Nathan Littauer brings the “Remember Alex Brown Foundation” to area! Posted on September 21, 2011 by Dakota PikeNATHAN LITTAUER HOSPITAL LEADS EFFORTS WITH AREA BUSINESSES TO KEEP PEOPLE SAFE WHILE DRIVING Collaboration brings nationally known Don’t and Text and Drive Crusaders to our region Gloversville, NY…Nathan Littauer Hospital, and their partners, Fulton Montgomery Community College Foundation and Frontier Communications today launched a comprehensive campaign dedicated at reducing distracted driving. The three entities have launched the initiative to teach local teens and adults about the dangers of texting and driving. The campaign will proudly bring to the region the “Remember Alex Brown Foundation”, organized by the family of teenager Alex Brown who tragically lost her life while texting and driving. The family has been featured on the TODAY Show, Oprah and Extreme Home Makeover. The father, mother and younger sister will be addressing the crowds. “The importance of educating the community about the dangers of distracted driving cannot be over-emphasized.” said Susan Kiernan Vice President of Development at Nathan Littauer Hospital.Jeanne Brown, Alex’s mother said, “We are looking forward to making our first New York appearance with Nathan Littauer Hospital in the great Northeast. We are thrilled to travel to New York to make sure people hear first-hand about the dangers of distracted driving. Along with Nathan Littauer Hospital we also congratulate Frontier Communications and Fulton Montgomery Community College for supporting our New York State debut. These organizations along with the Fulton County Traffic Safety Board should be applauded for their commitment to a safe community. We hope our message and our story about Alex resonates with residents in the area.”The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles will help kick off the event in Fulton County. “We know that distracted driving is a serious epidemic and young drivers need to be aware of the potential life-threatening consequences,” said Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Assistant Commissioner Chuck DeWeese. “The GTSC commends Nathan Littauer Hospital for its thoughtfulness in planning these events for teens.” The Brown family resides in Texas and this will be there first New York appearance- having come at the hospital’s request. The Brown family will be delivering six presentations to the region at Johnstown High School, Gloversville High School, Broadalbin Perth Central Schools and Northville High School. Fulton Montgomery Community College will host two presentations, one to the students and one to community.The community is welcome to attend the 6pm presentation at the Student Union at Fulton Montgomery Community College in Johnstown, NY The multi-platform campaign started in the spring with the Hospital encouraging its own employees to take a pledge not to text and drive. Littauer also has carried their message to post prom parties and public events. They asked people to take the NYS “Put It Down Pledge” and thumb bands were given to serve as a reminder to drivers. Now, the culmination of the campaign includes school assemblies, social media campaigns, a billboard; and finally a visit from the family of Alex Brown. Frontier’s General Manager, Todd Rulison said, “Frontier is proud to partner with Nathan Littauer Hospital and FM in promoting the “Don’t Text and Drive Campaign”. Driving an automobile requires total attention and we need everyone to put their cell phones down and drive safely. Don’t become a statistic.”In addition to Nathan Littauer Hospital, the FM Foundation and Frontier Communications, the following entities have also supported the efforts: Fulton County Traffic and Safety Board, Holiday Inn of Johnstown- Gloversville. Main Chrysler Jeep Dodge and Ram, the Leader Herald Newspaper and Lamar Advertising. Chair of the Fulton County Traffic Safety Board, Maggie Luck stated, “The TSB is excited to be apart of this project because safety on our roads starts with education and awareness.” According to police-reported data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) and the National Automotive Sampling it was found that show that: “The proportion of fatalities reportedly associated with driver distraction increased from 10 percent in 2005 to 16 percent in 2009. During that time, fatal crashes with reported driver distraction also increased from 10 percent to 16 percent.” It is a statistic which prompted Nathan Littauer Hospital to embark on an awareness campaign. The Remember Alex Brown Foundation has gained national attention especially after Justin Beiber became a spokesperson for the organization. “As a 17-year-old driver, I am aware of the countless distractions that we teenagers face on the road, and texting is one that is preventable,” said Justin in a press release. “There are too many young people, like Alex Brown, whom we’ve lost because of texting while driving,” said Justin Bieber recently about the Alex Brown Foundation. He stated he wishes to raise awareness of this issue and create safer conditions for everyone on the road. “It’s clearly time to bring this issue to the forefront,” said Jennifer Hing-Wainwright of Nathan Littauer Hospital. She added, “A tremendous amount of work has gone on behind the scenes since mid-May. Knowing that so many people in our region will hear this important message is extremely gratifying.”“Preventing injury and death due to distracted driving is consistent with our mission. We frequently see the results of car accidents in our Emergency Department. This issue is timely, important and needed.” said Dr. Todd Duthaler, Director of Emergency Medicine at Nathan Littauer Hospital. XXX About Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home: Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home is a full-service, 74 bed acute care hospital with an 84 bed skilled nursing home located in Gloversville, NY. Littauer provides the finest in state-of-the-art technology and a caring, dedicated staff of health care professionals. Over the years, the hospital has expanded its services in order offer health care that is comprehensive, accessible, and relevant to the needs of the communities we serve. The hospital The Littauer medical staff brings amazing technical expertise and competence to the residents of Fulton County and the surrounding communities.
Wellness Words September 2011 Posted on September 13, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Ryan Wille, B.S.Community Health Educator FALL PREVENTION Falls and fall-related injuries among older adults are a serious public health concern, especially considering there is a rapidly growing older population. The National Council on Aging provides some alarming information about the problem:One third of Americans age 65+ fall each year, resulting in more than 1.8 million emergency room visits. Every 18 seconds an older adult is treated in an emergency room for a fall.Falls are the most common cause of nonfatal trauma related hospital admissions among older adults and the leading cause of fatal injury. There are over 480,000 hospitalizations and about 16,700 deaths each year. Every 35 minutes an older adult dies following a fall.In 2000, the direct medical cost of fatal and nonfatal fall injuries was over $19 billion. This financial toll for older adult falls is expected to increase and could reach $54.9 billion by 2020.Although the statistics are alarming, individuals can take steps to prevent these dangerous falls from occurring. WebMD has provided several preventive measures for individuals to follow:Take care of yourself: If you live alone, wear an alarm device or carry a cell phone in case you fall and can’t get up. Have your vision and hearing checked each year, or anytime you notice a change. Call your doctor if you are dizzy or having difficulty with your balance, because this could be a warning sign of a health problem that needs to be treated. And if you are feeling weak or dizzy, ask someone to help you with your activities. Also, see your doctor if you have calluses or corns on your feet. If you wear loose-fitting shoes because of calluses or corns, you can lose your balance.Learn ways to keep your balance: Exercise often to improve strength, muscle tone, and sense of balance. Wear low-heeled shoes that fit well and give your feet good support. If you use a walker or cane, make sure it is fitted to you and has rubber tips on it. If you have pets, train them not to jump or get underfoot of people. A collar with a bell will help you know when your pets are nearby.Learn about your medicines: Ask your doctor what the side effects are of the medicines you are taking. If you are taking more then one medicine, ask your doctor how the medicines interact with each other.Make your home safer: Remove or fix things that you might trip over. Keep paths clear of electrical cords and clutter. Use nonskid floor wax and wipe up spills right away. Keep your house well lit. Use night-lights in hallways and bathrooms. Put sturdy handrails on stairways. Store items on lower shelves so you don’t have to climb or reach high. Keep a phone and a flashlight by your bed.Stay safe while bathing: Install grab handles and nonskid mats in the tub and shower. Use a shower chair or bath bench.Prevent outdoor falls: If you live in an area that gets snow and ice in the winter, have a family member or friend sprinkle salt or sand on slippery steps and sidewalks.For more information, attend a FREE program co-sponsored by HealthLink/Nathan Littauer Hospital, Office For Aging and the Y entitled “Improve Balance & Prevent Falls” on Friday, October 21 from 1 to 3 p.m. Transportation is available to the Y for this program …for details or to attend, call OFA at 736-5650.
Clinic Offered to Children to Avoid Backpack Injury Posted on August 30, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeLittauer Brings Medical Professionals to the YMCA to Teach Back to School Safety: Avoiding Backpack InjuryLittauer hosts backpack safety clinic for back to school season.During this back to school season, Nathan Littauer Hospital is hoping parents consider the safety of their children’s spine as they pack up their child’s backpack.Injuries due to overstuffed backpacks are on the rise. While backpacks are practical, there are many safety tips that should be followed to ensure optimal safety. Did you know:According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons nearly 30,000 Americans were treated for injuries stemming from improper backpack use in 2010. The most common complaints included joint dislocations, strains, sprains and bone fractures. Approximately ½ of all American school children carry too much weight in their backpack. Between 30-50% of adolescents complain of pain directly related to the use of backpacks. Therefore, Nathan Littauer Hospital and the Fulton County YMCA are partnering to teach backpack safety. The free backpack safety clinic is designed for children and/or parents. It is a drop in event and no appointment is needed. Dr. Jian Shen an Orthopedic Surgeon at Nathan Littauer and Bill Oates a Physical Therapist also from Littauer will be on hand to teach backpack safety. They will calculate the correct amount a child should carry and teach exercises to strengthen core muscles. Each participant will bring home some safety tips and a personalized card.Participants can also:• Ask questions about spine health for any family member.WHO:Nathan Littauer Hospital and the Fulton County YMCA.WHAT:A FREE Back to School Backpack Safety Clinic. Drop-in, group instruction at 30 minute intervals.WHEN:Wednesday August 31, 2011 at 04-6pm Eastern Time (US & Canada)WHERE:213 Harrison Street Johnstown, New York 12095 CONTACT: Cheryl McGrattan 332-2505.Dr. Shen will lead the Backpack Safety Clinic at the YMCA• Adults can weigh their handbag, backpack, briefcase, computer bag, etc.• Ask questions about scoliosis
Nathan Littauer Hospital first in area to offer noninvasive screening techniques for chromosomal disorders Posted on August 22, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeDuring first trimester of pregnancy Nuchal Translucency combined with maternal blood testing identifies markers for Down syndrome.Gloversville, NY — The Diagnostic Imaging Center and the Ultrasound Department at Nathan Littauer Hospital has added a new noninvasive genetic screening technique to its out-patient prenatal testing program for pregnant women.Dr. McBiles reviews a file with Kaylee Palmer, as they now offer Nuchal testing“Nuchal translucency” is a test performed by high-resolution ultrasound early in the first trimester to identify risk factors for Down syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects one in every 733 babies in the United States. “This competency really distinguishes us as a resource to expectant mothers and practitioners in our region” stated Dr. Mike McBiles, Chief of Radiology at Littauer. He added, “Our technologist, Kaylee Palmer who relocated here from Boulder Colorado, studied with the pioneer of prenatal testing, Dr. John C. Hobbins.” Dr. McBiles explained, “Mrs. Palmer was part of the original trial when the technology was first in use. Her expertise makes her an invaluable asset to this area.” He quipped, “It is a bit like having Colonel Sanders cook your chicken in your kitchen.”Nuchal translucency is a first-trimester risk assessment available at Nathan Littauer Hospital measuring the neck of fetuses between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation. The noninvasive ultrasound procedure can identify genetic abnormalities such as Down syndrome in combination with maternal blood testing. Nuchal translucency measures the amount of fluid behind the neck of the fetus, in an area known as the nuchal fold or nuchal translucency. It is believed that the higher the amount of soft tissue around the neck, the higher the risk for Down syndrome. These tests also screen for two less-common genetic disorders, trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) and trisomy 18. “We are credentialed, we have completed our tests and we are now testing mothers.” said Barbara Tambasco, Ultrasound Department Manager for Nathan Littauer.Nathan Littauer Hospital is the first center in the Fulton, Montgomery area to offer the screening techniques “The combination of the nuchal measurement and blood test gives us about a 91% accuracy rate.” stated Dr. McBiles. Dr. McBiles and Dr. Saqib are now credentialed radiologists for the test. In addition, two sonographers at Nathan Littauer Hospital are in the process of earning their certification from the Nuchal Translucency Quality Review Program of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Foundation. This national education and quality review program was created to ensure the highest levels of accuracy and quality in first-trimester Down syndrome screening.In 2007 the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommended routine Down syndrome screening and genetic counseling for all pregnant women, regardless of age, before the 20th week of pregnancy. Babies with Down syndrome are born with an extra copy of chromosome number 21, which causes mild to severe delays in physical, cognitive, and language development, as well as health problems such as congenital heart defects, thyroid disease, and digestive disorders. The risk of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. The risk is one in 365 babies at age 35, one in 100 at age 40, and one in 30 at age 45.“This test is non-invasive, quick and gives the family vital information.” explained Kaylee Palmer, adding, “Women in this area should be very relieved they do not have to travel to major metropolitan areas to get this test.” Kaylee Palmer has performed thousands of the tests throughout her career. She states, “My goal is to have every patient leave happier than when they came in.” She concluded, “I really enjoy my patients.”xxx
Dr. Shen heard on WAMC- spanning seven states Posted on August 17, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeDr. Shen takes to the airwaves to talk about complete spine careDr. Shen (left) pictured with Dr. Alan Chartock at WAMC studiosDr. Shen, who recently completed a ground-breaking surgery for our region at Nathan Littauer Hospital , was a featured guest on WAMC’s Medical Monday with Dr. Alan Chartock. The show first aired Monday, August 15, 2011. Littauer’s Hospital spokesperson Cheryl McGrattan explained, “Medical Monday is a showcase for the states’ best and brightest physicians. It is truly an honor to sit at the microphone with Dr. Chartock.” The show is heard on seven states. During the interview he also took calls from people who are suffering with orthopedic issues. To reach Dr. Shen’s please call his office at 518-773-4242.To hear the entire Medical Monday show press here:
