The CHCS Great Catch program recognizes associates who are proactive at maintaining a safe workplace. The program encourages associates to report an unsafe act or condition before it leads to an injury.

Angela had a patient coming to get a Reclast infusion and was not sure what to do with the empty IV bag/vial. Reclast is on the NIOSH list of hazardous drugs because of potential for reproductive hazards if the medication is accidentally absorbed or ingested by a staff member. It is particularly dangerous to anyone who is pregnant or may become pregnant.

Angela called Employee Health to ask about proper disposal. I spoke with Hali. Hali researched the question and found that if approximately 3% of the Reclast remains in the container, it can go into the regular trash. Reclast is not on the EPA list of hazardous drugs, but drugs that are on that list need to be disposed of in a black container. Hali will provide more education to staff. Hali also let us know that we should not use red biohazard bags and that we could incur penalties or fines for using them to dispose of items that do not meet the OSHA Blood Borne Pathogen Standard. (If you need information on what can and cannot go into a red back, contact Hali or Butch Meyer, EVS Manager.)

Teresa Miller, social service designee, went to the local VFW to obtain a wheelchair for an inpatient, as the patient would not be able to bear weight on her leg for several weeks. The patient was in the process of getting her own wheelchair but needed something in the interim to use at home. Angie Sauvage, social worker, and Teresa both cleaned the wheelchair extensively for the patient. Luke Perry, maintenance, was able to repair one of the brakes & wheels. These individuals definitely went above and beyond to ensure that the patient would have equipment she needed when she returned home. We all appreciate the time and effort you have given! 

We had a swing bed patient here, and he said he really wished that he was able to get a Chief's shirt for the game. This is a patient who has limited funds and lives at a nursing facility. Christine Merriman, his nurse for the day, chose to purchase him a shirt since he will more than likely be here for the Super Bowl. Often times we don’t know that these WOW experiences happen, but they really make me proud to work with this bunch of staff! Their efforts don’t go unnoticed! Thank you, Christine, for living out our values and by providing a WOW experience for this patient. 

During American Heart Month, we are exploring heart disease risk factors each week and how to reduce risk. We’ve all heard that we should eat a heart-healthy diet, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t eat the things we love. Below are some tips for heart-healthy eating.

CHCS is proud to offer scholarships to graduating high school seniors from CHCS Clinic communities who plan to pursue a career in healthcare. This year, we will award THREE scholarships for $1,000 each.

The scholarship application has been provided to high school counselors and is available on the Caring Community Foundation website.

Purchase a green CHCS T-shirt for $15 from the Gift Shop, and all proceeds will benefit the CHCS Greater Giving Scholarship fund.

The CHCS apparel store through Blue Chip Athletic is now open! The store offers CHCS T-shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, and other items that have been available in previous stores. New this time: Button-down shirts.

View a flyer or click the image at right to expand.

CHCS hosted the Northeast Kansas Regional Trauma Council Executive meeting last week.

The Kansas Trauma Program aims to reduce the number of deaths and disabilities across Kansas and consist of 6 Trauma Regions. The different regions focus on leading trauma care for Kansas through providing support to members, increasing public injury education, and defining standards of quality care for those that are injured from trauma.  

Back in December, we reported the end of a big remodeling project at Frankfort Rehabilitation and Fitness. The Clinic also received new flooring and trim in registration and in exam rooms. The restroom received an upgrade, too, and the nurses' station was upgraded in 2021. Looking good, Frankfort!

EMT and Advanced EMT classes will be available at Jackson County EMS in Holton starting March 13 and 14. Scholarships, grants, and financial assistance are available for those who qualify.

View a flyer with more information or contact Donna Connell at 785-305-0873 or at medic_721@hotmail.com.

St. Marys menus are available each morning through the Activities chronicle.

Donna Bates and Joe Baumchen were crowned Valentine's Day King and Queen at Redbud, and residents enjoyed a party with delicious treats. Redbud residents also appreciated their balloon greetings from the community.