News

RehabFit Member of the Month: Ken Chadderton

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital

Ken Chadderton - RehabFit Member of the Month December 2018Ken joined RehabFit in January 2016 with the goal of increasing ankle strength and mobility and overall fitness. Ken comes in almost every day and likes to talk and joke with fellow RehabFit members. Ken also recently joined the morning strength and balance class and is a great addition to the fun, social group.

Why did you decide to join RehabFit?

I started coming to RehabFit in January of 2016 to help my ankles and keep my body in good condition. Becky made up a program to follow; I stuck to it and it helped. The exercise equipment is high end and fun. The staff is very professional, knowledgeable and will work with you.

What motivates you to keep exercising and coming to RehabFit?

I have always liked exercise, when I was younger I went to the YMCA and Boys Club, played football and was a wrestler in High School. I like coming to RehabFit and socializing while working out. It’s hard to exercise at home on your own.

What changes have you seen in your body, health or general well being since starting at RehabFit?

Since joining RehabFit I find I have more endurance, strength, and I lost some weight. My balance has improved as well.

What changes have you made in your exercise or health routine since joining RehabFit?

I go to RehabFit every day if I can and I also swim at PSU. Exercising twice a day is good. The morning swim loosens me up before I get to RehabFit. I watch what I eat and drink as well.

What kind of advice would you give to other RehabFit members?

I would just keep doing what feels good for your body. When you come here the staff is willing to help anytime. Oh and the TVs will be on line as soon as RehabFit can get them.

The goal of our Medical Fitness Program is to encourage members to take responsibility for their physical well-being and to provide the knowledge, tools and supports necessary to reinforce healthy choices and behaviors. We offer a comprehensive array of exercise, fitness and wellness services to our members, provided by highly qualified, service-oriented staff.

For more information and/or schedule a tour call (603) 238-2225.

New Radiologists Expand Services for Central New Hampshire Communities

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital

Speare is now working with Southern New Hampshire Radiology Consultants (SNHRC) to provide increased services in Central New Hampshire. Dr. Kevin Rivera, chief of radiology at Speare, is leading the expansion with specialty training and the purchase of new equipment and technology.

southern nh radiology consultants doctors

ABOUT SNHRC

SNHRC is comprised of a group of highly trained board-certified radiologists, fellowship trained in the subspecialty areas of neurology, body imaging, musculoskeletal radiology, pediatric radiology, interventional radiology, and breast radiology.

Using various imaging methods that include ultrasound, CT, MRI, and fluoroscopy, new services include:

Radiology reading an xrayBIOPSY PROCEDURES:

• Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy & aspiration
• Stereotactic core breast biopsy
• Liver
• Thyroid
• Soft tissue (muscle, lymph nodes)

Radiology procedures at SpeareOTHER PROCEDURES:

• Abscess drainage procedures
• Pain management for small, medium, large joints
• Epidural steroid injection
• Paracentesis
• Thoracentesis

Helping Patients with Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorders

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital
Patient Care Management team
Susan Laverack M.Ed, Stephanie Bouchard RN BSN director, Sara Dupont MSW social worker, and Deborah McQuillen RN care manager.
Susan Laverack M.Ed Community Care Coordinator for IDN 5 — the Franklin, Laconia, and Plymouth communities.
Susan Laverack M.Ed – Community Care Coordinator for IDN 5 — the Franklin, Laconia, and Plymouth communities.

Speare’s care management team was enhanced this year with the addition of Susan Laverack, M.Ed., community care coordinator. Susan’s position is funded through New Hampshire’s Medicaid Integrated Delivery Network (IDN) waiver program to combat the state’s opioid crisis. She is responsible for improving coordination between a patient’s healthcare providers and connecting patients to community support across Franklin, Laconia, and Plymouth (IDN 5). Her goals are to:

  • Promote timely access to appropriate care.
  • Increase access to and use of preventative care.
  • Reduce emergency room visits and hospital readmissions.
  • Increase a patient’s ability for self-management and shared decision-making.
  • Facilitate medication management.

As a resource for Medicaid patients with behavioral health or substance use disorders, Susan dedicates her days to working on enhancing a patient’s health and well-being, increasing patient satisfaction, and reducing healthcare costs.

For more information visit our Patient Care Management page or call 603-238-6479.

Reflecting On My Son’s Care

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital
Angel and Jeffery Bray with sons, Harbor Bray (left) and Westley Bray (right) at their family farm stand.
Angel and Jeffery Bray with sons, Harbor Bray (left) and Westley Bray (right) at their family farm stand.

“My son had surgery at Speare Memorial Hospital and I can’t say enough good things about our experience! We received an excellent level of care, knowledge, and professionalism — Speare is an all-around five-star hospital. They were so gentle with my son and took extra measures to make sure he was comfortable and happy during the whole experience. The staff members also made my husband and I informed about everything there possibly is to know of the procedure and made us comfortable with the entire experience. There is not a doubt in our minds that if a family member ever needs another surgery or procedure this is the place it needs to happen! We are truly grateful for the level of care and the compassion they showed our family!”

Westley had ear problems from the time he was born. He had earaches and would grab at his ears. His parents, Angel and Jeff, tried everything. They felt like they lived in the emergency room, primary care office or walk-in clinic. They thought perhaps he had just built up an immunity to all the antibiotics, but then they saw a specialist and learned that Westley had fluid buildup in his ear.

Joan Glidden RN preoperative nurse, Steve Ball MS MBA CRNA APRN director of anesthesiology, and Deborah Majersky RN intraoperative nurse.
Joan Glidden RN preoperative nurse, Steve Ball MS MBA CRNA APRN director of anesthesiology, and Deborah Majersky RN intraoperative nurse.

They were happy to have an answer but nervous about the resolution. He needed to have surgery to insert an ear tube. The operation would relieve his pain, but it involved making a tiny incision in his eardrum to insert the tube. Jeff had a good experience at Speare the previous year when Dr. Gennaro operated on his shoulder, so they felt comfortable with Speare. They were not disappointed.

Angel says they not only found the nurses and anesthetist Steve Ball skilled, but especially kind. Westley was able to hold his toys and wear his pajamas during the procedure, and Steve held him in his arms like he was his own child. Westley started feeling better right away after the operation and has been having a great time on their family farm since.

Joan Glidden RN preoperative nurse, Steve Ball MS MBA CRNA APRN director of anesthesiology, and Deborah Majersky RN intraoperative nurse.Update from Mom

“A year after his surgery, Westley is doing fantastic! He started school as soon as he turned 3 in April to help him catch up with other children his age. He goes four days a week, and it has helped him with his communication, speech, fine and gross motor skills. His ear infections are almost non-existent now. His breathing has improved, as well as his hearing since his surgeries. Overall he is a much healthier and happier boy!”

Click here to learn more about the surgical services available at Speare.  Surgical Services cares for pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.

What Form of Strength Training is Right for You?

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital

By: Becky Chase M.S., RCEP
Leah Baron M.S.
JinLyi Mah PSU Exercise & Sports Physiology Student-Intern

 

Leah Baron, MS and Rebeccah Chase, MS, CSCS, RCEP 2The goal of strength training is to build strength, increase our muscle’s body ability to utilize energy without oxygen and to increase the size of skeletal muscle. The body’s muscular strength is used in almost every daily activity from sitting down and standing up to mowing the lawn. Men and women start to lose muscle mass and strength as early as age 30. It is important to maintain our ability to perform activities of daily living with strength training.

RESISTANCE TRAINING

Many people think of dumbbells and barbells when thinking of strength training. There are many other forms of resistance training including bodyweight exercise, suspension training, bands, and machines. No form or type of resistance training is superior to another; what matters is that you are working hard and providing enough of a stimulus to maintain or increase the strength of your muscles during the aging process.

Bodyweight and gravity are used as resistance during bodyweight exercises. Common examples of bodyweight exercises are a push-up, pull up, sit up, and jumping. All bodyweight exercises can be made more or less challenging with small adjustments. A push-up is less challenging when done at an incline with hands on a chair, table or wall. This places less body weight on your arms and chest and more towards the legs making the exercise easier for beginners.

SUSPENSION TRAINING

Suspension training is a mode of strength training that uses bodyweight and a form of straps. The most popular suspension training device is Total Body Resistance Exercise, TRX.  This fitness tool is made out of high-quality nylon straps with handles at the bottom which can hold up to 1,400 pounds. TRX has become very popular and can be seen in most fitness facilities, yet only a handful of people are willing to give it try.  It is designed for all fitness levels and abilities. By changing body position, resistance will increase or decrease making the exercise easier or more difficult. Every muscle group in the body can be trained using the TRX and almost every bodyweight and free weight exercise can be performed using the TRX including some exercises that can only be performed with a suspension trainer.

Bands and tubing are often used in resistance training when dumbbells are not available. The further the band or tube stretches, the more resistance there is provided. Bands and tubes come in a variety of colors, each color dictates a different resistance level. An advantage of using bands and tubes compared to other strength training modalities is only one or a few bands are needed to perform a multitude of exercises. Other advantages include low cost and easy storage.

STRENGTH TRAINING

strength training

Strength machines are even more common than dumbbells or barbells for strength training. Strength machines are usually found at fitness centers, though some multi-use strength machines like a Total Gym are available for home use. There is a strength machine for almost every muscle group in the body and some gyms provide all of these machines in one location. Strength machines are very popular because of their ease of use and safety. However, many strength training experts disapprove of strength machines. Strength machines isolate muscle groups while decreasing the need for supportive stabilization muscles.

Which modality of strength training is best? The answer is none of them! All strength modalities have advantages and disadvantages. To maintain or improve muscular strength throughout the day, it is important to always provide enough resistance to make a positive change in the muscle and to change your exercise routine about once a month, to keep the body responding. Many people like a variety of strength training types to keep their workout fun and exciting. For any exercise, it is crucial to use proper technique to avoid injury and get the most you can out of the exercise. It is advised to have a certified trainer to demonstrate and guide these exercises to ensure proper form and prevent unwanted injuries.

RehabFit is a fitness center for people of all ages and abilities with special attention to members with medical conditions and diseases. RehabFit features cardio machines, dumbbells, TRX suspension trainers and strength machines. Becky and Leah are exercise specialists at RehabFit and are happy to help with any strength training modality and all fitness. Stop by RehabFit to take a tour at Boulder Point in Plymouth or call (603) 238-2225. No referral needed!

 

 

November is American Diabetes Month

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital

On Tuesday, November 6, 2018, Speare Primary Care and White Mountain Eye Care and Optical will be hosting their free Annual Diabetes Day event to raise awareness about diabetes. The event will feature diabetes education/information from Speare Wound Care ,Pemi Baker Home Health & Hospice, Speare Dietary, White Mountain Eye Care, and Speare Primary Care, light refreshments, and a raffle.

American ‪Diabetes‬ Month takes place each November. Here are just a few of the recent statistics on diabetes:

  • Nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes.
  • Another 86 million Americans have pre-diabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
  • The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $322 billion.

diabetes explained top vert

Essentially, diabetes is about the body’s ability (or lack of it) to produce the required amount of a hormone called insulin to control glucose levels in the blood. There are broadly two types of diabetes: Type 1 requires daily administration of artificial insulin by means of injection or insulin pump. Type 2 is more generally managed by a combination of dietary control and medication in the form of tablets.

It’s very important that people with diabetes maintain good control of their condition to help reduce and avoid long-term complications, and there have been huge advances in this area over recent years. However, it is vitally important that development work continues, to ensure people with the condition can live as normal a life as possible.

Diabetes concerns every family

Over 425 million people are currently living with diabetes. Most of these cases are type 2 diabetes, which is largely preventable through regular physical activity, a healthy and balanced diet, and the promotion of healthy living environments. Families have a key role to play in addressing the modifiable risk factors for type 2 diabetes and must be provided with the education, resources, and environments to live a healthy lifestyle.

1 in 2 people currently living with diabetes is undiagnosed. Most cases are type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to prevent the complications of diabetes and achieve healthy outcomes. All families are potentially affected by diabetes and so awareness of the signs, symptoms and risk factors for all types of diabetes are vital to help detect it early.

Diabetes can be expensive for the individual and family. In many countries, the cost of insulin injection and daily monitoring alone can consume half of a family’s average disposable income, and regular and affordable access to essential diabetes medicines are out of reach for too many. Improving access to affordable diabetes medicines and care is, therefore, urgent to avoid increased costs for the individual and family, which impact on health outcomes.

Less than 1 in 4 family members have access to diabetes education programmes. Family support in diabetes care has been shown to have a substantial effect on improving health outcomes for people with diabetes. It is therefore important that ongoing diabetes self-management education and support be accessible to all people with diabetes and their families to reduce the emotional impact of the disease that can result in a negative quality of life.

Let’s Take A Closer Look At… Influenza “The Flu”

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital

flu clipartNow that the summer season is over we are entering the fun season of sweaters, fall foliage, and pumpkin spice everything. Unfortunately, this change also tends to bring on the start of the dreaded Influenza (flu) season. Last flu season (2017-2018) was one of the most severe seasons we have had in the past several years, across all age groups. This leaves many of us worried about what the upcoming flu season will bring. Though we cannot predict how this season will go, we can educate ourselves on what influenza is, how it spreads, and, most importantly, what we can do to prevent getting sick. Here is some basic information about flu to get you started.

What is it?

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It causes mild to severe illness and can lead to death. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting.

Who gets it?

Anyone of any age, even the healthiest of us, can get the flu. There are, however, some people who are at higher risk of developing serious complications related to the flu such as people over the age of 65, have chronic medical conditions (i.e. asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), have weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and children under the age of 5. Some common influenza-related complications include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions.

cover your coughHow does it spread?

The most common way that influenza is spread is via tiny droplets released when people who have the flu cough, sneeze or talk. Some of these droplets are breathed in by those people nearby. Other droplets land on surfaces or objects nearby and are spread when someone touches that surface and then touches their own mouth, nose, or eyes. You may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you even know you are sick. Some people with influenza may be able to infect others beginning as early as one day before they develop symptoms. Generally, people are most
contagious in the first 3-4 days after their symptoms develop, but they may remain contagious for up to a week (or even longer in young children and people with weakened immune systems).

How is it diagnosed?

It is sometimes difficult to tell the difference between influenza and a number of other illnesses based on symptoms alone. To help aid in the diagnosis, some providers will do a “flu swab” to try to confirm influenza. Others choose not to test for influenza and make their treatment decisions based on symptoms and clinical judgment.

How is it treated?

Most people who get the flu have mild illness and do not require medical care. For those in a high-risk group or who are very sick, may need antiviral medication. Antiviral medications fight against viruses (similar how antibiotics fight against bacteria). They are most effective when started within a couple days of getting sick, however, they can still be helpful if they are started later in the illness.

How do we prevent it?

One of the most important steps you can take is to get your annual influenza vaccine. The CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older who are able to should get a flu vaccine every year before flu activity begins in their community (ideally by the end of October). Though this cannot provide you with 100% protection from the flu, it can lower your chances of getting sick, reduce the severity of illness if you do get the flu, decrease the risk of having a flu-related hospitalization, and protect those around you who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness that are unable to get the vaccine. If you haven’t already gotten your flu vaccine yet this season, you should consider attending one of the flu clinics being put on by Speare’s Occupational Health team. (see below for dates, times and locations)

Other important ways you can prevent spreading influenza include:

Washing your hands. This is especially important after you cough or sneeze into a tissue, before you eat, and after time spent around someone who is sick. Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with germs.

Wear a mask if you are within 6 feet of someone who is coughing/sneezing or if you are not sick enough to be out of work, but feel like you might be coming down with something (remember, you can spread flu before you even know you are sick).

Stay home if you are sick (you should not return to work until at least 24 hours after your fever is gone and without taking fever-reducing medicine). This not only helps to prevent your germs from spreading to others but staying home and getting rest can also help you get well sooner than if you stressed your body by trying to work while you are sick.

By doing these simple actions we can greatly reduce the risk of spreading influenza to family, friends, co-workers and even ourselves.

Want to learn more? For more information about influenza and the flu vaccine contact the Speare’s Infection Prevention Coordinator (Erica Tuttle) or check out the CDC’s Influenza page.

Dates, Locations & Times

Vaccines are administered by a Registered Nurse and most insurances are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid.

You will be asked to present your insurance card prior to receiving the vaccine.
For those without insurance, $35.00 for Quadrivalent & $65.00 for Fluzone High Dose

October 10, 2018 (Wednesday): at Waterville Town Offices 130pm–3pm

 October 24, 2018 (Wednesday): at Holderness Town Hall 11am-1pm

 October 26, 2018 (Friday): at Speare: Main Lobby 8am – 5pm

 October 31, 2018 (Wednesday): at Plymouth Senior Center 11am-1pm

 November 5, 2018 (Monday): at Speare: Main Lobby 8am – 4pm

 November 30, 2018 (Friday): at Speare: Main Lobby 12pm – 6pm

INFORMATION & DIRECTIONS

Speare Memorial Hospital Main Lobby

Waterville Valley Town Hall

Holderness Town Hall

Plymouth Senior Center

For more information please call
Speare’s Occupational and Employee Health Department at (603) 238-2348.

Visit Speare’s New Gift Shop

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital
Volunteers in gift shop Richard Flanagan, Chris Fenn, Nancy Kolb, Pat Corbin
Volunteers in gift shop (L-R) Richard Flanagan, Chris Fenn (Student & Volunteer Services Coordinator), Nancy Kolb, Pat Corbin

Speare has opened a volunteer-run hospital gift shop full of fun gifts as well as necessities for patients, visitors, and staff. All proceeds go toward Scholarships for local youth studying for a career in healthcare and patient outreach including the flower program and gifts for patients.

Many New Hampshire made items are features in the shop including Badger products. Theses organic health and beauty items include sunscreen, insect repellent, chapstick, balms for ailments, and baby & nursing products. Tree Free Greeting Cards are also a NH company and our local Community Photo Club of Plymouth NH has donated photo cards. (scroll down to see more items in our store)

The new gift shop is open Monday-Friday from 10-4 and is located just left off of the main lobby and up the hallway from our Cardiac Rehab and Oncology departments.

Become a Speare Volunteer

Click Here to Download the Application to Volunteer

Every layer within a hospital contributes to its success and we invite you to become part of our team. Use your time, passion and willingness to help make a difference at a hospital/organization that supports its community. You don’t need any special skills to talk to a patient or assist a department. You can volunteer as much or as little as your schedule allows. We’ll find a volunteer position that fits your interests and your schedule.

For more information contact Christine Fenn, Student and Volunteer Services Coordinator (603) 238-6460 or email  cfenn@spearehospital.com

Informed & Engaged at Speare’s Senior Resource Fair

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital

Searching for and navigating the maze of services and organizations available for seniors in central New Hampshire can be a daunting task. That’s why Speare Memorial Hospital held it’s 2nd annual Senior Resource Fair on Saturday, September 22, 2018 at Boulder Point in Plymouth, NH. Almost 100 attendees visited a variety of exhibitors, received screenings, participated in a balance class, listened to presentations and enjoyed refreshments at this free event.

Each of our speakers this year enjoyed large audiences who were actively engaged in their presentation topics;

  • “Living Well With Chronic Illness” by Mary Francis Drake, Pemi Baker Community Health 
  • “Transitioning a Parent/Loved One into Your Home” by Martha Swats, Comfort Keepers
  • “How to Communicate with a Loved One with Dementia” Dr. Quintero, Speare Primary Care
  • “Helpful Tips for First Time Caregivers” by Cindy Eichling, Home Instead Senior Care

PrintExhibitors included: Catholic Medical Center Vein & Vascular Specialists, Comfort Keepers, Golden View Health Care Center, Home Instead Senior Care, Mid-State Health Center, Speare’s Nutrition team, Pemi Baker Community Health, Plymouth Senior Center, Plymouth Law Center, Speare Pulmonary Rehab, Speare Radiology, RehabFit, Rite Aid, Interlakes Theatre, RSVP Bone Builders, Speare Sleep Lab, Sound Advice Hearing Centers, Speare Primary Care, Speare Volunteer Opportunities, Transport Central, and White Mountain Eye Care

Thank you to our lead sponsor Comfort Keepers for helping make this event possible.

 

Speare Schedules Annual Public Flu Shot Clinics

Posted on by Speare Memorial Hospital

flu season aheadFall has arrived and so too has the focus on helping to prevent flu-related illness. Speare Memorial Hospital offers the flu vaccine to persons 18 years and older, and are available at several public flu shot clinics scheduled at the Hospital, Holderness Town Hall, Waterville Valley and the Plymouth Senior Center.

Vaccines are administered by a Registered Nurse and most insurances are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid. You will be asked to present your insurance card prior to receiving the vaccine.

For those without insurance, $35.00 for Quadrivalent & $65.00 for Fluzone High Dose

Dates, Locations & Times

October 5, 2018 (Friday): at Speare: Main Lobby 7am – 4pm

 October 10, 2018 (Wednesday): at Waterville Town Offices 130pm–3pm

 October 24, 2018 (Wednesday): at Holderness Town Hall 11am-1pm

 October 26, 2018 (Friday): at Speare: Main Lobby 8am – 5pm

 October 31, 2018 (Wednesday): at Plymouth Senior Center 11am-1pm

 November 5, 2018 (Monday): at Speare: Main Lobby 8am – 4pm

 November 30, 2018 (Friday): at Speare: Main Lobby 12pm – 6pm

INFORMATION & DIRECTIONS

Speare Memorial Hospital Main Lobby

Waterville Valley Town Hall

Holderness Town Hall

Plymouth Senior Center

For more information please call Speare’s Occupational and Employee Health Department at (603) 238-2348.