Horn Receives Donation for Breast Cancer Awareness

Jo Rettinghaus, Linda Ausborn, Lorna Steenbock, Chris Nichols, Judy Andresen, and Peg Cronin

The Ida County Pink Walk Committee presented a $5,000 check to Horn Memorial Hospital for breast cancer awareness. This annual event held in October is led by Judy Andresen, Lorna Steenbock and Linda Ausborn of the Ida County Breast Cancer Support Group. The community’s continued support of breast cancer awareness has been instrumental in the success of this event.

Holiday Hand Hygiene

The holiday season is a time for enjoying the company of our family and friends, marathon mall shopping to look for that perfect present, office parties, and interaction with many members of our community. It is a season that brings the irresistible smell of cookies, pies, and breads. A lot of handshakes and hugs are shared during this time as everyone makes it a point to gather in celebration.

Coincidentally, illnesses such as colds and the flu tend to flourish during this time as well. And who wants to miss out on spending time with others or tasting those delectable treats that beg for a bite?

During this very busy time of year, it is important to clean your hands frequently.

Hand washing: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. That’s about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Scrub your hands vigorously; use friction while covering all surfaces of the hands, including fingers.

Using alcohol-based hand rub: If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand rub containing at least 60 percent alcohol. Squirt a dime to quarter-size amount in the palm of your hand and then rub all surfaces of your hands and fingers until dry.

Recommended times to clean hands include:
• Before eating
• Before, during, and after preparing food
• After using the restroom
• After coughing, sneezing, or caring for someone who is ill
• After taking out the garbage
• After petting animals

So, have fun this holiday season, and remember that the easiest way to prevent the spread of infection is to clean your hands! Happy Holidays!

Home Sleep Study Equipment Demo

Pat Stevens demonstrates the simplicity of the Home Sleep Study equipment at Horn Memorial Hospital’s Sleep Lab Open House held Wednesday, November 20th.  Community members, healthcare providers and staff had the opportunity to tour the new in-house sleep lab, learn about the differences between in-house and home sleep studies as well as talk to sleep equipment representatives.

OA-BCIG Volley Ball Team Raises Funds for Breast Cancer Awareness

Present in the photo from left:  Crystal Endrulat, Jensen Boger, Cheyenne Wilcke, Kallie Schroeder, and coach, Heather Spetman.

The OA-BCIG Volleyball Team raised $1,010.50 for Horn Memorial Hospital mammography through their PINK OUT efforts!  The Team held several different events during the volleyball season to support the cause:  a pie in the face raffle, face painting, serving competition, kid coach raffle, 2 cake raffles and t-shirt sales.  Their efforts got many involved and helped to promote breast cancer awareness.  Crystal Endrulat from HMH Radiology was present to accept the check.

HPC-Ida Grove Now Offering Extended Hours

Tree of Lights

Sleep Lab Tour

Diabetes Health Fair 2013

Horn Hospice - Helping Families Focus on Living

No one likes to think about death and dying, but it’s something everyone has to face eventually. There’s an incredible resource in our community that provides comfort, dignity and respect to all those coping with a serious or life-limiting illness - HORN Hospice.

November is National Hospice Palliative Care Month, a time to reach out to our community to raise awareness about the compassionate care that hospice and palliative care.

One of the most important messages to help people understand is that hospice care helps patients and families focus on living. The hospice team provides expert medical care to keep patients comfortable and able to enjoy time with loved ones.

The hospice team answers questions, offers advice on what to expect, and helps families with the duties of being a caregiver. The team also provides emotional and spiritual support for the entire family. Hospice is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and by most insurance plans and HMOs.

Hospice care is provided in the home, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and long term care centers.

Hospice care is available to people of all ages, with any illness. Horn Hospice professionals and trained volunteers will ask you what’s important and listen to what you say. They make your wishes a priority.

If you or a loved one is facing a serious or life-limiting illness, the time to find out more about hospice and palliative care is right now. Call Horn Hospice at 712.364.7311

HMH Foundation Posts Auction Items for the Fall Festival

Check out our Auction Items for 
Friday Night's Foundation Festival!


SILENT AUCTION ITEMS

1.    Woman’s Bicycle Donated by Swanson Insurance

2.    10-Pound Prime Rib Roast Donated by Tiefenthaler Quality Meat, Wash and Vacuum Certificate from Mac’s Chevrolet, 2 Kansas City Royals Baseball Tickets, and a Goodie Plate from 'Best of Barb’s Catering'

3.    31 Basket (Carrie Skirvin), Lia Sophia Earrings (Shelly Dannenburg), Mary Kay Lip and Nail Set (Tricia Cipperley), Candle (Peach Blossom), and a Pedicure Certificate (Tabitha’s Cutting Edge)

4.    Ida Grove Rec Center Punch Card, Wash and Vacuum Certificate from Mac’s Chevrolet, Chicago Cubs (Dale Sveum) Autographed Baseball, and Minnesota Twins (Tony Oliva) Signed Photograph

5.    Decorated Cookies by Tricia Ladwig with a Certificate for an Additional Platter of Decorated Christmas Cookies, and a
10^th Cup Coffee Gift Basket

6.    Scentsy Plug-In warmer, Bar Melt, Lotion & Soap (Jenny Collins), and Handmade Necklace by Michelle Walsh

7.    Teeth Whitening Certificate from Patera Family Dentistry, and an Outdoor Photo Session from Terri Demarest Photography

8.    Certificate for 18 Holes of Golf with a Cart for 4 people at
the Ida Grove County Club, and a $30 Gift Certificate to
Mi Rancho

9.    Black Hills Getaway at the Double Diamond Ranch with Gift Basket Donated by Rich & Lee Ann Jensen

10. Car Wash Gift Package Donated by Vollmar Motors, and
4 Passes to the Henry Doorly Zoo

11. Wine Gift Basket from Murray Jewelers

12. Handmade Necklace by Michelle Walsh, and a $25 Gift Certificate to Elements

13. Case 8230 Toy Combine (1/64 scale) from Vetter Equipment, and 4 King’s Pointe Waterpark Passes

14. Centerpiece by Vicky Murray

15. Spa Package from Trendue - includes Facial with Perfecting Face Peel, Spa Mani/Pedi, Botanical Hair Therapy Treatment and Hair Style (4 Hour Spa Day)

16. Holiday Portrait Package from Christina Kjar Photography Includes 1 Session, 25 Holiday Cards and 1 Metal Ornament, and $25 Gift Certificate to the Inside Scoop

17. Crates of Homemade Canned Goods from Horn Physicians Clinic Staff (Ida Grove, Odebolt & Mapleton Clinics)
(3 separate crates for auction)

18. Pumpkin Screen Art by Lori Hamann, and Olive Garden Salad Dressing with a $50 Gift Certificate to the Olive Garden Donated by Grant & Julie Godbersen

19. Wall Clock Donated by Einspahr Furniture

20. John Deere 620LP High Crop Tractor (1/16 scale) from Hultgren Implement, and a $25 Gift Certificate to The Inside Scoop

21. Wreath by Vicky Murray

22. Large ISU Flask and a Bottle of Cyclone-Labeled Vodka from Spirits, Stogies and Stuff, and Pizza Hut Gift Certificates

23.       Large Iowa Hawkeyes Flask and a Bottle of Hawkeye-Labeled Vodka from Spirits, Stogies and Stuff, and Pizza Hut Gift Certificates

24. $50.00 Gift Certificate to The Beef and Brew, and a Wash and Vacuum Certificate from Mac’s Chevrolet

25. Pampered Chef Trivet and Chip Clips (Jenni Sohm), Watkins Products (Jeanie Grove), and a $50 Gift Card to Food Pride

26. Four (4) Horseback Riding Lessons with a Trail Ride for One Person with  Instructor, Sherry Reiling, and a $50 Gift Card to Food Pride

27.       Iowa State Gift Package includes 4 ISU Men's Basketball Tickets, Donated by Community Bank, Bev Roe, Jenny Kennedy, Bomgaars, Dale & Kathy Edsen, Kent & Jill  Godbersen, and Gayle &Judy Harrison

28. Three (3) Homemade Pies - Apple, Cherry, and Pumpkin Donated by Christine Krager, and a $25.00 Gift Certificate to Zimmy’s

29. Wine Gift Basket Donated by McCord Real Estate

30. "Go Places" Portable Audio System Donated by The Hoffman Agency

31. Wine Basket from Old Town Winery Donated by Dr. John & Lenee Sinnott

32. UltraLift (spa cover lift) from Byron Originals, and a Wash and Vacuum Certificate from Mac’s Chevrolet

33. Sure Step II from Byron Originals, and a Wash and Vacuum Certificate from Mac’s Chevrolet

LIVE AUCTION ITEMS

1.    LABORATORY Test Tubes -  Three (3) to be Auctioned This Evening - Each Containing a Gift Certificate for a Wellness Screening and Two Lucky Winners Will Receive an Additional $200 or $50 Cash.  Sponsored by Kent & Jill Godbersen and Healthland

2.    Hammock with Stand Donated by Midwest Industries

3.    Getaway to the Caribbean Club Resort on Lake Delton in Wisconsin Dells, WI Donated by Bob & Jill Webb

4.    IOWA Bean Bag Toss Game Donated by Shawn & Wendy Cadwell

5.    IOWA STATE Bean Bag Toss Game Donated by Dale & Kathy Edsen

6.    NEBRASKA Bean Bag Toss Game Donated by Dick & Phyllis Hagemeier

7.    LABORATORY Test Tube

8.    Four (4) Day Stay at a Condo in Steamboat Springs, CO Donated by the McCormick Family

9.    Lucky Lottery Tree - $200 Worth of Lottery Scratch Tickets Donated by Ida Grove Family Health Center, Dr. Mike Luft

10. IOWA STATE Gift Basket Includes ISU Paraphernalia and
2 Tickets to the ISU vs. Kansas Football Game on Saturday, November 23^rd, Donated by HMH ISU Fans, Ryan &Amy Godbersen, and Lloyd & Kathy Brodniak

11. IOWA Gift Basket Includes Hawkeye Paraphernalia and 2 Tickets to the Iowa vs. Michigan Football Game on Saturday, November 23^rd, Donated by Charlie & Amy Delaney and Murphy Chiropractic

12. NEBRASKA Gift Basket Includes Husker Paraphernalia and 2 Tickets to the Nebraska vs. Iowa Football Game on Friday, November 29^th Donated by HMH Husker Fans!

13. Japanese Dinner for 8 hosted by Toshi Nishimura & Lynn Segerstrom, Roger & Retha Harrington, and Dale & Ruth Ann Mohr

14. Tiefenthaler Meat Bundle Donated by Marty and Martha Boyle, Jim McGuire, and McGuire Auction

15. LABORATORY Test Tube

16. Galva Businesses Package

17. Dinner for 8 hosted by Chris and Jaci Nichols

18. Red Neck Pub Crawl in an 1972 International Airport Limo (seats 14) Includes a Cooler of Beer and All the Fun You Can Have in One Night Donated by Ed and Jenni Sohm

19. Beef Loin Donated by JR Pauley and the Denison Livestock Auction Company

Horn Offers Diabetes Health Fair

In celebration of National Diabetes Month, Horn Memorial Hospital (HMH) will be offering a Diabetes Health Fair open to the public. Join us on Thursday, November 14th from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. in the HMH Conference Center to learn more about this prevalent disease. This educational forum will benefit anyone with diabetes as well as those interested in learning more about diabetes.

There will be a short presentation this year where Jean Cipperley, Diabetes Educator, will be honoring those who have taken insulin for more than 25 years and acknowledging those who have had diabetes for more than 25 years. In addition, Jean will speak on the history of diabetes treatment.

Join us for this educational evening that will include information on insulin and other diabetes medications, free educational materials and glucose meter information, healthy food samples donated by Ida Grove Food Pride, as well as displays by Lewis Family Drug, Ida Drug and Maier Family Pharmacy.

Girls Scout Junior Troop 433 Provides Tray Favors for Patients

The Girls Scout Junior Troop 433 made tray favors for the patients at 

HMH as a community service project! 

Present in photo from back left:  Shelly Schiernbeck, Troop Leader and Stephanie Jacobsen, Dietary Director

Middle:  Hannah Weeda, Riley Schiernbeck

Front:  Jasmine Graham, Kyra Rudolph, and Macaela Johnson

Horn Public Health Holds Flu Clinic for Children

Horn Memorial Public Health will be offering seasonal flu shots for children 6 months through 18 years of age on Tuesday, October 22 from 1-5 p.m. in the Horn Memorial Community Health office at 700 East Second Street. The clinic is for children 6 months through 18 years of age with Medicaid, no insurance or insurance that does not cover immunizations. The vaccine is available free of charge through the Vaccine For Children (VFC) program. There is a $14 charge for the administration of the vaccine. Medicaid pays for the administration fee.

 Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection. Symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches. Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults. In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include: fast or trouble breathing, bluish skin color, not drinking enough fluids, not waking up or not interacting, being so irritable that the child does not want to be held, flu-like symptoms improve but then return with a fever or worse cough or fever with a rash.

 Flu viruses mainly spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with the flu. Sometimes the flu spreads when people touch something with the flu virus on it and then touch their mouth or nose.

 The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each year. About two weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop that protect against influenza virus infection.

Horn's Dietary Department Recognizes the Maintenance Department

Horn Memorial Hospital Expands Outpatient Services

Horn Memorial Hospital has been busy expanding outpatient services. Within the past month, sports medicine, home sleep studies, and a pain clinic have been added to the already impressive list of outpatient services provided locally at Horn Memorial Hospital. In addition, the OB/GYN clinic has increased to a weekly schedule and dermatology services have returned. This expansion is a reflection of Horn’s ongoing efforts to provide as many services as possible locally to our patients.

The Pain Clinic, provided by Charlie Delaney, CRNA, provides consultations and relief for many types of back pain. Patients who suffer with lower back pain, shooting pain down their leg, numbness, and other similar symptoms may find relief through an injection procedure. This service is provided by referral only; you must first see your healthcare provider to determine if you are a candidate for a pain relief injection.

Home Sleep Studies are now provided through the Respiratory Therapy Department. Pat Stevens, Respiratory Therapy Director, was instrumental in seeing the need for this up and coming alternative to detect sleep apnea. Pat states “patients often put off a sleep test to avoid the in-house sleep lab experience. I find that with a home sleep study, patients can be in the comfort of their own home and get similar and sometimes even better results.” Talk with your healthcare provider to see if you would benefit from a home sleep study.

Sports Medicine, now offered by Dr. Benjamin Bissell, expands orthopaedic services provided by Dr. Steven Meyer. Dr. Bissell comes from CNOS in Dakota Dunes, and is a board certified and fellowship trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon. He will provide expert care in both sports medicine and general orthopaedics. His expertise includes hip arthroscopy, complex shoulder arthroscopy, knee stabilization including ACL reconstruction, shoulder and knee arthroscopy and general orthopaedic trauma. Dr. Bissell will see patients at Horn Memorial Hospital on Monday afternoons and Dr. Meyer will continue to see patients on Wednesdays. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bissell or Dr. Meyer call 605.217.2667.

Dr. Karl Hasik, OB/GYN, recently increased his clinic schedule at Horn Memorial to weekly. He will now see patients every Wednesday morning for prenatal care and women’s health issues. Horn Memorial manages the scheduling for Dr. Hasik’s clinic, call 364.3311 for an appointment. Dermatology Services have returned effective October 8th.

Christina Warren, ARNP, comes to us from Radiant Complexions Dermatology Clinics of Des Moines. She will see patients the second Tuesday of the month at an all-day clinic. Christina routinely offers treatment for: acne, psoriasis, aging/wrinkles, rashes, allergic reactions, fungal infections, hair and nail problems, and other common dermatological issues. Horn Memorial also schedules the appointments for this clinic – call 364.3311 for an appointment.

Horn is pleased to provide the above services locally to our patients. In addition to these new and expanded services the following are also available through the Outpatient Clinic: Cardiology, ENT, General Surgery, Nephrology, Oncology, Ophthalmology, Podiatry, Pulmonary, and Urology. For more information on any of these outpatient services contact the Jill Webb, Outpatient Director at 364.3311.

The HMH Foundation Brings Nashville Artists to Ida Grove for Annual Fundraiser

The Horn Memorial Hospital Foundation is planning its 14th annual Fall Festival set for Friday, November 1st at the Ida Grove Skate Palace. This festive evening will include cocktails, dinner, auctions, and entertainment!

This year’s theme, “Denim and Diamonds”, will reflect the atmosphere for the evening’s entertainment, Brasher/Bogue, a country-rock band from Nashville, Tennessee. Dale Ullrich, former Foundation Board Chair, suggested this group to the Foundation after seeing them perform last year at Lake Fest in Storm Lake. Dustin Bogue, who brings the “Bogue” to “Brasher/Bogue” is a Sac City Native. He now resides in Nashville where he and his band mates enjoy a busy touring schedule.

Sarah Harm, Public Relations Director comments, “Horn Memorial continues to provide a large variety of services right here in our local community. The Foundation’s role provides vital support to the hospital to help stay current with both services and equipment. The annual Fall Festival is one of the main ways the Foundation raises funds for the hospital and is a tradition that we hope to continue for many years to come. We have another great evening planned with dinner and entertainment that all ages are sure to enjoy.” 
Tickets for the banquet are pre-sale only and on sale now at Horn Memorial Hospital or from any of the following Foundation Board members: Shari Blake, Marty Boyle, Kathy Edsen, Amy Godbersen, Gayle Harrison, Alex Murphy, Diane Patera, Cyndi Rock-Raasch, Lynn Segerstrom, and Kathy Wilke. Attendees are encouraged to arrive between 5:30 and 6:00 in order to view all of the elaborate table decorations and auction items. Dinner will be served at 6:15 p.m. followed by the live auction and performance.

Horn Gives Direction on “Obamacare”

Beginning October 1, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) opened the state health insurance exchanges for business. Popularly known as “Obamacare,” the requirements of the act include an individual mandate to purchase health insurance if insurance is not available through an employer or other private purchase options.

 To help people comply with Obamacare, Horn Memorial Hospital has been approved as a Certified Application Counselor (CAC) organization. Katrina Utterback is Horn’s Certified Application Counselor who will assist patients and their families in exploring options for coverage through the insurance exchange. If you would like to arrange an appointment with Katrina, please call 712.364.3311.

 “What Obamacare and the new insurance exchange means can be confusing to people, even to those who work in healthcare. As the area’s hospital we know that the public will look to us to have answers to their questions. Because of that, we’ve done what we can to educate ourselves on what it all means, and thankfully we have a knowledgeable Certified Application Counselor on site to can field questions and help people navigate through all the new options,” said Chris Nichols CEO of Horn Memorial Hospital.

 A number of factors – such as pre-existing conditions, health status, claims history, duration of coverage, gender, occupation, and small employer size and industry – will no longer be considered for those seeking health insurance through the exchange.

 “We want to reassure Medicare beneficiaries that they are already covered, their benefits aren’t changing, and the insurance exchange doesn’t require them to do anything different,” says Julie Bataille, spokeswoman for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Medicare open enrollment starts October 15 and closes December 7, while enrollment for the new state exchanges for people 65 and under launches October 1 and runs through March.

 “Horn Memorial Hospital does not sell insurance. Our Certified Application Counselor is simply here to guide you through the insurance exchange and to help you understand how tax credits can help cover the costs of insurance premiums,” Nichols stated.

Horn Hospice Prepares for 19th Annual Tree of Lights

Sports Medicine Clinic Added to Specialty Clinic Listing at Horn

Horn Memorial Hospital (HMH) is pleased to welcome Dr. Benjamin Bissell to our community.  Dr. Bissell is a board certified and fellowship trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon.  He comes to HMH from CNOS and is proud to join Dr. Meyer in providing expert care to the people of Ida Grove and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Bissell will practice sports medicine and general orthopaedics, focusing on the shoulder, knee, and hip. His expertise includes hip arthroscopy, complex shoulder arthroscopy, knee stabilization including ACL reconstruction, shoulder and knee arthroplasty, and general orthopaedic trauma.

Prior to joining CNOS, Dr. Bissell worked with various athletic teams and at sporting events to treat injured athletes, including the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, the University of Vermont, the Sugerbush Ski Injury Clinic and the Big 10 Wrestling Tournament.

Dr. Bissell will see patients at Horn Memorial Hospital on Monday afternoons.  To schedule your appointment with Dr. Bissell, call 605.217.2667.

Dermatology Services Return to HMH

Wanda Freese, ARNP, joins Horn Physicians Clinic

Horn offers a FREE "Welcome to Medicare" Seminar

How to Respond to an Active Shooter

An active shooter is a person actively engaged in attempting to kill people, often without a pattern or method to their selection of victims.  September is National Preparedness Month.  This week, Patti Andrews, Public Health Nurse and Unit Leader of the Ida County MRC, shares important practices for dealing with an active shooter situation.

“Active shooter situations are unpredictable and develop quickly,” states Patti. “Individuals must be prepared both mentally and physically to deal with these circumstances. Just as knowing ‘Stop, Drop, Roll’ is an important part of fire safety, ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ helps people cope with an active shooter situation.

Patti shared some good practices for coping with an active shooter. 1) Quickly determine the most reasonable way to protect your own life. 2) Run – If there is a safe escape path, evacuate the building.  3) Hide – If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide.  It should be out of the shooter’s view and provide protection if shots are fired in your direction.  Remember to lock the door and blockade it with heavy furniture.  Silence your cell phone and remain quiet. 4) Fight – As a last resort, and only if your life is in imminent danger, work with others to attempt to incapacitate the shooter by improvising weapons and acting as aggressively as possible against him/her. 

“Remember events like this are unpredictable and may evolve quickly.  Always be aware of your environment and any possible dangers.  Take note of the nearest exists.  Preparing now for an active shooter event greatly increases your chance for survival,” reminds Patti.

Helpful Tips to Prepare for Severe Weather

If you’ve seen the news lately, you know that emergencies can happen unexpectedly in communities just like yours, to people just like you.  September is National Preparedness Month.  This week, Reverend Kevin Freese, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church at Battle Creek and MRC volunteer, shares important steps you can take to prepare for severe weather.

Kevin reminds community members: 1) Understand the types of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work.  2) Prepare and plan in the event you must go for three days without electricity, water service, and access to a supermarket or other local services. 3)  Build an Emergency Supply Kit which includes non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, medications, flashlights and a battery powered radio.  4)  Make a Family Emergency Plan.  Your family may not be together when disaster strikes; a Family Emergency Plan would address how to contact each other, how you will get back together, and what you will do in case of an emergency.  

             

“By taking a few simple actions now, you can make your family safer during severe weather,” Kevin reminds the community.

Helpful Tips to Prepare for a Power Outage

We may not notice it when the power is on, but our dependence on it is clear when it goes out.  September is National Preparedness Month. This week Sherry Reiling, Administrative Assistant for Horn Memorial Community Health and an Ida County Medical Reserve Corps volunteer, shares helpful tips for dealing with a power outage.

“Any number of things can cause a power outage,” states Sherry.  “Most likely it is weather-related.  The outage could be localized or wide-spread and last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.  Preparing now for an outage will help keep your family safe.”

Sherry shared some important tips when dealing with a power outage.  1) Know your electric company’s phone number so you can report an outage.  2) Check your flashlights and battery-powered radios to ensure they are working and make sure to have extra batteries.  Purchasing hand-cranked flashlights helps eliminate the need for batteries.  3) Unplug some of your major appliances.  When the power comes back on, all of those appliances can create a drain or power surge.  This can harm sensitive equipment.  To avoid damage in the event of a power surge, you should also turn off computers, TVs, stereos and other unnecessary electronic equipment at the power source.  4) Leave a light on so you know when the power is restored.  5) Do not use kerosene heaters, BBQs, or any outdoor type heater inside the home; such devices create poisonous gases such as carbon monoxide.  6) If you have to go outside, be extra cautious. Down or hanging electrical wires could be live; never attempt to touch or move them.  7) Check on your elderly neighbors.

If power is out over a widespread area, it may take longer to restore power to all of the areas.  Sometimes it can be out for days.  “Take this time to enjoy family time without electricity, computers, electronics, TV and other distractions.  Pass the time by playing games, reading or sharing stories,” says Sherry.  “Preparing now for an outage will make life easier if it happens.”

Horn Memorial to Host “Mammo Parties” in October

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in the United States, second only to heart disease.  However, great strides in early detection and breast cancer treatments have decreased deaths.  Mammography and self breast exams play a key role in early detection of breast cancer.

Horn Memorial is taking a new angle in promoting mammography testing and breast cancer awareness in the month of October.  Three out of the five Wednesdays in October, Horn Memorial’s Radiology staff will be hosting “Mammo Parties”.  This special event will give ladies an opportunity to pamper themselves with massages, manicures, pedicures, food and more when they schedule their annual mammogram in the evening on October 2, 16 or 30 between the hours of 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

“We have a lovely state-of-the art Women’s Health Suite that offers both digital mammography and bone densitometry to our community.  We’re hoping that during these three evening sessions, women will encourage their friends to get that overdue mammogram, or encourage the women who are due for their first mammogram to take the time to get it done during this special event.  There is often some anxiety that goes along with getting a mammogram; by bringing a friend and having the extra ‘pampering’ opportunity, we’re hoping to alleviate the stress and anxiety,” comments Kristin Treinen, Radiology Director. 

Schedule your appointment today by calling 712.364.7239!  Please note that most insurances will pay for one mammogram per calendar year.

Helpful Tips to Prepare for Emergencies

“Disasters can’t happen to my family.”  Or can they?  “I’m prepared for emergencies.”  Or are you?  September is National Preparedness month.  Over the next four weeks, Ida County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers will share why preparing for emergencies are important to them.

Ed Sohm, Ida County Emergency Management Coordinator and MRC volunteer remembers a time residents from Battle Creek needed to be evacuated due to a fire at a business facility.  “Evacuations are more common than many people realize, and the amount of time you have to leave will depend on the hazard.  Many disasters allow no time for people to gather even the most basic necessities.  That is why planning ahead is essential,” states Ed. 

Ed shared some important evacuation guidelines.  1) Develop a Family Emergency Plan that identifies places where your family will meet, both within and outside of your neighborhood.  2) Keep a backpack with important numbers, a list of your medications and copies of important papers readily available to take with you in any emergency.  3) Keep a half tank of gas in your car at all times.  Gas stations may be closed or you may not be able to pump gas during power outages.  4) Don’t forget to take your pets with you.  5) It’s a good idea to check with elderly neighbors who may need a ride.  6) If time allows, call your out-of-state contact in your Family Communications Plan to let them know where you are going. 

“Now is the time to prepare yourself and those in your care for emergencies and disasters,” reminds Ed.  

New CT System Provides a Clear Diagnostic Image with Low Radiation Dose

Jo Rettinghaus, Radiology Technician views a 3-D image from the new 64-slice CT Scanner

High definition. Super-fast processing speeds. Crystal-clear images. Sophisticated technology.

We’re not talking flat-screen TVs or mini tablets. These words describe the new CT system at Horn Memorial Hospital.

A new Siemens SOMATOM Perspective 64-slice CT (also called computed tomography) system was installed in the radiology department this month. CT systems combine special X-ray technology with computers to produce highly detailed images of organs, bones, soft tissues and blood vessels.

Specifically, the Perspective CT incorporates the latest 64-slice acquisition technology with the ability to produce up to 128 reconstructed slices for ultra-high resolution 3-D images. The technology may sound complicated, but it’s important: the higher the slice, the more detailed the image, and that helps physicians make a more accurate diagnosis.

“Radiation exposure is a concern for many patients,” said Kristin Treinen, director of radiology. “What many patients don’t know is that everyone is exposed to different sources of natural radiation in daily life, including being in the sun and flying in an airplane.”

CT systems use ionizing radiation to generate the pictures that physicians use to diagnose diseases and conditions, such as trauma, cancer and cardiovascular disease.  Horn Memorial’s new Perspective CT is equipped with SAFIRE technology, which can reduce radiation dose exposure by up to 60 percent, while delivering excellent image quality.

“With our new equipment, exams take less time and are more accurate, so patients are exposed to less radiation,” Treinen said.

The availability of such high-tech equipment at Horn Memorial Hospital gives area residents the peace of mind not having to travel far for highly detailed CT exams.

“Our goal is to offer the latest technology with the quality of care our community expects and deserves,” said Treinen. “By replacing our older scanner with this new and improved Perspective CT, we can do more types of exams with low radiation dose.”

A physician referral is required for a CT scan.  To learn more about our new CT technology, visit
www.hornmemorialhospital.org or call 712.364.3311.

HMH Upgrades to 64-Slice CT Scanner

Dietary Receives Positive Performance Recognition

Golf for the Girls Donates to HMH Women's Health

The second annual “Golf for the Girls” event raised $5,500 for Women’s Health at Horn Memorial Hospital. This fun women’s night out was a huge success with 35 teams (140 women) and 65 local sponsors participating. A BIG THANK YOU to all of the teams, sponsors and core committee members for this awesome donation for HMH Women's Health.

Committee Members:  Tammie Dausel, Brandi Sharkey, Carol Bresnahan, Kim Claussen and Katie Chisholm



HMH Offers Employee Wellness Program

January 2013 marked the start of a new Employee Wellness program at Horn Memorial Hospital.  Eighty three employees joined the program and committed to a healthier lifestyle.  The goals of the Horn Memorial Hospital Wellness program are to provide wellness education, create a work culture that supports healthy lifestyle choices, and provide an effective support system for employees.  The wellness program is led by eight committee members who serve as “Wellness Coaches” for the members.  The Wellness Coaches help members stay on track, focus on their goals, and offer one-on-one support and encouragement.    Committee members serving as Wellness Coaches are Kelly Shever, Stephanie Jacobson, Becky Wuebker, Judy Martin, Jean Cipperley, Liz Anderson, Kayla Thies, and Megan Wellendorf.

Each quarter, wellness members participate in challenges to help achieve their goals.  The most recent challenge focused on the importance of physical activity and was entitled “Minutes To Win It.”  Members were divided into teams amongst the wellness coaches and competed against the other teams to average the highest number of exercise minutes per day.  After tracking minutes for 12 weeks, the team with the highest average won!  Kayla Thies’ team won the challenge with an average of 43 minutes exercised per team member, per day!  Second place went to Kelly Shever’s team with an average of 39.9 minutes per day, and Megan Wellendorf’s team came in 3^rd with an average of 39.6 minutes per day.  As a whole, the wellness members exercised a grand total of 174,186 minutes over the course of the 12 week challenge! 

Auxiliary Volunteers Recognized with Salad Luncheon

The Horn Memorial Hospital Auxiliary held a salad luncheon on June 18th in recognition of their volunteers. Present for the photo was just a handful of the total volunteers that donate their time and talents to support Horn Memorial Hospital.

Standing:  Twyla Martin, Virginia Wellendorf, Marlene Zobel, Susan Miller, Wanda Kauffman, Velma Smith, Ann Snell, Bev Jessen, Judy Lansink, Lucille Ruser, Mary Williamson, Marlene Benningsdorf, Shirley Paulsen, Mildred Fleenor, Kim Miller, and Jane O'Tool.  Sitting:  Joanne Farley, Marge Lantz, Marilyn Skaren, Pat Conard, Joan Peterson, LaVonne Murray, and Leilla Lansink



THANK YOU to HMH Foundation Golf Sponsors

HMH Purchases New Crib with CMN Funds

Joyce Lawson, Toshi Nishimura, and Rebecca Burns

Horn Memorial Hospital recently purchased a new crib with funds received from local 2011 - 2012 Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) fundraisers.  Horn Memorial is a partner with the St. Luke’s Health System for the Children’s Miracle Network.  Each year the hospital, schools, and Ida County businesses raise funds through various activities for CMN and 50% of these funds are given back to Horn Memorial Hospital for pediatric care.

Dates Set for Sports Physicals

ICCBF Grant Funds Help Purchase New Patient Beds



Present in photo from left:  Julie Andresen, Gala Endrulat, Linda Paulsen, and Rebecca Burns



Horn Memorial Hospital was a $10,000 recipient of an Ida County Community Betterment Foundation Grant.  These funds assisted in the purchase of fifteen new hospital beds.  Nurses and patients alike are pleased with the new beds stating they are more comfortable, easier to maneuver, and have reliable safety features that are instrumental in the care of our patients.

IDPH Offers FREE Nicotine Replacement Patches & Gum in June

During the entire month of June, The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is offering four weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in the form of patches and gum to Iowa smokers who choose to make a quit attempt using Quitline Iowa. Quitline Iowa offers tobacco cessation coaching services over the telephone or the Internet, 24 hours a day.

“Data suggests the majority of smokers want to quit. We are excited to offer them extra support to increase the likelihood they quit successfully,” said IDPH Director, Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks. “Smart, efficient budgeting is allowing us to provide this support for the first time in years. Historically, Quitline Iowa has experienced large increases in call volume when free NRT is provided.”Research has shown that quitting smoking at any age offers health benefits.

Quitline Iowa focuses on the individual, with the realization everyone is unique and their quit plan should be too. Research shows phone coaching is twice as effective as smokers trying to quit on their own. While Internet-based coaching is too new to thoroughly evaluate, IDPH Tobacco Use Prevention and Control Division Director Meghan O’Brien says the preliminary data is promising. 

“It is important to arm tobacco users who want to quit with all the tools we can, including Web options for those who may be uncomfortable with telephone coaching. Preliminary data shows Web-based coaching is attracting young smokers who want to quit. Most smokers make multiple quit attempts before successfully breaking their addiction to nicotine, so the younger they decide to quit using tobacco, the better.”

Current Iowa health care costs associated with tobacco exceed $1 billion. For more information about Quitline Iowa, visit www.quitlineiowa.org or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

LuAnn Bennett, Sherry Reiling, Mike Andrews, Dale Wellendforf, Marilyn Skaren, Erin Dausel and Patti Andrews

Horn Memorial Hospital was a recipient of a $1,200 grant from the Ida County Community Betterment Foundation.  These funds were used to purchase 40 Eton FRX3 Weather Radios for use by the Ida County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC).  The weather ALERT radios have multiple functions including a USB smart phone charger and LED flashlight.  Disasters disrupt hundreds of thousands of lives every year.  Communities who are prepared can reduce fear, anxiety and losses that accompany disasters.  The Ida County MRC was organized in the fall of 2010 to help address disasters in Ida County. 

Sign Up TODAY for Babysitting Class

Michelle Siebrecht, PA-C Resumes Schedule

Goldsmith and Ullrich serve 9 years on the HMH Foundation Board

Peter Goldsmith and Dale Ullrich

May 9^th marked the final meeting for both Peter Goldsmith and Dale Ullrich who completed three, three-year terms on the Horn Memorial Hospital Foundation Board.  Goldsmith and Ullrich were instrumental in leading Foundation fundraising for several projects over the years including the hospital’s 3-phase facility improvement project and most recently, the Digital Mammography fundraising project.  Thank you for your 9 years of service to our local hospital.

HMH Auxiliary Gives Annual Donation to Hospital

Maintenance employees: Raymond Nepper, Dave Sweeden, and Mark Euchner

This year eight departments of the hospital submitted their “wish list” to the Auxiliary and all items were approved totaling a donation of $10,850.  Bev Jessen, Auxiliary President, comments, “We like to get a list from each department on items that they need but aren’t necessarily in the capital budget.  We were pleased to see the large variety of departments submitting requests this year, as we like to support all areas of the hospital as much as we can.”

In addition to the donation for equipment, the HMH Auxiliary also gave five scholarships to Horn employees to help them further their education in the healthcare field.  Scholarships for $500 were awarded to:  Jenni Sohm, Kenzee Reik, and Shawna Muckey and $250 scholarship recipients were Jessica McGuire and Carrie Arens.