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Gone are the days of soggy PB&Js on white bread: Today’s school lunch is your chance to create a healthy, colorful midday meal! Here are a few simple tips, a week of lunch ideas and a shopping list to help you pack a lunch that won’t be offered up for trade during tomorrow’s lunch hour. While school lunches are getting healthier, packing and taking a lunch to school will ensure that your child is getting a healthy, well-balanced meal. Making lunches should be a team effort. Your kids can help pack their lunches by spreading on condiments or putting food in containers. To save time in the morning, pack lunches the night before. The following are a few suggested items you can use to ensure your child is eating a tasty but nutritious lunch: Main dishes Lunch meat and lowfat cheese roll ups English muffin pizzas Sandwich wraps – meat, cheese and veggies in a whole grain tortilla Pita pockets stuffed with grilled chicken and vegetables Soup Chef salad with spinach, veggies, cheese, lunch meat and dressing Tuna or chicken salad on a mini bagel Snacks and sides Fresh or dried fruit Natural apple sauce Baked tortilla chips and salsa Veggie sticks and hummus Cheese slices or string cheese with whole grain crackers Homemade trail mix with nuts, seeds and raisins Pudding Homemade fruit roll ups Popcorn (add different toppings such as salt, garlic, cinnamon, sugar or cayenne pepper) Drinks Water If you child doesn’t like plain water, try adding a few slices of fresh fruit (strawberries, lime, lemon) for more flavor. School Lunch Menu: Day-By-Day We’ve put together a week’s worth of colorful, fun and healthy school lunch ideas your kids will love. And we’ve also created a shopping list to help you easily locate all the ingredients on your weekend shopping trip. Monday: Turkey BLTA Roll-ups Roll-up Ingredients Turkey, cold cuts Bacon Avocado Tomatoes Side Dish Choices Blueberries Cucumbers Carrot sticks Tuesday: Bacon & Cucumber Sandwich Sandwich Ingredients Whole wheat English muffin Cucumber Bacon Side Dish Choices Apples slices Strawberries Vanilla yogurt mixed with sprinkled cinnamon Wednesday: DIY Lunchables Lunchables Ingredients Crackers Turkey, cold cuts Cheese Side Dish Choices Blueberries Carrots Cucumber Thursday: Veggie Grilled Cheese Veggie Grilled Cheese Ingredients English muffin Cheese Tomato Spinach leaves Avocado Side Dish Choices Apples slices Strawberries Vanilla yogurt mixed with sprinkled cinnamon Tomatoes Friday: DIY Pizzas DIY Pizza Ingredients 2 toasted English muffins Pizza sauce Cheese Turkey pepperoni Side Dish Choices Celery Black olives Shopping List (under 20 items) Cold section: Dairy 1 large container of vanilla yogurt 1 package of your favorite cheese  Cold section: Deli meats 1 package of turkey pepperoni 1 package bacon 1 package turkey cold cuts Inside aisles Whole wheat English muffins 1 can of whole black olives 1 jar of pizza sauce 1 box of whole wheat or multigrain crackers  Produce department 1 cucumber 1 stalk of celery 2 apples 1 container of strawberries 1 avocado 2 tomatoes 1 bunch of spinach leaves 1 container of blueberries 2 carrots  For more healthy school lunch box options, visit our Kids Health & Nutrition board on Pinterest.

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Sometimes, children’s asthma masks itself in symptoms that can be similar to other common respiratory problems. Dr. Shipra Singh of Renown Medical Group – Pediatrics discusses some diagnoses and treatments for asthma in children. Adults can easily recognize when we are out of breath or struggling to breathe, but what if you noticed this regularly happening to your infant or child during their daily play? Would you think they might have asthma? It may be difficult to tell if your small child has asthma because the symptoms can be similar to other common respiratory problems (bronchitis, croup, pneumonia) or even allergies. Read on to learn how to spot and manage asthma in your infant or child with advice from Shipra Singh, M.D., MPH, Pediatric Pulmonologist at Renown Medical Group – Pediatrics. According to the Centers for Disease Control, asthma in children is a leading chronic illness and cause of school absenteeism in the U.S. Asthma is a multi-factorial disease. Smoking during pregnancy or a family history of allergies or asthma has been linked to a greater chance of developing childhood asthma. Asthma is usually on a spectrum and not a single disease. It can range from mild to severe. Because an infant’s or toddler’s airway is smaller than in older children and adults, even a slight blockage caused by mucus or a restricted airway due to swelling can make breathing hard for them. In children five and younger, one of the most common causes of asthma symptoms is a respiratory virus, which narrows the airways in the lungs. These include a cold, the flu, bronchitis, pneumonia and other illnesses. How can I tell if my child has asthma? Unfortunately small children are unable to describe their symptoms, making asthma difficult to diagnose. Your child may even be active, playing and smiling, although they are experiencing chest tightness or labored breathing. Observe your child and let the child’s doctor know if: Your child’s breathing behavior has changed (coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing) Your child’s breathing pattern changes (day vs. night, with rest or activity, inside vs. outside) You have a family history of asthma or allergies Your child’s breathing is triggered by any foods or allergies With your help, your child’s doctor can make the best diagnosis to determine if your child has asthma. A pediatric pulmonologist (lung specialist) or pediatric allergist may also have to be consulted for special testing. Tests may include lung function testing, allergy tests, blood tests and X-rays for an accurate diagnosis. What is the treatment for infants and toddlers? Young children can use many of the same medications as older children and adults, although the way they take them and the dosage will differ. A nebulizer (or breathing machine) creating a medicated mist for your child to breathe through a mask may be used. An inhaler with a small spacer tube connected to a mask is also common to help your child breath medication into their lungs. Either of these options are effective. Asthma in children is treated with both fast-acting and long-term medicines to open up airways quickly for easy breathing and also to lessen asthma symptoms over time. Communicate with your child’s medical providers to create a personalized asthma management plan for them. How can I manage my child’s asthma? Recognize your child’s breathing habits and be aware of worsening symptoms. Consult with your child’s doctor on a daily asthma action plan to recognize worsening symptoms and track medications. (Here’s an example of an asthma action plan provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institutes of Health). Be consistent with the plan and talk to your doctor before changing it. Have an emergency plan in case of a serious asthma attack. Know where the closest ER is and know who can take care of your other children. Also know what the medical treatment coverage is under your insurance plan. We asked Dr. Singh about asthma in children: “Discussing asthma with your child may be a difficult subject. Some kids find the subject frightening or confusing. Others, especially the older kids, may be resentful of the treatment and may not be interested in doing the treatment. Talk to your doctor about advice to build an open and trusting relationship regarding your child’s asthma care.” What can I do to reduce my child’s asthma? Know your child’s asthma triggers (dust, pets, pollen, etc.) Follow your asthma action plan Keep your child away from smoke Can my child outgrow their asthma? Asthma symptoms change day to day and year to year. An older child can better recognize and manage their symptoms, so asthma episodes may lessen. However asthma is a life-long condition of the airways, so it is important to always have an asthma action plan, even with occasional asthma events. Renown Health Pediatric Care | Same-Day Appointments: 775-982-KIDS Our team of pediatricians, specialists and nurse practitioners have specialized training in children’s healthcare needs. We see children from birth to age 18 for the following pediatric needs: Wellness and preventive visits Sick visits Immunizations Behavioral health Allergy Asthma Common cold Diabetes  Asthma resources for parents: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Parents often struggle with installing and choosing car seats for their children. Picking out a car seat for your child is a never-ending battle. Safe Kids Washoe County has made it simple for you to understand the types of car seats that will work for your child. Types of Car Seats Rear-Facing Only Seat. Your baby's first car seat is often used from 5 to 40 pounds. People usually buy this type of seat because it is portable. Convertible Car Seat. This seat is larger and stays in the car; it may be rear-facing until your child is two years or more. After that, it can change to a forward-facing seat. Forward-facing-only car seat. This type of seat is used in one direction and has a 5-point harness and top tether.  Combination seat. This is a forward-facing seat with a 5-point harness and top tether and can change into a booster seat when you remove the harness.  3-in-1 car seat. This seat also stays in the car. You can use it rear-facing, forward-facing, and then later, as a booster seat. Booster seat.  It boosts the child for a safer and more comfortable fit of the adult seat belt. Make sure your child has outgrown the weight or height limits allowed in the forward-facing car seat. The seat belt must lie flat across your child's chest, on the bony part of the shoulder, and low on the hips or upper thighs. Most children will be between the ages of 8 to 12 years old before they are ready for the seat belt alone. Have a trained car seat technician check your installation Why: 3 out of 4 car seats are installed improperly, with some studies show that the misuse rate is 90%, with the average car seat having three mistakes. Solution: Ensuring that your child's car seat is installed correctly by a certified car seat technician will ensure your child's safety.

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Car seat technicians often find parents are moving their child to their next car seat stage too soon, as they get older. Here are a few reminders of when to transition your child from their booster seat to a seat belt. Moving to a booster seat too soon According to Safe Kids Worldwide, nearly 9 in 10 parents remove children from their booster before they’ve reached the recommended height, weight, or age of their car seat recommendations, which leaves the seat belt in a position on the child that could injure them. If the child is not the proper height, the seat belt can rise up on the belly, instead of the hips where it’s supposed to sit, which can lead to spinal cord damage or whiplash in the event of a car crash. Solution: You can switch from a car seat to a booster seat when your child has topped the weight allowed by the car seat manufacturer; typically 40 to 80 pounds (18 to 36 kilograms). Remember, however, that your child is safest remaining in a car seat with a harness for as long as possible. Booster seats must always be used with a lap and shoulder belt — never a lap-only belt.  Transitioning to a safety belt too soon Older children need booster seats to help ensure the seat belt stays properly positioned on their body. The lap belt should lie low across the child's hips and pelvis with the shoulder belt crosses the middle of the child's chest and shoulder, so that in the event of a crash, the forces are applied to the hip bones and not the abdomen. If the lap belt is not positioned properly then it could lead to injuries to the spinal cord and abdominal organs.  Solution: Most kids can safely use an adult seat belt sometime between ages 8 and 12. Always use a booster seat until the child passes the 6-step test Your child reaches a height of 4 feet, 9 inches (nearly 1.5 meters) Their back is flat against the seat back. Knees bend over the edge of the seat and feet are flat on the floor. The shoulder belt sits on their shoulder and chest (not face or neck.) The lap belt sits low on their hips and touches their upper thighs (not on their stomach.) Your child can sit comfortably this way for the entire trip.   The American Academy of Pediatrics reminds us that the back seat is the safest place for children younger than age 13.

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We’ve all been there: Your child gets sick right after urgent care closes — or worse, in the middle of the night. So do you wait it out, or do you load up and head to the Children’s ER? Pediatric Emergency Physician Joey Gassen, MD, with Northern Nevada Emergency Physicians, has insight. As parents, we often wish we had all the answers. And while a short-and-sweet comprehensive parenting guide is elusive, we can help if your questions involve whether to go to the children’s ER or wait it out. Here, a pediatric emergency physician explains when you should take your child to the Children’s ER at Renown Children’s Hospital, and what makes a children’s ER different. How do you know when it’s time to take your child to the ER? Having a sick or injured child is stressful. If you have a true emergency, you should go straight to the ER or call 911. When to go to the ER: Allergic reactions Asthma or severe shortness of breath Fever (infants less than two months old) Choking or poisoning Coughing up or vomiting blood Fainting, confusion or seizures Fractures or broken bones Head injuries Severe bleeding If you determine your child’s condition isn’t life-threatening but needs to be taken care of right away, urgent care is the best choice. Those conditions include: Cold and flu Coughs and sore throat Fevers Vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain Cuts and severe scrapes Minor injuries and burns What is different about Renown Children’s ER compared to the adult ER? The difference starts when you first bring your child in. We have a lobby dedicated to our community’s smallest patients. The 24/7 lobby incorporates a child-friendly atmosphere with vibrant colors to help decrease anxiety that can accompany emergency situations. Our children’s ER also has equipment sized just for kids of any age. We offer a distraction machine, as well as games and movies, to help children cope with what can be a traumatic experience, like getting an IV. In addition, we have Child Life Specialists available to provide the emotional support to both children and their families. Why is it important to have an emergency room and lobby open 24/7 dedicated to children? Children aren’t just little people. They have special needs that require specialized care. Our children’s ER is staffed with skilled physicians and pediatric nurses certified in advanced pediatric emergency care to give your child the highest level of support. Renown Children’s Hospital From newborns to teens, Renown Children’s Hospital offers many different services and treatments designed specifically to take care of our community’s children. We provide a range of specialized services — from a dedicated Children’s ER and Pediatric ICU to a children’s imaging center and child’s asthma program. Explore Children’s Services

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How can you ensure you’re giving your children safe doses of over-the-counter medications? The safest bet: Confirming dosages and recommendations with your doctor. With that in mind, here are a few answers to basic questions about OTC medications and children. It’s cold and flu season in Northern Nevada. This means you’ll find parents in the aisles of practically every drug store, wondering what will and will not work for their sick children. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications — and their dosages, side effects, interactions and more — can inspire abundant anxiety for parents. At the outset, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers the following warning about use of medicines for cough and colds in children:   The FDA doesn’t recommend over-the-counter medicines for cough and cold symptoms in children younger than 2 years old. Prescription cough medicines containing codeine or hydrocodone are not indicated for use in children younger than 18 years old. Codeine and hydrocodone are opioids that are available in combination with other medicines, such as antihistamines and decongestants, in prescription medicines to treat cough and symptoms associated with allergies or the common cold for adults. Caregivers should also read labels on OTC cough and cold products, because some might contain codeine. So how can you feel comfortable administering any OTC medication to your children? The short answer is: Check with a doctor first. And with that in mind, here are a few common questions and answers from Kristin L. Wilson, MD, of Renown Pediatrics about children and OTC medications. Please talk about the importance of correct dosage of pediatric medications. Pediatric dosing is weight-based and unique to each medicine (and sometimes even the circumstance you are treating.) Therefore, there are no standardizations of “safe” amounts that apply to all medications. What are signs of an overdose of pediatric medications? Signs of intoxication/overdose are also unique to each medication and supplement. And to make it more confusing, mixing current prescriptions with various supplements or over-the-counter medications can cause significant adverse effects as well. Is there an age at which children take adult over-the-counter medications? Infants through adolescents can take medications that are also prescribed to adults, but only under a healthcare provider’s careful guidance. Dosing is determined by various factors dependent on child’s age and also medical history, as above. What is the takeaway about administering medications to children? When in doubt, ask a healthcare professional whether a medication or supplement is safe for your child based on his/her age and medical history as well as recommended dosing based on recent weights and other vital signs.

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March is Child Life Month, meaning this is the perfect time to ask: What exactly does a Child Life Specialist do? To find out, we “virtually” tagged along with one for a day. This is what a typical day looks like in this important role. For Child Life Specialist Brittany Best, play is a natural part of her work day. She approaches her role with a keen understanding of how the seemingly small tasks she performs every day — comforting children prior to a procedure, writing thank-you notes to donors, training interns — positively impact the lives of the children she serves and their families. So what does it take to work in Renown’s Child Life Program? Best shares some of the highlights from a “typical” shift. A Child Life Specialist’s Day 7:30 a.m. Clock in, put my belongings in my office, and print the patient census information. This helps me to get a sense of the day ahead, as I’m covering three areas today. 8-9 a.m. I look over the census sheets for all three areas and check in with the nurses in each area and then try to prioritize my day. 9:00 a.m. I attend Interdisciplinary Rounds for the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where the most critically ill or injured children are treated. Additionally, Interdisciplinary Rounds enable several key members of a patient’s care team to come together and offer expertise in patient care. 10:00 a.m. I come up to the specialty clinic/infusion center to check on the patients that have arrived already and see how things have been going since I had last seen them. We see patients frequently up here, as they are receiving treatment for cancer or other disease processes. 10:55 a.m. I’m notified by an RN that a patient needs an IV started, so I go meet with the patient and their family. I meet with a 6-year-old and mother to explain what an IV is and why it is needed. We go through an IV prep kit, looking at all the different items the nurse will use including cold stinky soap, a tight rubber band and also a flexible straw. I also teach this patient a breathing exercise to help them relax during the procedure with a simple exercise known as “smell flowers, blow out candles.” I demonstrate how to take a deep breath in through the nose — like smelling flowers — then how to blow that breath out — like blowing out birthday candles. 11:10 a.m. I walk with the patient and mom to the procedure room on the Children’s Patient Floor for an IV procedure. The Vecta distraction station is set up and running with its bright lights and water tube that bubbles with plastic fish swimming. The parent holds the patient in their lap, and with the distraction and medical preparation, we are successful! I give the patient a toy and provide emotional support to both the young patient and his mom. It’s easy to forget that these procedures can be stressful for the parents as well. 11:30 a.m. I finish rounding with staff to catch up on patients. In addition, I introduce myself to patients and put my contact number on the board in each room so the families know how to get a hold of me should they need anything. With support from volunteers, we distribute movies, games, and “All About Me” forms to patients and their families. These forms help us get to know our patients with things like their favorite foods and televisions shows. 12:45 p.m. I help with a lab draw in Children’s Specialty Care. A 3-year-old patient is very anxious about the “shot,” so I meet with the patient and parents to discuss coping techniques. The patient holds the Buzzy Bee and does well during the lab draw. The mom is relieved, and the patient is excited for a toy. The Buzzy Bee actually helps block the transmission of sharp pain on contact through icy numbing and also tingly vibration. 1 p.m. Joan, an artist with our Healing Arts Program, arrives on the Children’s Patient Floor to perform art therapy with patients. She helps two young patients who are interested in watercolor paintings. 1:15 p.m. Time for lunch and also a trip to Starbucks. 1:45 p.m. I finishing rounding and introducing myself and our services to the patients I have not met yet. 3 p.m. At this time, I meet with the parents of a newly diagnosed diabetic patient who is in intensive care. A new chronic diagnosis is always difficult, so I am there to provide emotional support. It’s instances like this that remind me every day why I love the work I do. 3:30 p.m. I meet with a new volunteer, discuss their role and also give the new volunteer a tour of the units. We are very thankful for all our volunteers on the floor, as their contributions help us provide a variety of basic services to a larger number of children. This also allows the Child Life Specialist to devote time to children who require more intense or specialized service. 4-5 p.m. I finish charting on patients and help two newly admitted families before I start to wrap up for the day. This evening we have a volunteer covering the times during shift change, which is helpful as it makes for a smooth transition for families during the meal time and change of shift. During this time, I write a note for this volunteer indicating the patients I want her to focus on. 5-5:30 p.m. Check in with critical patients and families before leaving for the day. All-in-all, it was a good day.

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The mornings are crisp and it’s about time to pull out those scarves and boots, so what does that mean? Football, baby! But not all kids are fans of fall sports. Elaina Lantrip, an advanced practitioner with Renown Pediatrics talks about how to keep kids active if they’re not in love with fall sports. Fall in northern Nevada means tailgates, Saturdays at the field, football fun and prep time for basketball season. But oddly enough, we parents aren’t in control of our kids’ likes and dislikes — shocking, we know. This means sometimes kids don’t like the fall sports we enjoy. So how do we keep them active even if they’re not a fan of football, basketball or any sport ending in “-ball”? We asked Elaina Lantrip, APRN for Renown Pediatrics, for some tips. Activities for Kids Who Don’t Like Fall Sports What are some reasons kids may not be interested in sports? Team sports are often the go-to option to get your children more active. But there can be a number of reasons your child may not be interested. First, many fall sports are open to preschoolers, but it’s not until age six or seven that most kids have the attention span, physical skills and can fully grasp the rules. If your child is nervous about their abilities, try practicing at home before quitting the sport. You may find your child becomes more interested as they become more confident in their skills. Other kids may find team sports too competitive and feel too much pressure to play perfectly for their coach and teammates. If possible, evaluate the coach and league before signing up to find out how competitive they are. Doing so ahead of time may help you find the right fit for your little one. What do you suggest to keep kids moving when they don’t like fall sports? Some kids just don’t enjoy sports or would prefer to do something on their own, and that’s fine too. Kids can still get the 60 minutes of exercise they need each day in other ways. Free play such as shooting baskets, riding bikes, playing tag or jumping rope can be good options or they may be interested in individual sports such as swimming, horseback riding, dance lessons, roller skating or skateboarding, hiking, golf, tennis, gymnastics, martial arts, yoga, running or cheerleading. All of these are good options because they keep your child active and moving, but may fit better with what they’re interested in and truly enjoy. How can you work with your child to find which activity is best for them? Finding the right fit can be a challenge. It’s important to be patient as it may take several tries at different sports or activities to find the right activity. Start by explaining to your child they need to take part in some activity. Work with your partner to create a list of options you both agree on and see what interests your child. Once your child makes their pick, make them stick with it through one season or a full set of lessons to ensure they get a complete idea of what’s involved. One game or one lesson isn’t enough to decide it is or isn’t for them. What are some easy ways to be active indoors? Even though staying indoors can be a bit of a bummer, there are plenty of options to help your kids and yourself stay active while enjoying some quality time together. You can plan a scavenger hunt, build a fort, set up hopscotch in the hallway, throw a dance party and make everyone freeze each time the music stops, create an indoor obstacle course, hula hoop or play tag in the living room. As your kids get older, playing video games that require movement and mimic sports or physical competitions are good options. Your kids may even join in on a workout DVD or you can have a friendly contest to see who can do the most pushups and sit ups in one minute. BestMEDICINE Kids Subscribe to BestMEDICINE Kids and receive a monthly email featuring educational and inspirational stories dedicated to kids health and wellness from pregnancy through childhood. Join Today!

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Hygiene in healthcare is an essential backbone to providing the safest, most optimal care to every patient. From everyday handwashing techniques and getting all necessary vaccinations to surveilling our health system before the onset of outbreaks, at Renown Health, creating and maintaining a low-infection environment is a group effort. From ensuring fundamental infection prevention practices are carried out to identifying process improvement opportunities, Renown’s Infection Prevention (IP) department is here to help care teams be successful in their role. This effort is led by members who are devoted in sharing evidence-based best practices to our patients, employees, healthcare organization partners and community. Making “Zero” A Reality Reducing healthcare-associated infections is possible when core infection prevention practices are incorporated into the daily care of our patients. These team members are dedicated to Renown’s commitment to creating a culture of Excellence, caring for our healthcare environment, and our care teams. “Often times, when asked what we do in our work it can be a challenge to answer because unpredictability is built into almost every day; and in that, we as a team must divide and conquer,” said Susanne James, Manager of Infection Prevention. Every day, each team member is assigned a day to perform required surveillance activities. Whether they are reviewing patients’ infections and isolation and evaluating lab orders for possible infectious processes or reporting communicable diseases to the local health authorities and the CDC, every Infection Preventionist participates in improvement projects and address issues as they arise. The Infection Prevention team plans, organizes, manages and evaluates the Infection Prevention Program and ensures IP policies reflect current best practice. They work closely with all departments at Renown in order to achieve high levels of standards that are implemented to reduce transmission of infection. “As a team, we perform ‘Infection Prevention Environment of Care Rounding’ on all units and departments to ensure our environment complies with regulatory requirements,” said Erika Clark, Operations Analyst at Renown Health. "We work together with Facilities and Site Practice Leaders to ensure a safe environment.” The pandemic challenged all Renown teams to find creative solutions for issues no one ever imagined. Our Infection Prevention department worked tirelessly alongside Renown's Hospital Incident Command Structure (HICS) and care teams in creating several lines of defense against COVID-19, including: Launching Renown's Alternate Care Site to meet the need for critical patients. Bringing on the new lab tests and specimen collection criteria. Managing demand for personal protective equipment (PPE). Bringing vaccines to staff and then to the community. Managing ill employees and our visitors. Keeping all locations informed on pandemic status and changes (which were occurring at breakneck speed). These initiatives enabled Renown's care teams to focus on providing the safest care possible to patients saving countless lives. This solidified the fact that together, the team can accomplish anything. “Infection Prevention is proud to be a valued and respected member of the care team,” said Susanne James. “We appreciate being a trusted resource and take this responsibility seriously as this enables us to provide staff the best possible tools to be successful.” Fight the Good Fight Against the Spread of Disease Educating patients and providers plays a huge part on the Infection Prevention stage. This team provides educational materials on a range of topics, some of the most important are, proper hand hygiene and the use of PPE. All these materials can be found throughout our health system and serve as an important reminder – infection prevention starts with all of us. “We partner with every aspect of the health system – environmental services, nutrition services, lab services, facilities, pharmacy, physical therapy and occupational therapy, respiratory care, patient access, security, nurses, providers and quality...just to name a few!” said Susanne James. Our Infection Prevention team also partners with Washoe County Health District and other public health agencies to report – and in turn, stop the spread of – diseases and exposures. These close partnerships poise our team to do what we do best: Fight the Good Fight. “I greatly appreciate everyone in the IP department for sharing their expertise as I learned a new position,” said Erika Clark. “I love working with my team and how closely we work with other departments to ensure excellence in all we do.” Our health system is ever-changing. But according to the experts in our Infection Prevention department, the three main ways to prevent illness and disease that remain the same time and time again are to: Clean your hands. Hand hygiene is the most effective way of preventing the spread of infections. The CDC recommends washing your hands with warm soap and water for 15-20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Clean your hands often and assist our patients to do the same. Learn expert hand-washing advice here. Get vaccinated. Immunizations are one of the top methods you can embrace the fight against preventable diseases, such as COVID-19, flu, measles, tetanus and more. Discover how you can get vaccinated with Renown. Keep germs from spreading. Practice good hygiene by covering your cough or sneeze or wearing a mask and sanitizing frequently touched spaces. Stay home if you feel ill to prevent the spread of illness and infection. Be sure to bring up any illness concerns with your primary care provider. “Every aspect of our health system has an infection prevention component, and we work daily to ensure our staff, patients and visitors are providing and receiving care free from potential harm or infections,” said Susanne James. “We are often the first call staff make when they have questions, concerns or just need someone to help improve process or outcomes.” Reveling with Renown Proudly defining themselves as a “small but mighty” team, the six-person Infection Prevention department moves mountains to ensure the safety of anyone who walks through Renown’s doors. The tight-knit nature of this team can be felt from miles away, and to them, being “small but mighty” is not a hindrance, as they have the support of the IP Champions and the entire health system.   “I originally came to Renown in 2018 as a nurse traveler, the facility and people I worked with immediately made an impact on me,” said Brian Stroud, Infection Preventionist at Renown Health. “My wife and I chose Renown and Reno due to the positive impact the people had on us. Everyone is welcoming, helpful and caring. Now, I am a full-time employee, and the team has made my transition into infection prevention trouble-free." Renown’s mission of providing a genuine difference for the health and wellbeing of the community is heightened and echoed by the Infection Prevention team. “I chose Renown because of the reputation Renown has earned in the community because of the excellent care and level of services provided,” said Shannon Oriola, Infection Preventionist at Renown Health. “I absolutely love this team and my Renown family!” “What brought me to Renown was the opportunity to acquire diverse skills which then motivated me to pursue my master’s degree,” added Paul DeLeon, Infection Preventionist at Renown Health. “What keeps me here is the people – Renown attracts hard working, ethical and caring people.” "My wife and I loved coming out to the Nevada mountains on vacations," added Russ Laarman, Infection Preventionist at Renown Health. "After being in Michigan for 47 years, we took the plunge and made NV our home. The experience has been great! I work with a great team that is very knowledgeable and works hard to ensure positive outcomes for our patients and colleagues at Renown.” Their pride shines through with their own individual accolades, both inside and outside of work. This past year: Shannon Oriola received a scholarship from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) for “improving outcomes through knowledge and practice,” which provided her with a $1,000 scholarship to attend the annual APIC conference in Indianapolis. Paul DeLeon earned his Certification in Infection Control and Prevention from APIC. Erika Clark completed Renown’s High Potential program, a six-month program that gives employees hands-on learning experience with several competencies, including emotional intelligence, effective communication, building successful relationships and organizational knowledge. Brian Stroud and his wife Charla became official Nevada residents. Russ Laarman scaled Mount Whitney. ...And the list keeps growing! Charged with the goal of keeping disease spread at bay, our Infection Prevention team remains vigilant and dedicated to their mission. Their commitment to Renown and to keeping our health system clean and healthy proves the age-old saying true: not all heroes wear capes. “I’m so very proud of the work Infection Prevention does every day, working with the vast teams throughout the health system to improve lives,” said Susanne James. “We would like to thank all of you for protecting the health and safety of your colleagues, our patients and the community.”

Read More About Department Spotlight: Infection Prevention

February is American Heart Month, but our incredible heart heroes are here to serve you all year long. So please join us in honoring the Cardiac Cath Lab team at Renown Health! At the core of who we all are, we find the heart: one of the largest sources of life that gives us the blood and oxygen we need to live full and healthy lives. When the heart doesn’t function to the best of its ability, a delicate approach led by cardiac experts might be necessary. These individuals can not only save lives but also help facilitate a higher quality of life.  The team entrusted to protect that vital source of life includes the hard-working and talented individuals in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab (a.k.a. “Cardiac Cath Lab” or “Cath Lab”) at Renown Health. These team members are known for their expertise, precision and quick-thinking in emergencies. When it comes to the function of your heart, you are in the best hands with this team. Their passion for Renown’s mission of making a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people they serve is a testament to what they do every day.  Cardiac Champions  Whether the procedure is emergent or planned, the Cardiac Cath Lab wears many different hats. The team is a well-coordinated group of nurses, imaging professionals, electrophysiology technologists, interventional technologists and more who band together to provide a diverse array of services, including stent placements, pacemakers, balloon pumps, interventional angioplasties, TAVRs and of course, catheters.  “A day in the life in the Cath Lab can go various ways,” said Erica Drummer, RN at Renown Health. “Every day, you are either a part of the electrophysiology team, doing cardiac ablations and placing devises such as pacemakers; the structural heart team, which includes MitraClips for mitral regurgitation and TAVRs; or the heart catheterization team, which includes diagnostic angiograms, heart catheterizations, angioplasties and stents for clogged arteries.”  With the wide variety of cases the team sees daily, an average day in the Cath Lab consists of many moving parts.  “We handle cases from left and right heart catheterizations, where we can diagnose and fix the artery right then, to electrophysiology cases like heart ablations and pacemaker implants, all the way to emergency STEMI (heart attack) patients,” said Michael Blankenship, Electrophysiology Technologist at Renown Health.  “We do so many things in the Cath Lab,” added Laurel Douglas, RN, Imaging Manager at Renown Health. “We ensure we have 24/7 coverage for emergencies, as we often have to act at a moment’s notice to care for emergent situations.”  Many of those emergency situations involve heart catheterization.  If someone has a heart attack, the team immediately steps in to place stents to open the coronary arteries that are causing the attack. If a patient’s heart needs any assistance during an emergency, the team can place devices such as Impella (temporary ventricular support) or intra-aortic balloon pumps. Renown is a major advocate for advanced medical technology, and the Cardiac Cath Lab team embraces these technologies to perform life-saving procedures, all while working together as a cohesive unit.  “We work amongst each other to ensure sterility, safety and the best outcome for each patient,” said Zohra Benbrahim, RN at Renown Health. “We try to fit in as many cases as possible into the workday, and sometimes after hours, so patients can get the care they need.”  “Each team usually has 3-4 members, and each member has a critical job to carry out in order to implement excellent cardiac care,” added Erica Drummer, RN. “Many of our patients tell us that we all work well together, and I couldn’t agree more. We have become like a well-oiled machine or a NASCAR pit crew.”  Naturally, patients undergoing any heart procedure might feel frightened and anxious. Never fear – the compassionate Cardiac Cath Lab team is here to ease those fears throughout each patient’s entire visit. Their main solution? Communication.  “Being a patient in the Cath Lab can be daunting,” said Erica Drummer, RN. “When we have patients who may feel scared or have concerns, we try our best to connect with them, keep them informed and educate them on the procedure and the step-by-step process, including what they may feel before, during and after.”  “Overall, we try to keep spirits light,” said Zohra Benbrahim, RN. “Our team is excellent at explaining the procedure as it is happening. We also advocate for comfort throughout the procedure, which helps tremendously with anxiety, including giving patients warm blankets and music of their choice!”  Our experts in the cardiac Cath Lab make sure that no stone goes unturned when it comes to optimal heart function for every patient. Together, the team mends hearts and saves lives, day in, day out.  A Growth Mindset  Always learning, always improving, always reaching new heights – that's the Cardiac Cath Lab team.  This team’s accomplishments speak for themselves on both a local and national scale.  “Over the years, we have achieved several milestones, including becoming a STEMI Receiving Center, gaining our Chest Pain Center Accreditation (which is achieved by Cath Labs who provide emergent percutaneous coronary intervention for heart attack patients 24/7) and having our accredited electrophysiology program,” said Laurel Douglas, RN. “We also offer services that other facilities do not offer. We have brought in several new procedures to the Cath Lab over the years. This is impactful, as the community members get to stay here for treatment.”  The Cath Lab team is anything but ordinary. There is never a dull moment in this department, and despite an ever-growing caseload, the team is always ready to rise to the challenge and continue pushing to surpass the average.  “I am so proud of my team for providing care for such sick patients,” said Zohra Benbrahim, RN. “We never really know how the day is going to go because emergencies happen, and things always change. Recently, we had a record high volume of cases, and my team powered through these busy weeks like champs.”  “We strive to get our STEMI door-to-balloon times at or below 60 minutes,” added Erica Drummer, RN. “Door-to-balloon time refers to the time from when a patient arrives in the ER to the time the Cath Lab has a catheter guide wire crossing the culprit lesion in the coronary artery that is causing the heart attack. The national average (and current guideline) is 90 minutes, so our 60-minute time is a notable accomplishment for us.”  The importance of staying on top of your heart health comes center stage during American Heart Month, which is a prime opportunity for our cardiology professionals to educate the community and help them grow their cardiac knowledge. The cardiac quality team participates in community events throughout the month (and beyond!) to raise awareness for cardiac health. The team also outreaches to other health systems and healthcare partners to highlight what Renown has to offer in the way of heart care. Each Cath Lab team member always reminds patients about lifestyle choices and diet changes that can improve cardiovascular health, and they take this outreach with them all around Renown Regional Medical Center as well, walking through the hallways promoting many different ways of living a heart-healthy life.  The journey continues! The team will soon welcome a new Cardiac Cath Lab at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. The new lab will allow our experts in heart care to treat patients at our South Meadows location experiencing a heart attack and needing immediate intervention to open vessels in their hearts. The team is looking forward to embracing even more access to emergent cardiac care for our community at large.   Learn more about how Renown is building more ways to care for our community.  Now Hiring for Heart Heroes  Those looking to join a caring, committed and tight-knit group of cardiac care professionals will be in good company with the Cath Lab team. According to the members of this department, being a quick-thinking, dependable team member is key to predicting a successful Cath Lab professional.  “A good coworker communicates with everyone and is able to be flexible when things get hectic,” said Zohra Benbrahim, RN. “Our team stays so close with each other because of everyone’s ability to recognize where help is needed. Especially in the Cath Lab, it is important to be always aware of the patient’s vitals and clinical presentation so you can speak up if you notice changes. There are always new procedures or products coming out that become integrated into our practices, so it’s also good to welcome new policies and be adaptive.”  “We are a small team, and everyone sees each other as a friend,” added Laurel Douglas, RN. “We all know we will need help at some point, whether it be covering an on-call shift or helping during a procedure, so we all help each other. Teamwork and positive attitude are really what makes you a good team member.”  Not only are these individuals dedicated to impacting the lives of patients with the very organ that beats life into them, but they also are devoted to Renown – and it shows.  “I started working for Renown when I was 19 years old, and Renown was the medical system I went to for care; as I spent more time working here and becoming a part of the community, I could not see myself working anywhere else or getting care at any other hospital,” said Zohra Benbrahim, RN. “I truly believe Renown provides the best care and best serves the growing community of northern Nevada.”  The Cath Lab team members agree that Renown is a great place to both start and continue your career. Many of them have taken advantage of Renown’s training and educational opportunities, which in turn have helped them expand their knowledge to better serve the community.  “I chose to work at Renown because it gave me the place to grow in my career and experience different avenues within my career,” said Michael Blankenship. “I first started off as a student here, and I quickly realized that everybody I worked with genuinely cares for our patients. I started off in x-ray seeing patients and eventually did rotations up in the operating room, and I got hired full time in the Cath Lab.  After a short time being here, I was crossed trained in the electrophysiology lab, where I furthered my knowledge in my career.”  This dynamic department is actively hiring, and many open positions are sign-on bonus eligible. The team cannot wait to welcome you to their, as Erica Drummer puts it, “well-oiled machine.”  “Being a Cath Lab nurse is very rewarding, especially when you’re able to be a part of a team that can save someone’s life,” Erica closes.

Read More About Department Spotlight Cardiac: Catheterization Lab

Heading into surgery of any kind can bring along feelings of intimidation. With a best-in-class surgery team at Renown Health, patients rest assured that they are in the most capable hands for their entire procedure from start to finish – and while the physical preparation is vital, mental and emotional preparation is equally as important to ensure each patient has a smooth and comfortable experience. The Surgical Preadmission department (a.k.a. “preadmit”) at Renown Regional Medical Center and Renown South Meadows Medical Center is a dynamic and compassionate group of nurses, case managers, chart managers and more who are dedicated to guiding each patient through the surgical process. With extensive knowledge and expertise under their belt, the teams are equipped to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of all patients, for all surgeries, at all times of the year. Surgery Starting Ground The Surgical Preadmission teams are crucial aspects in the successful outcome of every surgical procedure. Comprised of skilled healthcare professionals, this department is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and care before heading into the pre-operating room. “Our job is to prepare every patient for surgery, make sure all their pre-surgery testing is done, ensure they understand their fasting and medication instructions, have had their questions answered, have a ride home and know what to expect during surgery and after so their recovery can go smoothly and without complications,” said Debra Bennett, RN, Supervisor of Surgical Preadmission at Renown Regional. “Each patient is unique, so each experience is different.” Our preadmit nurses are the masters of communication, directing thorough assessments – including medications, tests and clearances – and addressing any questions or concerns patients may have, never missing the opportunity to inform them of exactly what they will expect in surgery. “I do a complete history on every patient while giving them detailed pre-operating instructions and helping them answer any questions to the best of my ability,” said Nancy Hilts, Surgical Preadmission RN at Renown Regional. “I am proud to be able to help allay their fears and concerns using my 30 years of pre-op experience. I offer an avenue for them to feel comfortable opening up to me.” “We always tell patients that they have great surgeons and a fantastic team that will be watching over them and taking care of them every step of the way,” added Jon Capallupo, Surgical Preadmission RN at Renown South Meadows. “We also give them plenty of educational handouts and video content, in addition to verbal instruction, to ensure they are as prepared as possible.” The nurses then pass the reigns onto the chart managers, who prepare the charts for surgery and ensure all documentation is up-to-date before sending them to the pre-operative team. The expert surgical case managers also step in to prepare a thorough discharge plan, along with reviewing pre-operation orders for status, consent, codes and more. The team does several of these initial visits virtually, and they are looking forward to soon phasing all preadmit case manager preliminary visits into a virtual model. From assisting the pre-op and post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) teams with discharge planning concerns to helping on the outpatient side with anything from oxygen equipment and catheters to transportation issues and those experiencing homelessness, our pre-admit case managers are always up to the challenge. "We are true patient advocates, alleviating concerns and fears along the way,” said Mary Carl, RN, Case Manager at Renown Regional. “Just to name a few things we do on a daily basis, we see our total joint and non-weight bearing patients during their preadmission appointment, so they are aware of the medical equipment they need and if it is covered by insurance; provide education for Aspira catheters and gastrostomy tubes; advocate to ensure tube feeding and dressing changes are set up for hospice and home health patients; and escalate concerns of patient safety to ensure a safe discharge.” In the midst of it all, there is never a dull moment in the preadmit teams. At Renown Regional alone, the preadmit professionals see more than 1,600 patients a month – and each one has a hyper-personalized experience with their very own preadmit team. “Many times, we are the first impression a patient has on our organization; after all, we touch more than 97 percent of patients that are scheduled for surgery, cardiac catheterization lab procedures or interventional radiology,” said Amy Schler, Surgical Preadmission RN at Renown Regional. “We also collaborate with many other departments in the hospital as well, from surgeons and anesthesiologists to case managers and nurse navigators. Our work in preadmit impacts the entire surgical process.” Holding a diverse array of experiences, our preadmit department plays an integral role in our commitment to providing the highest quality of care to every patient. Knowledge is Power Heading into surgery feeling fearful and worried is normal for any patient. However, how would you feel knowing that each individual member on your preadmit team has, on average, 23-25 years of experience in the field? This is the reality for our Surgical Preadmission department – and they put that vast knowledge to great use to bring a sense of calm to patients. “Our team members have worked in various departments within our organization, and they bring a wealth of knowledge that we share with each other, and most importantly, with our patients,” said Amy Schler, RN. “If you have hundreds of years of nursing experience, you can speak not only as a nurse but also as a patient. It allows you to give a more personal perspective on what patients can expect in their recovery. Being able to assess their emotions and provide feedback to our pre-op and PACU teams help the patient have a better experience.” “Many of our nurses have close to 40 years of experience each, and they have an extremely large knowledge base since we see patients from newborn to geriatric and from easy procedures to complex surgeries,” added Debra Bennett, RN. “Another great aspect of our team is the varied nursing backgrounds we all hold – surgery, pre- and post-op, labor and delivery, pediatric intensive care, cardiology, gastroenterology, urology, cardiac cath lab, home health and everything in between. Communication between departments is so important!” All members in this department, regardless of which clinical area they came from, surgical or non-surgical, can easily translate their skills into the work they do in preadmit – and they only continue to grow. “As a surgical preadmission nurse, I have used my years of experience as a nurse in surgical services,” said Terri Delatorre, Surgical Preadmission RN at Renown Regional. “I started as a floor nurse with orthopedics for 12 years, and then I worked with the PACU for 11 years. This has helped me give great understanding and care to our surgical patients.” “Because we have staff with such a vast knowledge base, we can rely on our years of working within our organization to help alleviate fears that the patient may have,” added Amy Schler, RN. We can prepare them for what to expect in pre-op and PACU and educate them on what to expect post-op, including any barriers they may face. For example, mastectomy patients may not realize they will not be able to raise their arms for 7-10 days post-op, and total knee patients have to navigate stairs and housing access. Helping patients think about barriers at home that they may not have thought about helps them prepare prior to surgery, enhances their healing and provides a better surgical experience.” The preadmit team works closely with our best-in-class surgeons and anesthesiologists, continuing to grow their expertise along the way while learning alongside our talented providers. For instance, when it comes to our Renown South Meadows preadmit department, anesthesiologist Nariman Rahimzadeh, MD provides excellent guidance for the entire team on state-of-the-art anesthesiology practices. “I am very proud of the work we do with Dr. Rahimzadeh,” said Lisa Closson, Surgical Preadmission RN at Renown South Meadows. “Together, we ensure patients are safe for both surgery and anesthesia.” Despite the challenges that come their way – whether it be changes to process and workflow to navigating support for patients after they leave the surgery floor – the preadmit team cleverly uses their collective wealth of knowledge to bring hope and comfort to all patients. “Our nurses are such warm, caring and compassionate humans that do their best to ease any fears and anxieties patients may have,” said Debra Bennett, RN. The Pride of Preadmission The pride of our preadmit team lies in their ability to make a positive impact on all patients they serve. To them, their work is not just a job – it's a calling. And they do it all while working together to elevate their team and performance. “Our team is most proud of the quality of care we provide to our patients and our abilities to troubleshoot difficult situations to ensure they have a great surgical experience here at Renown,” said Mary Carl, RN. The entire department supports each other by working collaboratively and relying on each other’s expertise to provide the best possible care for patients. They understand that their success as a team depends on their abilities to support and help each other. “Our team is awesome here at South Meadows,” said Jon Capallupo, RN. “We can turn to each other for support, and we all work very well with each other. I am glad to be a part of this team.” “I am proud of how well all of us in preadmit works with each other every day,” added Lisa Closson, RN. “We try to make patients feel comfortable from the moment they arrive to the time they leave the department.” The pride that our preadmit team expends goes beyond their departmental limits – these team members are also trusted teachers. They work closely with cancer nurse navigators to teach weekly classes for patients who have been newly diagnosed with breast cancer, coupled with lymphedema prevention and education classes. The team also encourages participation in Renown’s free smoking cessation programs to help their patients learn the risks and benefits of quitting smoking. When not serving patients or teaching classes, you can find many of these team members taking charge of multidisciplinary committees within our health system, including breast leadership, gastroenterology leadership, shared governance, infection control and recruitment and retention. On top of it all, this team certainly knows how to celebrate, with several of their members being a part of their own department-wide Celebration Committee, where they gather for retirement parties, baby showers and team get-togethers. Always active and never passing up a challenge, our preadmit department are shining examples of Renown’s Culture Commitments, especially Caring and Collaboration, and the pride in the vital work they do every day is limitless. “I am so happy my position in preadmit opened up for me at a time when I was really feeling challenged in my career,” said Nancy Hilts, RN. “The team that we have here is amazing. I am so grateful and thankful every day for the opportunity. It is an amazing place to work!”

Read More About Department Spotlight: Surgical Preadmission

In August 2016, six-year-old Jakob was admitted to Renown Children's Hospital with what seemed like a common ear infection. Jakob's condition quickly progressed, and he started experiencing neurological symptoms such as difficulty speaking and a full-body shutdown. Doctors, neurologists and specialists from Renown worked with doctors from Stanford, where he was ultimately diagnosed with Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (BBE). BBE is a rare, autoimmune response that attacks the nerves in the body due to an acute illness such as a cold, flu or, in Jakob's case, an ear infection. Jakob could not breathe or eat and experienced paralysis on the side of his face, throat, stomach, bowels, lungs and legs. In addition, he started to rapidly lose weight as well as body function. Jakob lost half his body weight which resulted in the need for a Gastrostomy tube. This device is placed surgically and gives direct access to the stomach to give the child the nutrition needed. He also needed occupational therapy, and after three and a half months of ICU respiratory therapy, surgeries and treatments, he was released home to regain his strength. Forever Grateful Anica, Jakob's mom, said, "If it were not for the quick response and unconditional support and compassion from the team at Renown, Jakob would not be here today." Jakob's family is forever grateful to the staff, community and expertise at Renown for their unwavering commitment to their son and family during their most trying time in life. "When I met Jakob on the first day of his illness, so much was unknown. My team and I were worried, as his symptoms were very unusual. His rapid deterioration, after being a perfectly healthy child, was clearly terrifying for his parents. Handing over a child's care to a team of strangers is one of the scariest things that can happen to parents,” said Dr. Kris Deeter, Physician in Chief at Renown Children’s Hospital. “However, Anica and Jeremiah were also very clear that they did not want Jakob transferred somewhere else. So, we used all our resources to care for him, arrive at a diagnosis, and start aggressive therapies. They listened to every word we said, educated themselves, and became partners in Jakob's care. We all became part of Team Jakob, and soon, he proved to us just how strong he was." Today, Jakob is 13 years old and thriving in every aspect of his life. He is currently on the honor roll in school and finds joy in his newfound passion for the violin. He loves spending his free time learning about mixing music, making new friends and traveling to different parts of the country. This summer, he will travel to Europe to explore his passion for culture. The family says, "We owe it all to the family and staff at Renown."

Read More About Jakob’s Journey at Renown Children’s Hospital