What a Level III NICU Means to You

Calendar June 18, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

If your infant needs special care, you'll be glad you chose a medical center with a level III NICU.

Every parent hopes for a healthy baby, but, unfortunately, some infants are born with an immediate need for special medical care. Not every hospital can meet this need – that's why it's important to select a facility that also hosts a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).  NICUs are categorized into three different levels, with the highest being a level III. Here's what you can expect from level III care.

  • They're equipped to care for the smallest premature infants. Level III NICUs have the technology required to care infants born at 28 weeks, or even younger.
  • They're willing to take on the sickest infants. It can be scary to be told your baby has something wrong with his heart, brain, or other vital organ. In a level III NICU, you have the reassurance that he is under the care of expert physicians with specialty training and the latest technologies.
  • Mechanical ventilation is available for babies who need it. If your baby is struggling to breathe on his own, mechanical ventilation in a level III NICU is available until a treatment is found.
  • They're prepared to preform surgeries. Not just any doctor can perform a surgery on a sick newborn or premature infant. In a level III NICU, experienced pediatric surgeons are on staff and ready to perform with the highest quality.
  • Your baby won't need to be transferred anywhere. In a facility with lower-level NICU, or no NICU at all, your baby will need to be transferred to a new medical center if serious problems arise. Although safety is always the primary concern, transfers always carry some risk.

Giving birth in a medical center with a level III NICU can ease some of your worries during this highly emotional time. You know that no matter what happens, your baby will receive the best care with us. Learn more about the Maternity and New Born Care services we offer by giving us a call at (305) 227-5590.

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Health Screenings Men Shouldn’t Miss

Calendar June 13, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

Men, these health screenings could save your life!

Stay on top of any potential health concerns when you make screenings a priority. Don't write them off or push them to a later date! The more you know about your body, the better you can care for it. Men, talk to your doctor about these top recommended screenings.

Screenings for Your Heart
Heart disease is the number one killer among American men. Do you have a plan to keep yourself at a low risk level? One way to get a clear picture of your heart health is to undergo regular blood pressure and cholesterol tests. These numbers will let you know if you are entering a danger zone. The US Family Health Plan also recommends a one-time abdominal aortic aneurysm screening for elderly male patients who smoke currently, or who have smoked in the past.

Cancer Screenings
At age 50, men should start scheduling regular screenings for colorectal cancer. With today's new technologies, there are many approaches to choose from, and men with few risk factors can usually select a noninvasive procedure.

Talk with your doctor about his recommendations for prostate cancer screening. This test is usually only performed on men with a high risk, such as a family history, or who are already exhibiting symptoms.

Diabetes Screenings
Unmanaged diabetes can lead to serious health risks. Men should begin screenings at age 18, and repeat the procedure at least every three years.

Catch up on your recommended health screenings when you call our free Consult-a-Nurse® service at 1-888-256-7719. We can provide physician referrals, make your appointment, and answer any of your questions.

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When Is a Sunburn Dangerous?

Calendar June 6, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

Stop-sign red after a day at the beach? Find out how serious that sunburn is.

For too many people, sunburns are a regular occurrence. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 42 percent of people report getting sunburned at least once a year, every year. While sunburns may create a little discomfort, a common myth is that they aren't that big of a deal. You put up with them for a couple of days and then they fade away, possibly leaving some peeling skin or maybe even a tan.

In reality, every sunburn increases your risk of sun cancer, and even one serious sunburn can double your chances of melanoma. Is your sunburn that dangerous? Look for these signs of a second-degree burn or sun poisoning.

  • Severe pain – If you are hurting even when the affected skin is left untouched, you are experiencing a serious burn.
  • Blisters – The most extreme sunburns often result in blistered skin.
  • Swelling – A second-degree burn may cause the skin to become puffy and swollen.
  • Fever – Taking your temperature could help you decipher the severity of your burn.
  • Nausea or Vomiting – Intense burns could result in uncomfortable digestive problems.
  • Infection – Burned skin that isn't carefully treated could result in an infection that requires professional care.
  • Dehydration – Another side effect of a serious burn is dehydration. If you are suffering from a painful sunburn and you experience dizziness, weakness, or confusion, you need to see a doctor.

At Kendall Regional's Burn Clinic, our staff works hard to provide a safe and comfortable recovery from serious burns. Give us a call at 305-480-6690 for more information.

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5 Steps to Take Now to Get Ready for Hurricane Season

Calendar May 30, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

Hurricane season officially begins in two days! Are you prepared?

One of the advantages you have over hurricanes is that you know when they're coming – but even the few days' warning you're given may not be enough to suitably protect your family. Start getting ready now, before any storms develop on the radar. These five steps will get you prepared before everyone else starts rushing to the store and making hasty evacuation arrangements.

  1. Stock up your disaster kit. According to FEMA, this should include nonperishable foods, plenty of water for each member of your family, flashlights, batteries, a weather radio, rope, boards, blankets, a first aid kit, and emergency cash.
  2. Create a communication plan with your family. Unfortunately, families can get split up during an emergency. Figure out how you'll reconnect when everything settles down. Is there a relative or family friend everyone can call? Make sure everyone knows that phone number by heart.
  3. Determine at least two evacuation routes. Knowing where you will go and where you can stay will relieve a lot of stress during an evacuation. Have your route planned and the maps ready in your car. A back-up plan is necessary in case roads are closed. The National Hurricane Center reminds you not to forget your pets! Are they welcome at your destination? Do you have alternate plans for them?
  4. Fill up your tank. Do it today – and don't let it fall below the half-full mark during hurricane season. You don't want to have to stop for gas during an evacuation. If the stations aren't already closed, there will be long delays, high prices, and possible shortages.
  5. Keep a close eye on the weather. Whether you're getting your information from the internet, newspaper, or television, you need to know when a potential storm is approaching. Be vigilant!

Need more advice about preparing for extreme weather or emergency situations? Our free Consult-a-Nurse® service is always available. Give us a call at 1-888-256-7719.

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Advantages of a Pediatric ER

Calendar May 23, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

In an emergency, we've prepared a safe place for your children.

While a typical emergency room will always take kids as patients, most children will greatly benefit from an environment set up specifically for them. At Kendall Regional, we have just the place. Here are a few reasons you should keep our Pediatric ER in mind when you need immediate medical attention for the little ones in your family.

Everyone on staff is specially trained to work with children. That means you won't have to worry about gruff nurses or staff making your child feel uneasy. You can trust that we'll make your kids feel safe while providing the best care possible.

We know everything is an emergency. When it comes to your kids, every fever or stomach ache is urgent. In a pediatric ER, the staff understands this. Although we still take patients in order of need, you can expect shorter waits and less judgments about your worries.

Your child will feel at home in our environment. Pediatric departments are decorated, furnished, and stocked with the child in mind. The bright colors, playrooms, and fun themes won't remind you or your child of a uncomfortable, cold hospital.

Our pediatric ER creates a comfortable environment where children will feel welcome and safe as our staff is specially trained for their care. You can trust your family with us! Contact our Pediatric ER by calling (305) 229-2413 or check our ER wait times online.

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Are Men At Risk of Osteoporosis?

Calendar May 16, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

Nobody is immune to osteoporosis! Don't write this condition off as a "woman's disease."

Women may have higher rates of osteoporosis, but men are not guaranteed strong bones as they enter old age. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 25 percent of men will experience a broken bone because of osteoporosis. Don't let your guard down because you think your gender will protect you. Osteoporosis is real concern for everybody.

Body Type
Osteoporosis occurs when bones become thin and weak. Women are more susceptible to this because they often have a naturally smaller frame to begin with, but men of a similar body type are just as vulnerable to brittle bones.

The Role of Hormones
Menopause is frequently linked with osteoporosis because the drop in hormones can affect the quality of bone tissue. While a man's hormone production is often seen as steady and consistent compared to a woman's, he will also experience a decrease in testosterone as he ages. Like menopause, this can increase his risk of osteoporosis.

Bones and Age
Women may start noticing signs of menopause as early as age 50. Although it is rare for men to experience bone loss this early in life, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports that by the time he reaches 65 or 70, his bone loss rate is equal to a woman's. Females may have the head start, but men will catch up down the road.

If osteoporosis has resulted in breaks or fractures, Kendall Regional can get you up and moving again. Learn more about our Orthopedic and Spine Institute online, or call (305) 222-2200. You can also call our free Consult-a-Nurse® service at 1-888-256-7719 for a physician referral.

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Caring for Yourself After You Bring Baby Home

Calendar May 9, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

Self care is crucial during those first months as a mom. Don't neglect your own needs!

The first time you laid eyes on your newborn, something shifted. Suddenly you were no longer the center of your universe – now your baby fills that spot. While that selfless devotion is natural and healthy, new mothers should also keep in mind that if they don't look after themselves, they aren't going to be very good caregivers for their children. Here are a few ways to care for yourself once you're back home from the hospital.

Prioritize rest. It may be a little while before you sleep straight through the night again, but first time moms can still find opportunities to catch up on their rest. Set aside any excuses you have for skipping naps. Lower you expectations for housework and cook quick, easy meals. Use an eye mask if sleeping during the day is challenging for you.

Get the nutrition you need. You don't need to follow an elaborate recipe to eat healthy. Salads can be thrown together in seconds. Sandwiches stuffed with veggies and lean meats go great on whole wheat bread. The better you eat, the better you'll feel.

Pay attention to your emotions. KidsHealth warns that your hormones are in uproar after giving birth. Whatever you're experiencing is totally normal, whether you're angry, depressed, panicked, or numb. If you are honest with yourself about your feelings, you'll be able to manage them better. Don't be afraid to seek help if your emotions become overwhelming. Many women need assistance while climbing out of a postpartum condition.

At Kendall Regional's Maternity Unit, your needs are our top priority. Contact us at (305) 227-5590 or call (305) 222-2200 to learn more about the childbirth classes we offer.

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Controlling Gestational Diabetes

Calendar May 2, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

Unmanaged gestational diabetes could put your health or the health of your baby at risk. Take control!

Regardless of your medical history, you could be susceptible to gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Most expecting mothers are tested for this condition between 24 and 28 weeks, although earlier tests may be recommended if a woman is at a high risk. If you test positive, don't panic! Gestational diabetes is a temporary complication that typically disappears after childbirth. It can be kept under control with the help of your doctor and a few lifestyle changes.

The Diabetic Meal Plan
One of the most important and challenging parts of managing diabetes is making changes to your diet. Pregnancy increases a woman's daily calorie needs, but the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services warns that overeating can be dangerous to those with gestational diabetes. It is crucial to seek a physician's opinion on how much you should eat, and how often. Your diet should include plenty of veggies and whole grains. Look for recipes that are low in fat and sugar.

An Active Lifestyle
The National Institute of Health recommends that women with gestational diabetes seek out daily moderate physical activity. While extreme exercise routines may not be safe for the baby, walking, swimming, or prenatal fitness classes with a qualified instructor can help keep diabetes under control.

Medication
Not all women with gestational diabetes will need medication to stabilize their blood sugar levels. In many cases, a good diet and fitness plan will suffice. If your doctor notes that these efforts are not keeping the condition under control, medication can supplement your management plan.

Your safety and comfort during childbirth are our top priorities. Want to know more about the Maternity and Newborn Care offered at Kendall Regional Medical Center? Give us a call at (305) 227-5590.

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Preparing for Joint Replacement Surgery

Calendar April 25, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

Are you ready for a new joint?

Replacing a joint could be one of the best decisions you make. Many patients report that the surgery helped them finally escape daily pains, erase the physical limitations that held them back from new experiences, and start enjoying their favorite activities again without discomfort. Still, surgery is always a major event in life, and the recovery process can't be rushed or ignored. Preparation is key to your success. Use these tips to ready yourself for the big day.

  • Know what you're getting yourself into. You should never agree to a procedure before understanding exactly how it works and what you should expect. Spend some time researching joint replacement surgery, evaluating the benefits and risks, and considering the therapy you'll need during recovery. Don't be afraid to ask questions!
  • Review your medical history with the orthopedic surgeon. The American College of Rheumatology warns that joint replacement surgery may be too dangerous for certain patients. Determine whether you are a high-risk patient.
  • Get a family member or close friend on board. You'll need someone who can drive you to and from your appointment, talk to your doctors with you, and keep the rest of your loved ones up-to-date on your progress. After your surgery, you will also need a caretaker with you for several days.
  • Stop smoking. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, smokers often experience a prolonged recovery process.
  • Ask your doctor about exercises. Depending on which joint you are replacing, certain pre-surgery exercises could help speed up the recovery process.

Having trouble with your joints? Our Orthopedic and Spine Institute can help you diagnose the problem and find the right solution. Stop by our website or give us a call at (305) 222-2200.

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Who the PICU Treats

Calendar April 18, 2013 | Posted by Kendall Regional Medical Center

The PICU is a comfortable and safe environment for children who need special medical attention.

The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) is designed specifically for children who need a little extra attention and monitoring during their hospital stay. Unlike the NICU, which specializes in newborns, the PICU provides care for children ranging from infants to teens. This department employs expert staff members with special training in pediatrics. It also invests in state-of-art-technology designed for monitoring children, rather than adults. Finally, most PICUs have brightly decorated hallways and rooms designed to make children feel at ease. They may even forget they are at a hospital!

What is the criteria for being admitted on this floor?
The two main criteria are age and the level of care needed. Children under 18 may be admitted if their condition requires around-the-clock monitoring. While it may be scary to have a child in the PICU, parents can rest assured that their sons and daughters are getting the most thorough care offered by the hospital.

What medical conditions may require a PICU stay?
The children in the PICU suffer from a wide variety of conditions and many are also placed in the PICU after a major surgery. According to KidsHealth, some of the conditions may include:

  • Heart conditions
  • Severe asthma
  • Infections
  • Complications from diabetes
  • Serious injuries from an accident

Kendall Regional Medical Center strives to make hospital stays as comfortable as possible for your kids. Learn more about our PICU at our website. If you have any further questions or need a physician referral, call our free Consult-a-Nurse® service at 1-888-256-7719.

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