Littauer offers advice to keep people in the trees Posted on November 3, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeDoctor offers deer hunters some safety tipsGloversville, NY — With deer hunting season in full swing, Dr. Todd Duthaler, Chief of Emergency Medicine at Nathan Littauer Hospital, would like to remind hunters about the dangers of tree stands. The tree stand is a popular piece of hunting equipment, one which affords the hunter a good vantage point. But that same piece of equipment can be dangerous used recklessly or carelessly.Dr. Todd DuthalerNationally, one in three hunting injuries involves a tree stand. Dr. Duthaler states that he has witnessed the results of tree stand falls in his emergency department. “They usually result in broken bones.” stated the Doctor. He added, “Most concerning though, is that most tree stand falls involve people who are alone and far from help.”The Center for Disease Control found that the average stand was placed 16 feet above the ground. That height can cause serious injury if a hunter was to fall. The Doctor explains that although he does not know the exact number, he has witnessed “many tree stand injuries during past hunting seasons”. The Doctor states that his single most important tip is to wear a safety harness while hunting in a tree stand. Although, wearing a harness is not enough. He explains, “I prefer a full-body harness that supports a person’s weight by the torso and legs. More importantly, keep your tether short to prevent long falls. If a tethered person does fall, help them by allowing them to right themselves using the tree stand, refraining from releasing them or cutting the tether.”According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, “Serious injuries and deaths from tree stand falls are increasingly common.” They offer the following safety tip, “Don’t go too high. Remember that the higher you go, the smaller the vital zone on a deer becomes. And the likelihood of a serious injury escalates if you fall from high up. Usually, 15 to 20 feet is high enough.”Doctor Duthaler also likes the safety tips the Department of Natural Resources, out of Maryland uses. To help prevent tree stand accidents, they offer the following safety precautions:Never carry equipment with you while climbing. Use a haul line to raise or lower your gear. Make sure guns are unloaded and broadheads are covered prior to raising or lowering firearms or bows with a haul line.Since most accidents occur when hunters are climbing up or down a tree, always use a climbing belt. Always use a safety belt or harness when hunting from elevated tree stands. Study manufacturer’s recommendations before using any equipment. Never use a rope to replace a safety belt.Check permanent tree stands every year before hunting from them, and replace any worn or weak lumber.Read, understand and follow the factory recommended practices and procedures when installing commercial stands. Inspect portable stands for loose nuts and bolts each time they are used.Choose only healthy, living trees when using climbing devices. Rough-barked trees such as oak are best. Do not use a tree that is rotten or has dead limbs.Never put all your weight on a single branch. Keep at least one hand and one foot on a secure place when reaching for the next hold.Climb higher than the stand and step down onto it. Climbing up onto it can dislodge it.Wear boots with non-skid soles, because steps or platforms can be slippery in rain, sleet or snow.Tell a dependable person where you’re hunting and when you plan on returning. Map your whereabouts and leave a note at camp, at home or in your car so that you can be found.Don’t fall asleep. This is a common cause of accidents. If you get drowsy, move your arms rapidly until you feel alert.Never wear a ring in any climbing situation. Rings can catch on tree limbs and equipment.As a precautionary measure, remove all logs, upturned and cutoff saplings, rocks and other obstructions on the ground below the tree stand.Use updated equipment. When used properly, newer tree stand equipment is solid, safe and secure. Older models of safety belts offer some protection, but newer safety harnesses offer more protection.Carry a whistle to call for help and carry a first aid kit, flashlight and cellular telephone in a fanny pack.References: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/nrp/education/ts.html
Wellness Words October 2011 Posted on October 11, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Ryan Wille, B.S.Community Health Educator BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, aside from skin cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed among women in the United States in 2011. Males can also be diagnosed with breast cancer, but male breast cancer cases make up less than 1% of all cases of breast cancer. Today, there are about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.There are usually no symptoms in the early stages of breast cancer. As a tumor develops, the following signs might be noticed:A lump in the breast or underarm. These are the often the first signs of breast cancer and are painless. These lumps are usually visible on a mammogram long before they can be seen or felt.Swelling in the armpit.Although lumps are usually painless, pain or tenderness in the breast.A noticeable flattening or indentation on the breast, which may indicate a tumor that cannot be seen or felt.Any change in the size, contour, texture, or temperature of the breast.A change in the nipple, such as an indrawn or dimpled look, itching or burning sensation, or ulceration.Unusual discharge from the nipple that may be clear, bloody or another color.A marble-like area under the skin.An area that is distinctly different from any other area on either breast.There are several types of breast cancer that can be divided into two main categories – noninvasive cancers and invasive cancers.Non-invasive breast cancer. These cancers are confined to the ducts or lobules and don’t spread to surrounding tissues. Most are ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and are only found in the milk duct of the breast. If not treated, they can become invasive cancers.Invasive breast cancer. Invasive breast cancers penetrate through normal breast tissue and invade surrounding areas. They are more serious than noninvasive cancers because they can spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs and brain.As with all types of cancer, early detection is the key for treatment of breast cancer. Although no technology is perfect, mammography screening remains the best available method to detect breast cancer early. Research is under way to improve the technology to lead to better accuracy and create new technologies. Additionally, the U.S. Congress passed the Mammography Quality Standards Act to ensure that mammography facilities throughout the country are of high quality and are reliable. Each facility must display a certificate issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to serve as evidence that the facility meets quality standards.Along with mammography screenings, there are several suggestions for women to practice elements of good breast health. These suggestions include:Obtain regular mammography screening starting at the age of 40.Obtain annual clinical breast exams.Perform monthly breast-self exams.Obtain a breast cancer risk assessment from physician.Free breast cancer screenings are available for women age 40+ without health insurance. For details, contact the Cancer Services Program at 841-3726.For more information, visit www.nbcam.org, contact your health care provider or HealthLink Littauer at 736-1120. You can e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at nlh.org, or visit our wellness center at 213 Harrison Street Ext. in Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
Dr. Shen to offer free seminar: Innovations in Surgical Spine Care Posted on October 10, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeIn his own words, the new Orthopedic Surgeon to address community Dr. Shen arrived in the region 78 days ago and in that short time he has: completed numerous ground-breaking surgeries; had hundreds of patient visits-some traveling as far away as Connecticut and Tennessee; appeared on national radio shows; opened a new office in Johnstown with Mohawk Valley Orthopedics; and even weighed 125 children’s’ backpacks. “With his rising popularity and high demand, we wanted to offer our community an opportunity to hear him speak first-hand about the techniques he brings to our region.” stated Laurence E. Kelly, Littauer’s President and CEO.Dr. Jian Shen at Nathan Littauer Hospital will offer a FREE clinic to the community, October 18, 2011 at the Johnstown Holiday InnTherefore, Nathan Littauer Hospital is presenting an evening with Dr. Shen to address “Innovations in Spine Care”. The free seminar will be Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at 6:30pm at The Johnstown Holiday Inn. A free dessert buffet will be provided. “This will be a rare opportunity to hear about the myriad of solutions this phenomenal surgeon brings to our region” said Hospital Spokesperson Cheryl McGrattan. “Patients will learn about break-through surgeries and be given the opportunity to ask questions.” The hospital’s goal is to reduce spine pain.Back Pain?According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), “Back pain is an all-too-familiar problem that can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain that leaves you incapacitated. It can come on suddenly—from an accident, a fall, or lifting something heavy—or it can develop slowly, perhaps as the result of age-related changes to the spine. Regardless of how back pain happens or how it feels, you know it when you have it. And chances are, if you don’t have back pain now, you will eventually.” “One of society’s most common medical problems” The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that in a 3-month period, about one-fourth of U.S. adults experience at least 1 day of back pain. Therefore, they refer to back pain as, “one of our society’s most common medical problems.”To reserve a seat at the free seminar, people are asked to RSVP by calling 773-5505 or by emailing spines@nlh.org. Seating is limited.
Littauer’s Auxiliary holds 35th annual Candystriper/Jr. Volunteer 2011 Awards Ceremony Posted on October 6, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeNathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing celebrated its 35th annual Candystriper/Jr. Volunteer 2011 Awards CeremonyNathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing celebrated its 35th annual Candystriper/Jr. Volunteer 2011 Awards Ceremony on Monday, September 12. Dana Garguilo, a graduate from Gloversville High School, currently a freshman at Nazareth College, was the recipient of the Alice Paula Muskin Memorial Award. Dana entered the Candystriper program in July,on Monday, September 12. Dana entered the Candystriper program in July, 2007, in 2008 received an Honorable Service award, and has contributed over 325 hours of service in the hospital, nursing home and Camp SuperStarrs. The Alice Paula Muskin Award, established by Mr. & Mrs. Nathan J. Muskin in memory of their daughter, is given each year to a candystriper who demonstrates outstanding service, commitment and leadership. Laurence Kelly, President/CEO, addressed the volunteers stating, “You are shining example to other young men and women with your volunteer spirit. In addition to the residents and patients, the staff also appreciates you giving of your time throughout the summer and some of you, I understand, choose to volunteer throughout the year. Thank you!”Other hospital staff, Rachel Johnson, Nursing Home Director of Recreation Therapy, Carol Sleezer, Education Resource Coordinator, Linda Hidde, Nursing Education Services Coordinator also addressed the group regarding volunteering and thanked them for volunteering their time in the other departments.Bonnie James-Cooper, Auxiliary President along with Susan McNeil, Director Volunteer Services also presented Honorable Service Awards to Patrick Conner, Mitchell Akowicz, Kayla Edgar and Kiersten Chang, and also presented to those present a certificate of appreciation and a gift on behalf of the hospital and nursing home. In addition to Garguilo and the Honorable Awards recipients, 2011 candystripers and jr. volunteers include; Alexandra Bielli, Rachel Brown-Weinstock, Alyssa Butler, Courtney Cirillo, Katherine Dickey, Emily Dusenbury, Samantha Edgar, McKenzie Ellsworth, Caitlyn Hayward, Taylor Gifford, Nitara Jackson, Kelly Lawton, Sarah Lebel, Sally Loveless, megan McCall, Justin Moore, Logan Sala, Rachel Sproule, Kali Wadsworth. In 2011, these young adults generously contributed over 1,200 hours to the hospital & nursing home and Camp SuperStarrs.The Auxiliary sponsors the annual event, which was chaired by Mona Capasso. Mrs. Capasso also presented each jr. volunteer with a carnation. The candystripers were treated to a pizza & wings party, and over 40 people attended the awards presentation in the auditorium which included candystripers, their families, hospital board members and auxilians. A special “thank you” cake was served.
New Balloon Kyphoplasty Procedure Dr. Shen Performs at Nathan Littauer Provides Significant Improvement in Quality of Life to Patients Suffering from Spinal Pain Posted on October 5, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeDr. Shen is pictured as he performs one of the area’s first KyphoplastysDr. Shen from Nathan Littauer Hospital announced today that he is offering Balloon Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive treatment option for patients suffering from spinal fractures due to osteoporosis. Balloon Kyphoplasty is designed to treat the spinal pain and deformity associated with vertebrae fractures that occur from osteoporosis or cancer. The new technique significantly reduces back pain and improves a patient’s ability to return to daily activities. His first two Kyphoplasty surgeries at Nathan Littauer were deemed a success. “Both my patients are reporting a substantial improvement in their pain” said Dr. Shen.“The surgery is new to the Fulton-Montgomery county areas and only a handful of surgeons in the Capital Region currently perform kyphoplasty.” said Hospital spokesperson Cheryl McGrattan. One factor contributing to spinal pain is Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes the bones of the spine to weaken and often collapse, resulting in spinal fractures. Traditional treatment for spinal fractures includes bed rest, medication and back bracing. While these therapies may help to decrease a patient’s pain over time, they do not treat the deformity related to the osteoporotic fractures.Balloon Kyphoplasty is designed to repair vertebral compression fractures and restore the vertebrae to the correct position, reducing back pain, reducing the number of days in bed, significantly improving mobility and increasing overall quality of life. The procedure generally takes less than one hour per fracture and has been performed under both local and general anesthesia. In most cases, Medicare provides coverage for Balloon Kyphoplasty. Other insurance companies may also provide coverage.Dr. Shen preps for the surgeryDr. Shen says, “I am pleased to bring this surgery to our region.” He added, “Of all the surgeries I perform, this technique is especially rewarding because it can reduce pain significantly and in a short period of time. The surgeon concluded, “I enjoying seeing the patient return to a better quality of life after this procedure.”Osteoporosis-Related Spinal Fractures: More Frequent Than Hip FracturesIn the U.S., according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, each year 700,000 patients suffer from spinal fractures due to osteoporosis. Unfortunately, over 400,000 of these fractures go undiagnosed and untreated due in part to lack of awareness about osteoporosis and available treatment options.The consequences of untreated fractures can be devastating. Once a patient suffers one vertebral compression fracture, the risk of suffering a second fracture increases five-fold. Left unattended, many fractures can result in an exaggerated rounded curvature of the spine, called kyphosis or dowager’s hump. This condition is painful and debilitating — making walking, eating, sleeping, and even breathing painful and difficult. Long-term, this condition could be fatal. Diagnosing such fractures is the first step toward providing patients who have been impacted by this devastating disease state with hope for treatment.The statistics are staggering — one in two women and one in four men age 50 and older in the United States will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime, with bone loss potentially beginning in women as early as age 25. This figure is projected to double in the next 50 years due to the increase in aging population and lifestyle factors, according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation. The current incidence rate has caused the World Health Organization to cite osteoporosis as second only to cardiovascular disease as a leading international healthcare problem. For more information about osteoporosis and spinal fractures, please visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation web site at www.nof.org.Although the complication rate with Balloon Kyphoplasty has been demonstrated to be low, as with most surgical procedures, there are risks associated with Balloon Kyphoplasty, including serious complications. Patients should consult with their doctor for a full discussion of the risks.The surgical team at Littauer gets ready for the procedureFor consultation:For a consultation concerning treatment options for a spinal fracture, please contact Dr. Shen at the New Johnstown Surgery Center at 773-4242.Public Forum Offered:For people who are interested in learning more about Dr. Shen and his surgical solutions, Nathan Littauer is offering a FREE seminar: “Reducing Spine Pain” October 18, 2011 at 6:30pm at The Johnstown Holiday Inn. “It is an evening with Dr. Shen and a rare opportunity to hear first-hand the myriad of solutions this phenomenal surgeon brings to our region” said Hospital Spokesperson Cheryl McGrattan. Patients will learn about break-through surgeries and be given the opportunity to ask questions. A dessert buffet will be provided.
