June 2017 - Health BeatHealth Beat

Jamaica Hospital Officially Opens the Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care

Posted on June 30, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is proud to announce that it officially re-opened its Hospice Care Unit, The Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care, after undergoing a complete renovation.

To commemorate the important milestone, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held earlier this month on the unit. Joining Jamaica Hospital in celebrating the completion of the project were elected officials Borough President Melinda Katz, Senator Joseph Addabbo and Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer-Amato as well as others who support the hospital’s efforts to provide essential services to the community.

The journey for the Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care began last year when a $1.3 million capital campaign was initiated by the Hospital’s leadership in an effort to facilitate the renovation. Thanks to the generosity of several donors, including Board Member Joseph Ferrara, the namesake of the unit, the hospital has successfully completed construction.

News of the grand re- opening of the unit has been well received by many in the community, as the Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care was designed to offer end-of-life care in a family-oriented environment. Many upgraded amenities have been provided for patients and families that promote serenity, privacy and will allow them to feel more at home during a difficult time. Additionally, the unit offers comforts such as private and spacious suites for patients, family meeting rooms and a relaxing family lounge that offers loved ones a space to gather, de-compress or reflect.

Jamaica Hospital’s staff is very appreciative of the community’s positive reception of the Ferrara Family Center for Hospice Care and the services it will provide. “It is our goal that our patients and their loved ones receive compassion and comfort during a time that can be very difficult,” said Dr. Alan Roth; Chairman of Family Medicine and Chief of Palliative Care Medicine. Dr. Roth continued “We will continue to apply this approach in a new, modern and family environment.”

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All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Hospital Staff Spotlight – Laurie Regan, RN

Posted on June 29, 2017 by Andrew Rubin

Laurie Regan is a familiar face to many people at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. Laurie has been at Jamaica Hospital since 1997. She has been a nurse in our pediatric emergency department for the past eight years and prior to that, a nurse on the pediatric inpatient unit for 12 years. She is a Queens native, having grown up in Whitestone, where she still resides with her three daughters and two dogs.
During her time at Jamaica Hospital Laurie has had the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. Laurie describes her experience at Jamaica Hospital as being a one-of-a-kind opportunity. She has worked with many wonderful people through the years and has learned a lot. The environment is very exciting as you never know what is going to come in to the emergency room and you always have to be prepared to handle all kinds of situations. Laurie works long hours but it doesn’t bother her because of the great team of people she works with and the level of fulfilment she gets from helping people who come in seeking medical attention.
In addition to working at Jamaica Hospital, Laurie also works for the NYC Department of Health where she has the opportunity to go in to the different schools and build relationships with the students and the staff. It was thanks to Laurie’s connection to a local school that Jamaica Hospital was the recipient of six pieces of art that now hang outside the pediatric emergency department.
Laurie is also very community minded and is active in the Malba Civic Association, where she helps to keep the neighborhood beautiful and safe. Laurie has a strong interest in forensic nursing and would like to one day pursue an advanced degree in that field. Laurie looks forward to continuing to learn and continuing to contribute to the well-being of our patients.

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

Posted on June 28, 2017 by Joann Ariola

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. During this month, the Alzheimer’s Association is asking healthcare providers to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease affects over 5 million Americans and is fatal. It is a progressive brain disease that currently has no cure. Alzheimer’s is more than memory loss and can appear through a variety of signs and symptoms such as:

Memory loss
Difficulty planning and solving problems
Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Difficulty determining time or place
Difficulty finding the right words
Misplacing items often
Difficulty making decisions
Personality and mood changes
Withdrawing from work and social events

Alzheimer’s, unlike Dementia (which is syndrome that affects mental cognitive tasks such as memory and reasoning) causes the person to lose the ability to carry out the simplest tasks.

Jamaica Hospital is committed to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia through social media and providing medical services to those who are experiencing the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

If you or a loved one has questions or concerns and would like to see a medical professional, call Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center for an appointment at 718-206-7001.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, visit

Today is National HIV Testing Day

Posted on June 27, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

There are 1.1 million people living with HIV in the United States, and one in seven are unaware they have the virus.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, along with other health organizations is working together to raise awareness about the importance of getting tested and early HIV diagnosis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends “that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care.”

We are encouraging people to know their status. There are now more ways than ever to get tested.

Jamaica Hospital’s clinics offer HIV testing to the community. For a list of our clinics and contact information, please visit https://jamaicahospital.org/clinical-services/ambulatory-care/

If a patient tests positive we also provide HIV counseling and treatment. We offer integrated clinical care, social and educational services in a comfortable and caring environment.

To receive more information about National HIV Testing Day and to learn more about the virus, please visit, https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/library/awareness/testingday.html

Tips for Healthy Summer Living

Posted on June 20, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

It is not unusual for people to ignore their weight and fitness goals during summer. The season puts many in the state of mind to relax or let loose, often abandoning diet and exercise regimens once followed.

In the summer, we tend to have less time to work out because a good portion of our time is spent attending social obligations such as barbecues; where we typically eat and drink more than normal.

Additionally, we travel more and fast food often becomes our meal of choice because it is easy to grab and go. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many healthy fast food options.

Following these tips can help you to keep diet and fitness goals while enjoying the spoils of summer:

Reduce consumption of sugary drinks. Summer drinks such as lemonade or iced- tea are sometimes packed with large amounts of sugar. If sugar calories are not burned by the body, they can be converted into fat.
Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation. Did you know that having a pint of beer could be equivalent to having a slice of pepperoni pizza? Alcoholic beverages can be high in empty calories. Moderating your alcohol consumption or having light versions of your favorite drink (also in moderation); can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Be mindful of your portions. When we are socializing we tend to eat more but paying attention to portion size can help reduce excessive consumption. Other helpful tips are eating before going to your event, as well as steering clear of foods that tempt you the most and opting for healthier choices.
Pack healthy meals to go. Packing healthy meals to go is easy. Grab items such as apples, nuts and yogurt that will easily fit in your bag.
Squeeze in exercise. There is the saying, “something is better than nothing.” This is true with exercise. A few minutes of exercise each day can offer many benefits to your health. If it is too hot outside, doing simple activities such as dancing or jogging in place in your home can help you to stay active and manage your weight.

These guidelines can be helpful; however, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor if weight gain persists. Abnormal weight gain is at times an indicator of a more serious health issue.

Summer Travel Tips for Breastfeeding Moms

Posted on June 13, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Summer is almost here! During this time of year, we are more likely to spend more time traveling away from home, and doing so while breastfeeding can be challenging for moms.

While breastfeeding your baby on-the-go can be tricky, utilizing the following tips can make traveling a little easier for you:

Plan ahead- Planning ahead can alleviate some of the frustration associated with breastfeeding and traveling. Mapping out rest stops or other locations that provide a space to breastfeed can be very helpful. Many airports offer breastfeeding lounges or a clean and quiet place to pump- check before you fly. If traveling without your baby, be sure to pump extra breast milk before you go.
Learn breast milk travel regulations- Before taking a flight; learn the breast milk travel allowances for your airport. According to the United States’ Transportation Security Administration (TSA), “Formula, breast milk and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities in carry-on bags.” These items will be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. The organization advises that travelers check their website, tsa.gov for policy updates. It is also important that you take note of the breastfeeding regulations in foreign countries; some have stricter rules than others.
Bring bottled water-It is important to stay hydrated while you travel. Dehydration can negatively affect your breastmilk supply. Washing breastfeeding equipment in water fountains or public bathroom sinks is not recommended, it is better to wash these items with bottled water.
Keep breastmilk cool- Storing pumped breast milk in room or cool temperatures is important. Temperatures can increase during travel so packing breastmilk in a cooler or similar device is helpful. It is advised that you inquire if your hotel or lodging accommodation is equipped with a refrigerator.
Wear comfortable clothing- Wear comfortable or loose tops that make breastfeeding easy. Wearing a nursing bra or tank top provides easy access for mealtimes.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is currently offering a breastfeeding education program, to schedule a breastfeeding education session or for further information, please call 718-291-3276.

Want to Quit Smoking? We Can Help!

Posted on June 13, 2017 by Joann Ariola

Tobacco is the single greatest cause of multiple diseases and premature deaths in the USA today. It kills more Americans each year than alcohol, crack, heroin, homicide, suicide, car accidents, fire and AIDS combined. There are an estimated 480,000 deaths in the United States annually that are due to tobacco use. It is the only legal consumer product that is lethal when used exactly as recommended by the manufacturer.

Smoking cigarettes affects many aspects of health. Tobacco smoke contains about 7000 chemicals, including low concentrations of such strong poisons as ammonia, cyanide, arsenic and formaldehyde. It also contains 69 carcinogens – substances that are known to cause cancers in humans. Direct association has been established between smoking and cancers of the lung, mouth, nose, throat, larynx, esophagus, colon and rectum, stomach, pancreas, cervix, bladder, kidney and blood.
In the United States, Illnesses caused by smoking cost more than 300 billion dollars per year in direct medical care and lost productivity. Smokers pay twice as much for life insurance and will die on average of 13-14 years earlier than non-smokers. It costs tobacco companies approximately 5 cents to produce a pack of cigarettes.

Many lung conditions are either caused or aggravated by cigarette smoke. It irritates bronchial airways and stimulates mucous production leading eventually to decreased elasticity and functional failure. Patients suffering from COPD, Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis or Emphysema have a much higher risk of dying when repeatedly exposed to smoke.
Smokers are also at greater risk for cardiovascular disease. Smoking damages blood vessels making them stiff and narrow, obstructing blood flow which results with elevated blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure or chronic skin changes.

Pregnant women exposed to tobacco smoke have increased risk of complications like miscarriage, premature birth, and brain and lung damage in developing baby. Sudden infant death syndrome is three times more likely if mother smoked during pregnancy.
Secondhand smoke is the smoke exhaled by smokers or given off by a burning cigarette or pipe. Inhaling secondhand smoke is as hazardous as smoking a cigarette. There is no safe level for secondhand smoke exposure established. People can inhale it at work, homes, cars or public spaces and have all the complications mentioned above.

Smoking tobacco is an addiction similar to heroin and cocaine. It can be successfully treated but the majority of cases require three or more attempts. Quitting smoking offers a chance of feeling better and living longer. Studies have shown that five, common sense steps, provide the best chance for quitting smoking for good:

1. Get ready: set a quit date and throw out all cigarettes and ashtrays from your home.

2. Get support: tell your family, friends and doctor about quitting plans; search the internet for advice.

3. Learn new behaviors: distract yourself from the urge to smoke; exercise or go for a walk.

4. Get medication: combining medication like nicotine patches or Zyban with behavioral adaptation and family support quadruples your chances of success.

5. Be prepared for relapse and difficult situations- most people try to quit a few times before succeeding.

If you would like to learn more about quitting smoking, please call 718-206-8494.

Quinoa Edamame Salad

Posted on June 12, 2017 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

QUINOA EDAMAME SALAD aka Traffic Light Salad

Yields: Approximately 12 – 15 servings

Preparation time and cook time: total 15 minutes

Salad Ingredients:

1 cup uncooked quinoa, prepared according to package direction

1 12 oz bag frozen shelled edamame, defrosted

3 scallions chopped

1 red pepper chopped

1 can of yellow corn

1 avocado chopped

Dressing Ingredients:

¼ cup red wine vinegar

3 Tbsp water

½ cup olive oil

1 Packet Good Seasons Italian Salad Dressing Packet (0.7oz)

Directions:

In a small pot, combine quinoa and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Cover; simmer for 12 – 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat; set aside.

In a large bowl combine the quinoa, edamame, corn, red pepper, scallions, and avocado; toss to combine. Add dressing; toss to coat.

Source: Anonymous

Registered Dietitians at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center assist patients to grow their knowledge about nutrition, wellness, and healthy eating. An appointment with a Registered Dietitian consists of a comprehensive nutrition assessment, nutrition education, behavior modification counseling and goal setting. Each goal established is individually tailored to patient’s specific nutritional and medical issues. Our outpatient Registered Dietitians specialize in weight management counseling, diabetes, as well as pediatric and prenatal nutrition.

To schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-7056.

Jamaica Hospital Reducing Pressure Injuries for Hospital Patients Through Wound Care Service

Posted on June 8, 2017 by Michael Hinck

Jamaica Hospital now provides a comprehensive consultative wound care service for all inpatients.

The purpose of the service, offered though the Nursing Department and run by Rosalyn Beswick, Clinical Nurse Manager and Certified Wound Care Nurse, is to prevent pressure injuries from occurring through education and intervention.

A pressure injury (previously known as pressure ulcer) is defined as localized damage to the skin and/or underlying soft tissue usually over a bony prominence. The injury can present as intact skin or an open ulcer and may be painful. Pressure injuries usually occur as a result of intense and/or prolonged pressure.

Rosalyn and her team of specially trained wound care technicians provide around the clock coverage for all patients in need of their services. The team performs approximately 50 consults every week with the number growing steadily. “As the providers become more familiar with the services we provide and learn how we can contribute to the recovery of the patients, they are utilizing us more and more” states Rosalyn.

One of the main focuses of the wound care team is to provide instructions on how to properly position patients to allow for the appropriate distribution of weight. Another service offered includes monitoring the nutritional status of the patient to ensure they receive a diet high in protein and vitamins as well as adequate hydration. Lastly, the wound care specialists assess patients and offer the necessary moisture management, needed to prevent a breakdown of the skin. To support this effort, hospital administration has made an investment to purchase over 200 new bed surfaces and additional foam wedges, which will greatly benefit the team and the patients they serve.

The results of this program have been overwhelmingly positive. Since the inception of the service, the hospital’s pressure injury incidence rate went from 3.48 to .93, well below the national average. As a result Jamaica Hospital’s patients have benefited by reporting decreased pain and suffering and improved quality of life.

Rosalyn is very excited about how well the service has been received, “The patients are thankful for their improved quality of life and the staff is appreciative to have the resource available to them.” With more and more doctors, nurses and discharge planners counting on the services offered by the wound care team, Jamaica Hospital is confident that this service will continue to improve the overall quality of care provided to our patients.”