Wound Care When You Have Diabetes

Calendar May 16, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

If you live with diabetes, you know how serious a wound can be. While a stubbed toe might not be a big deal to most people, for you it's an issue to watch. Here's why:

  • Many people who have diabetes may also experience a certain amount of nerve damage. This means they may not feel a blister or cut before it gets worse and becomes infected.
  • Diabetics may have compromised immune systems, which means wounds can get infected more easily.
  • People with diabetes often have narrowed arteries in their legs. This means less blood can get to wounds to help them heal.

Here are some guidelines to follow for wound care when you have diabetes.

  • Pay attention. If you get even a minor cut, don't ignore it. Treat it right away. Clean the wound with water and use an antiseptic ointment; then cover it with a sterile bandage. Avoid using soap, iodine, or hydrogen peroxide, which may irritate the injury.
  • See your doctor. Even after you have treated your wound, follow up with a physician. He or she can assess your injury and treat it further, before it becomes serious.
  • Take it easy. Try to protect the wound from contact or pressure. If it is on your foot or ankle, try your best to stay off your feet and rest until the issue has healed.

Of course, if you suffer a serious cut or injury, don't hesitate to get medical attention right away. When it comes to your health, don't take any chances.

Do you have questions? Join us on Thursday, May 24, for Diabetes and Wounds–Caring for Foot and Skin Sores. Doug Moss, DPM, will discuss prevention and early treatment of sores. This informative lecture will begin at noon at the Brentwood Senior Living Center, 6280 Central Avenue in St. Petersburg. Just call 1-888-741-5122 for more information or to register.

If you have a wound that is slow to heal, the Wound Care Center at St. Petersburg General Hospital can help. We treat diabetic ulcers, as well as burns, surgical wounds, skin irritations and other chronic slow-healing wounds. To learn more, visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse at 1-888-741-5122 for a physician referral.

Related Post:
Top Tips for Managing Your Diabetes

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What You Should Know about Our GYN Robotic Training Epicenter

Calendar May 11, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

In November 2011, St. Petersburg General Hospital earned a special distinction as a GYN Robotic Surgery Training Epicenter.  What does this mean to you? It means that our hospital has been singled out as a premiere facility that offers the da Vinci Surgical System for gynecology, and our staff has shown expertise in this technology.

As an Epicenter, we open our doors to surgeons and their teams from around the country who are interested in learning about robotic technology. They visit St. Pete General and learn from our surgeons, as well as all our operating room staff, including nurses, technicians  and anesthesiologists. They observe operations and are guided through their initial cases.

Our own Meena Jain, MD, was a named a GYN Robotic mentor by the creators of the da Vinci system. A board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Jain is sought out by visiting surgeons and their teams to teach them more about the robotic technique. She takes time to illustrate how da Vinci works, answers questions, and allows others to gain knowledge from her experience. She remains up-to-date on this technology and is well versed in the best practices associated with it. As a mentor, she continues relationships with her trainees, via professional conferences and advanced training.

At St. Pete General we are pleased to offer a number of robotic gynecological surgical procedures, including hysterectomy, myomectomy, and sacrocolpopexy. By using this less invasive robotic technology, these procedures can be accomplished with smaller incisions than traditional surgery. That means a host of benefits for our patients, including:

  • shorter hospital stays
  • quicker recovery
  • less scarring
  • less blood loss
  • less pain
  • faster return to everyday life

To learn more about robotic surgery and how it can help you and those you love, visit us online. You can also call our Consult-A-Nurse service at 1-888-741-5122 to get answers to general health questions and obtain a physician referral. You can count on St. Pete General to stay informed about the latest technology and how it can help you protect your health.

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Medical Tests Every Woman Should Have

Calendar May 9, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

In addition to an annual wellness visit, there are certain medical tests that every woman should be sure to have. In honor of National Women’s Health Week, which is May 13 – May 19, take time to talk with your doctor about your personal circumstances and when you should schedule these:

Skin cancer screening. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with melanoma being the most serious type. While melanoma can spread and become life threatening rapidly, if it’s diagnosed early, it is nearly always curable.

Mammogram. According to the American Cancer Society, a woman’s odds of developing invasive breast cancer is approximately 1 in 8, and the chance that she’ll die from the disease is approximately 1 in 35. However, having regular mammograms is an effective way to screen for breast cancer, and early detection can increase a woman’s chance for successful treatment.

Pap test. Having regular Pap tests is an effective way to screen for cervical cancer, and actually prevents cervical cancer almost 100 percent of the time. Depending on a woman’s personal circumstances, a Pap test and STD screenings may be part of an annual gynecological appointment.

Bone mineral density test. This pain-free procedure is an important test that can determine the health of a woman’s bones, diagnose osteoporosis and estimate the risk of a future fracture or broken bone.

Colonoscopy or other test to screen for colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy is a procedure used to find and remove polyps before they become cancerous. According to the American Cancer Society, the survival rate is 90 percent when colon cancer is found early, and in many cases, screening can actually prevent colon cancer.

Diabetes screening. Early detection of elevated blood glucose levels can help some people avoid getting diabetes and the life-threatening complications that sometimes accompany the disease.

Cholesterol test. High cholesterol can contribute to coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke.

Blood pressure test. High blood pressure can increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. If you numbers are too high, rest assured that there are ways to manage the condition. Want to learn more? Join William Handelman, MD, on Tuesday, May 15, for Hypertension Is Curable. This informative lecture will be held at the Lake Seminole Square Auditorium at noon.

To learn more about the medical tests that you should have, schedule an appointment, or register for the May 15 lecture, call St. Petersburg General Hospital’s free Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-888-741-5122.

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Get to Know JC Devitt, Director of Rehabilitation

Calendar May 4, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

The Rehabilitation Department at St. Pete General provides critical treatment to people who are recovering from injury, surgery, or other medical issues. Through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, our team helps patients improve or regain skills they may have lost.

Let's take a moment to get to know JC Devitt, Director of Rehabilitation!

How long have you worked at St. Pete General?
I have been here 6 years.

Why did you pick this career?
My goal was to be able to help people increase their quality of life.

What is the best part about your job?
Each day, I enjoy working with my team and patients–and seeing them smile.

What do you like about this hospital?
I appreciate being able to get to know people in a community hospital.

What do you like to do for fun?
In my off time, I like to bike, read, and practice yoga.

Name one thing that many people don’t know about you. 
I visited Russia my senior year of high school!

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How to Keep Your Bones Strong

Calendar May 2, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

Maintaining strong bones takes a commitment to preventative measures and good health, but the self-discipline required is always worth it. Frail bones and osteoporosis can make old age painful, expensive, and filled with inconvenient and unnecessary trips to the doctor after a fall. Invest in your future health by working on strong bones today.

Changing Your Diet
You can't have healthy bones without a healthy diet. Growing up, you probably learned that drinking milk was the best way to ensure strong bones. Calcium is one of the most important nutrients, but vitamin D is often overlooked. Look for milk that has been fortified with vitamin D for an extra boost of bone-strengthening nutrition. If you are lactose intolerant, many soy and almond milks contain calcium and vitamin D as well. Aim for three servings a day.

Along with dairy products, stock up on dark leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, or broccoli.

Vitamin D is also naturally produced by your body – if you're getting daily exposure to sunlight. Don't damage your skin, however; just 10 to 15 minutes outside should do the trick.

Although calcium and vitamin D are the cornerstones of good bone health, other vitamins and nutrients also play a role. Make sure you are getting adequate amounts of B vitamins, vitamin C, and magnesium. It is best to receive the majority of your nutrients from real foods, but supplements can help pick up the slack if you aren't getting enough through your daily meals.

Get Moving!
Have you ever heard the phrase "use it or lose it"? It's true for your bones. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, and your bones aren't experiencing much pressure or movement, they will begin to weaken over time. Keep your bones strong by regularly engaging in a full-body workout. Try walking, swimming and resistance training.

Remember, it is important to challenge yourself when you exercise, but overworking your bones and muscles can be just as damaging as underworking them. Stay safe. Start small and gradually increase the length and intensity of your workouts. If you have questions, talk to your doctor or a personal trainer.

May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. What steps are you taking to ensure your future bone health? For more information about maintaining strong bones, contact the Orthopedics department at St. Pete General . We specialize in prevention as well as top-notch orthopedic surgery.

Want to ask your questions in person? We have a number of informative lectures coming up. All are scheduled for 12 noon at the YMCA Jim & Heather Gills. Just call 1-888-741-5122 for more information and to register.

Monday, May 7: Minimally Invasive Hip & Knee Surgery … Are You a Candidate? Led by Kurt Hirshorn, MD.

Monday, May 14: Shoulder Injuries and the Weekend Warrior. Led by Jeffrey L. Tedder, MD.

Tuesday, June 5: Common Hand and Upper Extremity Injuries. Led by Jorge Rodriguez, MD.

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Can You Spot an Addiction?

Calendar April 25, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

The signs of addiction can easily be missed – would you recognize them? Even those closest to addicts might miss tell-tale symptoms of a full-blown addiction.

Signs of Addiction
According to the Tampa Bay Depressive and Manic Depressive Association, there are many types of addiction. While some signs are obvious, others are very subtle, and sometimes behavioral changes from drug use are wrongly attributed to mental health problems. Signs of addiction include:

Mood Swings
The highs and lows of addiction are intense. You may notice sudden outbursts of anger, sadness or even extreme happiness – all due to changes in brain chemistry.

Poor Hygiene
Personal hygiene takes a backseat to addiction. Addicts often stop taking care of themselves as the addiction takes hold.

Irresponsibility
From not doing small chores around the house to forgetting to pay bills or feed a child, addicts stop participating in normal, everyday tasks – it’s all about getting the next fix.

A New Crowd
Addicts don’t want to be discovered, or discouraged, by others who don’t agree with their drug use. They’ll often create distance between themselves and loved ones, surrounding themselves with enablers who let them openly use.

Physical Changes
The body often adversely reacts to drug use. Obvious signs include red, watery eyes; runny nose; skin changes; and weight loss.

Track Marks
If the drug of choice is being injected, the addict will have noticeable track marks (needle injections) on their arms or other areas.

Get Help
If you know someone suffering with addiction, we can help. We offer a medical stabilization service called New Vision™. The service includes a 3- to 5-day, medically supervised hospital stay and is comprised of assessment, medical stabilization and referrals to rehabilitation and counseling services. To learn more about New Vision™ at St. Petersburg General Hospital, or for any other questions, visit us online or call 727-341-4913.

 

 

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What to Expect from a Childbirth Class

Calendar April 18, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

Are you expecting a baby? Well, here are some of the wonderful things you can expect from a childbirth class:

Information. Most moms- and dads-to-be have lots of questions, and a childbirth education class is a great place to get educated answers. You’ll learn about a range of topics including writing a birth plan, recognizing the signs of labor, the labor and delivery process, pain management options, the role of a midwife, postpartum concerns, the healing process, the basics of caring for a newborn at home, breastfeeding and more. Childbirth education classes often also include a tour of the hospital.

An opportunity to bond. A childbirth education class gives a dad-to-be a chance to actively participate in a pregnancy. Topics covered in class often include the role of a labor coach, things to do to help a mom-to-be remain comfortable and confident throughout labor and delivery, and ways in which you can help with your baby once he or she comes home. As a result, attending a class is often a wonderful bonding experience for a growing family.

Calmed nerves. Knowledge is power, and couples’ nerves are often calmed after attending a childbirth education class. While every birth is different, the more you know the more prepared you can be.

New friends. As part of a childbirth education class, you’ll meet new people who, like you, are expecting a new baby shortly. It’s not uncommon for classmates to have a good deal in common, share information and resources, and even sometimes stay in touch after their little ones are born.

To learn more about the St. Petersburg General Hospital Women’s Services department, or to register for one of our childbirth education classes, visit us online or call (888) 741-5122.

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A Simple Way to Save Lives: National Donate Life Month

Calendar April 11, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

If you're like most people, you want to give back to your community in some way. You likely have favorite causes and charities to which you offer your time and financial support. But did you know that there is a completely free way for you make a difference–and save lives? All you have to do is sign up to be an organ, tissue, and eye donor.

April is National Donate Life Month, so this is the perfect time for you to learn about the process and its benefits. Here are some things you should know.

  • Last year, 28,535 organ transplants were completed.
  • As of last month, more than 113,000 patients were waiting for transplants.
  • Presently, there are approximately 9,000 Floridians waiting for lifesaving transplants.
  • Every day, an average of 18 people die as they wait for an organ transplant.
  • By donating organs after you die, you can save 8 lives or improve up to 50 lives. 
  • After losing someone, many families take solace in knowing that their loved one helped save other lives.
  • No matter what your race, age, or medical history, you are a potential donor.
  • If you are hurt or sick, your health is the most important priority to your healthcare team. Organ, eye, and tissue donation is considered only after a patient is deceased.
  • People who are wealthy or famous do not get preference when they are on an organ donor list. Organs are given to those who are in the most need.
  • Every major U.S. religion supports organ, tissue, and eye donation, and sees it as a final act of love and generosity.
  • Donating organs, eyes, and tissue is done at no cost to the donor's family.

Not sure how to register? You can do it when you receive or renew your drivers license. You can also sign up directly at OrganDonor.gov. Either way, be sure to carry an organ donor card with you, and discuss your decision with your family. It is important that those close to you know what your wishes are if you get hurt or become seriously ill.

At St. Petersburg General Hospital, we encourage you to learn about organ donation. If you have general medical questions or need a physician referral, call our Consult-A-Nurse line at 1-888-741-5122.  

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How You Can Benefit from Occupational Therapy

Calendar April 4, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

Occupational therapy can have life-changing benefits for those who struggle with their daily activities due to physical or mental disabilities. Whether you need help navigating the world with your new wheelchair, or you're suffering from memory loss or cognitive problems after a stroke, an occupational therapist can help guide you through you transitional period and teach you how to continue living a life you enjoy as independently as possible. There are many benefits to occupational therapy. Consider the following:

  • Help your child receive the best education possible. A disability doesn't spell the end of your child's education. Whether he is mentally or physically handicapped, an occupational therapist can help your child develop effective study habits and safely make his way around his school. An occupational therapist can also work with parents, teachers, or tutors to encourage a helpful learning environment for the student.
  • Learn how to make your home accessible. If you are adjusting to life with a wheelchair or other new equipment, your home may feel more like an obstacle course than a nurturing living environment. An occupational therapist will work with you to make your home easy to move through, and she'll help you reorganize your possessions so they are easily accessible.
  • Keep working despite a disability. Many new challenges don't need to translate to loss of a job. With the help of your occupational therapist, you could learn how to continue your career despite the new challenges in front of you.
  • Don't give up on your hobbies and enjoyments outside the home. Vacations, shopping trips, and local community involvement don't need to become a thing of the past. Get expert advice on how to continue your life to the fullest.
  • Overcome communication and memory problems. When a disability affects your brain, you may feel like you are fighting an invincible monster. An occupational therapist knows the tips and tricks you need to jump over mental hurdles and communicate effectively with family and friends.

April is Occupational Therapy Month! Would you or someone in your family benefit from the help of an occupational therapist? Learn more about all the rehabilitation services at St. Petersburg General Hospital by visiting our website or contacting our free Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-888-741-5122. We can answer your questions or provide you with a physician referral.

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Volunteering at St. Pete General

Calendar March 28, 2012 | Posted by St. Petersburg General

One of the best ways to bring joy into your own life is to make helping others a consistent part of your regular routine. If you are looking for a way to give back, consider signing up as a volunteer at St. Pete General Hospital. We have a variety of positions open to volunteers, and a flexible schedule that can accommodate your busy work or home life.

What Do Volunteers Do?
Whether you hope to spend time with our patients and assist visitors, or you'd rather volunteer behind the scenes, we have a position that will best suit your abilities and personality. The gift shop is run by volunteers, where you can help friends and family members pick out small tokens of well wishes for the patients. Volunteers also help manage information desks in the main lobby, the emergency room, and the surgical waiting room. You can help visitors sign in and out, and you will direct them to the rooms of their friends or family. The guardian angel volunteers assist staff workers with patient supplies and handle some non-clinical requests.

What Kind of Time Commitments Do Volunteers Make?
Volunteer shifts last four hours. Some volunteers only commit to one shift, while others request several shifts throughout the week. There are three shifts a day. You can decide whether you'd rather work mornings from 8 am to 12 pm, afternoons from 12 pm to 4 pm, or evenings from 4 pm to 8 pm. There are volunteer openings every day of the week including weekends, although a few positions are only needed Monday through Friday. Our newsletter volunteers contribute on a monthly basis.

If you are 18 or older and interested in volunteering at St. Pete General Hospital, please call Anita Brown at (727) 341-4848, or send her an email. For more information about current available positions, visit our website. You can pick up a volunteer application in our main lobby.

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