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.

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.

Planning End of Life Care

Posted on June 1, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Planning for end of life is difficult but also necessary. Taking the time to prepare for this stage of life can help you and loved ones with making challenging decisions about your care that may arise in the future.

When planning your end-of-life care it is important to consider what your wishes are and how they should be carried out. Your wishes typically reflect your personal concerns, values or beliefs. A few questions to ponder during this process are:

How will religious or spiritual beliefs be honored?
If possible, would you rather last moments to be at your home?
How do you feel about life-prolonging measures, such as resuscitation, ventilators or life support?

Once you have come up with a plan of care, it is recommended that you write instructions or advance directives in a document to record your end -of-life wishes and provide guidance for loved ones.

Choosing a family member or loved one to be your healthcare proxy is usually the next step in planning your end-of-life care. It is important that you communicate to them your wishes so that they can make desired decisions on your behalf. These requirements should also be shared with your physician or medical team.

If you are unable to designate a person to carry out your wishes, you can give specific instructions by writing a living will. According to The National Institutes of Health (NIH Senior Health), “A living will records your end-of-life care wishes in case you are no longer able to speak for yourself. It spells out what life-sustaining treatment you do or do not want if you are terminally ill, permanently unconscious, or in the final stage of a fatal illness. You may wish to meet with your health care provider before preparing a living will to discuss treatment options for a variety of medical situations.”

To receive further information about planning end –of-life care, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Palliative Care Division recommends utilizing comprehensive resources such as The Conversation Project. The organization provides a starter kit, “as a useful tool to help people have conversations with their family members or other loved ones about their wishes regarding end-of-life care.” For more information, visit www.theconversationproject.org.

How to Help Your Child Cope with Stress from School Exams and Standardized Tests

Posted on May 16, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Preparing for school exams or standardized tests is part of every child’s educational experience. Stress levels in children can elevate during this time as they become anxious about earning satisfactory scores.

High levels of stress can affect academic performance but it becomes a real concern for young students when it takes a toll on their health. Kids may develop symptoms of stress such as sleeplessness, mental blocks or irregular eating habits.

There are several things parents can do to help alleviate test stress and anxiety:

Teach Calming Techniques such as taking deep breaths and muscle relaxation.
Help with test preparation; educate yourself about the subject so that you can provide assistance if this is not possible explore hiring a tutor or suggest a study group.
Practice Time Management by giving mock exams with time limits. This will bolster confidence and reduce panic on the day of the test.
Provide a Positive Environment by ensuring that their daily activities remain as routine as possible. This means normal bedtimes, meal times or hobbies.

While a certain amount of stress or anxiety may motivate some students to perform better for others it creates the opposite effect. It is important for parents to observe how their child reacts to stressful situations and help them to cope. If your child displays symptoms of stress for an extended period of time, communicate with them and if the assistance of a mental health professional is needed, the school counselor or family doctor can be a good place to start.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry offers group therapy, individual therapy, medicine management, and other specialty groups to children, adolescents, and adults. For additional information, please call 718-206-5575.

Back Pain

Posted on May 9, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Back pain is a common health condition that affects approximately 80% of people living in the United States at some point in their lives.

Although back pain can occur at any age, incidents are more common in people 35 years old and older. This may be due to the degeneration of the bones and discs in our spine over time.

Contributors to back pain can vary by circumstance or by preexisting health conditions such as:

Obesity
Injury
Pregnancy
Arthritis
Improper lifting
Osteoporosis
Occupation

Back pain may be caused when there is muscle or ligament strain, bulging or ruptured discs or skeletal irregularities.

Back pain can be mild or severe. Symptoms may include a stabbing pain, muscle ache, pain that radiates down your leg or limited flexibility.

If these symptoms are continuous or become unbearable, it is advised that you see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will assess your level of pain, your range in mobility and investigate possible causes for your pain. He or she may perform X rays, nerve studies, MRI or CT scans, bone scans or blood tests to help diagnose and treat the problem. Treatment may include medication, applying heat or ice compresses, physical therapy or surgery.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center Center offers an Interventional Pain Management Practice, to schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-7246.

Jet Lag and Sleep

Posted on May 2, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Jet lag can profoundly affect sleep and alertness. This sleep disorder occurs when your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythms), which tells you when to sleep, becomes imbalanced after traveling to different time zones.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, when a person travels to a new time zone their “circadian rhythms are slow to adjust and remain on their original biological schedule for several days. This results in our bodies telling us it is time to sleep, when it’s actually the middle of the afternoon, or it makes us want to stay awake when it is late at night.”

Jet lag can lead to daytime fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, mood changes, a general unwell feeling, headaches, mild depression, insomnia and difficulty staying alert and concentrating. These symptoms generally appear within a day or two of travel and can worsen the longer you travel and the more time zones you cross.

There are several ways to combat or minimize the effects of jet lag. Here are a few you can try:

Avoid alcohol the day before your flight and during your flight.
Get plenty of rest before you fly.
Avoid caffeine or other caffeinated beverages before or while traveling.
Drink lots of water.
Wear sunglasses during your flight.
Move around the plane on long flights.
Adapt immediately to the schedule of your destination. While it may be tempting to sleep during the day after your arrival, it is advised that you stay up and active and expose your body to sunlight.
Avoid heavy meals upon arrival to your destination.

Symptoms of jet lag are mostly temporary and typically last a few days; however, if you are a frequent flyer they may become more severe. You can speak with your doctor or a sleep specialist who may recommend treatments such as light therapy, melatonin supplements or prescription medication.

To schedule an appointment with a sleep specialist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718- 206-5916.

Understanding Hair Loss- When Losing Hair Becomes A Problem

Posted on April 25, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

On average, people can lose up to 100 hairs from their scalps each day.

Occasionally finding a few stray hairs on your brush or comb or in other places is not cause for alarm. However, there are life events or lifestyle changes that can accelerate the normal rate at which a person loses hair.

Factors such as age, genetics, hormones, medication, pregnancy, cosmetic procedures (dyes and relaxers), stress, diet or certain illnesses can all serve as possible causes for a person’s hair loss.

There are several different types of hair loss (alopecia):

Androgenic alopecia- is a genetic condition that affects men and women. This condition is also referred to male or female pattern baldness.
Involuntional alopecia- occurs naturally with age
Telogen effluvium-this causes temporary hair thinning resulting from changes in the growth cycle
Scarring alopecias- inflammatory skin conditions such as cellulitis or folliculitis can result in permanent hair loss
Traction alopecia- occurs when hair is constantly being pulled at the follicles. This commonly happens to men and women who wear tight hair styles

Balding occurs when the amount hair that is being lost becomes excessive. There are cues that you can look out for that indicates excessive hair loss. They include:

Large amounts of hair on your pillow each morning
Large amounts of hair left in your brush or comb after grooming
Thinning on the top third of the scalp (for women)
Circular or patchy bald spots appearing on the scalp
Patches of scaly skin on the scalp

If you have concerns about excessive hair loss, it is recommended that you speak with a dermatologist. Your doctor may explore different types of treatments based on the reason for hair loss and severity. Treatment options may include a dietary plan, laser therapy, surgery or medication. It is important to keep in mind that while most hair loss conditions can be treated, there are some forms such as androgenic alopecia that are untreatable.

To schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-206-7001. The Division of Dermatology at Jamaica Hospital offers several services, including adult and pediatric dermatology, dermatologic and skin cancer surgery, and cosmetic dermatology.

Healthy Roasted Shrimp and Vegetable Recipe

Posted on April 11, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

This quick, delicious and healthy shrimp and vegetable dinner is easy to prepare and full of nutrients.

Ingredients

1 red onion, large dice
1 red bell pepper, large dice
1 cup crimini mushrooms, stems removed and halved
1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon pepper, divided
1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
3/4 teaspoon paprika, divided
1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1) Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Add the onion, bell pepper, mushrooms and broccoli to a large sheet pan. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika to the veggies and toss evenly. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes.
2) Meanwhile in a separate bowl add the shrimp, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Toss until shrimp is evenly coated.
3) Remove veggies after 15 minutes and add the shrimp directly to the pan with the veggies, spreading out evenly. Place back in the oven for another 5-7 minutes. Remove and serve alone, or over rice or pasta

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