectal cancer because, from the time the first abnormal cells start to develop, it takes on average 10-15 years for those cells to become cancer. Screening is one of our most effective tools for preventing colorectal cancer because it allows us to identify precancerous polyps and identify small cancers that aren’t yet big enough to produce symptoms.
There are several screening tools for colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy which allows us to both find polyps and remove them. Talking to your doctor about your risk factors can help identify the most effective and appropriate screening test for you. In general, screening is recommended between the ages of 50 and 75, though there are reasons to start earlier or stop later for some people. Every year, about 140,000 people in the US will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 50,000 people will die from it. Our best tool to decrease both of these numbers is screening. Talk to your doctor today.
Why do we celebrate Doctor’s Day each year? Learn more about celebrating Doctors in our community and how you can contribute a message of thanks from the comforts of your own home.
National Doctors’ Day falls every year on March 30, and it is our time to say thank you for the passion, dedication, commitment, and excellent healthcare doctors offer to our community. It is a day to celebrate the contribution of physicians who serve our country by caring for its’ citizens in all areas of medicine.
Living in a rural community, we are lucky to have doctors who will work tirelessly better themselves to ensure patients receive medical excellence – right here at home. From the certifications, they continue to renew and receive; to the advancements in medicine and technology, our Doctor’s study and practice, their profession demands constant innovation to better the lives of one’s patients.
This Doctor’s Day, share a Thank You with your Doctor as they keep our community safe and healthy. Be it a smile at your next appointment or comment here, let the Medical Staff of Sheridan Memorial Hospital and this community know that we appreciate their hard work and dedication.
Future Business Leaders of America have been busy this year with countless projects and efforts as they prepare for careers in business through their efforts in academic competitions, leadership development, and educational programs. The Sheridan High School Chapter members have taken it upon themselves to work towards bettering the community they live in through their philanthropic efforts throughout Sheridan.
Last fall, the group sold Breast Cancer Awareness T-Shirts for the 11th year, to raise funds for The Welch Cancer Center at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. In November, FBLA organized fundraising efforts to collect change within homeroom classes and contribute funds to the Pediatric Unit at your community hospital.
This year, these driven students raised $2,000 for the Welch Cancer Center and an additional $2,000 for Pediatrics to donate to The Foundation and these respective departments! The donations are already being put to work at Welch Cancer Center in the areas of Comfort Care, Screening and Prevention. The Pediatric Funds immediately helped the pediatric unit purchase “toddler” cars to ease children’s anxiety during the travels of their hospital stay, as well as, purchasing the supplies to revamp the Pediatric Department with fun and welcoming murals for our tiny patients.
At the game to accept FBLA’s generous donation on behalf of the Sheridan Memorial Hospital and The Foundation were Tommi Ritterbusch – Welch Cancer Center Manager, Nina Beach – Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner, Tandie Garland – Women’s Health and Pediatrics Manager, Cody Sinclair – Chief Development Officer, and Rochelle Pratte – Women’s Health & Pediatric Nurse.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital is grateful for the student’s dedication to increasing contributions in both areas this past year. Thank You to Sharon Deutscher and her outstanding FBLA students. Your hard work and philanthropic efforts truly exemplify leadership and what it means to contribute to our community, at any age.
February is American Heart Month and there’s no better time to learn about women’s heart health. Heart Disease is the number one killer of women causing more deaths than cancer, including breast cancer. Heart Disease is on the rise in Wyoming and throughout the country.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital invites you to join us on Tuesday, February 18th at 12:00 pm in the Community Conference Room located at 61 S Gould St, for our Health Talk on Women and Cardiovascular Disease. Enjoy lunch on us and learn from SMH Heart Failure Coordinator, Kristi Ramsey BSN, RCIS, CVRN on how Heart Disease affects women in Wyoming and the United States.
At the Health Talk you’ll learn about the common signs and symptoms of different kinds of Heart Disease and how to spot them. You’ll also learn how to optimize heart health and what treatment options are available.
This February protect your heart and join us for our Health Talk: Women and Cardiovascular Disease.
On Friday, February 7, 2020, the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Auxiliary presented donations totaling $37,000 to The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation at its annual meeting and luncheon. With this gift, the Auxiliary has given $674,000 to Sheridan Memorial Hospital since 1991.
With a mission “to provide comfort to and better the welfare of Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s patients,” The Auxiliary Board members voted on the opportunity that best exemplified their purpose. Their funds will enhance patient care in several departments including Respiratory Therapy, Urgent Care, and Patient and Family Waiting Rooms.
Hospital leaders – Barb Hespen, Dee Gilson, Lacey Johnson, and Dr. David Nickerson gratefully accepted the gift presented on behalf of the numerous departments who will be positively impacted by this contribution. Also joining in the presentation were elated Foundation Staff and Board Members Richard Garber, Cody Sinclair, Dr. William Doughty, Ada Kirven, and Stella Montano. Auxiliary Board President Karen Steir and Trees of Love Chairwoman Joan Kalasinksy presented this year’s donation check to the department leaders and The Foundation on behalf of The Auxiliary Board and their membership.
“We appreciate the time spent coordinating and working alongside this generous and passionate board of volunteers,” explains Chief Development Officer Cody Sinclair. “This year’s donation is going to help enhance the patient experience throughout the entire organization and we are so fortunate to be able collaborate with such an incredible group.”
To learn more about getting involved in The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Board or Volunteering, please reach out to Development Coordinator Jasmine Slater at 675-2620 or by clicking here.
If you have had cancer, are receiving on-going cancer treatment or are closely connected to someone who is a cancer survivor, we invite you to join us.
The courses are designed to help those affected by cancer adjust to the challenges of “living well after cancer treatment”.
Let us partner with you by teaching you some tools to help you manage the distinct psychological, emotional and physical effects that often accompany cancer treatment.
These courses are open to anyone free of charge, no reservations needed and are held on the first Tuesday of each month from 6-7pm in the Welch Cancer Center Conference Room – 1585 West 5th Street.
Check out the schedule for the first quarter of 2020 which is attached to this story – you may attend any or all of the courses.
Questions: call 307.674.6022
Wyoming Rehab’s Cancer Rehabilitation Program can help patients before, during, and after cancer treatment. The program is a comprehensive treatment approach aimed at improving the physical function of individuals who have experienced cancer.
“It’s incredible how important cancer rehab can be in the life of someone who has or has had that diagnosis,” said the head of Wyoming Rehab’s Cancer Rehab Program, Charlotte Walter, DPT. “There are so many things cancer can effect in your physical functioning.”
In the past, patients with cancer were told to “take it easy” but this is no longer the case. Research shows that exercise is a safe and effective addition to an individual’s cancer treatment plan. Patients participating in supervised and structured exercise programs have been shown to have increases in aerobic capacity, leg strength, bone mineral density at the spine, and lean body mass superior to individuals only treated with usual care.
The Cancer Rehab Program is for anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer. An individualized starting point is determined for each patient depending on needs and diagnosis. When patients first come in an initial evaluation is done looking at their strength, balance, endurance, and pain and fatigue levels. Individuals are asked about their current levels of function and anything they’re having trouble with at home, work, and during recreation.
“We try to find things that the patients enjoy. For example I have a patient who enjoys walking and used to walk multiple times a day with her husband. That’s something she wants to get back to, so we focus a lot on walking, pacing, and energy conservation,” said Walter, a Physical Therapist. “The program starts with the initial evaluation, then we come up with an individualized plan to help reach the patient’s goals. The final step is either the transition to a home exercise plan or to a community based exercise program.”
Apart from the many physical benefits patients of the Cancer Rehab Program can see, there are also mental and emotional benefits.
“My favorite part is to see the emotional blossoming. These individuals have gone through an enormous treatment experience. They can come in sad, anxious, and nervous. We can show them this isn’t over yet. We can get them back and show them they don’t have to give up all of the things they used to do. Seeing that hope, confidence, and independence is so rewarding for me when I work with these patients,” said Walter.
Walter also discussed how incredible it is to have a program like this in a small town like Sheridan.
“I’ve had many patients tell me how happy and blessed they feel that they can get this kind of treatment, starting at the Welch Cancer Center, right here in Sheridan. They say how they were so encouraged when they didn’t have to go Billings or Denver to get that treatment. When patients see they can continue and complement that treatment here, with our trained health professionals and get the guidance they need, it’s a really special thing,” said Walter.
If you or someone you know is interested in the Cancer Rehabilitation Program at Wyoming Rehab, all you need to do is get a prescription for physical therapy from your oncologist or primary care physician. Cancer rehab sessions are billed through insurance and can differ based on an individual’s insurance plan.
For more information on the Cancer Rehabilitation Program, call Wyoming Rehab at 307-674-1632 or stop by 135 N Gould St, Sheridan, WY.
By Joseph Garcia, MD – Cardiologist from Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Heart Center
February is Heart Month and it is particularly fitting that Sheridan Memorial Hospital has accomplished Accreditation by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) for the treatment of congestive heart failure.
What exactly does this mean?
It means that Sheridan Memorial Hospital has made management and treatment of congestive heart failure a major priority to improve patient quality of life, improve survival rates, reduce hospitalizations, keep patients employed (or doing as much of their daily activities as possible) within the limitations of their heart.
Congestive heart failure occurs when your heart muscle is unable to pump blood efficiently because the heart pump is either too weak or too stiff to be able to function. When the heart is unable to pump efficiently, the pressures inside the heart start to rise and the circulation starts to back up to the point where, in severe cases, you develop fluid in your lungs as well as swelling of your lower extremities.
Persons who start developing heart failure usually begin with symptoms such as shortness of breath on exertion or inability to breathe comfortably while lying flat ad having to prop themselves up to breathe better. Most persons develop fatigue, weakness, a faster than normal heartbeat, reduced exercise tolerance and increased urge to urinate at night. As heart failure symptoms worsen, persons may experience swelling of the abdomen and lower extremities, resulting in rapid weight gain from fluid retention.
Major conditions, which can result in heart failure, include significant obesity, poorly controlled high blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes and coronary artery disease. Excessive alcohol and tobacco use also contribute to heart disease. Some medications, both prescription and over the counter, can also result in heart damage.
Not all conditions that lead to heart failure can be reversed, but there are treatments that can improve the signs and symptoms of heart failure and help you live longer. A person can undergo lifestyle modifications such as not smoking, controlling diabetes and blood pressure, staying physically active, eating healthy foods, maintaining healthy weight and controlling stress. By reducing these risk factors or undergoing necessary surgical options, heart failure can be minimized. The stronger your heart pump is, the longer the overall life expectancy will be for the patient.
The ultimate goal for diagnosing and managing heart failure is early recognition and intervention. Patients that receive a new diagnosis of heart failure in our facility leave the hospital with a heart failure specific bundle. This bundle consists of a scale, pulse oximeter, blood pressure cuff, a calendar, a recipe book for heart heathy cooking, and an education booklet on living with heart failure. By increasing heart failure education and providing useful tools for success, patients will have a greater awareness and appreciation for their health.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital is proud to announce that the American College of Cardiology (ACC) has awarded SMH the Heart Failure Accreditation based on the hospital’s competence and specific standards that are in place to provide excellent care to patients with heart failure.
The mission of the ACC is to transform
cardiovascular care and to improve heart health. Heart failure is a condition
where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs for
blood and oxygen.
“This is not an easy accreditation to obtain,” said Cath Lab and Interventional
Radiology Manager, Kristi Ramsey, RN.
The accreditation is awarded after a
rigorous onsite review by the ACC. The yearlong process is a review of 73
mandatory components that focus on the hospital’s policies, standards,
protocols, and education related to heart failure. SMH staff reviewed policies
and ensured that the ACC heart failure guidelines for patient care were met or
exceeded.
“This is not a one and done process. It’s an ongoing internal look at how we
care for the specific population of our community that has this disease,” Ramsey
added. “It’s
a constant rigorous look at policies, protocols, and standards and making the
appropriate adjustments needed to evolve with the constant changes and
improvements in the care of the heart failure patient.”
The ACC requires the hospital to submit documentation to show its continual process of improvement in heart failure care, including education offerings to providers, staff, EMS and the community; benchmarking and improvement in specific metrics showing a continual improvement over a six-month period; and tracking patient education and follow up post hospitalization.
The Accreditation is for three years and then SMH will be re-reviewed on all 73 mandatory components for re-accreditation.
“We are honored to have earned this accreditation,” Ramsey added. “It took a lot of work on the part of many physicians and employees. It will definitely help us in our mission to provide excellent patient-centered care for our community.”
Small actions make a big difference. As we close the chapter on 2019 and open to the opportunities ahead in 2020, our community made countless efforts to ensure that the past year’s legacy continues to live on. Read more about the generosity that came in at the finish line and how it will make the difference to you in the New Year.
…And The Beat Goes On
You did it! The generous people of this community have yet again ensured that our patients, co-workers, friends, and family members will continue to have access to medical excellence – right here at home. We rejoice in celebration as we officially announced earlier this month that our community has matched and exceeded the initial campaign goal of $300,000 to support Project Heartbeat.
Thank You to every donor, contributor, and employee partner for the pivotal role they played in this campaign’s success. With the Project Heartbeat now complete, these state-of-the-art cardiac upgrades are in the beginning phases of purchase and will be in place at our rural hospital in the coming months.
A Woman’s Journey and Personal Message Influences the Health of Friends, Family & Community
On December 23, 2019, with friends and family by her side, Dana Arney Dent gave the extraordinary gift of cancer screenings and early detection for community members in need. As the founder of a local non-profit, Dana’s Hope, Dana presented $6,500 on behalf of the organization.
The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation received this generous gift to help provide cancer screening and early detection of all types of cancer, with an emphasis on Colon Cancer. Dana’s Hope began in 2011 after Dana faced her journey with Colon Cancer at a young age. Once she successfully completed her treatment, she was determined to share her message with the Sheridan community through an event called the Bottom’s Up Bash. According to Dana, “Colon cancer is a preventable disease, and curable if caught early. In the past, colon cancer has been one of those health issues you never want to discuss. For me, it became my mission to make sure people were talking about it and doing something too. There are screening guidelines in place. People also have a responsibility to talk with their doctors if they notice changes or have a specific concern.”
One-of-a-Kind Quilts Made with Love Bring Joy to Little Patients at the Hospital
Since its inception in 2014, “Love in Stitches” quilters have shared their time and talents to create cuddly quilts for seriously ill children at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Along with other organizations throughout the community, Sheridan Memorial Hospital patients in the Pediatric and Emergency Department are gifted these one-of-a-kind quilts to create comfort and support through difficult times.
On December 20, 2019, Penny Covalt and Cynthia Whiteman delivered a donation of beautiful quilts that bring their total contribution to over 115 quilts to your community Hospital. We thank them for their talents, kindness, and continued partnership with Sheridan Memorial Hospital.
Every year the employees of Sheridan Memorial Hospital find ways to give back by raising money for, or partnering with, good causes for the Sheridan Community. 2019 was no exception, this year SMH employees raised around $ 46,000 and donated hundreds of food items, clothing, and toys to several efforts throughout the community.
“We work hard to promote a culture of kindness and that shows when it comes to the amount of time and money our employees give back to the community.” Said SMH Community Relations Coordinator, Cecile Pattison.
Of the nearly $46,000 raised in 2019, $43,000 was from the SMH Employee Partner Program. In 2019, 516 employees participated in this unique philanthropic program through volunteer biweekly payroll deductions. Each year employee partners vote on a project to fund and this year multiple projects were able to be funded including, Project Heart Beat, Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Equipment, and Respiratory Therapy. Over the past 16 years partners have contributed $455,000 to improvement projects at our community hospital.
Another major giving effort throughout the year is Jean Fridays. On designated Fridays each month SMH employees can donate a minimum of $5 for the privilege of wearing jeans to work that day.
“We average one Jeans Friday a month depending on the cause
and the money raised goes to various efforts,” said Pattison. “This year the
money helped with The Link – Partners in Pink, a Thanksgiving Food Drive that
fed 7 local families, Relay for Life, Out of the Darkness Walk, and the
Sheridan Media Christmas Wish Campaign. Nearly $3,000 was raised through Jeans
Fridays in 2019.”
SMH employees also took advantage of several other opportunities to give back
in 2019 including:
- Kozy Korner Gifts of Kindness – Employees donate cash to the Kozy Korner Gift Shop, and those funds are used to purchase gifts for patients in the hospital over Christmas. This year 13 presents were given to patients on Christmas Eve.
- Aid stations at the Dead Swede Hundo Bike Ride, Bike MS Bighorn Country Classic, and the Bighorn Trail Run.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention- Out of the Darkness Walk – information and support station.
- Relay for Life – Employee teams raised funds through a bake sale and daffodil sales.
- Toys for Tots Toy Drive – 2 large boxes of toys were donated this year.
- Christmas Carolers – Each year the hospital invites carolers from various schools to come carol over the holiday season. This December over 230 students helped spread cheer to our patients, visitors, and staff.
“When you look at the efforts over the entire year, it is easy to see how much our employees care about our community,” Pattison said. “We want to help people and make a difference. Every day we care for people in the hospital as part of our jobs, but these efforts show that our people want to go far above and beyond that to help others.”
L-R – Nicole Opitz, RN; Brandie Neufer, RN;Lacy Slusser, RN; Angel Vielhauer, RN; Teara Leibee, RN and Megan Perkins, RN.
Six new registered nurses successfully completed the hospital’s six-month Nurse Residency Program. Their graduation ceremony was held last week. This is the seventh cohort to graduate from this unique program designed to support the transition of new RNs to the practice environment.
Key areas of focus in this program are not only clinical competencies necessary to care for patients and families, but the confidence needed to translate their learning and knowledge into clinical practice.
This year’s group was selected from a large number of applicants. Each participant is granted the opportunity to work one-on-one with an experienced nurse preceptor. They complete additional specialized training using a systems based approach to reinforce their education with real world hands-on nursing.
Clinical Educator Tricia Colson and Director of Nursing Lacey Johnson congratulated the cohort and welcomed guests. Tricia expressed the hospital’s excitement about welcoming the new nurses, “Working with this group has been such a wonderful experience for the education staff. As educators, we work hard to provide these RN’s with the skills they will need to be successful and provide great patient care. We thank the managers, supervisors and preceptors for all their work to ensure the success of these residents. We also want to recognize and thank their families for supporting them during the past 6 months.”
By Christopher M. Prior, D.O. Sheridan Memorial Hospital Internal Medicine
Have you ever had a bad fall, felt like you were going down from being light headed or dizzy, or due to clutter in your surroundings? If so, then you know how scary it can be to feel out of control as you think about falling.
For almost 20 years now falls have been the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma related hospital admissions among older adults. Twenty five percent of people over the age of 65 fall every year. One out of four fall victims will be admitted to the hospital and, on the extreme end, approximately 1% of those admitted to the hospital will die as a direct result of their fall. The financial cost of falls will surpass $67 billion annually next year according to the National Council on Aging.
There are many reasons why older adults may experience a fall. Potential causes for the increased number of falls in the elderly may be in part due to:
- people living longer
- living longer independently
- living longer with chronic conditions
- certain medication use
- neurological deficit
- cognitive impairment
- lower extremity weakness
- malnutrition
- social isolation
Fear of the cost of assisted living and poorly reimbursed home health may also contribute to placing the elderly at risk. Studies show a fear of falling and a sensation of gait unsteadiness are indications for interventions to reduce fall risk.
Some interventions that have proven to decrease fall and fall injury risk include:
- limiting some medications
- regular exercise
- proper diet
- vitamin D supplementation in those with low vitamin D
- correcting visual problems
- appropriate footwear
- removing environmental hazards
Studies show that for every medication taken more than 4/day the risk of fall increases by 14%. Certain medications that affect balance, vision, and alertness may increase risk of falls. While it may be necessary to take certain medications due to individual medical problems (such as Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, or hypertension) a discussion with your medical provider and pharmacist can help with determining the advantages and disadvantages of continuing medications that may increase the risk of falls.
Numerous studies show weight bearing and balance exercise can reduce the risk of falls in the elderly. Neuromuscular training such as Tai Chi reduces the risk of recurrent falls by greater than 50%. While there are no specific guidelines as to the type or duration of exercise, the United States Preventative Task Force recommends exercise to reduce fall risk in those over 65 years old.
Elderly with low vitamin D concentrations are at a greater risk of loss of muscle mass, decreased strength, and hip fractures. Vitamin D supplementation in patients with low vitamin D has shown to reduce risk of falls. The American Geriatric Society recommends supplementing with 1000 international units of vitamin D a day for adults at risk for falls with total vitamin D concentrations less than 30.
Visual problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration contribute to fall risk.
Users of multifocal glasses had a reduced fall risk when wearing single focal length glasses for outside activities. In addition, delays in second eye cataract surgery place patients at a greater risk of fall with injury at that time.
Environmental hazards such as broken or uneven steps, poor lighting, throw rugs or clutter increased risk of falls. Handrails, slip resistant decking, and grab bars have proven to help reduce fall risk. Proper training and appropriate use of assistive devices such as canes or walkers may also help. Appropriate footwear and orthotic devices to reduce foot pain have shown benefit in fall rate reduction as well.
It is impossible to prevent every fall and fall induced injury. Intervention to identify elderly at risk for falls should include a history of falls, medication review, gait, balance, mobility, and environmental assessments. Multifactorial fall risk assessment has shown reduction in fall risk but no change in fall related morbidity and mortality. The American Geriatric Society recommends a multifactorial approach to identify at risk elderly.