NOVEMBER 2017NOVEMBER 2017

Nurses Receive National Certifi cation in Wound Care Congratulations to NVRH and Dan Wyand, PT and Associates St J. Subaru Shares the Love with NVRH Laboratory Update Human Resources Corner New Wing at ENT & Audiology Suite #5 Birth Center Construction Update Knights of Columbus Supports the Birth Center Mr. Wiggin’s Chair in Honor of His Daughter November Pie Sale Auxiliary/Volunteer News

COPD Education Fair Halloween Gray Gallery - The Art of Recovery Grateful Patient’s Child So Many Books, So Little Time... Goodbye and Thank you LT. Robert Clark and Welcome Sgt. Chet Buck The Courtyard Cafe's New Dishwasher Make Your Own Emergency Room News Celebrate Dr. Ziobrowski’s Retirement Fun Pictures from Employees National Radiologic Technology Week

In this issue of The BrightLook Perioperative Week Celebrate Professional Accomplishments Cookie Social Aquatic Boot Camp A+ Standard of Caring - October 2017

The BrightLook is a monthly publication for NVRH employees, volunteers, physicians, corporators and board members.

Our next deadline is December 22 for the December 2017 issue. Please contact Hilary De Carlo at ext. 7303 if you have an article or picture(s) to submit.

CONGRATULATIONS!Editor’s Note: It’s impossible to get a picture of the entire team at each practice. Nonetheless, we congratulate ALL of you, whether we were able to get you in the picture or not.

This year all three of our Primary Care offi ces, St. Johnsbury Pediatrics, Kingdom Internal Medicine and Corner Medical submitted their hard work to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) to receive re-recognition as Patient-Centered Medical Homes. This is a tedious process that involves years of preparation. Practices are required to present proof that they meet 6 overarching standards that incorporate numerous elements and factors within each. The standards focus on Patient-Centered Access, Team-Based Care, Care Management & Coordination, Population Health Management, as well as, a Performance Measurement and Quality Improvement component. By meeting these standards, our Primary Care Practices are able to provide more holistic and comprehensive care to our patients and a team-based approach when working with specialists.

I am ecstatic to share with you that all three practice were scored as LEVEL 3 Patient-Centered Medical Homes!!! This is the highest level possible. Corner Medical came in with an astounding score of 99%!!!! I will add that none of our practices scored under a 95%! This is truly amazing! It is a real testament of the excellent work we are doing in our community and the wonderful care we are providing to our patients!

Please join me in offering a HUGE congratulations to the staff at St. Johnsbury Pediatrics, Kingdom Internal Medicine and Corner Medical! GREAT WORK to you all!

Thank you,

Laura Rooker, MSHCADirector of Physician Practices St. Johnsbury Pediatrics

Kingdom Internal Medicine

Corner Medical

NVRH Nurses Receive National Certifi cation in Wound Care

Erika Downing RN, Eileen Shea RN and Katya Lewis RN, are Wound Care Certifi ed specialists, earning their knowledge and care through the Wound Care Education Institute®. The Wound Care Education Institute® offers training based on current standards of care and evidence-based research, ultimately providing valuable patient care. The three nurses work on the Medical Surgical fl oor at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital; they earned their certifi cations through a week long course as well as a written exam.

Wound Care is considered a unique niche; there are 20,000 certifi ed wound care nurses nationwide. Wounds may vary from chronic pressure ulcers to venous ulcers (poor circulation, normally in the legs) and diabetic ulcers to wounds related to trauma and surgery.

Healthcare providers typically order a wound consult -- the nurses then do an assessment, which includes a patient’s diet, health history and comorbidities (the presence of two chronic diseases or conditions in a patient), and a treatment strategy is mapped out. The resulting plan is a team approach, involving various experts.

“Eileen, Erika and Katie add a great deal of knowledge and depth to the care of our inpatients. Adding professional wound care consultation to our health care team is yet another service available to our inpatients. They are committed to making a difference in our patient’s lives,” said Michael Rousse, MD, MPH, Chief Hospitalist and Vice President of Medical Affairs at NVRH.

Eileen, Erika and Katya fi nd the work rewarding and gratifying. They enjoy employing their knowledge to help heal and relieve patients of discomfort. They have implemented a photo program so that they can document progression and change. A wound “cart” has been assembled, so that all the needed supplies are in an accessible, portable unit.

Sharon Mallett, Director of the Medical/Surgical unit is very pleased with the implementation of the wound care team. “They’ve really taken this care to a new level, and NVRH patients will benefi t tremendously.”

To learn more about the Wound Care Education Institute, please visit www.wcei.net.

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Wound Care Certifi ed Specialists Erika Downing, RN, Eileen Shea, RN and Katya Lewis, RN

CONGRATULATIONS TO NVRH AND DAN WYAND, PT & ASSOCIATES

We are honored people voted NVRH as Best Employer in the Kingdom. At the core, being the “best employer” is about NVRH employees believing in our mission – to improve the health of the people of this community, and performing meaningful work to accomplish that mission. Every employee - from nurses, providers, environmental services staff, to the business offi ce staff - fi lls an important role impacting the health of our community. As an employer, the best we can do is provide the most supportive environment possible to ensure employees are able to give their best to the patient.

Betty Ann Gwatkin, SHRM-SCPVice-President, Human Resources

Continued

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Dan Wyand, PT & Associates is proud to have been voted SECOND PLACE in the Best Medical Provider and Best Place to Work categories in the Best of the Kingdom challenge!

It is our pleasure to serve the community of the NEK, and for the past 36 years it has been our mission to provide excellent care to our patients in a welcoming, supportive environment.

Thank you to all who voted! We couldn’t be prouder to take second place right behind the fi ne people at NVRH!

St J Subaru Shares the Love with NVRH! Thank you to St J Auto and their family of dealerships for providing amazing support this year to NVRH as sponsors of the Radiothon and Gala. We are excited to announce one of their dealerships, St J Subaru, has selected NVRH as this year’s Subaru Share the Love Hometown Charity.

Anyone who purchases or leases a new Subaru now through January 2, 2018 may select NVRH to receive a donation to support the Birth Center renovation. Learn more at www.saintjsubaru.com. Details on the Birth Center renovation can be found at www.nvrh.org/birthcenter.

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Laboratory Update

“One Stop Shop! – Marie Maynard

From now on, whether you need blood work or imaging, you will be registered at the point-of-care! Rather than visiting Access in the offi ce across the hall before your appointment, you can go directly to Lab or Diagnostic Imaging. Pre-registering is still an option and is in fact recommended, but whether you are merely checking in after preregistering or registering for the fi rst time it can be done at the appropriate department reception desk.

This resolution came from a Kaizen, a rapid improvement event, where many solutions where trialed and tweaked and tested one after another to fi nd the best way to change outpatient registration. It was a week-long event including front desk staff and leadership from Lab, Diagnostic Imaging, Access, several impartial third parties, and many trips for caffeine and snacks! Meant to empower staff to be a part of continuous change and improving workfl ow, the week ended with a presentation to the Patient Experience Committee with recommendations. There were multiple improvements and discoveries made from interdepartmental teamwork and communication, the most visible being the new Lab welcome area! Come by and visit the Lab and Access staff in their new offi ce and see the results of all these changes.

Holly BlairRegistration (Access)

Linda LarriveeLab Assistant/Phlebotomist

Andi DawsonMLT System TechnicianIn order to accommodate the newly arranged front offi ce for the laboratory, Andi’s offi ce lost 2 feet in width but gained 2 feet in length. It works!

Earned time cash in enrollment for 2018 is open until December 31, 2017. You will be navigating through Bswift once again. It might appear that you need to do your benefi ts enrollment again but this is only for earned time. On some pages you will need to scroll all the way to the bottom of the page and agree before continuing. Susan Sanborn is available if you have questions, ext. 7515.

HumanHumanResourcesResourcesCornerCorner

Welcome new NVRH employees! Pictured from left to right: Hannah Hull (RN/Med-Surg), Albert Fischer (CRNA/Anesthesia), Ana D’Leon (Care Manager), Wendy Jones (LNA/Med-Surg), Anita Geraci (SPD Technician), Connie McElgin (RN/Corner Medical), Renee Simons (Medical Offi ce Secretary/Kingdom Internal Medicine), and Jason Dow (Food Service Manager).

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Hello All! We are so excited to share the news about our new addition!

The space previously occupied by the Circle of Care boutique is currently under construction to become a new wing attached to the ENT & Audiology Suite #5 in the Richard H. Bloch Building. The new wing will house a space designed for our Palliative Care Doctors, Dr. Joyce Dobbertin and Dr. Mary Ready and our new Psychiatrist Dr. Cynthia Swartz. Both of these specialties will be included in what will become a shared practice with ENT, Audiology and Allergy. They will be working alongside Dr. Jacey Courser, Dr. Deane Rankin and Dr. Patrick Fitzpatrick.

Dr. Swartz is new to our NVRH community and has already begun seeing patients and consulting with providers. We are very excited to have her here in our community! The Palliative Care team has been practicing since July 2013 and have been seeing patients within the ENT & Audiology practice in a small consult room. We are incredibly excited to have our own designated space with a room several times the size we are currently in! This will allow for more of the patient’s family, doctors and support system to be in the room for the visit. It will also give patients more seating options and accommodate wheelchairs easier.

We hope that you all will come see us and our new space when it is completed in December!

Sarah A. Winans

Palliative Care Consult Room

Psychiatry Consult Room

Manager Office

Provider

Office

From the ENT offi ces looking into what will be Sarah Winans’ offi ce (she is standing in her future offi ce). On the right is the Psychiatry consult room and the Provider offi ce. On the left is the Palliative Care Consult Room.

Looking toward the check-out from the new section, with ENT models Sarah, Jaime and Melissa.

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Birth Center Construction Update

Monday, 11/20

Dominic Smith is the Superintendent, with HP Cummings Construction, in charge of the demolition and rebuilding of the Birth Center. HP Cummings is the same fi rm that did the Diagnostic Imaging addition, as well as the Ambulatory Services and Operating Room Renovation. Dominic has worked on many healthcare projects, including the Medical Offi ce Building in Newport, 3 1/2 years at Rutland Regional Medical Center, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Gifford Medical Center.

So, here’s what’s happening: During demolition, it is important to keep the air clean, so there have been four negative air machines installed. Negative air machines use ducting to remove demolition air from a sealed containment area. The fi ltered air is exhausted outside of the containment area. This is standard operating procedure for all renovation projects. Additionally, they have an aqua mister which keeps the dust down.

Cabinets, plumbing, the nurse’s station, tub and EVERYTHING familiar has been removed. It’s a big open space with stuff hanging from the ceilings! All the walls are gone between the original rooms 302-308.

Workers will be on the roof preparing for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, which is an ongoing project. This week, they are putting up guardrails and fl agging.

Monday, 11/27

The tile fl oors are being removed. One machine cuts the tile down to the base fl oor, while another machine vibrates with a reverse spatula-like metal tip that gets under the tile and peels it off. It isn’t easy, and it doesn’t exactly “peel” and the machine is quite rugged (not fun, in other words) to use. A very nice young man explained how the machines work – he was still smiling.

New England Air is de-installing and installing the heating, plumbing, mechanical and ductwork. It’s hard work since so many pipes are diffi cult to manipulate due to mineral build-up and rust…also, the fact that the majority of pipes are original from 1972. Steam and chilled water pipes are being installed in the ceiling of Medical Records, where there is more space. Cole is the young man on the ladder doing apprentice work, while Brad is supervising down below. Cole has four more years of work on the job before he can become a journeyman.

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Knights of Columbus supports the Birth Center renovation at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital : Stan Baranowski, Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus presents Mindy Warren, Birth Center Director, with a generous donation to support the Birth Center renovation. The funds were raised through their local BINGO. Moe Noel, Treasurer of the Knights stands to the right. The Knights of Columbus chapter is Sheridan Council 421 of Lyndonville.

Mindy Warren, Director of the Birth Center at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital stands with Charles Wiggin, retired math teacher. Mindy presented the chair next to Mr. Wiggin, which had been engraved by him in 1956 in honor of his daughter Deborah Louise Wiggin. Nurses had used the chair for years to change their shoes, but it wasn’t until the recent clearing out of the birth center in preparation for the renovation that the engraving on the bottom of the chair was noticed -- To the third fl oor nurses at BrightLook Hospital, THANK YOU, Deborah Louise Wiggin, July 17, 1956, 3 lb, 13 oz. Sally Wiggin, Charles’s wife, passed away in 2013. Their daughter Debbie was born at The BrightLook Hospital prematurely. According to her father, “she was so small, she could almost sit in a teacup.” Debbie now works in the State’s Attorney General Offi ce in South Burlington. The chair, which is still sturdy and comfortable, came to NVRH when the hospital was newly built in 1972. Mr. Wiggin, who is 93 and living on his own, plans to refi nish the chair and return it to the newly renovated Birth Center in 2018. A fi nishing touch to this story is that Mr. Wiggin was Mindy (McGill) Warren’s math teacher in Danville.

Birth Center nurses Rachel Riley, RN and Peggy Marckres, RN, organized the November Pie Sale fundraiser just in time for Thanksgiving. For nine months, Birth Center employees are holding monthly fundraisers to raise money for the new birthing tub. The pie sale raised $565. Well done and delicious! AND, to top it off, there was a later donation of $1,000 for a last minute sale of an extra blueberry pie –thank you so very much! December’s fundraiser is a turkey/ham raffl e.

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Auxiliary/Volunteer

NEWSBy Pat Forest, Volunteer Coordinator

The Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital Auxilians recently met for their annual meeting at the Elks Club in St. Johnsbury. Fifty members and guests attended the meeting. President St. James-Long called the business meeting to order after lunch. The membership accepted both the treasurer and secretary’s reports after review and without discussion. The Nominating Committee then presented the slate of offi cers for the 2018-2020 session. The membership elected the new slate of offi cers: Gary Simpson, President; Kimberly Gilding, Vice-President; Terri Schoolcraft, Treasurer and Lorraine Matteis, Secretary.

Paul Bengtson, CEO of NVRH, was introduced by President Simpson as the guest speaker. Before Paul’s presentation on birdwatching in Cambodia, he again thanked the auxiliary for all their service, and shared that this auxiliary is widely recognized in the state for its work and contributions to the hospital. Paul began his slide presentation with an overview of topography and a brief history of Cambodia.

Pat Forest, NVRH Coordinator of Volunteer Services thanked the outgoing board for their service to NVRH and the Auxiliary and then awarded service hour pins to the Volunteers/Auxilians at NVRH.

The following individuals were given service hour awards: 100 Hours: Martha Davis 153; John Goodrich 182; Darlene Hale 109.5; Mildred LaBeur 123; Lorraine Matteis 146.5; Joseph Moritz 188; Rita Pinard 116; Richard Redznach 105 and Linda Wells 143.5. 200 Hours: Marlin “Chip” Devenger 210.5; Mary Dole 276.75; Sophia Hall 232.5; Eli Haskins 268; Barbara Hatch 213.5; Terry Hoffer 213.5; Vickie Schafer 216 and Knit Wits/Shirley Warden 220.5. 300 Hours: Michelle Dumas 360.5; Julie Dustin 305.75; Carl Erickson 396; Levi Gardner 348.5; Ella Kelsey 378.5; Vernice Minor 396; Diana Reynolds 369.5; Kathy Rooker 364.75 and Julie Sturm 360.5. 400 Hours: Kathy Boulet 401.50 and 500 Hours: Terri Graves 502.25; Sylvia James 593 and Sharon Nicol 547.75. 600 Hours: Catherine Boykin 648.5; Carlene Brill 698 and Thomas Robinson 677. 700 Hours: Lorraine Brunelle 723.5 and Betty Maynard 798. Volunteers receiving pins for 800 Hours: Pamela Comeau 855 and 900 Hours: Winston Bandy 907.25, Dianne Chamberlin 901.5; Nancy Erickson 945; Steve Nichols 956.5 and Janice Powers 930.50.

Volunteers receiving pins for over 1000 Hours: Ginger Aldrich 1077; Kamie Flum 1231.5; Rosina Greenwood 1296; Irene Richardson 1005 and Gary Simpson 1006. 1,500 Hours: Pamela Brink 1896; Karen Bugbee 1535.75 and Robert Morency 1575. 3,000 Hours: Ann Creaser 3168; Toni Hart 3047.75; Elaine Noyes 3112 and Dy Thresher 3330. 3,500 Hours: Cynthia Gordon 3692; 4,000 Hours: Laurel St. James-Long 4051.25 and 4,500 Hours: Patricia Cutts 4714.5. Volunteers with 6,000 Hours: Elsie Lawrence 6168 and Lana Mitchell 6338. A pin for 7,500 Hours was awarded to Judy Harbaugh with 7624.

Presidential Service Awards were given to the following volunteers:

The life time service award (4000+ Hours) was awarded to Laurel St. James-Long for 4,051.25. The silver awards (251-499 Hours) were given to Michelle Dumas 269; Nancy Erickson 258; Sylvia James 348 and Vernice Minor 288. The bronze awards (100-250 Hours) were given to Marlin (Chip) Devenger 135.5; Mary Dole 171.25; Levi Gardner 127; John Goodrich 111; Barbara Hatch 131; Ella Kelsey 133.5; Mildred LaBeur 123; Lorraine Matteis 146.5; Joseph Moritz 188; Richard Redznak 105; Vickie Schafer 102 and Linda Wells 112.5.

Up Coming Events:Memory Tree Registration Begins – Please go to the Main Information DeskFriday, December 1 - $3.00 each bulb.Asian Silks and Silver – Room 126Friday, December 8 9am-4pm.Memory Tree Ceremony – in the Main LobbyFriday, December 15 at 2pm Red Cross Blood Drive -- Rooms 126/127.Friday, December 29 from 11am-4pm.

Outgoing President Laurel St. James-Long and incoming President Gary Simpson. Many thanks to you both.

Thank you volunteers for your hours of service on behalf of NVRH!

Outgoing President Laurel St. James-Long being congratulated by Pat Forest, Volunteer Coordinator.

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COPD Education Fair at NVRH: Lisa Depalo, Respiratory Therapist at Keene Medical Products assisted Dr. Michael Rousse with the Airway Clearance Vest during the second annual education fair recently held at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. The vest creates compressions in a safe, effective, non-invasive method that clears excess mucus from lungs and airways. The event provided education about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) to patients, members of the community and staff. Heather Nelson, Respiratory Therapist at NVRH organized the day; participants included Keene Medical, Apria, Prompt Care and NVRH departments including Diagnostic Imaging, Nutrition, Palliative Care, Infectious Disease, Access, Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and volunteer Reiki. Refreshments were provided by the Courtyard Café.

Heather, the organizerSue and Yvette from Diagnostic Imaging

Halloweenat NVRH!

Ginny and Samantha from the LabThe Group!

Specialty ClinicsInformation Services

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Charles M. and Hanna H. Gray Gallery

Welcomes Community Exhibitors in The Art of Recovery

Approximately twenty local artists will combine their efforts in a multimedia presentation at the Charles M. and Hanna H. Gray Gallery at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, beginning Monday, December 4.

The Art of Recovery depicts the roads that individuals have experienced as they seek sobriety or relief from many types of addictions. Artworks portray personal responses to feelings, fears, turmoil and hope, as despair becomes triumph. Works are expressions that Steve Kline, exhibition coordinator, describes as, “whatever the spirit has sung to you in the dark night of the soul and the bright morn of recovery.” Kline describes his personal interest in this project as, “We are all One. My journey to Recovery began when I met Linda. My search for the Art of Recovery began when my oldest daughter became addicted; I took her to Brattleboro Retreat on New Year’s Eve, 1999-2000. There was nothing else…my search intensifi ed when she passed in 2009. If I see all children as mine, and all people as my people, no one gets left behind. We are all One.“

Artworks include paintings, sketches, etchings, photography, prose, poetry and other forms of personal expression. Pieces on display are shared by their originators, family members, loved ones and friends of those whose lives have been impacted by substance abuse disorders. The artistic group has grown to include those with physical and/or emotional problems as similarly life-altering hurdles. Their shared goal is to illustrate that survivorship and recovery take work, and their expressions are refl ections of that effort.

One such artist is Nick, who describes his journey, “My name is Nick Cerullo Piliero. For years I was a heroin addict: I have switched addictions to art. I paint like I shot dope – constantly -- and I have been in recovery for 24 years. For me this is the softer, easier way! I grew up in the Bronx and Westchester NY. I am 71 years young and I have two

boys, who are 16 and 18 years old. I’ve lived in Vermont for the past 24 years. I am self-taught, through a near death experience I had some years ago. I can’t explain it…I don’t try…I just know I am doing what I was born to do here. My boys inspire me and help me to stay in the moment. I see, I feel, I paint. COLOR is my thing. I believe there is power and magic in color!!!“

The Art of Recovery is open to the public beginning December 4, 2017 and running through February 3, 2018. Please join us in the Gallery for a reception on Wednesday, December 6 from 4:30 to 6:00 pm, with music and light refreshments. The Gray Gallery is located on the main fl oor of NVRH, near the main entry. 25% of proceeds from this exhibit will go back into the community, to support recovery housing.

Please contact Jennifer Layn at 802 748-7313 or by email at j.layn@nvrh.org for more information about the gallery or this particular exhibition.

Light of Recovery, by Margaret Drew“As the sunfl ower blooms and brings light to the world, my recovery continues to blossom and heal my life.”

Recently received from a grateful patient’s child to the Med/Surg nurses:

Dear NVRH,

I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude. My father was under your care for the last week as his life came to a close. During his stay all who were involved in his care were very aware and attentive to his needs. If he experienced discomfort it was addressed quickly and completely. Everyone was pleasant and very caring. Every effort was made to make this experience as tolerable as possible.

The last days and moments of someone’s life is never easy and watching them experience pain while you stand by helpless is almost unbearable. Having a great staff that quelled that helpless feeling by relieving his pain was amazing.

When my mom passed just over ten years ago (at a different hospital) my experience was quite different. As she yelled for help and screamed out in pain I got a lot of “we’re doing everything we can” and looks of annoyance at my dissatisfaction with their defi nition of “what they can”.

Thank you so very much for all you did not only for my father but for all who were there.

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“So many books, so little time…”--Betsy Merrill

This is one of my favorite slogans. There are always books that I want to read, and they are, again this year, stacked by my big chair, or on a list of titles for future library visits. Some of the titles I’ve collected over the past year are included in this, my annual winter books list, the gift of reading, for yourself or others.

A Crooked Smile: A Memoir; by Anne Lamott and Terri Tate (2016) (Memoir/Nonfi ction)Michael Finkelstein, MD, author of Slow Medicine, describes this book as a “story of great courage, revealing how one can embrace life in its entirety in order to live more fully and offering readers a depth of humanity we need badly in today’s world. “

A Dog’s Purpose: A Novel for Humans; W. Bruce Cameron (2011) (Fiction)Our vet referred us to this title. I will try a book if it’s suggested by someone I know. Kirkus Reviews says, “Marley and Me combined with Tuesdays With Morrie”.

Jungle of Stone: The Extraordinary Journey of John L. Stevens and Frederick Catherwood, and the Discovery of the Lost Civilization of the Mayas; William Carlsen (2017) (Nonfi ction)In the tradition of Lost City of Z and In the Kingdom of Ice, former San Francisco Chronicle journalist and Pulitzer Prize fi nalist William Carlsen reveals the remarkable story of the discovery of the ancient Maya. Based on Carlsen’s rigorous research and his own 1,500-mile journey throughout the Yucatan and Central America, Jungle of Stone is equally a thrilling adventure and a rewriting of history that corrects our understanding of Stephens, Catherwood, and the Maya themselves.

Longing for Darkness; Kamante Gatura (1975) (Nonfi ction)Written following the publication of Out of Africa, by Isak Dinesen (aka Karen von Blixen-Finecke). Kamante worked for the Blixens, and these are his stories and refl ections about that time. (It’s an older book, and I’d love to read the fl ip side of Blixen’s story.)

News of the World; Paulette Jiles (2017) National Book Award Finalist—FictionIn the aftermath of the Civil War, an aging itinerant news reader agrees to transport a young captive of the Kiowa back to her people in this exquisitely rendered, morally complex, multilayered novel of historical fi ction , exploring the boundaries of family, responsibility, honor, and trust.

The Man of Legends; (Kenneth Johnson (2017) (Fiction)Epic and fast-paced blending of adventure, romance, and international conspiracy, set in New York City at the dawn of the new millennium. Over a forty-eight hour time frame, this moves along at bullet-train speeds.

Stitches: A Handbook on Meaning, Hope and Repair; Ann Lamott (2013) (Philosophy/spirituality)This slim, readable volume [is] a lens on life, widening and narrowing, encouraging each reader to refl ect on what it is, after all, that really matters.

Slow Horses; Mick Herron; (2014) (Thriller)Where do washed-up spies go, when they’ve no longer have what it takes? They are known as Slow Horses, living at Slough House. River Cartwright, the protagonist of this thriller/farce, wants to be the fi rst Slow Horse to force his own resurrection to MI5, and he sees his chance when an apparently inept right-wing group kidnaps a Pakistani youth and threatens to behead him on a live webcast. Saying more would give it all away.

Continued

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Wonder; R.J. Palacio (2012) August is a 10-year old boy, just like any other 10-year old, with the exception of his facial anomalies. Entering fi fth grade for the fi rst time in public schools, his interactions with family and friends are genuine and courageous. Nicholas Sparks advises, “Do yourself a favor and read this book-your life will be better for it.” This has recently been made into a movie.

Weeknight Dinner Cookbook: simple family-friendly recipes for everyday home cooking; Mary Younkin (2016) (Cookery)With scratch recipes (made the way our grannies made real food), the recipes are divided by cook time. Sandy Coughlin, author of The Reluctant Entertainer says, “Weeknight cooking has never been easier for the everyday home cook!”

Vermont Wild 5; Megan Price Adventures of Vermont’s Fish & Game wardens. Ideal for the young, and young at heart. I can’t wait!

Living Liberia: Laughter, love and Folly; Robert Cherry (2017). Memoir An introduction to the charming, bewildering, exotic, often confusing, and always unforgettable land and her peoples. It is moving, funny, and informative. I can’t not suggest a book from Africa. I stumbled over a new book (literally) about Liberia where I spent my “formative years,” at a September reunion of folks I spent those years with. Love it or leave it, Liberia is unforgettable, as the author of this new book proves.

Good books, good fi re, family and furry friends. What can be better?Happy reading.

Goodbye and Thank You to Lieutenant Robert Clarkand Welcome to Sergeant Chet Buck

Lieutenant Robert Clark left the NVRH Caledonia Sheriff Detail this week to take a new position in the Caledonia Court System.

“I enjoyed working and meeting all of you. I believe that I have worked hard to help keep you all safe.

Sergeant Chet Buck will be my replacement.

He has worked the night shift at NVRH for over three years and is quite familiar with the hospital. Please welcome him to the new post and feel free to drop by the offi ce to meet and talk to him. Sergeant Chet is an excellent offi cer.

I will miss you all.”

Lieutenant Robert Clark Sergeant Chet Buck

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It’s truly happening! The Courtyard Café is getting a new dishwasher. It has been a big job to disassemble the old dishwasher, but the new one is currently being installed. Kittredge Foodservice Equipment and Supplies out of Williston provided the new dishwasher as well as the installation. Here are some pictures involving the disassembling of the old dishwasher and moving the new equipment in. We’ll have more details in the next BrightLook. But, here’s an important point: it’s much more energy effi cient in every way. Also, the paper products we’re using are compostable, so if you’re taking them back to your department, please make sure they’re returned to the kitchen to be composted and are not trashed!

Take out the old...

Bring in the new…

Make Your Own Suggestions for the Holidays from the Food Service Crew

Tis the season of giving. What is more valuable than giving of your talents… and what is better appreciated than something edible and disposable… since for many our closets and drawers and garages and shelves are full. Here are some suggestions of consumables that won’t consume you!

Make your own – trail mix … craisins, raisins, dark chocolate bits, almonds, peanuts, walnuts, apricots, dried blueberries, pumpkin or sunfl ower seeds Walnut stuffed dates - packaged in a fancy box Bean soup in a jar – a mixture of beans, seasonings and instructions Chocolate bark – melted chocolate topped with a choice nuts, fruit, or just a fancy or kosher salt Seasonal fruit basket in season – oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, clementines, apples, pomegranate Homemade jams, jellies, pickles, relishes, fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and Kim Chi A bottle of your favorite homemade salad dressing using special oils and vinegars Seasoned popcorn in a fancy or reused container Share your best recipes with your friends by printing them on fancy paper

In keeping with our mission to encourage healthy, local food, we invite you to call us for more ideas!Nutrition and Food Service – 748-7433.

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EREmergencyRoom

We are so proud of our nurse practitioners and our physician assistants ! We are honored to have them on our team!

November 12-18 was Nurse Practitioner week here at NVRH. We honored our Nurse Practitioners as well as our very own Physician Assistant.

Mike Moss, Director of the Emergency Department, recognizing Betsy Piburn, PA

Dr. Michael Lahey recognizing Nicholas Delaney, NP

Susan Steele, RN recognizing Nicole Houston, NP

Friday, 11/3, was Judy Martin, our traveler’s, last day. We treated Judy to a Friendly Ice Cream Cake (her favorite) and a dozen roses. We are going to miss her friendly smile and willingness to always help out. Judy is a great team member and we hope she comes back and works with us again; she is headed back to Georgia to spend time with her family.

The Emergency Department Star of the Hill went to Tracey Billings for October. Tracey received a Star of the Hill certifi cate along with a $25 gift card to Price Chopper. Tracey was nominated by her co-workers. Here is what they had to say about her!

“I have seen signifi cant improvement in Tracey’s critical care skills. She has been the primary nurse for intubated patients and a STEMI patient this past month. Tracey comes in early when asked to help out.”

“Tracey is a team player and is always willing to help when asked. She does it with a smile!”

Tracey is a welcome addition to the Emergency Department. She has improved her skill set so much over the past month. Tracey is always eager to help out all her co-workers.”

Please CelebrateDr. Ziobrowski’s Retirement ! When: Friday, December 29th from 3-5pm

Where: Kingdom Internal MedicineCake and punch will be servedOpen to the public

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Fun Picturesfrom EmployeesEditor’s Note: This month, I asked employees to send me a picture memory – outdoor pictures, indoor pictures, whatever. It’s a wonderful compilation. Enjoy!

Hunter Vigeant watching the deer (for a long time…he was VERY quiet.) Mindy Vigeant, Director, Patient Accounts.

Chair looking out on Lake Parker in Glover, Barb Byrne, Clinical Care Coordinator, Corner Medical.

Cheryl Chandler, Regional Prevention Partnerships Co-ordinator, cross country skiing with her daughter Jennifer.

Victor, Sterling’s son at The Gingue Farm! Dawn Dobbs, Environmental Services Facility Technician, halfway through a 50 mile endurance ride in New Mexico, on her horse Ali.

Eileen Shea, RN, WCC on Med/Surg and her daughter on Sugarloaf Mtn!

Harvey’s Lake in Barnet – Sterling Gapa, Unit Secretary, Diagnostic Imaging.

Cabot Plains covered bridge -- Kayla Therrien, Secretary, St. Johnsbury Pediatrics.

Zander and his horse buddy – Kayla Therrien.

Austin, Amanda and Hunter Vigeant at the apple orchard. Amanda Vigeant, EMR Technician Panel Manager, KIM.

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The fair! Audrey Mattei, RN, Birth Center.

A lovely fall walk on the Colonel Whipple Trail looking across Cherry Pond in NH onto Owl’s Head. Linda Lee, Laboratory Medical Technologist, Microbiology Supervisor.

David, Brynn and Amelia Evans, Brynn Evans, Director of Development and Marketing.

Jackson, Melissa, Ella and Scott Blanchard Family portrait, photo credit: J. Harper Photography. Melissa Blanchard, RN, North Coun-try Otolaryngology and Audiology.

True and Roarke Layn, with grandparents Joan and Larry Kirchoff. Jennifer Layn, Development Manager.

Roarke and True Layn. Jess DiMartino, Access Specialist with a special horse! Linda Lee and her dog Brenna. This was Brenna’s last agility trial – “one dog in a million,” according to Linda.

Kaia in the autumn leaves, Sharon Anderson, Clinical Dietitian.

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Shelby Darby 10 minutes after receiving her new stuffed toy from Santa, Kim Darby, Quality Improvement Specialist.

VT Philharmonic summer pops concert – Elaine Stasny.

Brydon, Michelle and Landon Robinson on Darling Hill. Michelle Robinson, Secretary, KIM.

Ballgame with my sister – Elaine Stasny, MD, St. Johns-bury Pediatrics.

Fishing! – Elaine Stasny.

Mark Price, MD, St. Johnsbury Pediatrics, making the most of their trip to visit their son Ben, in Idaho.

Michael Matteis, DPT, Dan Wyand, PT & Associates (Lyndonville) and family: Olivia (15), Mike, Nick (13) and Michelle

Mike Rousse, MD, MPH, Chief Hospitalist and VP of Medi-cal Affairs, after stacking hay, August, 2017.

Crested Butte, CO – “beyond beautiful out there” – Sam Gale, RN, Intensive Care.

Boat image on Lake Parker in Glover, Barb Byrne. Brady on a pony ride. Laura Rooker, Director or Physician Practices

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It only comes but once a year – November 5-11

National Radiologic Technology Week!

Diagnostic Imaging’s Vision:Diagnostic Imaging continually strives to provide effi cient, quality imaging services to our community. Our team values creativity and professional expertise found within each of our team members We support collaboration and the integrity of each member and take pride daily in our meaningful work.

Please give a nod or a high-fi ve to any of the DI team members as you see them throughout the week!

I am proud to have a team of individuals who are committed to their work, their patients, their co-workers, and creating a culture which allows team members to grown into their full potential.

With Gratitude, Jackie Zaun, Director of Diagnostic Imaging

Perioperative WeekNovember 6-12, 2017Perioperative Nurse Week recognizes the contributions perioperative registered nurses make every day. Perioperative nurses specialize in the care of patients immediately before, during, and after surgical and other invasive procedures.

Because of the importance of teamwork in the operating room, the Association of P erioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) has this year selected the theme, “Collaboration for patient and worker safety.” For patients, a collaborative team environment will enable the best possible surgical outcome. For the OR health care worker, including the surgeon, anesthesia provider, surgical assistant and other assistive personnel, collaboration leads to workplace safety and a more positive work environment.

Patients undergoing surgery and other invasive procedures and their loved ones rely on the skills, knowledge, and expertise of perioperative registered nurses, who uphold a long tradition of improving surgical safety and the quality of patient care.

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Please join the us for a cookie social on December 19th

from 11-5 in Conference room 126Cookies, coffee, cocoa and

hot tea will be served. Drop in for the cookies,

Stay for the fun!

Please join us for a cookie socialon December 19th

from 11-5 in Conference room 127

Here at NVRH, we like to recognize all of our team members this week. Each and every person plays a signifi cant role in the positive outcomes for our patients.

Please take a moment to recognize our team members which includes all staff from Pre-op Evaluation, Day Surgery, Operating Room, PACU, SPD, Pain Clinic, Surgeons, Anesthesia providers and Physician Assistants.

Sincerely,Julie Schneckenburger RN BSN MS CNORDirector, Perioperative Services

November 12-18 is the time for all of us to celebrate the professional accomplishments and raise awareness of the extraordinary contributions that NPs make to our community. As we all know Nurse practitioners (NPs) have been providing primary, acute and specialty health care to our patients of all ages and walks of life. As clinicians they blend clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions with an added emphasis on disease prevention and health management, NPs assess patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, make diagnoses, and initiate and manage treatment plans.

Thank you for your amazing work! – Seleem Choudhury, Vice President/Chief Nursing Offi cer

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Ambulatory Surgery We are lucky to have this place. Facility did a very good job. They were very caring. I would highly recommend. I was very pleased with the care I received. Everyone

on the staff was very professional and friendly. Received phone call a couple of days after procedure,

very friendly & nurse was very concerned as to how I was doing.

Please thank all those in the same day. Floor nurses and all staff were great.

The follow up call was greatly appreciated. Everyone was wonderful!+ I was not at the facility but my in-laws & my daughter thought everything was great - facility & people! Great experience both in-person and over-the-phone,

from my perspective. Great experience for an unfortunate turn of events. Everyone extremely attentive and kind. Overall experience was great, the Day Surgery & OR

crew & physician were all great.

Emergency Department Kara & Christine were kind & effi cient. Good experience with Teresa & Stacy. Very professional & informative. Staff reassuring & pleasant. Care given is professional & pleasant & we’re

fortunate to have NVRH in the Northeast Kingdom. Betsy was great. This was the best & fastest trip to the ER I have ever

had. I do everything I can to stay out of the ER from past experiences. I was pleasantly surprised! Thank you.

Dr. Taylor was most gracious about everything. I was treated like a Queen the entire time I was there. To me NVRH has always been right up there at the

top. Everyone I came in contact with at this hospital were

very courteous and friendly! I consider this hospital a real gem - would not want

to go elsewhere. My doctor, Dr. Dargis from Corner Medical was

very impressed with Dr. Sexton said she had never had doctor contact her after seeing her patient in emergency room.

Roger was excellent. Nick Delaney was my provider. He was thorough,

professional, explained all procedures and expected outcomes.

Roger was great - as an RN myself, I appreciated his professionalism and skill.

I really liked my nurse - Marlene She was very nice & comforting to me on one of the worst days of my life!

This was a very quick trip to the ER, I was pleasantly surprised by how quick I was in & out. Dr. Grant & nurse Sandi provided excellent care.

Inpatient Excellent doctor [Dr. Prohaska] - Hope you can

keep him around for a long time. Just an all around very nice person.

The young man who served the food was great. Dr. Dixon is the best urologist & the anesthesiologist

also very friendly. Dr. Dixon explained everything to me about my

surgery & illness. The care given to me by drs. & nurses was excellent. ER doctor great as was my RN (Mel). Blood drawers

were friendly & painless. ER doctor was great & even explained things (EKG

etc.,) to my wife who is a retired RN. My wife is a retired cardiac nurse & she was very

impressed both with the hospital & staff. Everyone knew what they were doing. It was super & you should be proud of your hospital.

I wasn’t able to turn the lights out but someone came in and turned them off for me. NICE!

Everyone in pre op., operating room and post op. were wonderful. They made me comfortable, let me know what was going to happen, what was happening & what did happen.

All - Nurses and LPN. Wonderful. All wonderful and generous with their time. I had excellent care and very happy with my stay. All nurses & LNA were more than helpful & attentive

at beginning & end of shifts. Only saw physician in ER. Kelly Lemieux NP saw

me and was my “physician” -- was very pleased with her care.

Reiki was an awesome surprise and very much appreciated - keep that!

Press Ganey Positive CommentsA+ STANDARD OF CARINGOctober 2017

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The nurse staff was nice to me.

Outpatient Very good, better than other hospitals in this area. Everyone kind, welcoming and helpful. Technician very skilled!! The hospital facilities were immaculate as always! The whole staff very helpful, professional, kind and

considerate. The young woman (whose name I don’t remember)

was very professional, caring, and clearly was good at her job.

Yvette the x-ray tech was very caring. Excellent. Gretchen explained everything & was very

comforting. Gretchen performed my mammogram. She was

very friendly & courteous, and she made me feel at ease.

The x-ray staff, Steven & Gretchen, were extremely courteous & helpful.

I have used this hospital a number of times. Always excellent!

Charlotte was the best. MRI tech was great!! X-ray technician (a man) was excellent in every way. Thank you. NVRH has come a long way in the last

few years. 5 yrs. ago I did not want to use NVRH! Love convenience of pre-registration. Apparently Tuesday is the day to go to the lab -

Volunteer was there with coffee and apple scones! She asked if I was fasting, then gave me the to-go “package” to enjoy on my way home!!

The gentleman who did the ultrasound was great. Very gentle, courteous, and talked to me.

From beginning to end, staff helped make whole process smooth and easy. I felt well cared for. The facility is tidy & clean. So thankful for NVRH, they a one of a kind hospital. Thank you to all!

Great with an infant! Person who took blood was very good &

personable. X-ray Dept. outstanding! I’m on oxygen they helped

me. Wonderful staff! MRI - Technologist was very helpful and very

calming. I liked having registration staff call me to

pre-register otherwise I might have forgotten. X-ray technologist was especially friendly,

compassionate, knowledgeable, & reassuring.

Kingdom Internal Consistent - positive - Great nursing & doc. Thank you! Great nurse. Great doc! Except for my being sick - the place is great for me!! Staff is professional, caring, and friendly. I always receive outstanding care from Dr. Lee. Nurse Mary is extremely helpful and gracious. I have the highest regard for K.I.M. which has been

my primary care practice for about 30 years. Facility is meticulously clean and well maintained. Outstanding.

North Country Otolaryngology and Audiology I could not go to a better place. Very good/caring. Great! I’ve had very good experience with all hospital/

caregiver interactions. Very good. Good service. She is an absolute gem! Don’t lose her. Great

audiologist. Would recommend her every time! Jacey is just amazing. Very thorough.

Great staff.

Corner Medical Dr. Dargis is always pleasant, very caring and a

good listener! Very confi dent in her advice! I have the luxury of having the same doctor for

more than 3 years, before & after cardiac surgery; he knows my medical history & needs thoroughly. That is so rare these days and I am blessed.

I am elderly and a retired registered Nurse so I understand most of my care needs. Dr. Scott is not a pushy person and made me feel very comfortable as to what care I needed during this appt.

The visit was made very comfortable by all staff members involved. Dr. Scott is very caring and accommodating to my needs.

Everyone & everything professionally & personally excellent!

Dr. Thomas Broderick is tops! The entire staff are effi cient and accommodating. All the nurses are professional and take great care

with any concern I have. Dr. Broderick is one of the best doctors I have

seen. I always feel confi dent with the care and advise he gives.

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Corner Medical providers the best care. I am very happy with the care Dr. Dargis has given

me, now and in the past. Sandy rocks! Joyce’s nurse is always very pleasant and concerned. The young receptionist had, just before I checked in,

handled a diffi cult patient with courtesy and patience, in a very professional way. I was impressed.

Very kind and easy to talk with. Asked pertinent questions.

I enjoy the time Dr. Dargis spends with me. She explains things well and she listens to me.

Saint Johnsbury Pediatrics I always feel valued and comfortable when I speak

with the staff in the reception and scheduling area. Always very happy with the knowledge and care our

provider has and takes with us. The nurse is always wonderful and so friendly. We always have a great experience here! Dr. Stasny is very understanding, takes time to

answer every question and very friendly. Dr. Josh is the best very through, professional and

listens. He has made a difference in my sons lives.

Women’s Wellness I absolutely love Women’s Wellness at NVRH - I tell

everyone! Everyone is professional and nice and I have nothing bad to say.

I have been treated with respect and caring, I was a person not a number.

All the nurses are very respectful & caring. Dr. O’Conner is the upmost caring, compassionate,

respectful & the best OBGYN dr. I have ever had. I would recommend women’s wellness to everyone I

know. All the staff was exceptional to deal with. I feel very blessed that Megan is my provider. She is

always so caring and listens to all my concerns. Dr. Kenny is wonderful. Extremely kind when I felt faint after my

appointment - took extra time and care to make sure I was OK and found a private space for me to recover.

Dr. Paul was my doctor and she is leaving. I feel sad about that but she has assured me of others in the practice and I like coming there.

I like the improvements to the site. Nice waiting area. Dr. O’Conner is something and always listens to and

takes into account my worries and concerns.

Megan went above and beyond in checking on concern before appointment & explaining reasons.

Dr. O’Conner new provider - very good. Always good. From the check in to the check out.