Cardiac Staff Matters 14/11/14

Cardiac Staff Matters is a regular publication of updates, information, points to ponder, and things that are significant to the Program. The aim is to pass these points on during huddles, in conversations, and by posting in clinical areas to ensure widest dissemination.

1. 97 Days VAP Free! ICCS celebrated a significant milestone today! Through outstanding leadership (Larissa Nimchonok at the helm), a concerted effort by all staff, and the intervention of Swoop teams, the VAP rate has remained at a steady zero percent for the past 97 days. This is a considerable accomplishment and one that the ICCS team should be very proud of.

2. Dr. Tam recognized for his achievements Dr. Tam received the Canadian Society of Echocardiography Annual Achievement Award for 2015. This award recognizes Canadian cardiologists who have made significant contributions to echocardiography in terms of leadership, teaching, or research.

 3. Additional beds on CSIU set to open soon The WRHA authorized an expansion of beds on CSIU to 32 (+1) in September. These beds are scheduled to be opened on November 21st.

4. Welcome to our new PTM Kelly Lewington has accepted the permanent position of Program Team Manager for Non-Invasive Diagnostics (EKG, Stress Testing, Holter) and Echocardiography for the Cardiac Sciences Program. She will begin her new role on December 4th, 2014. Please join us in congratulating Kelly for taking her new position.

5. Starry Night November 22nd With record-setting ticket sales, this year’s Starry Night Gala promises to be an event to remember. Over a dozen door prizes are available at the Gala being held at the Delta Winnipeg. Pictures and prize-winners will be announced in the next edition of Staff Matters. You don’t want to miss out on the party!

6. Circle of Compassionate Care recognizes CSP staff Dr. Phillip Garber and the staff on 5A have been recognized in the St. Boniface Hospital Foundation’s Circle of Compassionate Care. Grateful patients and their families have recognizes health care providers, staff, and volunteers who have provided exceptional care during the months of August and September.

7. Wellness Challenge winners 16 participants signed up for the wellness challenge a little over 8 weeks ago. At stake, two cash prize-packages for most “healthy living points” earned and highest percentage of weight loss. Combined weight loss over eight weeks was an astonishing 150 lbs attributed to minor changes to lifestyles and eating habits (daily consumption of three veggies, two fruits, increased hydration, and exercise three times a week)! Here are the winners:

Most Healthy Living Points Earned - Chris Kuttnig
Highest Weight Loss Percentage - Brenda Richardson

Looking to get in on the challenge? Keep an eye out for an email early in the New Year when the next round runs. If enough people participate, we can do team challenges as well. All participants are grateful to Lesli Meek for organizing and administrating the challenge!

If you have any points that you want to pass to the rest of the Program and/or have feedback, please contact Paul Joudrey pjoudrey@sbgh.mb.ca or 204.237.2743