“Healthy People in Healthy Communities” KTHR Pulse Spring 2014
In This Issue:
Regional Lab Accreditation Promoting Power in Play in Kelvington Cancer awareness in Hudson Bay Rural anaesthetic simulation pilot in Melfort KTHR hosts Kanban seminar
Category of Links Dr. Gert Pieterse of Porcupine Plain was named the www.health.gov.sk.ca Saskatchewan Medical Association’s 2014 Physician of the Year For the latest provincial health news in May. Dr. Pieterse (second from left) is pictured with his wife Sandra and his nominators, Terry Zip (left) and Twyla Salmond (right). www.fightflu.ca The federal government’s flu information website SMA 2014 Physician KTHR Pulse is published on a quarterly basis from the Kelsey Trail Regional Office of the Year 901-108th Avenue Article courtesy of the Saskatchewan Medical Association Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0 Porcupine Plain’s sole family physician Dr. Gert Watch for the Summer 2014 Pieterse has been named the 2014 Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA) Physician of the Year, nominated by community members for providing Contact us with your comments, suggestions or optimal care to residents for nearly two decades. ideas for future editions. “Over many years, Dr. Pieterse has demonstrated an Peggy Ratcliffe outstanding level of compassion toward the people of Corporate Communications Officer Porcupine Plain and area, exemplifying a profound KTHR dedication to rural medicine,” says Dr. Dalibor Slavik, 306-873-6613 SMA President. “He is a physician who consistently [email protected] puts the community’s needs first, all the while advocating for better health care outcomes through a strong primary care infrastructure.”
Dr. Pieterse serves the population of 855 in addition to the surrounding area, bringing his total patient load to over 3,000. (continued on page 2)
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(continued from page 1) Despite his immense workload, Dr. Pieterse makes providing personalized care a part of his daily routine and treats each patient as if they were his only patient. His community holds him in high regard, described by many as a hardworking “unsung hero” who will care for patients and their families not just when the need is imminent, but long after the need for care has passed.
He is known to go above and beyond to promote healthy living through a preventative health care outlook. He and his wife Sandra, a nurse practitioner, brought a strong primary health care framework into the community in 2005 as a means to achieve better KTHR labs participate health care outcomes. in accreditation Graduating from the University of Pretoria in 1977, Dr. Pieterse practised in South Africa until 1992 Kelsey Trail Health Region’s laboratory sites were before making the move to Burin, Newfoundland. commended for their organization, cleanliness and the Two years later he relocated to Hudson Bay, quality of service they provide during lab Saskatchewan and eventually settled in Porcupine accreditation held earlier this spring. Plain in 1996. The accreditation process was part of the College of An advocate for rural practice, Dr. Pieterse is a leader Physicians & Surgeons of Saskatchewan lab quality in the Saskatchewan medical community and has served on the SMA Representative Assembly since assurance program and involved laboratory 2007.☼ inspections in Carrot River, Smeaton, Hudson Bay, Porcupine Plain, Rose Valley, Kelvington, Arborfield, Tisdale, Nipawin and Melfort. While labs in the district hospital locations of Melfort, Nipawin and
Tisdale have been involved in the on-site accreditation
survey process in the past, this year marked the first time in many years that labs in the community hospitals were involved in an on-site inspection. The
Health Centres have previously not been involved in on-site inspections.
The inspections were conducted between April 8th and May 2nd. The intent of the inspections was to ensure
compliance to Laboratory Quality Assurance
regulations. The inspections are designed to be informative and educational while providing lab staff with guidance for improved laboratory service.
Inspection reports were provided for each lab which
included both commendations as well as a list of deficiencies requiring corrective action.
(continued on page 3)
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(continued from page 2)
To meet full accreditation all of the deficiencies identified must be addressed. The 5S work that has been completed in several labs contributed to the organization, cleanliness and space that was noted by the surveyors.
“There has been a lot of work done since the last inspection and it is evident that you have very effective regional resources. The regional online manual is a wonderful resource for all frontline staff and the work on it should be continued,” one survey report stated. “It is clear there is a good working environment and all the staff should be commended for their continued work towards improving the quality in this laboratory.”
Accreditation Canada will conduct Kelsey Trail Health Region’s regional accreditation survey in September. As the result of their participation in the lab quality assurance program, the KTHR lab sites will not be required to participate in the regional Accreditation Canada survey.
“The KTHR Laboratory staff have been key to our successful lab accreditation results,” concluded Heather Miller, KTHR Director Laboratory Services. “Their willingness to participate and work hard to meet and exceed the QA Laboratory Standards is greatly appreciated.”☼
KTHR salutes…
Eric Ballard of Tisdale and Robert Coquette of St. Brieux, were both the recipients of 2014 Emergency Medical Services Provincial Awards in May.
Ballard, owner/operator of Tisdale Ambulance Care Ltd., was presented with the Governor General’s Exemplary Service Medal, Second Bar, recognizing 40 years of exemplary achievement and dedication to the emergency services profession.
The Governor General’s Exemplary Service Medal, Canada’s highest EMS honour, recognizes professionals in the provision of pre-hospital emergency medical services to the public who have performed in an exemplary manner characterized by good conduct, industry and efficiency.
Robert Coquet, a volunteer First Responder, was presented with the Stars of Life award which recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication and leadership. It can be awarded for commitment to the community above and beyond the call of duty and for acts of bravery.
The outstanding commitments Ballard and Coquette have made through their involvement in emergency medical services enhances the general health and wel-lbeing of the communities they serve. Congratulations and thank you!☼
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KTHR employees among students at 2014 Cumberland College graduation
Kelsey Trail Health Region would like to extend congratulations to a number of employees who recently celebrated graduation from Cumberland College.
This year marks the first graduation of students completing the Institutional Cooking Certificate program at Cumberland College. In an effort to meet the growing demand and shortage of cooks and assistant cook positions in the region, two years ago KTHR approached Cumberland College about offering the Institutional Cooking Certificate program locally. Certification in Institutional Cooking is a condition of hire for all KTHR employees hired as cooks or cooks assistants and all students have to be employed in order to enrol in the program.
The Institutional Cooking program is similar to the ten month long professional cooking program run by SIAST. The Institutional Cooking Certificate program may be completed over a two year period while employed, at minimum, on a part- time or casual basis.
The students that graduated this spring are the first graduates of the local program. The second intake for the program is scheduled for January 2015.
The Institutional Cooking Certificate graduating Class of 2014 includes Rudy Mills, Shirley Zeller, Leona Cunningham, Nicki Lund, Melissa Bitzer, Serena Mangels, Lori Mangels, Alex Tolentino and Dena Coosh – all of whom are employed by the health region.
KTHR would also like to salute several other KTHR employees who recently celebrated graduation from the following programs at Cumberland College: Adult Basic Education (ABE) - Ruby Moosewaypayo; Continuing Care Assistant: Dominique Berger, Iona Burns, Janell Hunt, and Veronica Pegg. In addition to receiving her Adult Basic Education Certificate, Ruby Moosewaypayo was also presented with the ABE Achievement Award. Congratulations!☼
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 5 of 16 Precautions recommended during West Nile Virus high risk season
Health officials advise Saskatchewan residents to take precautions against mosquitoes, as the weather warms up and the risk of West Nile Virus increases.
West Nile Virus (WNV) is present in Saskatchewan during summer, and the risk typically peaks between mid- July and September. The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected Culex tarsalis mosquitoes.
Most people who become infected with WNV experience no immediate symptoms or have very mild illness (fever, headaches, body aches). A small number of people develop a more serious illness called West Nile Virus neuroinvasive disease, which includes encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. The elderly and people with certain medical conditions are at higher risk of developing the severe form of WNV infection.
“Most West Nile Virus infections usually improve on their own, so there is no need to seek medical attention or to get laboratory tests,” Saskatchewan’s Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Denise Werker said. “However, if you develop serious symptoms such as severe headaches, persistent high fever with stiff neck, confusion, seizures, or paralysis, see a health care provider immediately.” Taking the following preventive measures can “The number of infected Culex tarsalis mosquitoes may rise quickly minimize exposure to if we get prolonged hot, dry weather in July and August,” Provincial mosquito bites. West Nile Virus Coordinator Phil Curry said. “If you plan to be outside when mosquitoes are active, take precautions to protect •Use appropriate insect yourself from bites.” repellent when outdoors. Products with DEET are People are also encouraged to reduce mosquito habitats around the the most effective. house and yard. •Cover up. Wear light- Clear yards of items that can collect water. coloured, loose fitting, long-sleeved tops and long Regularly clean and empty bird baths and eavestroughs. pants when outdoors. Ensure rain barrels are covered with mosquito screen or are •Reduce the amount of tightly sealed around the downspout. time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn Keep bushes, shrubs and lawns clear of overgrowth and when Culex tarsalis debris. mosquitoes are most Make sure door and window screens fit tightly and are free of active. holes.
Updated information on WNV including risk levels and maps and surveillance results will be posted every Friday before noon on www.saskatchewan.ca/westnile.☼
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Welcoming Kelsey Trail Health Region’s newest employees April Marites Gloria, Environmental Dayna MacDonald, CCA, Melfort Services, Melfort Bailey Clarke, CCA, Arborfield Raylene Baliski, Environmental Services, Melfort Lana Slade, RN, Nipawin Dawna Klimm, Food & Nutrition Services, Tisdale Darrieen Sauer, Recreation Worker, Kelvington Cristina Gagarin, Environmental/Food & Nutrition Shelby McPhee, CCA, Tisdale Services, St. Brieux/Melfort Jessi Hiebert, RN, Nipawin Alyssa Hartl, Environmental/Food & Nutrition Services, Loretta Read, Environmental Services, Kelvington Kelvington Cindy Eckert, Family Support Consultant, Regional Lana Sawatzky-Heft, Environmental/Laundry Services, Teagen Wlaz, CCA, Carrot River Hudson Bay Brandy Scheller, Environmental/Food & Nutrition Cathyn Stone, Environmental/Laundry Service, Tisdale Services, Kelvington Marlene Ottenbreit, Food & Nutrition Services, Porcupine Gail Buckingham, Food & Nutrition Services, Porcupine Plain Plain/Hudson Bay Callie Hiebert, Environmental/Laundry Services, Carrot Lisa Toy, CCA, Nipawin River Leanne Hicks, Food & Nutrition Services, Porcupine Plain Conseata Anderson, Environmental/Laundry Services, Jacqueline Ferland, CCA, Tisdale Carrot River Angela Harder, CCA, Carrot River Breanna Strand, CCA, Melfort Amber Smith, CCA, Tisdale Brittney St. Denis, CCA, Nipawin Alanna Turner, Autism Support Worker, Regional Liane Lonson, CCA, Arborfield/Carrot River Pamela Marvin, Food & Nutrition Services, Maggie Nickel, CCA, Arborfield/Carrot River Nipawin/Carrot River/Arborfield Joshua McRae, Environmental Services, Nipawin Karen Slussar, Food & Nutrition Services, Nipawin/Carrot Sophi Perrault, LPN, Nipawin River/Arborfield Ruby Moosewaypayo, Food & Nutrition/Laundry Services, Tisdale May Loretta Dunne, CCA, Kelvington Melissa Doerksen, Summer Student/Therapy Apprentice, James Roberts, Building Services, Arborfield/Carrot Nipawin River/Nipawin Megan Hood, CCA, Porcupine Plain Karamdeep Kaur, CCA, Carrot River/Arborfield Alana Naber, Occupational/Physical Therapy Assistant, Melfort June Brooklyn Borsa, CCA, Melfort Alicia Tiedjens, RN, Tisdale Aiden Hunt, CCA, St. Brieux Lisa Trinidad, CCA, Melfort Omeike Benedict, CCA, Nipawin Presley Leblanc, Building Services, Tisdale Brenda Nakonechny, CCA, Nipawin Magdalene McInnis, RN, Carrot River Tammy Lynn Bjarnarson, Food & Nutrition Services, St. Misty Quiring, Environmental/Laundry Services, Nipawin Brieux/Melfort Keeley Toy, Food & Nutrition Services, Nipawin Samantha Bear, LPN, Nipawin Deon Black, LPN, Porcupine Plain Cindy Worely, Environmental Services, St. Brieux/Melfort Charlene Currie, Administrative Assistant, Kelvington Bobbie Yasieniuk, Building Services, Melfort Becky Head, CCA, Melfort Brittany Turner, Environmental/Food & Nutrition Servics, Stacy Anthony, Administrative Assistant, Porcupine Plain St. Brieux/Melfort Kellene Lloyd, RN, Melfort Holly Garvin, CCA, Nipawin Angelica Baes, CCA, Kelvington Alexa Bedard, CCA, Tisdale Lesli Granberg, CCA, Melfort Anthony Francis, CCA, Nipawin Mallory Guy, Pharmacy Technician, Tisdale Marion Abad, Environmental Services, Tisdale Amanda Nakonieczny, Summer Student/Payroll File Keanna Clark-Wilson, Environmental Services, St. Brieux Clerk, Regional
Welcome …to Dr. Olumide Asaolu, Dr. Abosede Adesina and Dr. Adedeji Kalejaiye, who joined medical practices in Nipawin and Tisdale earlier this spring. On May 28th, Dr. Asaolu joined the Nipawin Health Centre and Dr. Adesina joined the Nipawin Medical Group. Dr. Kalejaiye began practicing in the Tisdale Medical Clinic June 2nd. Dr. Asaolu came to Nipawin from Toronto, Ontario. He received his Bachelor of Medicine at the University of Ilorin in Nigeria. Dr. Adesina arrived in Nipawin from Calgary, Alberta. She received her Bachelor of Medicine at the Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria. Dr. Kalejaiye also comes to KTHR from Calgary. He received his Family Medicine training at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria. Welcome to Kelsey Trail!☼
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 7 of 16 Kelvington 3P team receives provincial excellence award
The Kelvington Integrated Health Care Facility 3P team was one of eight teams honoured with the presentation of a 2014 Pursuing Excellence Award at the 4th annual Saskatchewan Health Care Quality Summit in Saskatoon May 6th.
The Pursuing Excellence Awards are presented to individual organizations and teams doing outstanding improvement work relating to the health care system’s four aims: Better Health, Better Care, Better Value and Better Teams. The Kelvington 3P team received a Better Value award.
The Kelvington 3P (Production Preparation Process) started with a week-long event in March 2013 involving a cross-functional team of Representatives of the Kelvington Integrated Facility 3P Team approximately 60 frontline staff, patients, accepting the Better Value award from Health Quality Council CEO families and senior leaders who were trained Bonnie Brossart (third from left) were (L-R) Kelvington and then guided through a creative process Hospital/Kelvindell Lodge Facility Administrator Karri Franklin, designed to generate, evaluate, screen and Kelvington Hospital/Kelvindell Lodge Nurse Manager Tanya combine their ideas for the new integrated Neiszner, Kelvington patient/family representatives Jelaine Donald and Carol Lowey, KTHR CEO Shane Merriman, and Paul Blaser of facility into one design model. The goal of the RBM Architecture. Kelvington 3P was to design a facility in Kelvington that will best support patient-centred, interdisciplinary, collaborative care and integration across the continuum of care.
The existing long term care and acute care facilities and the distance between them is preventing integrated, interdisciplinary care and without renewal, the aging infrastructure will not be able to meet the health care needs of Kelvington and area residents into the future. Through the 3P process led by consultants from John Black & Associates with support by RBM Architecture and the P3Architecture Partnership (P3A), the 3P team generated a design that maximizes efficiencies to the benefit of the patients, residents and health care providers and ensures the development of a project that is affordable to the community at large.
Over the past year, the 3P team has met on numerous occasions to redesign processes, improve flow and eliminate waste through the design of the Kelvington integrated health care facility. 3P team members have created life-size mock-ups of an acute care room, the acute care lab, a primary health care clinic room and a long term care resident room to ensure the design captured on paper will function to the maximum benefit of the patients and residents as well as providers.
The 3P has resulted in substantial savings in the construction costs for the addition of the acute care facility and primary health care clinic that is being reinvested into the renovation and renewal of Kelvindell Lodge. Upgrades to resident washrooms will add wheelchair accessibility and enhance infection control while the addition of overhead lifts will support resident care and reduce the risk of both resident and staff injury. Enhancements to existing tub rooms will create a spa-like atmosphere for residents to enjoy.
Kelvington Hospital and Kelvindell Lodge staff have also been utilizing Lean quality improvement tools such as 5S (Sort, Simplify, Sweep, Standardize, Self-Discipline), a strategy for organizing the workplace to make things easier to find; and Rapid Process Improvement Workshops (RPIW’s), a process in which a team of patients, family, staff and clinicians focus on analyzing and improving a problem by creating, testing and implementing solutions.
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The 5S and RPIW quality improvement work has improved current functions and processes in both the hospital and the lodge that will be carried into the new facility.
“The 3P was only the beginning of the quality improvement work that has been achieved in Kelvington over the past year and it is the patients, families and staff in Kelvington and area that deserve the credit,” stated KTHR CEO Shane Merriman and a member of the 3P team. “This award is a reflection of their diligence, foresight and dedication to design a facility that will meet the needs of their community and area for years to come and to which other communities in the province can look to as a model for care.”
In addition to the award presentation, the Kelvington 3P was a featured presentation at the Quality Summit. The Health Care Quality Summit is hosted annually by Saskatchewan’s Health Quality Council (HQC).☼
Ron Kilius, President & CEO of Superior Medical Limited, recently made a donation of $5000 for the purchase of Yellow Fin OR stirrups for the Nipawin Hospital Operating Room in memory of Peter Gzowski's 'Morningside' years and his great love of Saskatchewan. Kilius is a good friend and fishing colleague of Dr. Eric Clark, a gynecologist from Prince Albert that has been a visiting specialist at Nipawin Hospital for many years. Thank You!
The Melfort Hospital was the recipient of a $1500 donation from the Melfort Legion earlier this spring. The Melfort Legion raised the funds through their annual Poppy Campaign. Thank You!
The children of the late Aime and Alice Prevost recently donated a new vital signs monitor to the Kelvington Hospital in memory of their parents. The purchase of the vital signs monitor was made possible through the kindness and generosity of family and friends that made donations in memory of Aime and Alice Prevost. Thank You!
Pictured at left, Kelvington Hospital RN Chelsea Herbert (left) accepts the new monitor from the Prevost children (L-R) Audie Prevost, Wesley Prevost, Donna Braaten, Gerald Prevost and Gail Prevost.☼
Celebrating a century in Arborfield
Earlier this spring, two residents of the Arborfield Special Care Lodge marked milestone birthdays.
Susan Heinrichs (left) marked her 100th birthday on May 20th while Rena Borg (right) celebrated her 103rd birthday one day earlier on May 19th.
On behalf of Kelsey Trail Health Region, we would like to extend happy birthday greetings to both ladies and wish them a wonderful year ahead!☼
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of the elementary school, use of the Playschool Promoting the Power in Room and community donations from the Kelvington Play(PPIP)…During the PharmaChoice, and the East Central Co-op. In addition, PPIP received a donation from SaskEnergy Early Years to support the various activities and events being Submitted by Rhonda Teichreb, KTHR Early Childhood offered.☼ Development Facilitator
An informal conversation with parents during the August 2013 summer reading program at the Free Little Library Kelvington Public Library has blossomed into a community-based initiative aimed at the youngest established at Cumberland members of the population. House Kelvington’s Promoting the Power in Play (PPIP)…During the Early Years is a community- based initiative aimed at expanding the capacity of The Cumberland families and the community at large to support very House Health young children (ages 0 to pre-kindergarten) to reach Centre is their full potential. From initial discussions that currently explored the question “What is important in accepting gently Kelvington to support young children (ages 0-3) to used children’s reach their full potential” a working group including and adults books KTHR’s Early Childhood Development Facilitator, for use in a interested community members and the KTHR newly created Community Wellness Coordinator for the Kelvington book exchange area, the PPIP initiative was born. program.
The idea The group recognized the positive effects of play on originated from early childhood learning and development including Pam Taylor, a strong links between creative play and language, literacy physical, cognitive, and social development, which play a key role in realizing the goal to support partnership facilitator in Prince Albert and northern communities, children from 0-3 years to reach their full potential. who recently started a Free Little Library outside her
home in P.A. Free Little Libraries originated in 2009 To achieve this goal, PPIP offers free family events in Wisconsin by a man who created one in honour of on a bi-weekly basis such as Moving and Grooving, For the Love of Language, Colour My World, Music his mother. The concept has spread worldwide and today, Free Little Libraries exist on every continent. Pups, Little Explorers and a Family Picnic. These events support families to realize the power of play Taylor noticed a lack of reading materials for and its positive effects on early childhood learning children and adults in northern communities and and development. There is increased understanding helped start two of the Free Little Libraries that play is a healthy, essential part of childhood. Cumberland House, one of which is at the Health Centre. Students in the Charlebois School carpentry PPIP kicked off their initiative on Sunday, March 30 class made a bookcase for the Health Centre to use with an event at the elementary school featuring for the book exchange program. Sweet Pea and Gumdrop the Clowns. The event was well attended by families with children of all ages. If you have used children’s or adults books to give away, please contact Sheila Seiferling, Primary PPIP has benefited from community support Health Care Manager at the Cumberland House including volunteer hours from the group, utilization Health Centre at 306-888-2244.☼
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 10 of 16 Kelvington hosts health and wellness event Submitted by Rita Robertson, KTHR Community Wellness Coordinator, Primary Health Care Facilitator & Clinical Practice Redesign Coach.
The first “Stepping into Health and Wellness” event, sponsored by the Kelvington Health Action Team, was held on May 24th. The event featured a two, five and 10 kilometre walk or run with a total of 67 participants. “There was a great amount of enthusiasm among all participants despite the heat of the day at over 30 degrees,” stated Rita Robertson, KTHR Community Wellness Coordinator, Primary Health Care Facilitator & Clinical Practice Redesign Coach.
A health fair was also included in the day’s activities. Twenty different presenters displayed information related to health and wellness in the community. The 70 individuals that attended the health fair could have blood pressure, waist circumference, weight, blood sugar and body fat analysis completed during the day. Massage and reflexology treatments were also available on site.
In total, $2764.29 was raised through pledges and donations in addition to the funds raised from the barbecue, all of which will be used to develop the walking trails around Kelvington.
Carmen Choquette, who completed the 10 km course, was the walker who brought in the most money from pledges, raising over $200 for the event. Elaine Comfort followed close behind with $140 in pledges. “Due to the terrific community support this will likely become an annual event,” Robertson summarized. “See you next year!”☼
Do you hear what I hear? The world is a full of new and fascinating
sounds. Whether indoors or in nature, encouraging very young children to notice and explore sounds supports their development, and is an easy and fun KTHR’s way to engage and interact. Early Bright Ideas Play monkey hear, monkey do.
Years Take a listening walk.
Read, sing, and visit with your child. Monthly
Message Hearing is the most common congenital condition in Canada. If you are
concerned about your child’s hearing, talk to your doctor, nurse practitioner,
public health nurse or contact KTHR Early Childhood Services.
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 11 of 16 Hudson Bay cancer awareness event well attended Submitted by Amanda Bohachewski. KTHR Chronic Disease Management Facilitator & LiveWell Regional Coordinator
During 2013, the Primary Health Care Teams in Kelsey Trail Health Region completed Community Wellness Assessments in Arborfield, Carrot River, Cumberland House, Hudson Bay, Kelvington, Naicam, Nipawin, Porcupine Plain and Tisdale.
One of the major health concerns voiced through the assessments was cancer. In order to address this common concern, a regional cancer working group was formed. The group includes various health care professionals, as well as members of the public and partnerships with other community-based teams.
The working group hosted their first event in Hudson Bay on March 26th. The evening included a presentation by Shardelle Brown, Prevention Coordinator with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency. The presentation highlighted the importance of primary cancer prevention through leading a healthier lifestyle, as well as secondary prevention through cancer screening.
Personal stories from two cancer survivors were also part of the evening. Sandy Andrusiak shared her journey from cancer diagnosis to remission, while BettyLou Palko spoke about what being a cancer survivor means to her. Information and display tables were also set up and health care professionals were available to answer questions from the public. The event was well attended, making it a great success for the community and Kelsey Trail Health Region.☼
Influenza is highly contagious. Symptoms include: fever chills head and body aches sore throat cough
Influenza can cause complications such as pneumonia, especially in those who are high risk. If you are sick, try to stay home.
A flu shot is your best shot at preventing or reducing complications from influenza. Shots are free to the public. Those at high risk, like seniors, people with chronic diseases, pregnant women and children
under 5 years are all on the priority list for influenza vaccine.
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 12 of 16 Melfort Hospital site of first rural anaesthetic simulation pilot project
Based on the success of an operating room anaesthetic simulation pilot project held at Melfort Hospital earlier this year, rural operating room staff from across the province are expected to soon enjoy additional opportunities to receive education at home.
On February 22nd, Dr. Neil Cowie and his Saskatoon team conducted an anaesthetic simulation pilot education session at Melfort Hospital. “It was part of the efforts to support rural anaethetists with more academic input from tertiary institutions,” explained Dr. Eben Strydom of Melfort.
The pilot project was developed by Dr. Cowie and a group that included Dr. Brian Brembridge and Dr. Gary Morris, who acted as liaison and coordinated the whole event. Participants were requested to take part in before and after questionnaires to evaluate their experiences as well as comfort levels dealing with the simulated emergency situations. The intent is to use the data as part of a study of the value, benefits and disciplined experience through this teaching method and to publish the results of the study after doing a few of more of the simulation sessions. This method has been used in Saskatoon in the training program for anesthetic residents.
“Dr. Morris did a ton of work to try to help and improve rural GP/Anaesthetists access to CME (Continuing Medical Education) and to establish the provincial program we all have access to as well as improve the communication between specialists and GP/Anaesthetists,” Strydom explained.
The simulation was made possible by hi-fidelity simulation mannequins that could talk, respond, open their eyes, breathe and even vomit. This interactive experience was directed by an operator who was able to respond via microphone and speaker system located within the mannequins. The mannequins/monitors could be programmed to simulate a variety of arrhythmias and have a sudden drop or rise in blood pressure. “They were very life-like. The only thing they couldn’t do was change skin colour,” Strydom said. “It was as realistic as one could get.”
Throughout the day, four different clinical simulations related to anaesthetics were conducted. All four involved emergency situations with anaesthetics in the O.R. such as anaphylaxis and compromised airways. “We were given scenarios about clinical cases that have been encountered in anaesthetics that presented big challenges.”
The simulations were videotaped, providing the team with the opportunity to review and evaluate their performance and discuss opportunities for improvement. Each simulation concluded with a debrief featuring evaluation of the response, review of the management of the issue and an opportunity to provide further education to improve future response.
“It was an excellent opportunity to work together as a team,” Strydom stated. “Experiences like these are not all that common or frequent. They are emergency situations that can develop out of nowhere. Other situations can develop gradually or as a complication of trauma. This was in a controlled environment but challenged everyone involved. It sensitizes you to the role everyone plays in a situation like this. It really enabled us to work together as a team.”
Although the simulations were conducted in the Melfort Hospital O.R. and primarily involved the O.R Nursing team and GP/Anaesthetists from Melfort, Dr. Neville van der Merwe, a Nipawin GP/Anaesthetists, also had the opportunity to join the group for the education session. Dr. Lisa de Goojer, a family physician currently in her third year of the GP/Anaesthetist program, also joined the group for the day. “Everyone got direct feedback. It was immensely valuable. It was a really good thing for the physicians and nurses but also for patient outcomes and risk management.”
The company that provided the anaesthetic simulation mannequins also provides mannequins and training sessions (continued on page 14)
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 13 of 16 STARS MEU makes training pit stop in Melfort
An April 30th session at Melfort Hospital was one of five the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society (STARS) Mobile Education Unit (MEU) held in rural communities this spring. Approximately 20 physicians and nursing staff were able to participate in the education sessions, practicing lifesaving simulations in the unit in groups of up to five healthcare providers at a time.
“They used an extremely realistic simulation mannequin to walk staff through various life- threatening scenarios. It was an excellent opportunity for staff to work through some very complex resuscitation scenarios as a team, a very valuable learning opportunity,” said Melfort Hospital Facility Administrator Nadine Mevel- Degerness.
The purpose of the STARS MEU is to bring advanced trauma training opportunities to rural healthcare providers. Without it, providers are forced to travel to larger, tertiary centres to experience the same learning opportunities. It also provides rural healthcare providers with the rare opportunity to train in teams. The training is provided at no cost to participants or the health region and is funded through corporate donations.
In addition to the interactive, computerized mannequin who plays the role of patient, the MEU comes equipped with crash carts, an airway cart, medications, and other medical supplies and equipment used to treat patients with severe injuries, medical trauma or other health-related conditions. In an effort to make the simulations as life-like as possible, the unit is equipped with as much of the equipment that would be found in any rural emergency room as possible. (continued on page 14)
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(Anaesthetic Pilot continued from page 12) in ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Coming Events Support), PALS (Pediatric Advanced KTRHA Regular Board Meeting Life Support) and other Wednesday, August 27th emergency situations 1 p.m. for medical Regional Office – Carrot River professionals including For more information, contact Regional doctors, nurses, paramedics and ambulance personnel. Office at 306-873-6600 Staff at Melfort Hospital had the opportunity to experience these simulation exercises earlier this year Canadian Blood Services through STARS and Strydom hopes additional education Blood Donor Clinics opportunities directed at rural physicians and nursing staff will be available in the future. Tuesday, October 7, 2014 2:30 – 6:30 p.m. “It’s a wonderful thing that that whole team can be involved in and in an environment where they would have RECplex Auditorium to deal with it. They tried to make it as real life as Tisdale possible,” he concluded.
Tuesday, September 9, 2014 2 – 7 p.m. “There were some technical issues but that will improve…Overall, it was a good experience and good Kerry Vickar Centre educationally.”☼ Melfort
To book an appointment at any of the local (STARS MEU continued from page13) clinics, visit www.blood.ca or call 1-888- 2DONATE (1-888-236-6283). The mannequin is used to simulate a patient’s experience, complete with vital signs and many of the signs and Partnering to End Poverty symptoms of the condition being simulated. Participants A forum raising awareness about how were able to practice their response to a number of poverty affects us all. different real-life emergency scenarios throughout the day Thursday, October 16th and were also able to review and analyze their videotaped Tisdale Golden Age Centre response on large screens located in the back of the RV Hosted by: Northeast Regional Intersectoral unit, providing dual opportunities for learning. Committee & Poverty Reduction Taskforce The STARS MEU is the only one of its kind in operation in Saskatchewan. Similar mobile units are operated by STARS in Albert and Manitoba.☼
Donations still being accepted for equipment & furnishings for Newmarket Place
Renovations to the former Newmarket Manor long term care facility are continuing with the goal to have the residents of Sasko Park Lodge join the residents of the recently completed Newmarket Place long term care facility by late October or early November.
Toward that end, KTHR continues to accept donations toward the equipment and furnishings at the new facility. Individuals, groups or organizations interested in contributing will receive a tax deductible receipt. Donations are being accepted at KTHR Regional Office, Newmarket Place, Sasko Park Lodge or Tisdale Hospital. They can also be mailed to Box 1780, Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0.
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 15 of 16 Palliative care services appreciated at end-of-life
Results of the palliative care client experience survey indicate Kelsey Trail Health Region palliative care teams working with clients and families dealing with end-of-life are very satisfied with the services provided.
Palliative care is a program of active compassionate care directed towards maintaining the quality of life for clients approaching the end of their lives as well as their families. The service is available to the terminally ill, and their families, who have decided that treatment for cure or prolonging life is no longer the primary objective. The goal of palliative care is to help the individual to continue to live while dying. The aim of palliative care service is to ensure quality of life for those approaching the end of their lives by providing physical, emotional, social and spiritual support, including bereavement as experienced by the terminally ill client and their family.
Palliative care teams work directly with clients, their families, members in the community and with hospital and special care home staff to overcome the concerns and difficulties that may be encountered at this time in their lives. The palliative care team is interdisciplinary and may include nurses, physicians, clergy, home care workers, a social worker, pharmacist, therapist and/or dietitian.
The palliative care client experience survey was conducted between January 1 and December 31, 2013. During this period, 65 clients were designated as palliative, or considered eligible to access the community palliative care program and home care services. This number may not represent all of those considered palliative within KTHR as it is expected that some individuals receive services from their primary care provider only and/or through acute or long term care.
The caregiver of those designated as palliative receives the palliative experience survey though not all caregivers choose to complete it. During the 2013 calendar year, fourteen surveys were completed and returned for a 21 percent response rate.
All fourteen respondents indicated they were satisfied with the services received and they felt they personally and/or their family member and family received adequate support. Nine of the respondents also indicated their family member was able to die at the place of their choice.
“We felt we were lucky to find out about it (palliative care) and it happened by accident thanks to a nurse in the family. Our concern is that not enough people know about what is available and how much home care can help,” one respondent commented.
Other respondents stated, “ (It’s) Wonderful to have this type of care for loved ones to stay at home as long as possible” and “They went above and beyond to care for him and support us both in our time of struggle and hardship.” ☼
“Working together to improve the health of people” KTHR Pulse “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” Page 16 of 16 KTHR hosts Kanban seminar
During the week of June 9th to 13th, Kelsey Trail Health Region hosted the first of four Kanban seminars that will be held in Saskatchewan health regions this year. Kanban, a Japanese term which is roughly translated to mean “sign”, is a visual method of signaling when supplies are needed, where they are needed and what amount is required. Kanban is a lean quality improvement tool.
Kanban is a requirement for health care leaders involved in Lean Leader Certification training. In addition to Kelsey Trail, participants included Lean leaders from Prince Albert Parkland, Mamawetan Churchill River and Keewatin Yatthé health regions, 3sHealth, the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, and eHealth Saskatchewan. Along with consultants from John Black & Associates (JBA), KTHR Kaizen Promotion Office (KPO) staff provided support for the event and several KTHR staff were involved as content experts. In total, 52 people participated in the week-long seminar.
Participants learned the concepts involved in Kanban and the implementation of a Kanban system before rolling up their sleeves and applying their knowledge to specific areas of Melfort Hospital and Parkland Place. Teams were divided and dispatched to focus on A supply room at Parkland Place pre- establishing Kanban systems in four areas: the Parkland Place supply kaizen (top photo) and post-kaizen rooms, Melfort Hospital laboratory, Melfort Hospital food services and (bottom photo). Parkland Place food services.
Through Kanban, each team established a visual system of inventory control that generated a continuous flow of supplies to each area of focus. In order to achieve this, teams had to identify supply utilization rates in each area, establish minimum and maximum stock levels, decide on the visual cue that would be used to signal when to reorder, and develop standard work for staff to follow on a go-forward basis to ensure the process and the system continues into the future.
The implementation of the Kanban system: decreased the number of item types and excess pieces of inventory; produced savings through eliminating excess and expired inventory; reduced mistakes in ordering and restocking processes; reduced walking distances for staff involved in the ordering and restocking processes; introduced standard work to simplify and create processes with replication capacity that can be applied in other areas; and introduced the barcode and scanner system to improve volume control, reduce errors and reduce the time and steps involved in the supply process.
The quality improvements associated with the Kanban system are far-reaching and extend much further than the walls of the focus areas. In addition to the inventory, cost, and space savings, patient and staff safety has been improved by removing expired items, increasing and reorganizing storage spaces. Reordering and restocking will now occur on a continuous basis, decreasing the time that was previously spent counting, ordering and looking for supplies, as well as the steps needed to accomplish it, and that time can now be redirected back to patient care.
Though the Kanban seminar has come to an end, the work required to sustain the system will continue. Sixty, 90 and 180 day audits will ensure the standard work and processes the teams put in place in their areas will continue. In addition, the tools the team members learned during the week-long seminar will equip them with the knowledge required to roll the Kanban system out on a broader basis as time and resources permit.☼
“Working together to improve the health of people”