BLUEWATER HEALTH PRESENTED ACHIEVEMENT AWARD - Page 7

Dream Home Holiday Giving Made Lottery Underway Easy with Gift Guide Page 4 Page 5

A Publication of Bluewater Health Foundation Volume 16 Issue 4 WWW.BWHF.CA Winter, 2016

DIAGNOSISDIAGNOSIS ININ AA HEARTBEATHEARTBEAT

Dr. Youssef Almalki, Medical Director, Diagnostic Imaging Program (left), and Sheila Cunningham, Senior Medical Radiation Technologist (CT) are proud of the new CT technology at Bluewater Health that is enhancing patient care. When Dr. Youssef Almalki and his will enable scans to be completed at Bluewater Health Foundation. “It is In total, the renovations and in- Fast Facts Diagnostic Imaging team began a fraction of the time they currently because of their contributions that stallation of the new CT scanner • CT stands for Computed their pursuit of a new CT scanner take – literally in a heartbeat,” says Bluewater Health can have lead- will take approximately two months, Tomography. It is a they had a clear purpose: nothing Dr. Almalki, Consultant Radiologist ing-edge equipment and technol- however, during this time CT ser- procedure that produces but the best for Sarnia-Lambton. and Medical Director, Diagnostic ogy right here in Sarnia-Lambton. vices will not be interrupted for cross-sectional images of Bluewater Health’s current CT scan- Imaging, Bluewater Health. “This Whether through a personal dona- patients of Bluewater Health. The the body, layer by layer. ner was acquired 11 years ago, and tion, attendance at one of our events Diagnostic Imaging department has is at the end of its lifespan. Known There are over or the purchase of a Dream Home • A CT scan can be done also just acquired a state-of-the-art as the ‘workhorse’ of the imaging 16,000 CT scans Lottery ticket, we are so grateful for on almost any body part, Nuclear Medicine Gamma Camera department, the CT scanner produc- completed at the support.” including the head, lungs, with SPECT and CT imaging ability. es 3D images of the body to give Bluewater Health The installation of a new CT scan- heart, abdomen and pelvis, doctors a detailed picture of what each year. ner will require renovations to the The new Nuclear Medicine equip- and extremities. It can show is going on inside. This vastly in- entire Diagnostic Imaging depart- ment with its advanced diagnostic detailed views of many creases the doctor’s ability to accu- will improve the patient experi- ment. Preparation for these ren- CT scanner capabilities can be used different types of tissue, rately and quickly diagnose medical ence by providing fast imaging for as a back-up scanner for our emer- such as the brain, airways, conditions and injuries. A CT scan pediatric patients without the need A new scanner will gency and stroke patients when our lungs, bones, soft tissues, further provide shows detail that cannot be seen on for sedation, trauma patients, and primary scanner is down for service. and blood vessels. traditional x-ray. Over 16,000 CT those who are unable to hold still.” fast imaging for This allows uninterrupted access for • The CT scanner project scans are completed each year at The CT project will enhance access pediatric patients the patients of Lambton County at will enhance access to Bluewater Health. to care, by also providing uninter- without the all times. care by also providing While they were presented with a rupted and advanced imaging for need for sedation, trauma patients Proceeds from the 2016 Tribute uninterrupted and advanced wide range of options for the new our stroke patients. and those unable Gala and the 2017 Dream Home imaging for stroke patients. scanner, the one that was selected The acquisition of equipment of to hold still. Lottery will be allocated to this is top-of-the-line. Bluewater Health this caliber is made possible by the is only the third facility in Ontario generosity of our community. “His- ovations provides an opportunity important purchase. To find out and the 11th in Canada to have the tory has shown us that when there for the Diagnostic Imaging team to more about how you can help, vis- Revolution© which is the most cut- is a need in our , our com- reorganize other equipment and sta- it the Bluewater Health Foundation ting-edge CT on the market. “Having munity supports us time and again,” tions within the department, to opti- office, www.bwhf.ca or call Adelle this new and upgraded CT scanner Kathy Alexander, Executive Director, mize comfort and flow for patients. Stewardson at 519-464-4439.

Holiday Physicians Healthcare Recognized Options Page 2 Page 8 Volume 16 Issue 4 PAGE 2 Winter, 2016 Upcoming Events PHYSICIANS RECOGNIZED Foundation Events January 13: Dream Home Earlybird Draw for Trip for Two February 14: Dream Home Earlybird Draw for Diamond Pendant and cash February 24: Dream Home Draw For Foundation event information please contact the office at (519) 464-4408 or visit our website at www.bwhf.ca.

Bluewater Health Board of Directors Meetings January 25 February 22

March 22 Pictured, from l-r, are: Dr. Michel Haddad; Dr. Robert Hislop; Dr. Glen Maddison; Dr. Susan Mather; Dr. Anthony Lena; Mike Lapaine, For location, meeting details and other hospital events, please visit the President & CEO. Missing is Dr. Serguei Peregoudov. events calendar on Bluewater Health’s website at www.bluewaterhealth.ca. At the ninth annual Physician Ap- the Maternal/Infant/Child program, Sarnia-Lambton patients were giv- preciation Day, physicians who con- and the Medicine program. en the opportunity once again to Health Watch tribute greatly to the Sarnia-Lamb- Dr. Serguei Peregoudov, anaes- nominate their physician for a Pa- January 15 - 21: National Non-Smoking Week ton community were honoured. thetist, was the recipient of the Peer tients’ Choice Award. Of the 35 pa- January 18: Weedless Wednesday This year’s recipient of the Out- Recognition Award. He was recog- tient nominations received, a patient February: Heart Month and Psychology Month standing Physician of the Year nized as a consummate gentleman jury recognized Dr. Susan Mather February 1 - 7: Eating Disorders Awareness Week Award is Dr. Robert Hislop, an emer- who practices both the art and sci- and Dr. Anthony Lena for the excep- gency physician. He is recognized March: Colorectal Awareness Month; Kidney Health Month; ence of anaesthesia at the highest tional care they have provided and as a solid Liver Health Month; National Nutrition Month; National Social Work level. He always has the best inter- for their commitment to enhanc- clinical decision-maker, someone Month; and Pharmacist Awareness Month ests of the patient in mind. ing the patients’ overall experience who uses excellent clinical judge- March 9: World Kidney Day The recipient of the annual Culture within the healthcare system. ment to reduce the use of unneces- March 16: Registered Dietitian Day of Philanthropy award is Dr. Glen Dr. Lena is an anaesthetist who sary tests, a life-long learner and a Maddison. This award recognizes has been practicing in Sarnia since physician who is well-respected by a physician whose personal gener- 1994. He is being recognized for his his colleagues. osity and community leadership has wonderful care in supporting pa- The Outstanding Contribution to Pie Auction Proceeds the Hospital Award was presented to inspired others to become involved tients at his pain clinic. Dr. Michel Haddad, who has served in supporting Bluewater Health. Dr. Mather is a family doctor who Provide Probe in many capacities over the past Dr. Maddison was an instrumental has been practicing in Petrolia since number of years. He is an intensiv- member of the community-based 1997. Patients felt that they are able ist and Medical Director of Critical committee that planned the incred- to express their care concerns to Care, and has also served as the In- ibly successful Bluewater Interna- her and ask questions in a safe and terim Medical Director for , tional Granfondo. knowledgeable environment. HERDMAN HEADLINES TRIBUTE GALA

Pictured, from l-r are: Bob Crawford, CEEH Foundation Treasurer; Sandy Atkinson, Cu- linary Arts Department of Plympton-Wyoming Agricultural Society; Joy Smith, CEEH Auxiliary; Stacy Ferguson, Medical Radiation Technologist; Diane Cadieux, Director, Diagnostic Imaging; Judi McCallum, Medical Radiation Technologist. The Pie Auction at the Plympton-Wyoming Agricultural Society’s 2016 Fall Fair raised more than $4,500 for the Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital (CEEH) Foundation. It was used toward the purchase of an additional Ultra- sound Probe to enhance workflow for the sonographers in Diagnostic Imag- ing at CEEH of Bluewater Health. The CEEH Auxiliary generously “topped off” that donation to cover the total cost of the probe. The Plympton-Wyoming Each October, Bluewater Health joined us fresh off the team’s suc- inspire trust, confidence, and suc- Agricultural Society has donated proceeds from previous Pie Auctions to the Foundation holds a Tribute Gala. cess at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics. cess, whether on the field, in the CEEH Foundation to fund items such as wheelchairs, blanket warmers, lab This event is known in the Sar- John Herdman took a group once workplace, or in the home. equipment, commode chairs and weigh scales. nia-Lambton community for hosting called a “struggling squad” to one Proceeds from this year’s Tribute in-demand, internationally-recog- that has captured the hearts and Gala benefitted Bluewater Health’s Di- nized speakers to share their stories minds of Canadians. Under his agnostic Imaging Department in the of hope, inspiration and following leadership, the women’s team won your dreams. In previous years, the the bronze medal at the 2012 and, purchase of a new CT scanner. Details Foundation has been honoured to most recently, the 2016 Summer of the new scanner and the impact it host Chris Hadfield, Clara Hughes Olympic Games. They also took will have on our community are out- and Stephen Lewis. a gold medal at the 2011 Pan Am lined on the cover of this issue. This year, we were extremely proud Games in Mexico – the first Pan Am The success of “Bend it for Blue- to continue this tradition and part- gold in Canadian soccer history. In water Health” would not have been nered with NGL Supply Ltd. to wel- his riveting talks, Herdman, who possible without the generous sup- come John Herdman, Head Coach was a nominee for both the 2012 port of our sponsors, attendees and of the Canadian Senior Women’s and 2015 FIFA Coach of the Year, volunteers. We are excited to begin National Soccer Team. This year’s stresses the importance of devel- event was titled “Bend it for Blue- oping a high-performance culture, planning our next Tribute Gala – the water Health,” in celebration of learning to overcome adversity with highly anticipated keynote speaker this highly-regarded speaker, who grace, and the role of leaders to will be announced in 2017! Volume 16 Issue 4 PAGE 3 Winter, 2016 Volunteer Profile SEASON’S GREETINGS Lee Wilson

It didn’t take long for Lee Wilson to know she’d found a productive and re- warding way to spend some time following her retirement in 2015. This has been a year of tremendous for our patients and their families in our Gift Guide on page 5. The an- While in the Sarnia hospital one day she saw a number of volunteers in change for Bluewater Health and over the holidays. nual Light Up Our Hospital tradition their recognizable blue smocks and thought,” I could see myself volunteer- Bluewater Health Foundation. With We are also grateful to our volun- continues as we light up the exteri- ing here.” She completed an online application and was soon placed at the a new hospital Executive team and teers and donors whose gifts of time, or and gardens at Bluewater Health Welcome Desk for four hours a week. “I knew the first time I came in that it Foundation staff, and an updated talent and funding have made such to brighten the holidays for our pa- was going to be a good fit,” she says. five-year Strategic Plan for the hos- a difference to so many programs in tients in hospital over the holidays, Lee enjoys being busy, and likes the social interaction offered by her regular pitals, our focus remains firmly on the hospitals this year, from Mental from December 1 until mid-January. shifts at the Welcome Desk, and her call-in shifts in Day Surgery. “Having the healthcare experiences of our Health to Maternal/Infant/Child, and On behalf of the hospital and foun- grown up in the area, I know a lot of people, and it’s nice to be able to make patients and families in the Sar- from cardiac to cancer care. Most dation family, we wish you and patients, their families and visitors more comfortable here,” she says. “Often nia-Lambton community who en- recently, we’ve begun directing the yours happiness and good health we’re their first – and last – point of contact while they’re at the hospital.” trust their care to us. majority of donor support to our as we prepare to greet the new year. “Volunteers play an important role, and carry out a number of responsibili- We consider it a privilege to par- Medical Imaging department for our In 2017, we anticipate making great ties,” she adds. “It’s a good place for those who have just retired to continue ticipate in your care journey and new CT scanner and other equip- strides on a number of initiatives to using their talents. There’s a fit for just about everyone and the people here our staff, Professional Staff and ment as part of our commitment to continue to enhance the patient ex- really appreciate everything the volunteers do.” volunteers are deeply committed to technology renewal so we can con- perience for Emily, who represents Outside her time at Bluewater Health, Lee enjoys walking, and sings in her creating exemplary healthcare expe- tinue to provide state-of-the-art care every patient and family member church choir and the Nightingale Chorus. She is looking forward to all the riences with our patients and fami- for our residents. For those looking cared for at Bluewater Health in the opportunities this new phase of her life will bring, while giving back to the lies every time. We are particularly for ideas for your holiday shopping past, present and future. community that has always been good to her. thankful to those who will be caring list, we hope you’ll find inspiration

Best wishes for the holidays, Randy,Mike, Kathy and Wayne Donor Profile In Motion MIC RE-COMMITS TO MOREob

In Motion’s focus on health, rehabilitation and injury prevention makes it the ideal sponsor of Bluewater Health Foundation’s Race for Health event. “We have been actively engaged in supporting a wide variety of community events in the past. However, the opportunity to commit ourselves to one event, one that ties in healthcare and activity, was too good to pass up,” says Dr. Luke Winegard. “Being the platinum sponsor of Race for Health aligns with our mission and values at In Motion and allows us to give back to a wonderful cause. Brendan (co-founder Dr. Carney Kilian) and I are both runners, as are The Managing Obstetrical Risk Ef- Infant/Child (MIC). “Team members dence-based, standardized, con- several of our team and a great many of our clients.” ficiently (MOREob) program helps share a common interest and they sistent care practices for all our pa- The event, which promotes active living through running to support cardiac obstetrical caregivers develop the recognize that reflective learning tients,” says Sally Jenkins, Manager, care for local residents, complements In Motion’s work with their clients to knowledge, skills, attitudes, be- results in shared knowledge. Every- MIC. “As we progress there is open set and exceed their personal health and fitness goals and to improve their haviours and practices that make one on the team is empowered to communication, increased trust and quality of life. “We are built to be ‘In Motion’ – exercise really is the best med- patient safety the number one pri- speak up and identify ways to im- respect among all members of the icine,” says Dr. Carney Kilian. “It is a natural fit for the proceeds of this event ority, and everyone’s responsibility, prove patient care and safety. There team, improved maternal and neo- to support the great work done by the cardiac care team at Bluewater Health.” all the time. The program contains Dr. Winegard ran the 10km distance and several staff completed the 5 and is no second-guessing because natal outcomes and reductions in highly-value clinical content from 10km distances. Dr. Carney Kilian took a different role this year and vol- each team member can witness the harmful events. With the MOREob the Society of Obstetricians and unteered on the course. A free 5km run clinic for clients of In Motion saw other making the right call, the right program approach, change has Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) several participants gear up for the 5km race. This group ran three times per decision and the best response. Ev- been incremental, ensuring that the and builds and sustains a working week from In Motion and had participants ranging from those learning to run eryone performs better.” culture of safety became embedded environment which eliminates pro- to those looking to run a personal best time. As a MOREob Program participant into our practice.” fessional silos, organizational hi- “It was a huge risk to open a large multidisciplinary clinic immediately out erarchy, communication gaps and for nine years, Bluewater Health’s The unit re-committed to the pro- of school, but with hard work and good fortune, the risk has paid off,” says uncoordinated teamwork. MIC unit has implemented many gram in September as a way to re- Dr. Carney Kilian. In Motion offers a variety of pain management, rehabilita- “When an interprofessional team changes through the participation fresh and re-energize the great work tion and injury prevention options to an array of clients. The team includes works together, it creates a commu- of all individuals involved in ob- that continues to be done. chiropractors, physiotherapists, registered massage therapists, kinesiolo- nity of practice,” says Krista Turner, stetrical patient care. “Our team For more information visit gists, personal trainers, a chiropodist and a dietitian. To learn more, visit Interim Clinical Educator, Maternal/ has worked hard to provide evi- www.moreob.com. www.sarniainmotion.ca. Volume 16 Issue 4 PAGE 4 Winter, 2016 Volume 16 Issue 4 PAGE 5 Winter, 2016 Volume 16 Issue 4 PAGE 6 Winter, 2016 WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU COMMUNITY SUPPORTS Funding Provides Fun ‘THAT NIGHT IN SARNIA’ for Kids in Hospital

Starlight Children’s Foundation, together with Toys R Us, provided funding to purchase crib activity centres and learning tablets that offer educational games to help pass time spent in hospital for pediatric patients. Accepting the cheque from Toys R Us staff are Kathy Alexander and Adelle Stewardson Thank you to the organizing committee of ‘That Night In Sarnia’ for an amazing community donation of $14,475. Pic- from the Foundation. tured, l-r, are members of both Bluewater Health Foundation and ‘That Night in Sarnia’ organizing committee: Stuart Manchee, John Hockin, Jessica Barnes, Adelle Stewardson, Aaron Zimmer, Kathy Alexander, Rob Jenkins, Rachel Veilleux, Brian Maxfield. Baby Care Gets Boost CYCLING EVENT PROCEEDS PRESENTED

Thank you to the Charles Kennedy Foundation for its generous contribution of $40,000 to our Maternal/Infant/Child (MIC) program. This gift funded the purchase of new equipment including the Over Bed Infant Warmer and Infant Cardio-Respiratory Monitor pictured below with Adelle Stewardson, Mar- keting and Development Coordinator, Bluewater Health Foundation; Kelly Chartrand, Charge Nurse, MIC, Bluewater Health; Karen Kennedy, Charlie Drew, Doug Kennedy and Lacey Drew. We are thrilled to be the recipients of partial proceeds raised at the Bluewater International Granfondo. Thank you to the entire organizing committee for this wonderful donation. Pictured, l-r, are Jonathan Palumbo, Bluewater Inter- national Granfondo committee; Kathy Alexander, Executive Director, Bluewater Health Foundation; Ken MacAlpine, Bluewater International Granfondo committee; and Larry Lafranier, Executive Director, St. Joseph’s Hospice. Birthday Nets Toys for MIC MEMORIAL DONATION MADE

In lieu of presents for her 11th birthday, Moira McMurtrie asked friends and family to bring toys to her party for kids at Bluewater Health’s Maternal/In- fant/Child (MIC) Unit. Why? Moira said she wanted to help the kids in the hospital feel better. Moira and her family stopped by Bluewater Health to drop Thank you to Rick and Robyn Marsh for their very generous donation of $5,000. The donation was made in memory of off the toys and items she collected, which were graciously accepted by RN the late Arthur Marsh and will be put toward the purchase of the new CT scanner. Kathy Alexander from the Foundation Tracy Astolfi (left) on behalf of the MIC unit. Thank you Moira and family for accepted the donation from Rick, Robyn, and their two adorable pups. such a wonderful gift. Volume 16 Issue 4 PAGE 7 Winter, 2016 HOPE FOR Bluewater Health Presented Hospital ADDICTIONS CARE Achievement Award

From l-r, Cardiac Sonographer Lauren Dobbelaar, President & CEO Mike Lapaine, Tril- lium Gift of Life Network (TGLN) Hospital Development Coordinator Paula Schmidt and Hospital Donation Physician Dr. Glenna Cuccarolo celebrate Bluewater Health’s earning the Hospital Achievement Award – Provincial Conversion Rate from TGLN. Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN) presented Bluewater Health with a hospital achievement award for its dedication to organ and tissue donation in Ontario. Are you – or is someone you know 19 days in April 2014 to less than a residential treatment facility as Bluewater Health received the Provincial Conversion Rate Award for meet- – struggling with addiction? If so, one day currently. part of a ‘community hub’ of sup- ing or exceeding the target set by Trillium Gift of Life Network. In 2015/2016, 100 per cent of potential donors referred by Bluewater Health went on to give Bluewater Health can help. From Addiction Services also col- portive programs for addictions the gift of life. Organ donation is a complex process and the conversion rate counselling and treatment, to inte- laborates with many community and mental health care. The LHIN’s supports like the Patch-4-Patch reflects how well TGLN and Bluewater Health work together to save lives. Ac- grated withdrawal management, we Board of Directors endorsed our Program, the needle exchange pro- cepting the award from Paula Schmidt, Hospital Development Coordinator, provide assessment, support and application at its October meeting, gram, and self-help programs such TGLN, were Bluewater Health’s President & CEO Mike Lapaine and Cardiac care to anyone in Sarnia-Lambton moving the project one step closer as AA; Al-anon; NA; MA and Gam- Sonographer Lauren Dobbelaar, who was acknowledged as a ‘Hidden Hero’ who struggles with substance use to completion. blers Anonymous. Others include by TGLN for her dedication to enabling organ and tissue donation. issues related to drugs, alcohol the Bluewater Methadone Clinic; Proposed services to be housed “Our staff and physicians are committed to ensuring all who are eligible, and/or prescription medication. Redpath Program; Chronic Pain in the new facility include the In- and want to donate, can do so,” says Dr. Glenna Cuccarolo, Intensivist and Fully-trained staff provides pre- Support Group; Celebrate Recov- tegrated Withdrawal Management Hospital Donation Physician. “Each donor can mean everything for the family vention, harm reduction strategies ery; Recovery Inc.; Families Anon- Program (comprising 10 residential of someone on the waiting list.” and withdrawal support; educa- ymous; Lambton Mental Wellness program beds and six stabilization “Every day we work hard to save lives through organ donation and trans- tion, counseling and navigational Centre; Westover Assistance Line; beds, along with existing commu- plantation, but this is only made possible because of our committed hospital assistance; and family support. House of Sophrosyne Caring Con- nity withdrawal management ser- partners,” said Ronnie Gavsie, President and CEO, Trillium Gift of Life Net- Information is available by call- nections; and Women on the Rise vices, day treatment and referral work. “Together we want to ensure all families have the information they need ing 1-844-778-4673 (HOPE) or Program. services) together with our addic- and the opportunity to make a life-saving choice.” 519-332-4673 (HOPE) or email at Services are available to meet the tions counseling services. With There are 1,500 people in Ontario waiting for a life-saving organ transplant [email protected]. needs of problem gamblers and the LHIN’s endorsement, next steps and every three days someone dies waiting. Register your consent for organ Since 2014, our Withdrawal Man- their families in identifying and include site selection. “The goal and tissue donation at www.BeADonor.ca and talk to your family about your agement Program has helped more treating problem gambling and its wishes. Lambton County and Sarnia both exceed the province with registra- than 700 local residents through consequences on relationships, is for this hub to be easily-acces- tion rates of 48 and 47 per cent, ranking 17th and 22nd respectively out of over 4,100 patient interactions. employment, finances and physical, sible and community-based,” says 170 communities in Ontario. social and mental health. Referrals Paula Reaume-Zimmer, Integrated It has seen more than 550 family Quick facts: for all programs are accepted from Vice President, Mental Health & visits and provided assistance to • Donation and transplant statistics are available by hospital: any source, including self-referrals. Addiction Services. “We sought 455 non-registered clients (who www.giftoflife.on.ca/en/publicreporting.htm Contact 519-464-4400, Ext. 5370. input from our community partners made informal inquiries). Services • One donor can save eight lives and enhance the lives of 75 more in care, which is helping guide the have been streamlined, resulting in The Next Step In through the gift of tissue. shorter wait times for services such Comprehensive Care plan for service delivery to address • Everyone is a potential organ and tissue donor. To date, the oldest as counselling. Typical wait times at Work is underway with the Erie St. not only healthcare, but social wel- Canadian organ donor was 92 and the oldest tissue donor was 100. Bluewater Health have fallen from Clair LHIN to obtain funding for fare and education.”

CHOOSING WISELY: How to Talk to your Physician About Medical Tests & Procedures

MORE is not always BETTER – Unnecessary tests and treatments Talk to your doctor about what the same is true for medical tests do not add value to care. In fact, they you need and what you don’t. Four and treatments. take away from care by potentially questions to ask your doctor: exposing patients to harm, leading Choosing Wisely is a campaign 1. Do I really need this test, to more testing to investigate false to help physicians and patients treatment or procedure? positives and contributing to stress engage in conversations about un- 2. What are the downsides? for patients. And of course unnec- necessary tests and treatments and essary tests and treatments put in- 3. Are there simpler, make smart and effective choices to creased strain on the resources of safer options? ensure high-quality care. our healthcare system. 4. What happens if I do nothing? Volume 16 Issue 4 PAGE 8 Winter, 2016 JOIN OUR COMMUNITY Technology Contributes to OF IMMUNITY Excellent Care for With the cold and flu season under- hands frequently is the best way to again. If you have the flu, rest and way, have you had your flu shot? By protect yourself and others. fluids help you get well faster. To Mothers and Babies choosing to be vaccinated against For patients in hospital whose im- protect those around you, cough/ the flu, you will protect yourself, mune systems are compromised sneeze into your sleeve if you can your family and those around you. by other conditions, the flu can be and always wash your hands after As a serious contagious disease life-threatening. That’s why flu pro- blowing your nose or coughing/ spread through close contact with tection is so important. sneezing into your hands. an infected person (coughing in If you have a cold or symptoms of To find out how to treat the flu at close range for example), the flu nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, we ask home, and when to see a healthcare is easy to pick up and pass along. that you not visit family or friends professional for more help, visit Being vaccinated and washing your in the hospital until you feel better www.fightflu.ca.

Dr. Baljit Singh, Medical Director, Maternal/Infant/Child, uses mobile access to moni- tor vital information. NEW CHIEF, New technology at Bluewater Health allows mothers’ and babies’ health- care providers to access a single maternal and fetal record, from pregnancy, Communications & Public Affairs through labour, delivery, postpartum, discharge, and follow-up visits. In- telliSpace Perinatal (formerly known as OB TraceVue) gives care providers Bluewater Health welcomes Julia experience, having previously been access to data where and when they need it, and encourages collaboration Oosterman as its new Chief, Com- Director, Corporate Communications across the care team. munications and Public Affairs, with RSA Insurance Canada and As- “A multidisciplinary approach is key to quality of care,” says Dr. Baljit replacing Kim Bossy who retired. sociate Director, Communications, Singh, Medical Director, Maternal/Infant/Child (MIC). “Having all the patient Julia comes to us from the Toron- Bell Mobility. She will lead the Com- information available centrally allows healthcare providers to discuss care to Central Community Care Access munications & Public Affairs team plans, enhancing communication and coordination.” Centre (CCAC) where she has been in informing and engaging internal For example, data is sent continuously from the labour room and displayed the Director, Communications & and external audiences to enhance on a single screen at the nursing station, with mobile access available. This Stakeholder Relations since 2012. the hospitals’ reputation, strengthen access to information helps care providers make informed decisions and Julia is fluently bilingual (English our relationship with the community efficiently deliver patient-focused care. and French) and brings almost 20 and reinforce our strategic plan and “We get the information we need, right when we need it, so we can monitor years of corporate communications Mission, Vision and Values. changes in the mother’s or baby’s condition during labour,” adds Dr. Singh. “The same is true of newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where the timely delivery of data to caregivers is crucial – in the care of these vulnerable babies, every second matters.” HOLIDAY HEALTHCARE The technology takes into account the standards and best practices recom- mended by leading organizations such as the World Health Organization and OPTIONS UNICEF, including their Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative measures.

Wait times in hospital Emergency • Cough, congestion, sore throat, Departments are often increased by fever patients who could be better served • Insect bites, rashes elsewhere. While every patient must For mental health concerns over consider their level of urgency, the the holidays, please contact one of following guide may help. the following organizations: Call 911 if you experience chest • Lambton Public Health pain, stroke symptoms or for any 519-383-8331 acute medical emergency. • Family Counselling Centre When to go to the nearest ED: 519-336-0120 or call the The holiday season brings in- the holiday season. It’s a challenging services are available during • Pain or tightness in the chest Distress line (24 hours) at 519- creased activity to our hospitals time, yet we continue to focus on the the holidays if you need them. • Severe pain 336-3000 or 1-888-DISTRES (1-888-347-8737) – most notably in our Emergency delivery of timely, safe, quality care 2. Are you a caregiver? Respite • Shortness of breath • Fractured or broken bone(s) • Canadian Mental Health Associ- Departments (ED). to all patients and their families. care, which is short term ac- Over the past couple of weeks, Here’s what you can do during the • Stroke symptoms: sudden severe ation (CMHA) 519-337-5411 or commodation and temporary thousands of people have passed busy holiday healthcare season: headache or weakness; vision call the Crisis Line at 519-336- relief for those who are caring through both Sarnia and Petrolia 1. Understand your opportuni- problems; numbness and/or 3445 or 1-800-307-4319 for a family member or loved EDs for care for themselves or for ties for care. Know the holiday tingling in the face, arm or leg; • KidsHelpPhone 1-800-668-6868 their loved ones. Last year in De- hours of your family doctor’s one, may be available if needed. trouble speaking; or dizziness • Community Care Access Centre cember and through the holidays, office and the walk-in clin- Call Community Care Access • Child has persistent diarrhea or (CCAC) 519-337-1000 or we saw record numbers of patients ics (London Road Diagnostic Centre (CCAC) at 519-337- vomiting 1-888-447-4468 come to our EDs – up to 300 pa- Clinic, and Wiltshire Walk-in 1000 to learn more. • Baby has a fever above 38.5C • Canadian Red Cross 519-332-6380 tients per day. Clinic). Visit your primary care 3. Telehealth Ontario is a free, con- or 101F • Lambton Elderly Outreach (LEO) The busyness over the holidays provider well before the hol- fidential service that provides When to consider using other care 519-845-1353 is in part due to the flu season that idays for a check-up, flu shot, options: • St. Clair Child and Youth health advice or information. A grips the community and potentially medication prescriptions, etc. • Cuts or wounds that may need 519-337-3701 Registered Nurse will take your limited holiday hours at our local Reach out to other agencies or stitches • Inn of the Good Shepherd call 24 hours a day, seven days health system partners like doctors’ organizations you regularly as- • Sprains, strains or deep bruises 519-344-1746 offices, walk-in clinics and others. sociate with such as the Cana- a week at 1-866-797-0000. • Mild asthma attacks (if respond- a. The Haven 519-336-5941 Bluewater Health has strategies to dian Mental Health Association 4. Check your medications. Have ing to rescue medications) b. The Good Shepherds deal with higher-than-expected vol- or the Alzheimer’s Society and a plan to fill or renew your pre- • Ear infections Lodge 519-344-1679 umes that we plan for well ahead of your Pharmacist, to ask what scriptions before the holidays. • Urinary tract infections • Salvation Army 519-337-3011