Healing the Body Enriching the Mind Nurturing the Soul
Our December 2012
CompassCompassionate care led by Catholic values A lifetime of exemplary care Leading physician retires after 50 years of service His more recent memories of the progressing medical world, spending time Misericordia are marked by medical advances with patients is pivotal. and colleagues he shared both patients and “You need to give a patient time to say knowledge with. Dr. Murray Lieberman, what’s on their mind because they need to feel Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology like they have [been heard],” says Dr. Weisz. at the Misericordia, says Dr. Weisz was an “I don’t look at the illness so much as the outstanding physician. patient. It’s about how the illness affects the “From my perspective, he gave patient that counts.” tremendous service to those who needed While at the hospital, Dr. Weisz his help. He was a godsend in that regard accomplished many great things, such as and a lively starting the Thyroid Clinic in presence,” says “I read a few books about being 1969. He was the Associate Dr. Lieberman. a doctor and decided it would be Chief of Medicine for nine Described years in the 1970s and Chief by some a nice kind of life.” of Medicine for five years in colleagues - Dr. Samuel Weisz the 1980s. as a medical A family man, Dr. Weisz Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Weisz’s favourite part of has been married to his wife, Eva, for 55 years Dr. Samuel Weisz being a doctor was performing diagnostics. and is the proud parent of four children who “The best part of my 50 years in medicine have given him nine grandchildren to spend r. Samuel Weisz slowly sips his has been seeing medical cases that have a time with in his retirement. Despite working coffee while sitting at a table in the diagnostic problem and figuring them out. long hours, he always managed to make it MisericordiaD Community Hospital cafeteria, I like being a part of solving a patient’s home in time for dinner with his family, even a fitting place for an interview about his problem,” says Dr. Weisz. if it meant returning to work in the evening. retirement—the hospital where he dedicated His colleagues confirm his dedication to “He’d be back at the hospital late in the the past 50 years of his life as an Internal finding solutions. “He was always really fussy evening to see his patients for the second Medicine Specialist. that he got all of the details and information time that day,” says Dr. Eugene Kretzul, Dr. After graduating from the University of from patients. He’s very thorough, never Weisz’s former intern and partner in practice. Alberta’s Faculty of Medicine in 1956, Dr. rushed, always cool and calm,” says Dr. “He is my role model—the reason I went Weisz completed an internship, and then Michael Nutting, a fellow Internal Medicine into internal medicine. He is a role model for a fellowship in internal medicine focused Specialist at the Misericordia who worked generations of internists.” on thyroid disease, before joining the alongside Dr. Weisz for 35 years. For a man who can inspire passion in Misericordia Hospital in 1961. A warm smile Throughout his time at the Misericordia, others, Dr. Weisz had a much simpler reason spreads across his face when he speaks about Dr. Weisz experienced many medical for choosing to be a physician. “I read a few the hospital’s original site, then operated by improvements, including the first time books about being a doctor and decided it the Misericordia Sisters. peritoneal dialysis was performed at the would be a nice kind of life,” he says. “The old hospital was small; everybody hospital and the introduction of heart surgery knew each other. After a rain, the trees in the for coronary disease, both of which are now front had the most beautiful smell… and the commonplace procedures. Sisters served the best food,” says Dr. Weisz. According to Dr. Weisz, in the ever- A message from our President and CEO
Charting the course In this issue 4 Three centenarians in Trochu “Mankind is a great, 5 New HandyAudit technology an immense family... 6 New LPN in Mundare This is proved by 7 Preemies thrive with donor milk what we feel in our 8 New Health Ethics Guide released 9 Misericordia Sisters visit Edmonton hearts at Christmas.” 10 Build resiliency in the workplace – Pope John XXIII 11 Prevent back injuries at work 12 Covenant in the community Taking the time to reflect, to celebrate and to give thanks is an integral part of Christmas. For me, it is a time to gather with friends and family, to recharge my batteries, to consider the accomplishments of the past year, and to celebrate my faith and what’s important in life. Our Compass is a quarterly publication for As a Covenant Health team carrying Covenant Health employees, physicians on the healing ministry of Jesus, the and volunteers. story of Christmas and the life of Executive Lead the baby of Bethlehem is the genesis Fran Ross of our mission. And whatever our Vice President faith tradition and our connection to Communications
the Christmas story, the message of Editor Patrick Dumelie, President and CEO loving each other and caring for our Krysta Smith
neighbours is universal. Contributors As a leader, I am comforted by the Osas Eweka Karen Lamminen fact that this story is 2,000 years old. Christmas reminds me to take the long view. Megan Perras Each year brings its share of challenges and difficulties, but our mission is our anchor. Aimee Reimer Our difficulties are a bump in the road when we consider the larger purpose, and we Dr. Gordon Self need to keep our eyes on the horizon. Lauren Smith Rooted in this deep tradition, our mission also pushes us out of our comfort zone, Design Kristin Cooknell to find new ways to serve and to grow as an organization. I am humbled by what we have accomplished working together, compelled by our own calling and inspired by a Photos greater sense of purpose. Avonlea Photography Studio Inc. Kristin Cooknell On behalf of the Board of Directors and our Senior Leadership Team, I thank Tiffany Jones all of you for bringing your hearts and souls to your work. Thank you for your Karen Lamminen perseverance, your hope and your conviction that we can make a difference in the Megan Perras Jon Popowich lives of those we serve across Alberta. And on behalf of the people who matter the Patty Schulte most—our patients, residents and all those we serve—thank you for freely giving your Teagan Photography
hearts and your hands to reach out, comfort and console those who are struggling, ill, Printing vulnerable or lonely. This is truly what Christmas is all about. McCallum Printing As we get ready to enter a new year, may we all be filled with hope—hope for the Your comments and suggestions are welcome. work we do and what we can accomplish together. [email protected] 780-735-9929 I wish for each of you the gifts of Christmas: love in our world, peace in your 3033 – 66 Street heart, meaning in your work and joy in your life. Edmonton, AB T6K 4B2
Our Compass Covenant Health 2 Covenant Health launches institute to support patients at end of life
Covenant Health celebrated the launch of the Palliative End of Life Care Institute (PEOLCI) on Oct. 17. “Providing quality care at end of life is core to Covenant Health’s mission of serving (L to r) Patrick Dumelie, with compassion, upholding the sacredness President and CEO, Service Through Christ Award recipients of life in all stages and caring for the Fred Barth and Ed Stelmach and whole person—body, mind and soul,” says John Brennan, Board Chair Linda Revell, SVP Operations and Chief Operating Officer. Honouring the journey at the The institute will respond to the growing need for palliative and end-of-life care in Annual Community Meeting the province by bringing experts together and leading and facilitating research, education and public outreach. The early 300 partners, supporters, board also introduced a new award to honour number of Albertans who will require end- members, government officials individuals and groups who have made of-life care is expected to increase 33 per Nand Covenant Health leaders from outstanding contributions to Catholic health cent by 2020. across the province came together for the care and shown leadership in advancing the At the launch, guests watched a video that organization’s Annual Community Meeting Sisters’ legacy. highlighted the palliative care experience on Oct. 17. Fred Barth and former Alberta Premier of one patient, Ken Lane, and his family. With the theme, “Honouring the Ed Stelmach were announced as the first Five weeks before Ken was diagnosed Journey”, the event offered the opportunity recipients of the Service Through Christ with stage four cancer, he had completed for Covenant Health to say thank you Award. an Ironman triathlon in California. An avid to partners and supporters, to celebrate Over the past 40 years, Fred Barth has sailor and marathon runner with a spirit for accomplishments of the previous year, and been actively involved in ensuring the life, Ken couldn’t believe he had cancer. to look ahead at new developments for legacy of the Sisters continues—whether “I thought they were talking about some the future. fundraising $4.5 million for the Misericordia other guy,” says Ken, reflecting on his Keynote speaker Dr. Eduardo Bruera, a in the 1980s or serving countless hours on diagnosis three years ago. palliative care expert from the University various boards and committees. He was In July 2012, Ken was in excruciating pain of Texas, spoke passionately about the need instrumental in establishing Caritas Health when he was admitted to the Tertiary for quality palliative care and outlined how Group in 1992 and Covenant Health in 2008. Palliative Care Unit at the Grey Nuns Covenant Health, as a leader in Alberta, has From his service as a hardworking Community Hospital. During his stay, he shaped palliative care around the world. Dr. MLA from Vegreville to his time as Premier was able to get his pain managed to a Bruera paid tribute to the Sisters of Charity of Alberta, Ed Stelmach’s support and point where he could enjoy a day sailing (Grey Nuns) for championing palliative care guidance for faith-based health care has with his wife. and helping to establish Covenant Health’s had a profound effect. He was influential “It meant a lot to be able to sail that day,” holistic, multidisciplinary, evidence-based in crafting the faith-based sector’s master says Ken, who passed away on Oct. 30. approach to providing compassionate care agreement with government and he helped Karen Macmillan, VP Operations, Acute at end of life. navigate various agreements and legislation Care, Grey Nuns Community Hospital, During the event, Covenant Health as Catholic health care made the transition and executive lead for the PEOLCI, says from the Sisters’ leadership Covenant Health’s approach to palliative to the current structure. care involves looking at the needs of each Covenant Health also welcomed Ed individual and their family every day. as the newest member of the Board of “It’s about what the patient and family need Directors. as they’re journeying through this process. View the video: Hear what the award means It’s about what quality of life means to them to Fred and Ed, and reflections from those who right now,” says Karen. have been inspired by their selfless contributions. At the launch, some key institute roles were CovenantHealth.ca> About Us> Mission, announced, including Dr. Anne Syme as Vision, Values operations lead and Dr. Konrad Fassbender as research lead. Dr. Eduardo Bruera, a palliative care expert Visit the website to see Ken’s story from the University of Texas, spoke at the and to learn more about the PEOLCI. launch of Covenant Health’s Palliative End of CovenantHealth.ca> News and Resources> Life Care Institute and the Annual Community Meeting on Oct. 17. News Archive
Our Compass Covenant Health 3 Three special residents, three centuries of wisdom
(L to r) Yvonne Van Cauwenberge, Henry Greig and Edna Stennes are three centenarians n 1912, many special people entered the living in the assisted living lodge at St. Mary’s Health Centre in Trochu. world, including Jackson Pollock, Julia Child,I Gene Kelly and Pope John Paul I. A little closer to home, Henry Greig, Yvonne Meet Yvonne Meet Edna Van Cauwenberge and Edna Stennes were With a strong French accent, you Edna doesn’t look a day over 80. Her skin born—and they’re still enjoying life, with all wouldn’t guess that Yvonne was born right is radiant and smooth, and her eyes shine three calling the lodge at St. Mary’s Health in the county. She spent eight years living bright. She has always been a fan of healthy Centre in Trochu home. in France as a youngster studying at a living, avoiding drinking and smoking; Meet Henry convent, and when she returned at 15, she taking daily vitamins and a dose of apple had long forgotten the few words of English cider vinegar with honey; and regularly Henry is a real gentleman, a sharp she knew before she left. But, her expertise eating fish, cod liver and flaxseed oil. dresser with a quick sense of humour. It’s with the French language has come in Eating right has always been important easy to see how Fay, his wife of 78 years, handy. Yvonne and her daughter, Colette, to Edna. For most of her life, she ate was charmed. translated old letters found in France two types of fresh vegetables with every Henry and Fay were married in 1934, that were written by Armand Trochu, the meal and avoided processed food almost in the middle of the Great Depression. namesake of the town, and his wife and completely. Earl, her loving husband of They lived together in the lodge until Fay’s daughters. The letters are now in the Trochu 64 years who passed away in 1997, was dementia progressed to where she needed Museum. diabetic so she always ensured the meals long-term care. Until she passed away in Yvonne’s memories of France and taking she prepared were sensitive to his needs. October, Henry spent much of his day in care of her younger siblings are precious to Edna has always been an active person. St. Mary’s long-term care unit, reading or her. Her memory is not as sharp as it used She had a boarding house in Red Deer for listening to music with her. to be, but the stories of her life that she can a few years and then worked in the dining At 100, Henry renewed his driver’s recall tell of a strong woman who faced room at the former Alberta Hospital in Red license this summer, and he still likes to many challenges. Deer for 16 years. Up until three years ago, take the car for a spin on the back roads. After three months of marriage to Edna was often seen walking Red Deer’s Sometimes, he even rides shotgun with her first husband, Yvonne was widowed Parkland Mall with her grocery cart. his friend, Dick, 90, who now only holds a and left alone to take care of Therese, her Being unable to cook, clean and look learner’s permit. The registry office folks daughter with severe disabilities. Therese after her geraniums is what she misses probably didn’t expect this arrangement… passed away after 13 years, and around that most as a centenarian. Her enjoyments now When asked about his secret to a long time, Yvonne married her second husband are reading the community newspaper life, Henry thinks genetics play the biggest and had two more children, after the age and pocketbooks, and keeping up with role. But he also points out that he lived an of 40. family. And family she has! Edna has active life working on the farm and he did 40 Today, Yvonne lives a quiet life in the three children, 16 grandchildren, 31 years of serious square dancing. Henry says, lodge, reading books and playing bridge great-grandchildren and 12 great-great “An evening of square dancing is equivalent on a computer in her room. She says she grandchildren. to about a four- or five-mile walk.” has no secret to a long life; she has simply Perhaps it’s Edna’s cheerful attitude On his 100th birthday, there was a large always had good health. or good genes (her mother lived to the family reunion, with 220 people who came Yvonne’s family is close. Her daughter, impressive age of 99 ½) that contain the for dinner. Henry says, “There are lots of Collette, and son, Pat, visit often, and she secret to her long life, but, no matter what twigs on the family tree… It really was a has four living siblings, two brothers and her secret is, her large family treasures the wild weekend.” two sisters. time they have with her.
Our Compass Covenant Health 4 focus on... Hand hygiene audits HandyAudit system brings new technology and more reliable results
arlier this summer, Covenant Health This was my first time auditing, so I don’t began using the HandyAudit system know what it was like before, but I assume because there are some instances where it is forE hand hygiene audits. Using new iPad auditing on paper would have been a huge difficult to comply completely. technology, auditors simply record a expense time-wise, and it would have used a person’s actions, reducing the need to make lot of paper! OC: What kind of reaction did your co- judgments about hand hygiene moments workers have to audits using an iPad? OC: What is HandyAudit like to use? and increasing consistency across sites. DK: They were curious and a little hesitant, DK: I found it easy. The interface is very The central HandyAudit system also collects but they got used to me being around. intuitive. Everything is right in front of you and processes results, allowing reports to be and you don’t have to search for it. I like OC: What advice would you give to other available almost immediately. Reports can my gadgets, but this program is good for new auditors? even be broken down into units, programs those who aren’t as tech savvy. After a short DK: Spend some time alone with the and sites. training course and some practice, most program going through practice problems, Daniel Krajewski, a Nursing Attendant in people would be fine to use this program. and think about situations tailored to your the Post Acute Rehabilitation Unit at St. OC: What is most handy about facility. Training is also essential and it is Michael’s Health Centre, enjoyed working HandyAudit? very thorough. They give you guidelines, with the system. This was his first time as a and teach you how to properly audit. By the DK: You can get your compliance rates hand hygiene auditor for the 142-bed site. end, I felt confident. online. It’s really easy to access and print Our Compass: What off. You can log on with an access code and All facilities wrapped up their hand hygiene do you think about view reports by unit, time and more. And audits in mid-November. Congratulations to HandyAudit? grading is done by the computer so results St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville, Daniel are available right away. St. Mary’s Health Care Centre in Trochu and Krajewski: Mary Immaculate Hospital in Mundare for OC: What do you think about the system’s I really enjoyed achieving the highest compliance rates during focus on observations? using the iPad. this audit. To view the results of all sites, visit It’s efficient. DK: It was very straightforward. I was not CompassionNET> Workplace Health & Safety> You can carry it judging the care. I just entered in exactly Infection Prevention & Control> Hand Hygiene around with you what someone did and then submitted the Audits and Toolkit. The next round of audits will and use it anywhere. data. It was an eye opener for me, though, take place in March and April 2013.
Moments of holistic, compassionate care. Moments that inspire you to commit to our team. Moments to help you connect and support us in fulfilling our mission.
These are our defining moments. Let’s walk this journey together.
CovenantHealth.ca/OurStory
Our Compass Covenant Health 5 New role helps Mary Immaculate’s clinic thrive n a small medical clinic, the addition of one LPN can make a big difference. LPN Lesley Mosiuk joined Mary Immaculate Hospital’s clinic in April 2011, and has helped theI clinic offer lab services and efficient and consistent support to the clinic’s two physicians. Premier Regarding her role, Lesley says, “It makes life easier for the doctors… and, for the residents, it is Alison Redford better quality of care.” Before Lesley’s role was created, support for the clinic’s physicians was ad-hoc. Different Premier Redford LPNs or RNs from the hospital’s long-term care unit would come over to assist the doctors, impacting consistency of service and pulling resources away from the unit. Now, with a champions dedicated staff member in the clinic, care in both areas is enhanced. compassionate care Dr. Claudiu Iordache, one of the clinic’s physicians, says Lesley has made a particular difference in expediting services. He estimates that Lesley’s assessments save him five to 10 Speaking with Covenant Health leaders minutes for each patient because he has important information, such as vitals, on hand before he this fall, Alberta Premier Alison Redford sees them. He is also happy to be able to offer lab services within the clinic. spoke of the need for strong partnerships “Even if it is just a urine sample, it makes things much faster,” says Dr. Iordache. He feels the in health care and acknowledged more services they can offer on the spot, the better—especially for long-term care residents. Covenant Health’s contribution to the province in providing compassionate care Lesley’s role includes providing any required assessments, treatments (e.g., injections) or focused on meeting the needs of families, other assistance, and overseeing basic lab services: taking electrocardiograms and collecting and communities and those most vulnerable. initially processing blood and urine samples. Lesley has also received positive feedback The Premier addressed senior leaders and members of the Board of Directors, from patients. One particular patient calls her community and foundation board his “little angel” and brings her fresh cherries. members, and the Board of Catholic “If everyone’s happy, it makes for a better Health of Alberta at a Fall Assembly work environment,” says Lesley. “When you dinner on Oct.16. don’t have staff members to help you do Premier Redford said the province things, and you’re frustrated, it’s hard. So I can learn from the innovative models think it is working well.” She also hopes her and approaches Covenant Health has role will help ensure these services remain in developed. Mundare. “Caring and compassion guide your Mary Immaculate’s long-standing clinic decisions and actions and that is reflected runs Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, in your respectful approach to those and offers general services from two Lamont- in need of care and assistance,” she based physicians—Dr. Iordache and Dr. notes. “My government shares your John Slanina. As Mundare’s only medical vision that patients facing serious and clinic, over the past 30 years the town’s complex illnesses have access to a full and LPN Lesley Mosiuk (left) helps Dr. 1,000 residents have come to rely on the Claudiu Iordache (right) and Dr. availability of the clinic, and have formed comprehensive spectrum of co-ordinated Slanina provide efficient care in Mary health services and is proud to support Immaculate Hospital’s clinic. close relationships with the physicians who Covenant Health.” have worked there.
Board Chair receives national award
W. John Brennan, Chair of Covenant Health’s Board of Directors, was among over 100 Albertans awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in November 2012, which honours significant contributions and achievements by Canadians. During his career, John was CEO of the CA School of Business, and, prior to that, was the Chuck and Norma Childers Professor in Saskatchewan Enterprise at the College of Commerce, University of Saskatchewan, where he served in various posts over a 30-year term. In addition to chairing the Covenant Health Board of Directors, he is a member of the Rotary Club of Edmonton, and has served on several boards and national and international professional and academic committees.
Our Compass Covenant Health 6 John Brennan, Board Chair Finley and Molly Coyle co-bed at two weeks old in the Grey A mother’s Nuns ICN. Donor breast milk gift helps preemies thrive
reterm labour is often an unexpected and Molly were born via Pevent, but Leah Johnson-Coyle and emergency C-section at the Tom Coyle were as ready as they could be Royal Alexandra Hospital at 31 weeks, for the early arrival of fraternal twins Finley six days, weighing four pounds four ounces and Molly. and four pounds even, respectively. “I had prepared myself for having preterm The twins were both transferred out of babies and I knew that we’d probably live the high acuity area by midday and now they The twins snuggle up in the hospital for a couple of weeks,” said faced their next challenge. The combination for a photo at home at Leah, who previously experienced the loss of premature birth, a C-section delivery and five weeks old. of twin boys, Beck and Bentley, born just Leah’s breast reduction 14 years previous to be closer short of 23 weeks gestation. Her subsequent meant breastfeeding would be difficult for to home. At that pregnancy with Finley and Molly was also the new mom. But formula use increased the time, the Grey Nuns had just opened a human complicated with threatened preterm labour risk of necrotizing enterocolitis, a medical milk depot, and the twins were the first babies and a shortening cervix at 23 weeks, and she condition that damages bowel tissue and is to receive donor breast milk at the facility. spent the last nine weeks of her pregnancy on predominantly found in premature infants. Finley and Molly spent a total of 29 days in bed rest. Leah and Tom had recently heard about hospital before heading home at 36 weeks old With both babies in breech position when the newly-established Calgary Mothers’ Milk (corrected age), about four weeks sooner than she went into labour on Aug. 20, 2012, Finley Bank in the media, and they were immediately the average preemie. Leah credits the donor open to using donor breast milk. milk for their early discharge, and is thankful “We accept blood from anybody; why for the choice it gave them. would breast milk be any different just because “It’s amazing to me what women who can it comes from a woman’s breast?” says Leah. produce want to do for women who can’t. It’s “It is by far the most delicate thing you can a gift that we will forever be grateful for. To give, and the biggest gift you can give your the moms that do it: bless your hearts.” baby—it doesn’t matter where it comes from.” Today, Leah continues to provide Finley The twins started receiving donor milk and Molly with a combination of her own on day three, and Leah pumped every three milk and donor milk. hours, supplementing the donor milk with The human milk depot at the Grey Nuns whatever she could express each day. After the Community Hospital is a place where pre- twins started nursing on day 11, she continued approved donors who meet the guidelines set to provide them with donor milk. by the Human Milk Bank Association of North At about two weeks old, the twins America are able to donate breast milk to be sent had improved to the point they could be to the Calgary Mothers’ Milk Bank for testing transferred to the Intensive Care Nursery and pasteurization, followed by distribution to (ICN) at the Grey Nuns Community Hospital hospitals throughout the province.
For information about the Calgary mothers’ milk bank: Leah Johnson-Coyle and Tom Coyle enjoy skin-to-skin contact, known as kangaroo care, with their twins nestled against their chests in the Grey Nuns ICN. ☎ Phone: 403-475-MILK Leah says they appreciated the family- centred approach at the Grey Nuns. “There’s Website: www.calgarymothersmilkbank.ca nothing short of unique and miraculous about that place and the staff that work there. They’re there for the patients,” she says. * Email: [email protected]
Our Compass Covenant Health 7 The new Electronic scheduling Health Ethics Guide: coming soon What’s in it for you? to Grey Nuns Submitted by Dr. Gordon Self Vice President, Mission, Ethics and Spirituality ambulatory clinics Implementation of eClinician is now “Are we required to provide burdensome, non-medically underway in ambulatory clinics at the indicated care?” Grey Nuns Community Hospital. “Are confidentiality and privacy still relevant ethical › What is it? principles in health care?” eClinician is an AHS-supported system that brings paper information into “Is it OK to discharge a homeless person to the street?” electronic form and automates manual processes. Electronic patient scheduling “What is our responsibility to try to work out conflict directly will be implemented to begin with, and respectfully with those we are in disagreement with?” allowing for the electronic management of referrals, waitlists, recalls, bills and “How are we to honour the diversity of religious and cultural reports. This is an important first step traditions of the people we serve?” to the creation of fully electronic medical records. hese and other care is still, and always questions are will be, about people. › When is it happening? addressedT in the new Similarly, good ethics eClinician will be installed at the Grey Health Ethics Guide. This must always be directed Nuns to begin with, using a full model revised third edition to the contextual rollout. This will involve about six months embodies the same realities and unique of prep work between October 2012 and balanced, practical and circumstances of the April 2013, and it will include all of the compassionate approach person in our care. Grey Nuns ambulatory clinics at once. for which the 2000 edition While the guide The eClinician team at the Grey Nuns is of the Health Ethics Guide clearly upholds the currently selecting clinic Subject Matter has been internationally intrinsic dignity and Experts (SMEs), holding engagement recognized. Informed by incalculable worth of meetings with SMEs and supervisors, and the long-standing Catholic every human life, the completing clinic observations of patient moral and social justice document is still a guide. flow and processes. traditions, with updated We are not off the hook Implementation is expected to be commentary on emerging in exercising our clinical complete in April, followed by the healthcare technologies and trends, and professional judgment in applying Misericordia Community Hospital and the guide is intended to help providers the guide to the unique circumstances and Villa Caritas, which are scheduled to navigate the complex ethical issues we moral dilemmas we face. begin in the spring. encounter while providing care and service. Copies of the Health Ethics Guide have There is a little bit for everyone in the been distributed throughout Covenant › How does it help patients? new guide. From organ donation and Health, and educational sessions are being Patients can expect more efficient research, to complex issues at the beginning scheduled over the next several months. scheduling and increased accuracy, and end of life, to employer-employee Visit CompassionNET> About Us> including a reduction in transcription relations, to medical error and disclosure, to Mission, Vision & Values> Health Ethics errors and lost information. executive compensation and conscientious Guide for more information on the guide objection, to, finally, goals of care and and a schedule of workshops, grand rounds Visit CompassionNET to hear how current advance care planning. and lunch ‘n’ learn sessions. To arrange an eClinician users in Geriatric Health But even before a single principle is education session on the new Health Ethics Services at the Grey Nuns are enjoying the convenience of the new system. mentioned, the Health Ethics Guide relates Guide, or to discuss how it applies to your CompassionNET> Employee Education> a well-known story of compassionate care department or role, please contact Nasreen eClinician to a vulnerable person. The parable of the Bhimji at [email protected] Good Samaritan reminds us that health or 780-735-9597. Our Compass Covenant Health 8 Reflecting on our heritage
The Sisters and collaborators visit the Service Through Christ statue at the Alberta Legislature grounds.
life”, reflects the Misericordia Sisters’ consistent mothers continue to remain a vulnerable focus on vulnerable expectant and new mothers, population in need—centuries after Sister Rosalie and children. began her work. The last time the Sisters and collaborators For Sister Diane Prusinski, who’s visiting were in Edmonton was 2005, so there were from New York, the meeting is like a big “family many new things to see—including Villa Caritas, reunion”. She says reflecting on the Misericordia which sits on the site of the former Pineview mission is inspiring when times are difficult, and Building, a home for unwed mothers that was it’s encouraging to remember how much the opened in 1962, and the Service Through Christ Sisters of the past did with so little. “They were statue on the Alberta Legislature grounds. brave, wonderful people,” she says. The visitors also learned about the excellent Sister Jeannine Vallieres touches hand prints of other Misericordia Sisters work going on at the Misericordia Community installed in the lobby of the Mother Hospital and the Mother Rosalie Health Centre, Misericordia missions represented Rosalie Health Centre. especially within labour and delivery, neonatal at the 2012 Heritage meeting intensive care and the children’s health clinic. • Catholic Guardian Society and Home ike an eclipse or a comet—something The visitors were even able to visit with some Bureau & Rosalie Hall Maternity Ltreasured for its beauty and its fleeting new mothers and babies. Division, New York moment—every half-dozen years, the Tours through these areas were particularly • Centre Rosalie-Cadron-Jetté/General Misericordia Sisters come to Edmonton for their impactful for the visitors due to the Misericordia Council & Mother House, Montreal Heritage meeting. Sisters’ original mission. However, it was also • Fondation pour les enfants de Every year, the Sisters and “collaborators” a touching experience for staff. Gail Cameron, l'Équateur, Ecuador from across North and South America gather Director of Maternal, Neonatal & Child Health • La Petite Maison de la Miséricorde, together for two full days to reaffirm the mission Programs at the Grey Nuns and Misericordia, Montreal of Mother Rosalie Cadron-Jetté, the foundress was moved by the tour and says staff were proud • Le Carrefour de la Miséricorde, of the Misericordia Sisters. Collaborators come to have the opportunity to share their work with Gatineau from the various missions founded by the Sisters, the Sisters and collaborators. • Misericordia Community Hospital, and the Sisters travel from the Mother House “Our staff and mothers really enjoyed the Edmonton in Montreal and a mission in New York. The tour. It certainly created a buzz, and we really • Misericordia Health Centre, Winnipeg location of the meeting varies every year, but the appreciated the time to network with new and • Mision Rosalia-Cadron, Ecuador impact on participants is always the same—they old friends, and for us to remember why we do • Rosalie Hall, Toronto leave feeling inspired and their missions are this great job,” says Gail. reaffirmed. • Rosalie Manor Community & Family On Oct. 27, the Sisters and collaborators held Services, Milwaukee This year, Covenant Health welcomed 27 an all-day session to explore this year’s theme • Villa Rosa, Winnipeg visitors for the meeting, which took place Oct. and share news from their sites. Throughout • Wolseley Family Place, Winnipeg 25 - 27. The theme, “Together, let us give birth to the visit, many reflected on how young, single
Our Compass Covenant Health 9 Building resiliency in the workplace
Submitted by Aimee Reimer Registered Psychologist Catholic Social Services
t some point, everyone faces difficult Building your strengths in each of those • Seek physical wellness. Be sure to Acircumstances at work. What makes areas will help increase your resiliency and practice self-care by getting enough some people handle them better than ability to handle difficult situations. sleep, eating healthy, drinking water others? The answer is resilience, the Here are some ways you can build and exercising regularly. This shows ability to bounce back and adapt to resilience: you value yourself. challenging situations. • Seek emotional wellness. Build • Observe others. Pay attention to Evaluating yourself may help you awareness of the range of emotions the qualities you see in resilient understand how resilient you are, and you are experiencing and learn to people. Resilience can be learned by where to start making changes. handle them in appropriate ways. observing others. • Build purpose. Having purpose and Ask yourself: • Cultivate social supports. Have a meaning in life and at work helps supportive social network, including • Do I have purpose in my life? people to handle difficult situations. colleagues, immediate or extended Exploring your spirituality is often a • Do I have a caring work environment? family, close friends and neighbours. part of building purpose. Consider • Do I set goals and work hard to At work, encourage collaboration, your values and ensure the work you achieve them at work? teamwork and friendships. do matches them. • Do people at work care about me? • Take a positive view. Keep a • Seek EFAP counselling. Consider positive view of yourself. Know what • Do I try to do the best I can at work? meeting with a counsellor from your your strengths are, and work towards Employee and Family Assistance If you answered yes to the questions, you increasing them. Keep a hopeful Program. They are trained in are on the path towards being resilient. If attitude about the future. you answered no, you can work towards administering a resiliency assessment • Practise healthy and assertive improving your resiliency. and can help you build on your communication. Be open to strengths and create more resilience Research by Resiliency Canada discussing issues that arise at work in your life. 4 process indicates the following factors help before they grow. build resiliency in adults: • Be clear about your expectations. • family support and expectations Having a clear role and knowing what is expected at work makes it easier to • peer relationships handle stressors. Acknowledgment of • community cohesiveness things done well can help employees • commitment to learning and colleagues feel good about themselves. • role environment (work, home or school) • Use critical thinking. An ability to solve problems and think critically • cultural sensitivity helps people deal with difficult • self-control situations and find solutions to them. • empowerment • Maintain work/life balance. Being able to maintain healthy space from • self concept work can make it easier to adapt to • social sensitivity and empathy stressful situations.
Our Compass Covenant Health 10 Take your back for a walk Submitted by Lauren Smith Workers’ Compensation Board – Alberta
If someone asked you which industry has the highest rate of back injury, what would be your guess? Surgery patient’s Many think of extremely physically demanding industries, like construction, artwork documents oil and gas, or mining. In reality, the hospital experience healthcare industry can be just as risky. From March 20 to 27, Doug Swanson Healthcare workers are exposed to many was recovering in Room 4116 after going scenarios that can cause and aggravate through abdominal aortic aneurism back pain due to the physical demands In conjunction with regular replacement surgery at the Grey Nuns of the work. Whether you’re at a desk for exercise, other strategies can Community Hospital. the majority of the day, or on your feet, positively impact your back’s “My experience was terrific—I had great all healthcare workers need to be aware health: care. I created a memory aid for myself of what to do to care for their back. to remember the scores of people Proper lifting techniques: Use It’s a common misconception that those that attended to me,” says Doug, who correct posture and support. Try who experience back pain should stay collected various items used in his care. to avoid twisting and arching your off their feet and rest. But research has back. Adjust the bed height and use Through his collage of items, he can actually shown that staying active is the lifting equipment. Lift with a partner remember things such as the first food best way to reduce back pain symptoms for bulky or heavy items. Repeatedly he ate after surgery (a red popsicle) and and begin the journey towards a happy, using incorrect lifting techniques can the exact time on the hallway clock when healthy back. aggravate back pain symptoms and he walked around for the first time (3:58). Whether you’ve injured your back, potentially lead to future back pain. Doug says, “Even though you may be or experience acute or chronic back Ergonomics: Ensure your workstation is going through trying times, you can pain, physical activity is the best pain ergonomically sound; otherwise, it can draw solace and inspiration from art.” management tool. Exercise in any way create stress on your body, which can you enjoy, such as hiking, yoga, biking cause back pain. or dancing. Even getting out for a Reflection leisurely walk during your lunch break can Relaxation and stress management: significantly improve your back’s health. Make time in your day to take some deep breaths or meditate to help Prayer of thanks for people Consult with your doctor before starting prevent anxiety, which is connected to a new fitness regimen if you have any back pain. God of Love, questions about your back pain. If you’ve I thank you for the people in my life been inactive for a while, ease yourself Visit CompassionNET for more who are easy to love. back into physical activity. Take your time information and resources about I thank you for my family and friends and go at a pace that is comfortable preventing back injuries at work— who understand my actions, for you. As you feel more comfortable, your back will thank you for it! who support me in my decisions, increase your activity level. CompassionNet.ca/789.asp. and whose presence can lift the burden of a thorny day.
Help me with those who are difficult to love. When they come at me with criticism and wild expectations, when they ignore me or try to bend me to their will, let me recognize their flaws and their dangers. But then let me remember your attitude toward them, and lead me to see them in the light of your love.
Amen
Our Compass Covenant Health 11 Young football player gives back to Misericordia >> in Twelve-year-old Alex Fayed recently Covenant donated $300 to a volunteer knitting program that makes hats for newborns the community in Intensive Care and Labour and Delivery at the Misericordia. Alex took on the cause as part of the Sherwood Whether giving or receiving, Covenant Park PeeWee Football League’s Pay It Forward program. He chose the Health staff connect with their knitting program because his little communities to support patients, sister, Lora, was born eight weeks early, and she spent four weeks in the Alex Fayad residents and fellow team members. Misericordia’s Intensive Care Nursery.
Grey Nuns staff support Edmonton teams raise Bras Across the Bridge money for schizophrenia Grey Nuns nurse Sue Wilks passed away Over 15 staff from Villa Caritas from breast cancer in January 2011. To and the Mental Health unit at honour their friend and colleague, staff in the Grey Nuns participated in Women’s Health decided to collect bras the 15th Annual Open Minds to support Bras Across the Bridge, a local Walk & Run event on Sept. radio station campaign to raise breast 22, to raise awareness for cancer awareness by stretching donated schizophrenia. Together, the bras across the High Level Bridge. For every two teams raised $4,858 for bra collected, a dollar was donated to the the Schizophrenia Society of Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Alberta, which provides support and services for individuals and families living with schizophrenia and related disorders. Youville Home builds futures with Habitat for Humanity Geared up with tool belts, hard hats, safety goggles and steel-toed boots, 16 staff from Youville Home teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to build affordable houses in St. Albert. On Sept. 22, the group worked on 14 homes. Some helped with insulation and window structures, while others installed kitchen cabinets and cleaned the houses that were completely developed. (L to r) Kathy Steele, Staff Nurse, Vivian Neis, Clinical Educator, and Margaret Salopell, Clinical Educator >>
Mary Immaculate staff participate in walk for former patient When staff at Mary Immaculate Hospital heard that the sister of a former patient was organizing a walk to generate awareness and raise money for Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), they put together a team and laced up their Colby Coers sneakers for the cause. The team, Colby Shadow Queens, participated in the ALS walk on Aug. 18, raising $25,500 in support of Colby Coers, a 21-year-old with ALS, a progressive neuromuscular disease that kills nerve cells and paralyses voluntary muscles.
Lights of Hope For the second year, the Caritas Foundation presents the Lights of Hope campaign, with the Senior Leadership Team donates gifts and time to historic Edmonton General Continuing Care Edmonton elementary school Centre transformed into a stunning Christmas masterpiece of festive lights. From Nov. 29 to Jan. On Nov. 26, members of the Senior Leadership Team filled 170 6, the lights will shine from 5 -10 p.m. daily. Come Christmas boxes, one for each student at St. Gerard Catholic out, take in the magic, and make a donation to Elementary School. They followed this up on Dec. 10, by the Caritas Foundation. All proceeds support the preparing and serving a hot breakfast at the school, while handing needs of Edmonton General residents throughout out the boxes. the year. Visit www.caritasfoundation.org or call (L to r) Truman Severson, VP Innovation and Business 780-342-8126 to find out how you can be a Lights Development, and Johanna Knettig, Director, Strategic of Hope sponsor. Planning and Executive Services