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Brett Bollmann, CEO at Memorial Hospital named Kristen Reinier Employee of the Quarter for the Second Quarter 2021 on July 20. Reinier has worked at Memorial Hospital since 2019 in the Laboratory as a Phlebotomist. When asked what she likes most about working at Memorial Hospital, Reinier replied, “My favorite things about working at Memorial Hospital is the people, my coworkers give me reasons to smile and I enjoy brightening their day with any and all jokes no matter how stupid they may be. My coworkers all over the hospital help me more than they know. And my direct coworkers light of my life they are.” Her co-workers who nominated her wrote, “This employee is one of the most dedicated, hard-working and genuine individuals in the entire department. She willingly performs all work that is assigned to her. Plus, never hesitates to help out any of her fellow coworkers when needed. She always has a positive attitude and respectfully cooperates with everyone. She does an exceptional job at keeping the work flow running smoothly in the entire lab. She can handle stressful and unexpected situations as well as take criticism positively and use it to improve her skills. Overall, she is an enthusiastic person with excellent communication skills, patience and bedside manner. Her positive attitude projects not only to her coworkers but most importantly to her patients that she is caring for.” Reinier resides in Sparta, IL with her spouse Christopher Martin and two daughters Skylar and Olivia. In their off the clock hours, Reinier enjoys spending time in their garden, watching their chickens and playing with their kids. “They grow so fast and keep me a supportive employee, they are the real Employee of the Quarters. I also enjoy fishing and watching Chris tinker on his weekly fascinating projects. It’s so nice to be in such a happy time in my life. Live the Good old days before they pass!” Each quarter employees are encouraged to submit “star cards” for their co-workers who go above and beyond in their patient care or team work. Four random cards were drawn, Adrienne Caby, RN OR; Jacinta Mulholland, Dietary Clerk; Laura Cleiman, Housekeeper; Rachel Young, RN MSU/ER were the winners of a monetary award for their star nominations.

Debra Herring of Chester, retired from Memorial Hospital on July 30, 2021 after 42 years of service. She was hired in March of 1979, as a Pharmacy Tech and spent her career in that position. Over the years, she has witnessed many changes in the Pharmacy department from everything being done manually, to the introduction of multiple computer systems to improve workflow and processing. She remembers counting pills out of bottles of 1,000-5,000 and now several come in unit dose packages. When she began, the only electronic in the department was a typewriter and now the pharmacy has a prescription kiosk locker that dispenses medications to patients. One of her favorite memories happened during a department relocation from the basement to the main floor. There was a salesmen in the department that day that was persistent and she was instructed by her boss to ask him to leave due to their busy state. That salesmen later became a per diem pharmacist in the department and became part of their work family. She says, “Memories like this put a smile to my face.” Debbie states that she will never forget the friendships that were developed with her co-workers, “I was around when they all gave birth to their children, and I have watched them grow into successful adults along the way. This is an extended family for sure.” She is looking forward to spending time with family at gatherings and sharing old stories. “Family, that’s what life is all about.” From getting stuck in the elevator on her first day of work and repeating the scenario, unexpectedly, on her last, she takes that as a sign, that the hospital says “good-bye”. At least she does not plan to try for a third go around. During her time at Memorial, Debbie was a dedicated employee and all of her co-workers could see her passion for her job and her patients. Memorial Hospital thanks Debbie for her outstanding years of service, and her commitment to caring for our patients, employees, and community.

Garrett Zoellner, MT at Memorial Hospital in the Laboratory Department, recently completed his accredited American Medical Technologist (AMT) Medical Technologist (MT) certification by passing his test on July 28, 2021. To be eligible for the test, one must have a Bachelor’s degree plus 2 years of experience as a laboratory technician. Zoellner is now a recognized MT across the country. In August, the Laboratory Department celebrated Zoellner’s accomplishment with cake and congratulatory praises. He was grateful for the recognition from his co-workers and feels fortunate to have such an awesome and well-educated support group. “If it wasn’t for the people who have helped build up my education of this field over the past 3 years, I would not have been able to do what I’ve done. They have given me the knowledge and foundation needed not only to better myself but to be able to deliver better patient care, which is ultimately what it’s all about.” Nicole Dethrow, Laboratory Administrative Assistant, expresses that the department is very proud of Garrett and what he has achieved, “He is always willing to help out his co-workers and in general is a very genuine and caring person. He is definitely a crucial part of the lab family.” Memorial Hospital congratulates Zoellner on his achievements and thanks him for being a dedicated member of the Laboratory Team and always striving to learn more to improve the care for those whom he serves.

Falls can lead to minor and major injuries, hospitalization, and even surgery. At Memorial Hospital, we take falls very serious. As part of Fall Prevention Awareness Day, we take this time to remind you, that whether you are at a care facility or just roaming around your home, it is important to take the necessary steps and precautions to minimize your risk of falling. At Memorial Hospital, we have our basic safety plan that involves transportation routes within the facility, fire exits, access, flooring, lighting, signage and prevention of slips, trips and falls. These signs and precautions are in place for everyone. BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Hallways are clear of obstacles. Exit signs are visible. Handrails in hallways. Adequate lighting. Floors clean and dry. Non-slip footwear. Beds, stretchers and wheelchairs are locked and maintained. OUR PLAN Registration calls for assistance to escort patients if necessary. Patients being discharged from Surgery or Inpatient care are escorted to their vehicle. Staff report all unsafe and potentially unsafe conditions. All Nursing Departments use a Fall Risk Scale to determine patient risk. OUT-PATIENTS/VISITORS When patients come to our facility for outpatient procedures or visits we ask a few basic questions that will help us determine if you may need assistance while you are here. Here are the questions that we ask. Know yourself and be honest with your answers to our staff. Do you have weakness? Have you fell recently? Do you feel unsteady? Do you use a walker or a cane and need help? Are you scared of falling? Would you like help? You can always just ask one of our staff if you need help, and we will be glad to assist! IN-PATIENTS People are at a greater risk of falling just being admitted to the hospital. Why is that? Because you are in unfamiliar surroundings; you do not have your normal items that you have at home; you may be taking medication that can make you confused or dizzy (pain medications can do this); you may be receiving treatment or testing that makes you weak, dizzy or unsteady; you may have an IV or monitor tubing and wires that could trip you up; and many more reasons. What can you do to prevent a fall? Listen to staff suggestions Use your call light when you need assistance Do NOT rush to the bathroom yourself Let your nurse know if you notice a safety hazard Make sure your call light is in reach Have your visitors tell the staff that they are leaving Make sure your personal items are within reach Sit up in bed for a couple of minutes before standing. For patients who stay with us we perform constant assessments on your risk for falls. We have methods to help decrease your risk of falling while you are here. What we do to protect you if you are a high fall risk: Educate you on how to use equipment, like sit-to-stand and regular lifts. Use a gait belt that aids the staff in anchoring you if you do become weak. Explain to you how we are going to do something before we do it. That way you know the exact process. Remind you where you are and what day it is. Assist you when moving from place to place. Use a personal alarm to make us aware if you try to get up without assistance. Stop in hourly to assess the 4 P’s (Pain, Position, Potty and Personal Items) Use a bedside commode or a shower chair. Educate family and visitors on fall reduction. Apply an Orange Bracelet to you. This lets all staff members know that you are a High Fall Risk, so if they see you alone, they should stop and help you. Review your medications if one could be causing your instability. Examples of why you would be a high fall risk: You have had a fall in the last 90 days You have more than 1 diagnosis for this stay You are on Bedrest You use an ambulatory aid (walker, crutches, cane) You have an IV site You are weak and need help moving You are on pain medication You had surgery Your mental status has changed If the nursing or medical staff feel that you may fall If you are under the age of 3 If you have a seizure disorder You have dizziness or balance disturbances The best thing that you can do to help us to protect you and to protect yourself is to Speak Up. As a patient, it is your responsibility to: Provide information. Patients must provide to the best of their knowledge, accurate and complete information about present complaints, past illnesses, hospitalizations, medication and other matters relating to their health. Ask questions. Patients must ask questions when they do not understand their care, treatment and service or what they are expected to do. Follow instructions. Patients must follow the treatment plan developed. Patients should express any concerns about their ability to follow the proposed care plan. Accept consequences. Patients are responsible for outcomes if they do not follow the treatment plan. Follow the hospital policies and rules affecting their care and conduct while in the hospital. We encourage all patients to: Be an active, involved and informed member of the healthcare team by asking questions about their own health and safety. Remind staff to check their armband/patient ID prior to receiving any medication, blood/blood product or invasive procedure. Ask questions regarding medications given. All employees at Memorial Hospital help to keep you safe during your visit. You can do your part by speaking up and following our safety precautions. TOGETHER, we can prevent falls.

Brett Bollmann, CEO at Memorial Hospital named Mary Lynn Eaton Employee of the Quarter for the Third Quarter 2021 on September 29. Eaton has worked at Memorial Hospital since May of 2019 as an Admitting Clerk. When asked what she likes most about working at Memorial Hospital, Eaton replied, “Chester Hospital has outstanding employees who really care about you. The concern, compassion and willingness to go the extra step is in every department. Not only the needs of the patient is taken care of but our hospital has always tried to help with the needs of the family who has a member here. The little things like ‘Have a good day.’ or ‘Have a good sleep.’ Makes a person’s day. Positivity within our staff is shown here and is a must. I am very blessed to have been able to join such a great facility.” Her co-workers who nominated her wrote, “Lynn is professional, kind, and caring to all patients and staff. She offers to help anyone who needs it and stays late to help when things are backed up with work. She helps ER nursing staff when they are overwhelmed with patients by copying papers for transfers, calling for patient updates for waiting family members, wiping down ER waiting rooms, going into the ER to register non-isolated patients, etc. She is an amazing co-worker and deserves to be recognized for the positivity and teamwork she brings to her job.” Eaton resides in Willisville, IL and has three sons, Connally, Joshua and Brad, and a “four-legged son” Butch. In her free time Eaton enjoys spending time with her family, watching Saluki Football, volunteering time to serve as a Perry County Mental Health Board member, helping with the Ava and Willisville Fire Departments, working with Sandra’s Comfort for Cancer Patients, and taking hikes with her dog. Each quarter employees are encouraged to submit “star cards” for their co-workers who go above and beyond in their patient care or team work. Four random cards were drawn, Addie Schultz, Third Party Biller; Kaitlynn Smith, RN; Peggy Williams, HIM Associate; and Sherry Wilson, CNA, were the winners of a monetary award for their star nominations.

Every October, people all over the world show their support for those affected by breast cancer and much education and awareness is spread during the month. This all makes great strides in the fight against the disease but, breast cancer is a 24/7/365 fight for those who live with it. Memorial Hospital's Mammography and Chemotherapy teams are hear to support women (and men, yes they can get breast cancer too) every day of the year. There are also things you can do throughout the year to help prevent the disease. Be Aware One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, with more than 281,550 new cases expected in 2021, according to the American Cancer Society. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among American women and affects all races. 75% of those with breast cancer, have no family history of the disease. There are lifestyle changes and preventative measures you can take to help reduce your risk of breast cancer, they include: Performing a monthly self-breast exam Being physically active Maintaining a healthy weight Don’t drink alcohol or limit the amount of alcohol you drink If you are taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills, ask your doctor about the risks Breastfeed your children, if possible Know the Signs Know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and do a monthly self exam. If you notice any of the following, contact your doctor: New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit). Thickening or swelling of part of the breast. Irritation or dimpling of breast skin. Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast. Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area. Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood. Any change in the size or the shape of the breast. Pain in any area of the breast. Keep in mind that these symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer. Get Screenings Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early. With early detection, the disease is more treatable. Talk to your doctor about scheduling a mammogram, especially if you may be at high risk. The American Cancer Society recommends screening at the following ages: Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so. Women age 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year. Women 55 and older can continue yearly screening, and should speak with their provider about switching to mammograms every 2 years. Memorial Hospital is pleased to offer our patients the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam. Available on a Selenia® Dimensions® system from Hologic, it is revolutionizing how breast cancer is detected by providing a better option for women of all breast densities compared to 2D alone. Researchers have found that: The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam finds 20-65% more invasive breast cancers compared to 2D alone, an average increase of 41%. Only the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam is FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone. The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam reduces callbacks by up to 40% compared to 2D alone. Support & Healing When times do get tough, you aren't alone. Memorial Hospital's Infusion and Chemotherapy Center is here for you throughout the treatments, the healing, and the fight. The highly trained nurses and providers offer compassionate care in a tranquil and accommodating environment, where one can relax while receiving treatment close to home. And when you have finished your treatments, Memorial's team of nurses and doctors celebrate with you as you ring "The Bell".

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against influenza (flu) is to get a flu vaccine every flu season. Flu is a contagious respiratory disease that can lead to serious illness, hospitalization, or even death. CDC recommends everyone six months and older get an annual flu vaccine. What are some key reasons to get a flu vaccine? Every year, flu vaccination prevents illnesses, medical visits, hospitalizations, and deaths. Flu vaccination also is an important preventive tool for people with chronic health conditions. For example flu vaccination has been associated with lower rates of some cardiac events among people with heart disease. Vaccinating pregnant women helps protect them from flu illness and hospitalization, and also has been shown to help protect the baby from flu infection for several months after birth, before the baby can be vaccinated. A 2017 study showed that flu vaccine can be life-saving in children. While some people who get vaccinated still get sick, flu vaccination has been shown in several studies to reduce severity of illness. Why is it important to get a flu vaccine EVERY year? Flu viruses are constantly changing, so flu vaccines may be updated from one season to the next to protect against the viruses that research suggests will be common during the upcoming flu season. Your protection from a flu vaccine declines over time. Yearly vaccination is needed for the best protection. Is the flu vaccine safe? Flu vaccines have a good safety record. Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received flu vaccines over the past 50 years. Extensive research supports the safety of seasonal flu vaccines. Each year, CDC works with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other partners to ensure the highest safety standards for flu vaccines. More information about the safety of flu vaccines is available at www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/vaccinesafety.htm. What are the side effects of flu vaccines? Flu shots: Flu shots are made using killed flu viruses (for inactivated vaccines), or without flu virus at all (for the recombinant vaccine). So, you cannot get flu from a flu shot. Some minor side effects that may occur include soreness, redness and/or swelling where the shot was given, low grade fever, and aches. Nasal spray flu vaccines: The viruses in nasal spray flu vaccines are weakened and do not cause the severe symptoms often associated with influenza illness. For adults, side effects from the nasal spray may include runny nose, headache, sore throat, and cough. For children, side effects may also include wheezing, vomiting, muscle aches, and fever. If these problems occur, they are usually mild and go away on their own, but serious reactions are also possible. Almost all people who receive flu vaccine have no serious problems from it. When and Where to get vaccinated: You should get a flu vaccine by the end of October. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination should continue throughout flu season, even in January or later. Memorial Hospital's Rural Health Clinics are currently scheduling appointments for flu vaccines now. You can contact the Chester Clinic or Steeleville Family Practice to schedule you and your family member's vaccinations. For more information on the flu vaccine, visit: www.cdc.gov/flu or call 1-800-CDC-INFO

We are looking for your best shot. We are looking for local photography to display in our facility. We are looking for regional images of people, places, things, animals, and our community. Winning submissions will be displayed and receive special recognition throughout our hospital. Winning photographers will receive media recognition and be invited to sign their final installations. You can submit your entries digitally to mbargman@mhchester.com or mail printed images to Mariah Bargman at 1900 State Street, Chester, IL 62233. Submission deadline is October 31.

http://www.mhchester.com/clinics-services The State of Illinois offers retirees, annuitants and survivors a healthcare program called Total Retiree Advantage Illinois (TRAIL). This program provides eligible members and their covered dependents comprehensive medical and prescription drug coverage through TRAIL Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (commonly referred to as “MAPD”) plans. The program also includes EyeMed vision, optional dental coverage through Delta Dental and life insurance coverage through Securian Financial (Minnesota Life). All Illinois counties have an HMO and PPO option. To see the options Memorial Hospital will be accepting and to learn more go here: http://www.mhchester.com/clinics-services

In a special reception on Friday, January 25, 2019 Memorial Hospital CEO, Brett Bollmann named Jason L. Springs Employee of the Quarter for the Fourth Quarter 2018. Springs has worked at Memorial Hospital for 16 years as a Medical Laboratory Technician and Chemistry Supervisor. When asked what he likes most about working at Memorial Hospital, Springs replied, “The people, we have friendly staff here. Over the years I have become good friends with a lot of people.”  His co-workers write, “He is super friendly and always gets along with fellow co-workers. Covers multiple shifts when needed, does not complain and always goes the extra mile. He is very helpful and has adapted to a new position that included many changes with no complaint. He never calls in and always comes in early and is willing to stay late if needed.” Springs resides in Sparta with his wife Mindy and one month old daughter Makenna. When he isn’t working he enjoys traveling. He and his wife look forward to taking their daughter on trips. Springs received a personal plaque, cash prize and parking spot of his choice for the next three months.

Memorial Hospital welcomed six Pathfinders to the 2018-2019 program this year. This job shadowing program allows High School Seniors to spend time with different departments throughout the hospital, clinics, and therapy & rehab center learning about careers in the medical field. This years participants are: Stevie Gilbert - Chester High School Chloe Gordon - Steeleville High School Kaleb Hughes - Chester High School Lauren Leathers - Chester High School Elizabeth Froemling - TRICO High School Ashleigh Stegmann - Steeleville High School (They are shown photographed L-R: Mariah Bargman, Community Relations & Marketing; Susan Diddlebock, Director of Nursing/CNO; Dan Colvis, MHC Board Member; Lauren Leathers, Kaleb Hughes, Stevie Gilbert, Ashleigh Stegmann, Elizabeth Froemling, Mardell Granger, Auxiliary President, Chloe Gordon, Brett Bollman, CEO; Apryl Bradshaw, Administrative Assistant.)

Dr. Lander has been providing orthopedic services at Memorial Hospital since 2002. We wish him the best and extend our sincere appreciation for his over 16 years of dedication to our hospital.