11.11.11 Family welcomes a little girl with a special birthday Posted on November 11, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeNathan Littauer Welcomes 11/11/11 baby!Family welcomes a little girl with a special birthdayNovember 11, 2011…It will be a unique identity for little Jazlyn Castrello whose birthday is now 11/11/11. Jennifer Castrello gave birth to the little girl at Nathan Littauer Hospital’s Birthing Center at 3:14 am this morning. This afternoon, baby, mother and father, Julio Castrello, all from Amsterdam were resting comfortably. Jazlyn is 8 pounds 7 ounces, twenty one inches long and aside from having a lucky birthday she is after all, simply beautiful.Besides being born on Veterans Day, today is a rare numerical phenomenon, 11/11/11. “Some call this the luckiest date of the century as it is the only date with identical digits and only occurs every 100 years.” stated Susan Kiernan, Hospital Vice President of Development. 11/11/11 is the ultimate palindrome date- meaning it reads the same forward as it reads backwards. She added, “We are very happy for this family. Everyone is doing very well”. Sue Kiernan concludes, “In all, we may have four 111111 babies as we are very busy in our birthing center today.”
Nathan Littauer offers comments regarding the current negotiations with NYSNA Posted on November 4, 2011 by Dakota PikeGloversville, NY…Last night, Nathan Littauer Hospital was served a letter outlining the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) notice of their intent to strike at 6:45 a.m. Monday, November 14, 2011. The hospital management states that if the nurses do strike, patient care will continue with minimal interruption. “Our focus remains supporting our community with excellent health care.” stated Nathan Littauer’s Hospital President and CEO Laurence E. Kelly. He added, “Caring for our patients is our highest priority, and this issue will not change that.”“For months, the hospital has had a contingency plan in place and we have already started to act on that plan.” stated Ginger Mulligan Vice President of Nursing at the hospital. “If need be, we will supplement our staff with a staffing agency, one which provides a very high level of care.” She concluded, “Our patients will be well cared for and can be confident they will receive safe, courteous and compassionate care.”Nathan Littauer Hospital has responded to the current contract negotiations with New York State Nurses Association. The letter is printed below in its entirety: ***************************************A LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY:For months, Nathan Littauer Hospital has remained silent about the current negotiations with the union, New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), which represents our Registered Nurses. The time has come to speak plainly to our community. The nurses’ union at Nathan Littauer Hospital says they want a fair and reasonable contract. Everyone has their own opinion on what fair and reasonable is. The hospital Board of Directors and Administration believe we are offering a fair and reasonable contract. The current contract for registered nurses at Nathan Littauer Hospital provides: The starting base salary of new graduate nurse is $51,064.At 10 years of experience the base salary is $72,134.The top-of-the range base salary is $75,462.RNs are given additional salary over and above their base salary for working evening/nights/weekends or having additional training as follows:Evening shift ………………………………. + $7,800 per yearNight shift …………………………………. +$9,800 per yearWeekend shift ………………………….. + $3.00 per hourBachelor’s degree …………………….. + $1.00 per hourBe a preceptor to a new nurse …… + $1.50 per hourPerfect attendance for a year ……. + 2 additional days of payOvertime ………………………………….. + 1 ½ times regular payThe average salary/income in 2010 of a full-time RN at Nathan Littauer Hospital with 10 years of experience was $90,000. The hospital is proud to provide the salaries/wages as shown above. They are competitive with every hospital in Albany, Schenectady and beyond. Our nurses work hard, and they deserve to be paid on a par with RNs in the Capital Region.Additionally, RNs are given: 2 weeks of vacation, 1 personal day and 8 holidays per year when they begin employment.At 1 year of employment their personal days are increased to 4.At 3 years of employment they are given 3 weeks of vacation plus the personal days and holidays.At 8 years of employment they are given 16 vacation days plus the personal days and holidays.At 12 years they are given 18 vacation days plus personal days and holidays.At 14 years they are given 19 vacation days plus personal days and holidays.At 15 years they are given 20 vacation days plus the personal days and holidays.At 20 years they are given 25 vacation days plus the personal days and holidays. Additionally, RNs are given:12 paid sick days per year to start and 18 paid sick days at 10 years of employment. Additionally, RNs are given: 100% paid single health insurance coverage by MVP or Blue Shield4% pension contribution by hospitalLife InsuranceTuition reimbursement The hospital has offered a three-year contract with salary/wage increases of 1.75%, 1.0% and 1.0%. The nurses’ union does not think that is fair and reasonable. The hospital believes the 18 paid sick days per year that 10-year nurses receive is not fair and should be reduced to the 12 days that other employees receive. We know of no hospital in New York state that gives nurses 18 sick days per year. The union disagrees and thinks that 18 sick days per year is fair and reasonable. What do you think is fair and reasonable?The hospital exists to provide health care to our community. We have been impacted by the struggling state and national economy like almost everyone. The state reduced our revenue through Medicaid cuts this year by $500,000 and the federal government reduced our revenue through Medicare cuts this year by $250,000. When people in our area lose their jobs and their health insurance, we are affected too. We provided over $1.4 million of charity care so far this year compared to less than half that just 2 years ago. We are proud to be able to provide that charity care, but it shows that we have to be prudent with every dollar we commit in any future contract, knowing more reimbursement cuts and losses of health insurance are on the horizon.We understand that NYSNA works hard to represent their members. In our experience, NYSNA never wants to lose a benefit and always expects higher salaries/wages each year. We believe the contract we have proposed is very generous, competitive with other hospitals and is more than fair and reasonable. The union does not agree.The nurses’ union has also said that the focus of their negotiations is to maintain the quality of care and to recruit and retain quality nurses. The fact is that there is no nursing shortage at Nathan Littauer. For years we have filled any vacancies very quickly. We have scores of nurses who have worked at NLH for decades. For the union to say that we need to pay our nurses more than we have offered and provide 18 paid sick days in order to recruit and retain staff to maintain quality of care is just not true.Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home hopes to have a new contract with our Registered Nurses. Whether we do or do not will not affect our services or the care that we provide to our patients. Quality care is and will always be our mission and our commitment to our community.XXX
Littauer offers advice to keep people in the trees Posted on November 3, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeDoctor offers deer hunters some safety tipsGloversville, NY — With deer hunting season in full swing, Dr. Todd Duthaler, Chief of Emergency Medicine at Nathan Littauer Hospital, would like to remind hunters about the dangers of tree stands. The tree stand is a popular piece of hunting equipment, one which affords the hunter a good vantage point. But that same piece of equipment can be dangerous used recklessly or carelessly.Dr. Todd DuthalerNationally, one in three hunting injuries involves a tree stand. Dr. Duthaler states that he has witnessed the results of tree stand falls in his emergency department. “They usually result in broken bones.” stated the Doctor. He added, “Most concerning though, is that most tree stand falls involve people who are alone and far from help.”The Center for Disease Control found that the average stand was placed 16 feet above the ground. That height can cause serious injury if a hunter was to fall. The Doctor explains that although he does not know the exact number, he has witnessed “many tree stand injuries during past hunting seasons”. The Doctor states that his single most important tip is to wear a safety harness while hunting in a tree stand. Although, wearing a harness is not enough. He explains, “I prefer a full-body harness that supports a person’s weight by the torso and legs. More importantly, keep your tether short to prevent long falls. If a tethered person does fall, help them by allowing them to right themselves using the tree stand, refraining from releasing them or cutting the tether.”According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, “Serious injuries and deaths from tree stand falls are increasingly common.” They offer the following safety tip, “Don’t go too high. Remember that the higher you go, the smaller the vital zone on a deer becomes. And the likelihood of a serious injury escalates if you fall from high up. Usually, 15 to 20 feet is high enough.”Doctor Duthaler also likes the safety tips the Department of Natural Resources, out of Maryland uses. To help prevent tree stand accidents, they offer the following safety precautions:Never carry equipment with you while climbing. Use a haul line to raise or lower your gear. Make sure guns are unloaded and broadheads are covered prior to raising or lowering firearms or bows with a haul line.Since most accidents occur when hunters are climbing up or down a tree, always use a climbing belt. Always use a safety belt or harness when hunting from elevated tree stands. Study manufacturer’s recommendations before using any equipment. Never use a rope to replace a safety belt.Check permanent tree stands every year before hunting from them, and replace any worn or weak lumber.Read, understand and follow the factory recommended practices and procedures when installing commercial stands. Inspect portable stands for loose nuts and bolts each time they are used.Choose only healthy, living trees when using climbing devices. Rough-barked trees such as oak are best. Do not use a tree that is rotten or has dead limbs.Never put all your weight on a single branch. Keep at least one hand and one foot on a secure place when reaching for the next hold.Climb higher than the stand and step down onto it. Climbing up onto it can dislodge it.Wear boots with non-skid soles, because steps or platforms can be slippery in rain, sleet or snow.Tell a dependable person where you’re hunting and when you plan on returning. Map your whereabouts and leave a note at camp, at home or in your car so that you can be found.Don’t fall asleep. This is a common cause of accidents. If you get drowsy, move your arms rapidly until you feel alert.Never wear a ring in any climbing situation. Rings can catch on tree limbs and equipment.As a precautionary measure, remove all logs, upturned and cutoff saplings, rocks and other obstructions on the ground below the tree stand.Use updated equipment. When used properly, newer tree stand equipment is solid, safe and secure. Older models of safety belts offer some protection, but newer safety harnesses offer more protection.Carry a whistle to call for help and carry a first aid kit, flashlight and cellular telephone in a fanny pack.References: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/nrp/education/ts.html
New Balloon Kyphoplasty Procedure Dr. Shen Performs at Nathan Littauer Provides Significant Improvement in Quality of Life to Patients Suffering from Spinal Pain Posted on October 5, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeDr. Shen is pictured as he performs one of the area’s first KyphoplastysDr. Shen from Nathan Littauer Hospital announced today that he is offering Balloon Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive treatment option for patients suffering from spinal fractures due to osteoporosis. Balloon Kyphoplasty is designed to treat the spinal pain and deformity associated with vertebrae fractures that occur from osteoporosis or cancer. The new technique significantly reduces back pain and improves a patient’s ability to return to daily activities. His first two Kyphoplasty surgeries at Nathan Littauer were deemed a success. “Both my patients are reporting a substantial improvement in their pain” said Dr. Shen.“The surgery is new to the Fulton-Montgomery county areas and only a handful of surgeons in the Capital Region currently perform kyphoplasty.” said Hospital spokesperson Cheryl McGrattan. One factor contributing to spinal pain is Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes the bones of the spine to weaken and often collapse, resulting in spinal fractures. Traditional treatment for spinal fractures includes bed rest, medication and back bracing. While these therapies may help to decrease a patient’s pain over time, they do not treat the deformity related to the osteoporotic fractures.Balloon Kyphoplasty is designed to repair vertebral compression fractures and restore the vertebrae to the correct position, reducing back pain, reducing the number of days in bed, significantly improving mobility and increasing overall quality of life. The procedure generally takes less than one hour per fracture and has been performed under both local and general anesthesia. In most cases, Medicare provides coverage for Balloon Kyphoplasty. Other insurance companies may also provide coverage.Dr. Shen preps for the surgeryDr. Shen says, “I am pleased to bring this surgery to our region.” He added, “Of all the surgeries I perform, this technique is especially rewarding because it can reduce pain significantly and in a short period of time. The surgeon concluded, “I enjoying seeing the patient return to a better quality of life after this procedure.”Osteoporosis-Related Spinal Fractures: More Frequent Than Hip FracturesIn the U.S., according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, each year 700,000 patients suffer from spinal fractures due to osteoporosis. Unfortunately, over 400,000 of these fractures go undiagnosed and untreated due in part to lack of awareness about osteoporosis and available treatment options.The consequences of untreated fractures can be devastating. Once a patient suffers one vertebral compression fracture, the risk of suffering a second fracture increases five-fold. Left unattended, many fractures can result in an exaggerated rounded curvature of the spine, called kyphosis or dowager’s hump. This condition is painful and debilitating — making walking, eating, sleeping, and even breathing painful and difficult. Long-term, this condition could be fatal. Diagnosing such fractures is the first step toward providing patients who have been impacted by this devastating disease state with hope for treatment.The statistics are staggering — one in two women and one in four men age 50 and older in the United States will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime, with bone loss potentially beginning in women as early as age 25. This figure is projected to double in the next 50 years due to the increase in aging population and lifestyle factors, according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation. The current incidence rate has caused the World Health Organization to cite osteoporosis as second only to cardiovascular disease as a leading international healthcare problem. For more information about osteoporosis and spinal fractures, please visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation web site at www.nof.org.Although the complication rate with Balloon Kyphoplasty has been demonstrated to be low, as with most surgical procedures, there are risks associated with Balloon Kyphoplasty, including serious complications. Patients should consult with their doctor for a full discussion of the risks.The surgical team at Littauer gets ready for the procedureFor consultation:For a consultation concerning treatment options for a spinal fracture, please contact Dr. Shen at the New Johnstown Surgery Center at 773-4242.Public Forum Offered:For people who are interested in learning more about Dr. Shen and his surgical solutions, Nathan Littauer is offering a FREE seminar: “Reducing Spine Pain” October 18, 2011 at 6:30pm at The Johnstown Holiday Inn. “It is an evening with Dr. Shen and a rare opportunity to hear first-hand the myriad of solutions this phenomenal surgeon brings to our region” said Hospital Spokesperson Cheryl McGrattan. Patients will learn about break-through surgeries and be given the opportunity to ask questions. A dessert buffet will be provided.
Clinic Offered to Children to Avoid Backpack Injury Posted on August 30, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeLittauer Brings Medical Professionals to the YMCA to Teach Back to School Safety: Avoiding Backpack InjuryLittauer hosts backpack safety clinic for back to school season.During this back to school season, Nathan Littauer Hospital is hoping parents consider the safety of their children’s spine as they pack up their child’s backpack.Injuries due to overstuffed backpacks are on the rise. While backpacks are practical, there are many safety tips that should be followed to ensure optimal safety. Did you know:According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons nearly 30,000 Americans were treated for injuries stemming from improper backpack use in 2010. The most common complaints included joint dislocations, strains, sprains and bone fractures. Approximately ½ of all American school children carry too much weight in their backpack. Between 30-50% of adolescents complain of pain directly related to the use of backpacks. Therefore, Nathan Littauer Hospital and the Fulton County YMCA are partnering to teach backpack safety. The free backpack safety clinic is designed for children and/or parents. It is a drop in event and no appointment is needed. Dr. Jian Shen an Orthopedic Surgeon at Nathan Littauer and Bill Oates a Physical Therapist also from Littauer will be on hand to teach backpack safety. They will calculate the correct amount a child should carry and teach exercises to strengthen core muscles. Each participant will bring home some safety tips and a personalized card.Participants can also:• Ask questions about spine health for any family member.WHO:Nathan Littauer Hospital and the Fulton County YMCA.WHAT:A FREE Back to School Backpack Safety Clinic. Drop-in, group instruction at 30 minute intervals.WHEN:Wednesday August 31, 2011 at 04-6pm Eastern Time (US & Canada)WHERE:213 Harrison Street Johnstown, New York 12095 CONTACT: Cheryl McGrattan 332-2505.Dr. Shen will lead the Backpack Safety Clinic at the YMCA• Adults can weigh their handbag, backpack, briefcase, computer bag, etc.• Ask questions about scoliosis
Nathan Littauer Hospital first in area to offer noninvasive screening techniques for chromosomal disorders Posted on August 22, 2011August 16, 2012 by Dakota PikeDuring first trimester of pregnancy Nuchal Translucency combined with maternal blood testing identifies markers for Down syndrome.Gloversville, NY — The Diagnostic Imaging Center and the Ultrasound Department at Nathan Littauer Hospital has added a new noninvasive genetic screening technique to its out-patient prenatal testing program for pregnant women.Dr. McBiles reviews a file with Kaylee Palmer, as they now offer Nuchal testing“Nuchal translucency” is a test performed by high-resolution ultrasound early in the first trimester to identify risk factors for Down syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects one in every 733 babies in the United States. “This competency really distinguishes us as a resource to expectant mothers and practitioners in our region” stated Dr. Mike McBiles, Chief of Radiology at Littauer. He added, “Our technologist, Kaylee Palmer who relocated here from Boulder Colorado, studied with the pioneer of prenatal testing, Dr. John C. Hobbins.” Dr. McBiles explained, “Mrs. Palmer was part of the original trial when the technology was first in use. Her expertise makes her an invaluable asset to this area.” He quipped, “It is a bit like having Colonel Sanders cook your chicken in your kitchen.”Nuchal translucency is a first-trimester risk assessment available at Nathan Littauer Hospital measuring the neck of fetuses between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation. The noninvasive ultrasound procedure can identify genetic abnormalities such as Down syndrome in combination with maternal blood testing. Nuchal translucency measures the amount of fluid behind the neck of the fetus, in an area known as the nuchal fold or nuchal translucency. It is believed that the higher the amount of soft tissue around the neck, the higher the risk for Down syndrome. These tests also screen for two less-common genetic disorders, trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) and trisomy 18. “We are credentialed, we have completed our tests and we are now testing mothers.” said Barbara Tambasco, Ultrasound Department Manager for Nathan Littauer.Nathan Littauer Hospital is the first center in the Fulton, Montgomery area to offer the screening techniques “The combination of the nuchal measurement and blood test gives us about a 91% accuracy rate.” stated Dr. McBiles. Dr. McBiles and Dr. Saqib are now credentialed radiologists for the test. In addition, two sonographers at Nathan Littauer Hospital are in the process of earning their certification from the Nuchal Translucency Quality Review Program of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Foundation. This national education and quality review program was created to ensure the highest levels of accuracy and quality in first-trimester Down syndrome screening.In 2007 the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommended routine Down syndrome screening and genetic counseling for all pregnant women, regardless of age, before the 20th week of pregnancy. Babies with Down syndrome are born with an extra copy of chromosome number 21, which causes mild to severe delays in physical, cognitive, and language development, as well as health problems such as congenital heart defects, thyroid disease, and digestive disorders. The risk of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. The risk is one in 365 babies at age 35, one in 100 at age 40, and one in 30 at age 45.“This test is non-invasive, quick and gives the family vital information.” explained Kaylee Palmer, adding, “Women in this area should be very relieved they do not have to travel to major metropolitan areas to get this test.” Kaylee Palmer has performed thousands of the tests throughout her career. She states, “My goal is to have every patient leave happier than when they came in.” She concluded, “I really enjoy my patients.”xxx
