U.S. News & World Report Rankings Place Ochsner in top 10 Percent of U.S. Hospitals NEW ORLEANS – Everyone has experienced pain at one time or another, and Ochsner Medical Center holds the unique honor of being one of 17 U.S. hospitals, cited by US News & World Report, as the best in the nation for controlling patient pain. According to this most recent ranking, 71 percent of Ochsner patients reported that their pain was “always” well controlled, placing Ochsner in the top 10 percent in the nation.
“Patient care remains our top priority, as such, successfully managing pain across clinical, medical, and surgical departments is essential to doing all that we can to provide a positive outcome for all of our patients,” says Tarun Jolly, M.D., Clinical Director of Ochsner Pain Management, Ochsner Baptist Medical Center, 2700 Napoleon Avenue. “We’re very proud of this distinction.”
Feelings of pain can range from mild and occasional to severe and constant and is typically divided into two categories: acute and chronic.
• Acute pain can begin suddenly and end just as suddenly and usually serves as a warning to the body. It can be caused by varying events such as surgery, broken bones, dental work, burns or cuts, or labor and childbirth. In most cases, it does not last longer than six months and it disappears when the underlying cause has been treated or has healed. Unrelieved acute pain, however, may lead to chronic pain.
• Chronic pain persists despite the fact that an injury has healed and can remain for weeks, months, or years. Physical effects include tense muscles, limited mobility, a lack of energy, and changes in appetite. Emotional effects include depression, anger, anxiety, and fear of re-injury. Common chronic pain complaints include: headache, low back pain, cancer pain, arthritis pain, and neurogenic pain (pain resulting from damage to nerves but having no visible sign of damage).
“One of the most common medical problems is back pain, which affects 8 out of 10 people at some point during their lives,” says Jolly. Back pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain. And, during the holiday season, travel, parties, shopping, holiday decorations, cooler weather and new toys, can cause aches and pains to flare up.
Ochsner Pain Management suggests the following tips to avoid back pain this holiday season:
• Ask for Help: Get extra help when cleaning the house, carrying packages or putting up lights and decorations.
• Stretch your Back: Stretching is important to avoid injuries as tightness can put a strain on the back muscles.
• Drink Water: Experts have linked dehydration to back pain. So, try to get eight, 8 ounce glasses each day.
• Prepare your body: Most people are not prepared for the increase in activity so stretching and more aerobic exercise can help prevent weight gain and relieve back pain.
• Wear Appropriate Shoes: Spending lots of time walking and standing in inappropriate shoes during holiday shopping and holiday parties can cause severe back pain due to a lack of proper support.
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Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Giving and Receiving: Remembering Loved Ones during the Holidays
2009 Tree of Life Memorializes Friend and Family and Benefits Current Heart Patients
NEW ORLEANS, LA – For the person on your gift list who has it all, Ochsner’s 2009 Tree of Life is a chance for you to honor a loved one and help someone else this holiday season. All funds generated from this year’s Tree of Life ceremony in New Orleans will go to benefit a program instituted by Dr. Clifford H. Van Meter, Jr., long-time Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Ochsner Medical Center, the Dr. Clifford Van Meter Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Patient Assistance Fund.
Dr. John Ochsner, Chairman Emeritus of the Ochsner Department of Surgery said of Dr. Van Meter, "Cliff discharged his duties as a cardiac surgeon at Ochsner with talent, integrity, and honor." Dr. Ochsner also said of Dr. Van Meter's work in the area of VAD technology, “He became passionate about the advancement of mechanical circulatory support and recognized this modality as a supportive measure as well as a permanent solution. Cliff was instrumental in the development and improvement of left ventricular assist devices."
The patients and families who require VAD services face issues that few families have to endure; stress that’s physical, emotional, and financial. The Dr. Clifford Van Meter VAD Assistance Fund will provide help with transportation issues, meals, and housing. This fund brings to practice Dr. Alton Ochsner's belief that, "At Ochsner, the patient and the patient's family come first."
On Friday, December 4, 2009, at 10:00am in the Main Atrium Lobby of Ochsner Medical Center, 1514 Jefferson Highway, Ochsner will honor and memorialize loved ones at its annual Tree of Life ceremony. During the decorating ceremony, each ornament will be individually announced and then hung on the holiday tree. Holiday caroling by the LaPlace Elementary Bell Choir, the St. Michaels Bell Choir and others, will take place before and after the ceremony.
“The Ochsner Tree of Life helps patients and friends honor loved ones and help someone else in need,” explains Scott M. Childers, Vice President of Ochsner Philanthropy. “Throughout the holiday season, the tree is filled with ornaments bearing the names of individuals paid tribute to during this special time of year.”
To purchase an ornament or brick, please call Ochsner’s Special Events Office at 504-842-7113 or visit Ochsner.org. Each ornament costs $20.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – For the person on your gift list who has it all, Ochsner’s 2009 Tree of Life is a chance for you to honor a loved one and help someone else this holiday season. All funds generated from this year’s Tree of Life ceremony in New Orleans will go to benefit a program instituted by Dr. Clifford H. Van Meter, Jr., long-time Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Ochsner Medical Center, the Dr. Clifford Van Meter Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Patient Assistance Fund.
Dr. John Ochsner, Chairman Emeritus of the Ochsner Department of Surgery said of Dr. Van Meter, "Cliff discharged his duties as a cardiac surgeon at Ochsner with talent, integrity, and honor." Dr. Ochsner also said of Dr. Van Meter's work in the area of VAD technology, “He became passionate about the advancement of mechanical circulatory support and recognized this modality as a supportive measure as well as a permanent solution. Cliff was instrumental in the development and improvement of left ventricular assist devices."
The patients and families who require VAD services face issues that few families have to endure; stress that’s physical, emotional, and financial. The Dr. Clifford Van Meter VAD Assistance Fund will provide help with transportation issues, meals, and housing. This fund brings to practice Dr. Alton Ochsner's belief that, "At Ochsner, the patient and the patient's family come first."
On Friday, December 4, 2009, at 10:00am in the Main Atrium Lobby of Ochsner Medical Center, 1514 Jefferson Highway, Ochsner will honor and memorialize loved ones at its annual Tree of Life ceremony. During the decorating ceremony, each ornament will be individually announced and then hung on the holiday tree. Holiday caroling by the LaPlace Elementary Bell Choir, the St. Michaels Bell Choir and others, will take place before and after the ceremony.
“The Ochsner Tree of Life helps patients and friends honor loved ones and help someone else in need,” explains Scott M. Childers, Vice President of Ochsner Philanthropy. “Throughout the holiday season, the tree is filled with ornaments bearing the names of individuals paid tribute to during this special time of year.”
To purchase an ornament or brick, please call Ochsner’s Special Events Office at 504-842-7113 or visit Ochsner.org. Each ornament costs $20.
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Thursday, November 19, 2009
Tips to Keep Your Holiday Shopping H1N1-Free!
NEW ORLEANS – As the holiday spirit kicks in, most of us will hit the stores for holiday sales and gift ideas, but Ochsner infectious disease experts warn the influenza virus can live on hard surfaces for 2-8 hours; therefore, your favorite stores could be an H1N1 harvest. Ochsner offers some common sense advice for shoppers.
“Simply walking into a store can be a hazard as the door handle contains germs from everyone who has touched it in the past 8 hours,” explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Infection Control. “Obviously, it’s impossible to shop “germ-free”, but if you’re conscious of the ways in which germs travel from person to person, it’s much easier to protect yourself,” she adds.
Consider these common, shopping actions that put you in contact with viruses, such as H1N1:
• Opening doors
• Picking up merchandise
• Touching elevator buttons and escalator handles
• Pulling out a chair
• Exchanging money or credit cards
• Eating with your fingers (French fries, hamburgers, chicken nuggets, etc..)
• Rubbing your eyes (due to dry store air conditioning, heaters, allergies)
• Sampling hand lotions and perfumes
The solution! “You’ve heard it before, but the single best way to protect yourself is through hand washing or hand sanitizers,” advises Dr. Baumgarten. She cites some germ-reducing tips to help keep holiday shoppers healthy:
- Wash hands before eating anything!
- Find a table on the edge of the food court to avoid contact with close knit crowds.
- If possible, avoid finger-foods (French fries, hamburgers, chicken nuggets)
- Keep your fingers away from your face: don’t rub your eyes, nose or cover cough/sneeze with your hands
- Use a paper towel on bathroom doors to exit
- Bring a shopping bag from home to keep all your purchases together and reduce contact
- Opt for less crowded shopping times or spend time shopping online
- Avoid sampling the perfumes/lotions
- Take advantage of hand sanitizer samples at checkout counters
Constant handwashing and alcohol-based hand sanitizers can dry out your hands, so it can be tempting to enjoy sample lotions at the stores, but beware! Simply pushing the pumps on lotions or perfumes can add germs to a clean hand. Instead, ask the store clerk to spray the perfume and use hand sanitizing “lotions” that sanitize as well as moisturize.
“Finally, remember, it’s the season to spend time with others, so go out and enjoy yourself but heed these simple, unobtrusive suggestions to stay healthy for the holidays,” says Dr. Baumgarten.
###
“Simply walking into a store can be a hazard as the door handle contains germs from everyone who has touched it in the past 8 hours,” explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Infection Control. “Obviously, it’s impossible to shop “germ-free”, but if you’re conscious of the ways in which germs travel from person to person, it’s much easier to protect yourself,” she adds.
Consider these common, shopping actions that put you in contact with viruses, such as H1N1:
• Opening doors
• Picking up merchandise
• Touching elevator buttons and escalator handles
• Pulling out a chair
• Exchanging money or credit cards
• Eating with your fingers (French fries, hamburgers, chicken nuggets, etc..)
• Rubbing your eyes (due to dry store air conditioning, heaters, allergies)
• Sampling hand lotions and perfumes
The solution! “You’ve heard it before, but the single best way to protect yourself is through hand washing or hand sanitizers,” advises Dr. Baumgarten. She cites some germ-reducing tips to help keep holiday shoppers healthy:
- Wash hands before eating anything!
- Find a table on the edge of the food court to avoid contact with close knit crowds.
- If possible, avoid finger-foods (French fries, hamburgers, chicken nuggets)
- Keep your fingers away from your face: don’t rub your eyes, nose or cover cough/sneeze with your hands
- Use a paper towel on bathroom doors to exit
- Bring a shopping bag from home to keep all your purchases together and reduce contact
- Opt for less crowded shopping times or spend time shopping online
- Avoid sampling the perfumes/lotions
- Take advantage of hand sanitizer samples at checkout counters
Constant handwashing and alcohol-based hand sanitizers can dry out your hands, so it can be tempting to enjoy sample lotions at the stores, but beware! Simply pushing the pumps on lotions or perfumes can add germs to a clean hand. Instead, ask the store clerk to spray the perfume and use hand sanitizing “lotions” that sanitize as well as moisturize.
“Finally, remember, it’s the season to spend time with others, so go out and enjoy yourself but heed these simple, unobtrusive suggestions to stay healthy for the holidays,” says Dr. Baumgarten.
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“Love Lights Lafourche,” Honors Cancer Patients
Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital Hosts Tree Lighting Ceremony
RACELAND, LA – Each December, Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital and the American Cancer Society celebrates local cancer survivors and memorializes loved ones by hosting a tree lighting ceremony of thousands of white “love lights” and love ornaments. This year’s Love Lights a Tree ceremony will shine on Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at 6:00 pm in the hospital cafeteria.
“Love Lights a Tree is a poignant fund raiser that enables cancer patients and families to honor their loved ones and help someone else during the holiday season,” said Mae Hitt, Community Outreach Coordinator at Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital. “When purchasing an ornament for the tree, all proceeds from the event will go to the American Cancer Society for cancer research, education, advocacy and patient services,” adds Hitt.
The American Cancer Society is a nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.
• Love lights can be obtained for a donation of $5 or more to the American Cancer Society.
• To purchase your love light in advance or for more information, contact Mae Hitt at Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital at (985)537-8350.
• Each ornament will have a name that will be read aloud at the tree lighting ceremony on December 8.
• Refreshments will be served after the tree lighting ceremony, at 4608 La. 1, in Raceland.
RACELAND, LA – Each December, Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital and the American Cancer Society celebrates local cancer survivors and memorializes loved ones by hosting a tree lighting ceremony of thousands of white “love lights” and love ornaments. This year’s Love Lights a Tree ceremony will shine on Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at 6:00 pm in the hospital cafeteria.
“Love Lights a Tree is a poignant fund raiser that enables cancer patients and families to honor their loved ones and help someone else during the holiday season,” said Mae Hitt, Community Outreach Coordinator at Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital. “When purchasing an ornament for the tree, all proceeds from the event will go to the American Cancer Society for cancer research, education, advocacy and patient services,” adds Hitt.
The American Cancer Society is a nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.
• Love lights can be obtained for a donation of $5 or more to the American Cancer Society.
• To purchase your love light in advance or for more information, contact Mae Hitt at Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital at (985)537-8350.
• Each ornament will have a name that will be read aloud at the tree lighting ceremony on December 8.
• Refreshments will be served after the tree lighting ceremony, at 4608 La. 1, in Raceland.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Chicken Noodle Soup for Ochsner Surgery Patients
Ochsner Baptist Sends Patients Home with Comfort Food Care Packages
NEW ORLEANS, LA –Ochsner Baptist Medical Center recently launched a 1,000 cup, “Chicken Noodle Soup Care Package” for its surgery patients, sending patients home with a cup of Ochsner’s homemade chicken noodle soup. The time-honored remedy is the perfect accompaniment to the recommended, bland diet immediately following anesthesia and a way for Ochsner Baptist to continue palliative care in patient’s homes.
Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate, traditional, over-the-counter medical advice and comfort food, and Ochsner’s 1,000 cup campaign encourages a speedy recovery. In fact, several medical experts have proven that old-fashioned chicken noodle soup has healing properties by displaying drug-like agents similar to those in modern cold medicines.
Another theory, put forth by the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is that chicken soup acts as an anti-inflammatory keeping a check on inflammatory white blood cells, helping patients heal faster. More ancient testaments to chicken noodle soup include:
- Chicken soup was prescribed as a cure for the common cold in ancient Egypt.
- 10th century Persian physician Avicenna referred to the curative powers of chicken soup in his writings.
Upon returning home following surgery, patients can range from feeling woozy to nauseous, typically a result of anesthesia. “We always recommend that a patient start with a liquid or bland diet upon returning home after surgery, until their stomach can handle more substantial foods,” says Joan Condon, RN, Unit Director. She goes on to explain, “We’re taking that recommendation a step further and quite literally by actually providing patients with a cup of soup and a bottle of water for their first meal at home.”
Ochsner’s Chicken Noodle soup, which is prepared in-house by Ochsner Baptist Chef Mike Shain, is a heart healthy version of the classic cure, featuring reduced sodium and fat content. The soup follows traditional recipes containing the prerequisite celery, onions, chicken stock, carrots, egg noodles, and boneless, skinless, chicken breast.
NEW ORLEANS, LA –Ochsner Baptist Medical Center recently launched a 1,000 cup, “Chicken Noodle Soup Care Package” for its surgery patients, sending patients home with a cup of Ochsner’s homemade chicken noodle soup. The time-honored remedy is the perfect accompaniment to the recommended, bland diet immediately following anesthesia and a way for Ochsner Baptist to continue palliative care in patient’s homes.
Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate, traditional, over-the-counter medical advice and comfort food, and Ochsner’s 1,000 cup campaign encourages a speedy recovery. In fact, several medical experts have proven that old-fashioned chicken noodle soup has healing properties by displaying drug-like agents similar to those in modern cold medicines.
Another theory, put forth by the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is that chicken soup acts as an anti-inflammatory keeping a check on inflammatory white blood cells, helping patients heal faster. More ancient testaments to chicken noodle soup include:
- Chicken soup was prescribed as a cure for the common cold in ancient Egypt.
- 10th century Persian physician Avicenna referred to the curative powers of chicken soup in his writings.
Upon returning home following surgery, patients can range from feeling woozy to nauseous, typically a result of anesthesia. “We always recommend that a patient start with a liquid or bland diet upon returning home after surgery, until their stomach can handle more substantial foods,” says Joan Condon, RN, Unit Director. She goes on to explain, “We’re taking that recommendation a step further and quite literally by actually providing patients with a cup of soup and a bottle of water for their first meal at home.”
Ochsner’s Chicken Noodle soup, which is prepared in-house by Ochsner Baptist Chef Mike Shain, is a heart healthy version of the classic cure, featuring reduced sodium and fat content. The soup follows traditional recipes containing the prerequisite celery, onions, chicken stock, carrots, egg noodles, and boneless, skinless, chicken breast.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
November 1-30, Ochsner Exhibits Cancer Patients’ Art Work
Lilly Oncology On Canvas Displayed at Ochsner Medical Center – Jefferson Highway
NEW ORLEANS – The entire month of November 2009, Ochsner Medical Center is honored to display the Lilly Oncology On Canvas, a free, public art exhibit featuring works by actual cancer patients. The show is designed to honor the physical and emotional journeys people face when confronted by a cancer diagnosis. The 45-piece Ochsner exhibit, which includes several Louisiana artists, is on display 24 hours, 7 days a week at 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans in the hospital’s 1st floor Art Walk. Ochsner will host an opening reception on Thursday, November 5 at 4pm in the hospital atrium with speakers from the Ochsner Cancer Institute.
Lilly Oncology On Canvas was launched in 2004, received more than 400 pieces of art from 23 countries, and began a world tour in 2005 that reached millions of people in more than 100 cities. Following its initial success, the 2006 program received more than 2,000 pieces of art and toured nearly 200 cities worldwide. The 2008 competition, which is currently touring cancer centers, hospitals, patient advocacy group meetings and other venues nationwide, included 26 prizes awarded to 20 different cancer charities selected by the 19 winners in categories including:
- From hope to fear
- The loss of individualism
- Support of family and friends
- Memory of those lost
- Perseverance of those who survive
In addition to displaying the 2008 competition winners, Ochsner is also hosting the Lilly competition in which individuals diagnosed with any type of cancer and family members are encouraged to express, through art, the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning. Entries will be accepted through June 2010.
The competition, which selects the winning artworks to tour the world, occurs every two years (biennial). The current competition began in 2009, ends in June 2010, and is open to all U.S. and Puerto Rico residents. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, including past winners, cancer survivors, leading oncologists, journalists, patient advocacy groups, and the competition art director. The end result is a compelling art collection that provides insights into the wide range of emotions experienced by those touched by cancer.
For further information on Lilly Oncology On Canvas, including how to enter the 2010 competition, call (866) 991-LOOC (5662) or visit www.LillyOncologyOnCanvas.com.
NEW ORLEANS – The entire month of November 2009, Ochsner Medical Center is honored to display the Lilly Oncology On Canvas, a free, public art exhibit featuring works by actual cancer patients. The show is designed to honor the physical and emotional journeys people face when confronted by a cancer diagnosis. The 45-piece Ochsner exhibit, which includes several Louisiana artists, is on display 24 hours, 7 days a week at 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans in the hospital’s 1st floor Art Walk. Ochsner will host an opening reception on Thursday, November 5 at 4pm in the hospital atrium with speakers from the Ochsner Cancer Institute.
Lilly Oncology On Canvas was launched in 2004, received more than 400 pieces of art from 23 countries, and began a world tour in 2005 that reached millions of people in more than 100 cities. Following its initial success, the 2006 program received more than 2,000 pieces of art and toured nearly 200 cities worldwide. The 2008 competition, which is currently touring cancer centers, hospitals, patient advocacy group meetings and other venues nationwide, included 26 prizes awarded to 20 different cancer charities selected by the 19 winners in categories including:
- From hope to fear
- The loss of individualism
- Support of family and friends
- Memory of those lost
- Perseverance of those who survive
In addition to displaying the 2008 competition winners, Ochsner is also hosting the Lilly competition in which individuals diagnosed with any type of cancer and family members are encouraged to express, through art, the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning. Entries will be accepted through June 2010.
The competition, which selects the winning artworks to tour the world, occurs every two years (biennial). The current competition began in 2009, ends in June 2010, and is open to all U.S. and Puerto Rico residents. Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, including past winners, cancer survivors, leading oncologists, journalists, patient advocacy groups, and the competition art director. The end result is a compelling art collection that provides insights into the wide range of emotions experienced by those touched by cancer.
For further information on Lilly Oncology On Canvas, including how to enter the 2010 competition, call (866) 991-LOOC (5662) or visit www.LillyOncologyOnCanvas.com.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Ochsner Nephrologists Recognized for Excellent Patient Care by National Dialysis Center
NEW ORLEANS – Ochsner Nephrologists Dr. Fred Husserl and Dr. Pierre Blemur, who serve as local medical directors of two Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner dialysis units, have been recognized for their excellence in patient care with the Gold Level - Fresenius Medical Care (FMC) Centers of Excellence Award.
The Ochsner physician group, individually and collectively, have been recognized for their leadership in 2008 and 2009 at the following locations:
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner New Orleans – Home Department, 1319 Jefferson Highway, Suite 2, Jefferson, LA, (504) 842-3520
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner Westbank Dialysis , 4899 Westbank Expressway, Suite B, Marrero, LA, (504) 340-0371
“These achievements are a reflection of the entire Ochsner Nephrology staff and Fresenius Medical Care’s unified team approach to provide high quality care for those who suffer from chronic renal failure. We strive to improve patient experiences and outcomes; I am proud of this recognition and share it with my entire staff,” says Dr. Catherine Staffeld, Interim Chair, Department of Nephrology.
The Gold Level mark of distinction is based upon a comparison of all FMC clinics/programs in the U.S. Honors are based according to medical scores in ultrascore, patient satisfaction, diabetic foot checks, transplant education and additional medical categories. Clinics must be financially viable and free of any condition-level deficiency. Their census must also be >25 for in-center hemo and >10 for home PD. In consideration of those criteria, an award at the Gold Level is quite an achievement.
The Ochsner physician group, individually and collectively, have been recognized for their leadership in 2008 and 2009 at the following locations:
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner New Orleans – Home Department, 1319 Jefferson Highway, Suite 2, Jefferson, LA, (504) 842-3520
- Fresenius Medical Center - Ochsner Westbank Dialysis , 4899 Westbank Expressway, Suite B, Marrero, LA, (504) 340-0371
“These achievements are a reflection of the entire Ochsner Nephrology staff and Fresenius Medical Care’s unified team approach to provide high quality care for those who suffer from chronic renal failure. We strive to improve patient experiences and outcomes; I am proud of this recognition and share it with my entire staff,” says Dr. Catherine Staffeld, Interim Chair, Department of Nephrology.
The Gold Level mark of distinction is based upon a comparison of all FMC clinics/programs in the U.S. Honors are based according to medical scores in ultrascore, patient satisfaction, diabetic foot checks, transplant education and additional medical categories. Clinics must be financially viable and free of any condition-level deficiency. Their census must also be >25 for in-center hemo and >10 for home PD. In consideration of those criteria, an award at the Gold Level is quite an achievement.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Halloween Tips to Fight Childhood Obesity and H1N1
Healthy, Fun, and Germ-Fighting Halloween Alternatives
NEW ORLEANS – Halloween conjures of images of pumpkin buckets of overflowing candy, door-to-door trick-or-treating, and costumed children. But with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and the spread of H1N1, many parents are looking for a more health-conscious way to celebrate the ghoulish holiday. Ochsner offers the following tips for a health-conscious, yet fun-filled, Halloween:
Healthy “Treats”:“Sugarless gum, pre-packaged cheese and crackers, trail mix, nuts, corn nuts, granola bars, small bags of pretzels or popcorn, goldfish cracker packages, individual hot chocolate packages and raisins are a great alternative to chocolates and sugary snacks,” says Elesha Kelleher, Ochsner Registered Dietician. She also suggests avoiding candy altogether and opting for fun-filled treats such as: stickers, balloons, crayons, pencils, colored chalk, whistles, rubber spiders and worms.
Although it’s tempting, parents need to take control and help children pace themselves when it comes to indulging in their bountiful treats. “It’s a good idea to have a sensible dinner before heading door-to-door, or at least a healthy snack. Eating something other than sugar-filled candy in advance, can really cut down on tummy aches later,” says Kelleher. “Children need to enjoy their Halloween treats over several days and weeks - not all in one night. Rationing Halloween candy and making it a reward for your kids is a great way to teach them that most foods are okay, in moderation,” she adds.
Germ-Avoiding “Tricks”:
Top on every parents worry list this All Hallow’s Eve is the spread of the H1N1 virus. With children going door-to-door, and accepting treats being handled by many, parents need to take extra precautions. Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Ochsner Infection Control, offers the follows suggestions:
Remind children to cover their noses and mouths with a tissue when they sneeze, or sneeze into the crook of their elbows.
Wash hands thoroughly before eating any treats. (Carry hand sanitizer in case your goblins can’t wait till you get home.)
Don’t allow sharing or trading of costume masks.
Discourage kids from touching their eyes, mouths, or noses since that is the quickest way to spread germs and contract viruses and if your child has flu-like symptoms, encourage them to stay home.
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NEW ORLEANS – Halloween conjures of images of pumpkin buckets of overflowing candy, door-to-door trick-or-treating, and costumed children. But with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and the spread of H1N1, many parents are looking for a more health-conscious way to celebrate the ghoulish holiday. Ochsner offers the following tips for a health-conscious, yet fun-filled, Halloween:
Healthy “Treats”:“Sugarless gum, pre-packaged cheese and crackers, trail mix, nuts, corn nuts, granola bars, small bags of pretzels or popcorn, goldfish cracker packages, individual hot chocolate packages and raisins are a great alternative to chocolates and sugary snacks,” says Elesha Kelleher, Ochsner Registered Dietician. She also suggests avoiding candy altogether and opting for fun-filled treats such as: stickers, balloons, crayons, pencils, colored chalk, whistles, rubber spiders and worms.
Although it’s tempting, parents need to take control and help children pace themselves when it comes to indulging in their bountiful treats. “It’s a good idea to have a sensible dinner before heading door-to-door, or at least a healthy snack. Eating something other than sugar-filled candy in advance, can really cut down on tummy aches later,” says Kelleher. “Children need to enjoy their Halloween treats over several days and weeks - not all in one night. Rationing Halloween candy and making it a reward for your kids is a great way to teach them that most foods are okay, in moderation,” she adds.
Germ-Avoiding “Tricks”:
Top on every parents worry list this All Hallow’s Eve is the spread of the H1N1 virus. With children going door-to-door, and accepting treats being handled by many, parents need to take extra precautions. Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Ochsner Infection Control, offers the follows suggestions:
Remind children to cover their noses and mouths with a tissue when they sneeze, or sneeze into the crook of their elbows.
Wash hands thoroughly before eating any treats. (Carry hand sanitizer in case your goblins can’t wait till you get home.)
Don’t allow sharing or trading of costume masks.
Discourage kids from touching their eyes, mouths, or noses since that is the quickest way to spread germs and contract viruses and if your child has flu-like symptoms, encourage them to stay home.
###
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Ochsner Hosts Family Fundraiser
Party-4-Peds to Benefit Pediatrics
NEW ORLEANS – On Saturday, October 3, 2009, from 4pm-7pm, Ochsner and Capital One Bank will host “Party 4 Peds” for local families as it transforms its Children’s Health Center at 1315 Jefferson Highway into a fun-filled, family fundraiser for Ochsner Pediatrics.
The action-packed party includes entertainment by Radio Disney, refreshments by local restaurants, and entertainment including large inflatable play stations, stilt walkers, t-shirt art, and jewelry/key chain making. For adults, there will be a silent auction featuring weekend get-a-ways, dining gift certificates and more.
“Having a child in the hospital can create a terrible financial burden as well as an emotional burden on families, that’s why we’ve selected the Ochsner Pediatric Family Assistance Fund as a beneficiary of this event; it helps families of hospitalized children by enabling Ochsner to help with travel and other expenses regarding our smallest patients,” explains Dr. Douglas Moodie, Pediatric Cardiologist and Chairman of Ochsner’s Department of Pediatrics.
Another beneficiary is the pediatric literacy initiative, Reach Out and Read. Reach Out and Read distributes new books to children, encourages family reading and helps physicians better diagnose communication disorders by using books during well-child visits.
“Now is your child’s chance to return the ‘favor’ for those eventful office visits with a dunking booth,” says Dr. Moodie. Staff up to the challenge include: Dr. Vincent Adolph, Dr. Daniel Bronfin, Dr. Charles Kantrow, Erin Montgomery, LPN, "Missy" Pecoraro, RN, Dr. Christopher Snyder, Dr. Elliot Tucker, Dr. Thomas Young.
Chairing this year’s event are Malin Maitrejean and Maribeth McNamara. Tickets are $50 per adult (18 and over) and $20 per child (toddlers and babies under 2 years are free). Call 504-842-7113 or visit www.ochsner.org for more information or to purchase tickets.
NEW ORLEANS – On Saturday, October 3, 2009, from 4pm-7pm, Ochsner and Capital One Bank will host “Party 4 Peds” for local families as it transforms its Children’s Health Center at 1315 Jefferson Highway into a fun-filled, family fundraiser for Ochsner Pediatrics.
The action-packed party includes entertainment by Radio Disney, refreshments by local restaurants, and entertainment including large inflatable play stations, stilt walkers, t-shirt art, and jewelry/key chain making. For adults, there will be a silent auction featuring weekend get-a-ways, dining gift certificates and more.
“Having a child in the hospital can create a terrible financial burden as well as an emotional burden on families, that’s why we’ve selected the Ochsner Pediatric Family Assistance Fund as a beneficiary of this event; it helps families of hospitalized children by enabling Ochsner to help with travel and other expenses regarding our smallest patients,” explains Dr. Douglas Moodie, Pediatric Cardiologist and Chairman of Ochsner’s Department of Pediatrics.
Another beneficiary is the pediatric literacy initiative, Reach Out and Read. Reach Out and Read distributes new books to children, encourages family reading and helps physicians better diagnose communication disorders by using books during well-child visits.
“Now is your child’s chance to return the ‘favor’ for those eventful office visits with a dunking booth,” says Dr. Moodie. Staff up to the challenge include: Dr. Vincent Adolph, Dr. Daniel Bronfin, Dr. Charles Kantrow, Erin Montgomery, LPN, "Missy" Pecoraro, RN, Dr. Christopher Snyder, Dr. Elliot Tucker, Dr. Thomas Young.
Chairing this year’s event are Malin Maitrejean and Maribeth McNamara. Tickets are $50 per adult (18 and over) and $20 per child (toddlers and babies under 2 years are free). Call 504-842-7113 or visit www.ochsner.org for more information or to purchase tickets.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Ochsner Offers New Advice to Help Prevent the Spread of H1N1
NEW ORLEANS, LA– Ochsner Health System, in conjunction with the CDC, has new advice for healthy individuals who have flu-like symptoms – stay home and rest. Don’t plan to visit the doctor’s office unless your symptoms worsen, as you will be exposing even more people to the virus. However, physicians caution, if you are considered “high risk”, you should call your physician immediately for advice on what to do.
“We know that H1N1 is going to continue to spread throughout the community; therefore, our goal is to appropriately care for individuals, while reducing ER overcrowding and additional spread of the illness. We would like to provide education on when to seek medical care and when to remain at home,” explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Ochsner Medical Director of Infection Control.
Ochsner is encouraging local residents to follow the recommended CDC advice:
• Healthy individuals are asked not to visit the doctor with onset of symptoms; instead remain at home, away from other individuals, in order to recover and reduce the spread of H1N1.
• Individuals who are asked to call their physicians, with onset of symptoms, include the following high-risk populations:
- Immuno-compromised (example: cancer, transplant, diabetes, HIV, those with underlying lung disease)
- Pregnant women
- Parents of young children (less than 5 years)
- Older population (greater than 65 years)
Dr. Baumgarten explains, “If you have flu-like symptoms and are otherwise healthy and not a high-risk category, Ochsner physicians recommend plenty of fluids, Tylenol, and plenty of rest.” She advises that Tamiflu will only be administered to high-risk populations and explains, “Most individuals are able to weather the illness as they do the seasonal flu.”
As with any illness, it can occasionally worsen in otherwise healthy adults. Those individuals are advised to seek care without delay if they begin experiencing the following symptoms:
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Intractable nausea and vomiting
• Return of high fever after original fever has gone away
If residents will follow this advice, potential over-crowding in local ER’s and the spread of the virus can be reduced. One of the problems physicians are trying to avoid is non-infected patients getting the H1N1 virus from others in patient waiting areas.
Warning signs for children to seek immediate emergency medical care include:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not urinating as usual
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or interacting as usual
• Being so irritable that your child does not even want to be held
• Fever returns after being absent or a significant change in fever pattern (101 degrees for several days then 103 degrees)
“The H1N1 virus is comparable to the seasonal flu in its effects on the population; every year millions of Americans catch the flu and recover, and every year we suffer some deaths. H1N1 can be dangerous to some individuals but for the majority of the population it’s simply an uncomfortable experience,” adds Baumgarten.
All individuals are encouraged to get the seasonal flu shot, which will be available in mid to late September. An H1N1 vaccine is not expected to be available until late fall and will then only be distributed to high-risk populations as directed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
For additional H1N1 information, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or www.ochsner.org.
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“We know that H1N1 is going to continue to spread throughout the community; therefore, our goal is to appropriately care for individuals, while reducing ER overcrowding and additional spread of the illness. We would like to provide education on when to seek medical care and when to remain at home,” explains Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Ochsner Medical Director of Infection Control.
Ochsner is encouraging local residents to follow the recommended CDC advice:
• Healthy individuals are asked not to visit the doctor with onset of symptoms; instead remain at home, away from other individuals, in order to recover and reduce the spread of H1N1.
• Individuals who are asked to call their physicians, with onset of symptoms, include the following high-risk populations:
- Immuno-compromised (example: cancer, transplant, diabetes, HIV, those with underlying lung disease)
- Pregnant women
- Parents of young children (less than 5 years)
- Older population (greater than 65 years)
Dr. Baumgarten explains, “If you have flu-like symptoms and are otherwise healthy and not a high-risk category, Ochsner physicians recommend plenty of fluids, Tylenol, and plenty of rest.” She advises that Tamiflu will only be administered to high-risk populations and explains, “Most individuals are able to weather the illness as they do the seasonal flu.”
As with any illness, it can occasionally worsen in otherwise healthy adults. Those individuals are advised to seek care without delay if they begin experiencing the following symptoms:
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Intractable nausea and vomiting
• Return of high fever after original fever has gone away
If residents will follow this advice, potential over-crowding in local ER’s and the spread of the virus can be reduced. One of the problems physicians are trying to avoid is non-infected patients getting the H1N1 virus from others in patient waiting areas.
Warning signs for children to seek immediate emergency medical care include:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not urinating as usual
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or interacting as usual
• Being so irritable that your child does not even want to be held
• Fever returns after being absent or a significant change in fever pattern (101 degrees for several days then 103 degrees)
“The H1N1 virus is comparable to the seasonal flu in its effects on the population; every year millions of Americans catch the flu and recover, and every year we suffer some deaths. H1N1 can be dangerous to some individuals but for the majority of the population it’s simply an uncomfortable experience,” adds Baumgarten.
All individuals are encouraged to get the seasonal flu shot, which will be available in mid to late September. An H1N1 vaccine is not expected to be available until late fall and will then only be distributed to high-risk populations as directed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
For additional H1N1 information, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or www.ochsner.org.
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