Research Medical Center's December CARE Newsletter

In this issue:Page 2: New Leadership

Page 3: Patient Satisfaction

Page 4: We CaRe Team Spotlight: Clinical excellence

Page 5: employees Honored

Page 6: eMS great Save event

Page 7: KCTV5’s It’s Your Health

Page 8: Wichita Transplant Institute

Page 10: MeD Talks

Page 13: Research BOLD

Page 16: Nursing Recruitment

eDITOR:Corrine everson

VP, Marketing/PR(816) 276-9293

[email protected]

WRITeR/LaYOUT: Stacie Madigan

Specialist, Marketing/PR (816) 276-9475

[email protected]

ReseaRch Medical centeR • a Publication foR staff, Physicians and custoMeRs • deceMbeR 2014

CAREcoMPassion. attitude. ResPect. excellence.

facebook.com/researchmedicalcenter

@ResearchMed

Dear Research Medical Center Family,

It is hard to believe 2015 is just days away! I think we should all pause for a moment and feel proud knowing we spent a big part of our lives during the past year serving patients and their families with innovative, compassionate care.

This time of year always spurs personal and professional reflection for me. I like to ask myself - “What did we accomplish? What impact did we make with our patients and their families? What type of culture are we growing at RMC?” This reflection is part of our culture to continually improve so let’s take a minute to congratulate each other for our 2014 accomplishments. Here are a few and you can probably think of more:

• RMC launched Grossman Burn Center for inpatient and outpatient burn care, the program has served more patients than projected • Our Breast Center was named a Center of Excellence • Completed successful merger of RMC and RPC • Rehabilitation services earned the #1 national quality ranking among 53 HCA hospitals • Several RMC leaders earned promotions while RMC employees become new leader • Opened the region’s first TIA clinic with diagnostic and treatment services at one location • Sarah Cannon became our new partner for Cancer Care • RMC was honored with a grade “A” by Leapfrog and named a Top Hospital in the nation • Helped HCA Midwest Health raise over $100,000 for AHA at the Heart Walk • 69% of our employees completed the employee engagement survey so we could learn more about how to improve the workplace. • We continue to score 100% in core quality measures • Earned Top Performer in Key Quality Measures from TJC for the second year • Added multiple physicians to our excellent medical staff

Wow, we’ve accomplished a lot and there is more we need to do in our journey to be the best. As we move into the New Year, I’ve been thinking about our biggest priorities for 2015. I realize you have department goals and strategies but here’s an organizational overview:

• Patient Experience – We need to improve by 10 points. • Employee Engagement – We need to improve by at least 6 points. • Quality – We are making nice progress. Please be sure you are deploying your personal actions toward every goal 100% in each core measure. • Growth – Our goal is to use our resources efficiently. We have plans for hiring more nurses and adding space so we can better accommodate the growth we experienced in 2014. • Finance – We are reaching out and caring for all populations of patients in our service area. We will continue to serve a mix of Medicare, Medicaid, commercially insured and uncompensated patients.

I want to personally thank each one of you for your commitment to patients and our progress toward being recognized as the best provider of care in the region. We’ve had a great year and I’m excited about working with you to achieve even more next year.

Please take some time to enjoy special holidays with your friends and family!

Sincerely,

President and CEO

researchmedicalcenter.blogspot.com

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Paige Baker, RN, MSN, has been promoted to Chief Nursing Officer at Research Medical Center. Previously, Paige served as the ACNO at Research Medical Center. She has served as a nurse and nursing leader here for more than 20 years and has worked in numerous areas to positively affect patient experience, quality outcomes, and employee engagement.

She leads with a passion for excellence and places a priority on retaining our great nurses. She also has a solid vision for Research Medical Center to become a Magnet Designated organization by the end of 2015.

Amy Pickren, RN, MSN, MBA, will be joining Research Medical Center as the new Director of Cardiac Telemetry and 4 North. Amy comes from Lee’s Summit Medical Center where she has served as the Director of Critical Care and House Supervisors. She has extensive nursing and administrative experience in hospital settings. Amy holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in nursing, and a master’s degree in business administration.

Tina Stone, LSCSW, has accepted the position of Director of Access Services at Research Psychiatric Center. Tina is a long time ComPass employee and is well known throughout the metro as a top-notch assessor in HCA Midwest Health and emergency departments. Tina has a history of providing leadership in the Kansas City area and will bring her knowledge of data driven management to the role.

Paresh Patel, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterology specialist with expertise in all areas of clinical gastroenterology and hepatology. Dr. Patel has specialized skills in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. Dr. Patel is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterology Association and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. He earned his medical degree from MS University, Medical College in India Dr. Patel completed his internal medicine residency at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center, where he also completed his gastroenterology fellowship. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel, call (816) 361-0055.

James Hulse, III, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric cardiologist. He specializes in pediatric electrophysiology and will be offering heart care for children at Research Medical Center. Dr. Hulse is a former medical school professor at Emory University and other institutions and has a broad background in clinical research and publication. He earned his medical degree and completed his residency at the Medical College of Georgia where he also earned the Pediatric Merit and Achievement Award. Dr. Hulse completed his fellowship at Boston Children’s Hospital and was honored as The Children’s Mercy Hospital Best Teacher of the Year.

Hon Dang, MD, a hospitalist specializing in Internal Medicine, will be joining the Research Medical Center’s Hospitalist team. He is coming to us from Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Dr. Dang earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas Medical Center and completed his residency at the University of Missouri - Kansas City. To reach the hospitalists at Research Medical Center, call (816) 276-4360.

Research Medical Center and Research Psychiatric Center Welcome New Leaders

New Physicians Welcomed

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above all else, We are Committed to the Care and Improvement of Human Life

Comments from PatientsGiving each patient and their family the best patient experience is a top priority at every Research Medical Center entity. When patients take the time to let us know they had a great experience, we’ll share these. Here are a few from the past month.

“Alex (Alex Bruening, MRI) went out of his way to make sure my mom’s medronic device was off before the MRI. He had to make several calls. Also, both of my parents were in the hospital at the same time and were not able to visit each other. Alex made sure they had their MRI’s scheduled back-to-back so they could see each other for a few minutes. It meant a lot to them.”

“Cynthia (Cynthia Rogers, EVS) was thorough in her housekeeping. I looked forward to chatting with her. She was very polite in honoring my requests to the best of her ability. Cleanliness is Godliness. Cynthia is definitely a keeper. She does her job with a smile, which says a lot about a person. I look forward to maybe seeing her on my next treatment.”

“Dr. Basta is a highly skilled, but ‘down to earth’ doctor! I will continue to recommend him to all I know! With this seven hour surgery, he gave me back my life, my quality of life. I thought I would have to live in horrible pain for the rest of my life. I can not express in words how much he changed my life! Thank you!”

“I want to thank Dr. Barghava, Dr. Farber and Ginny (Gordanier) for taking great care of me and going above and beyond to make sure my mammogram was thorough and left no room for doubt re: the results! Thanks for being a great team!!! And for making me feel so comfortable!!!”

“Erin (Erin Bartling, 4East/Oncology) always has such a positive attitude. After coming in and seeing she was charging and everyone had five patients. She very enthusiastically said, we can do this guys!!! She is the positive energy on our floor that keeps us going.”

“Customer service was just great. Joetta (Johnson, Admitting) greeted me with kindness and was so professional. It was great to be here. She is a person who is sensitive to others and detailed. I really will come back for service at Research.”

“From the first moment we met Karen (Ortho/Neuro), we felt at ease. She has a very kind disposition, and a contagious smile. She is a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. Karen shows her patients empathy, compassion and understanding when a patient is in a vulnerable position. She demonstrates that she really cares about the well-being of her patients by her actions and words.”

“I feel so blessed to be under the care of these three ladies (Ann, Cindy and Kim, Chemo Lab). They’re always cheerful and caring to all of the patients in the room. They are this way all day and night. They never seem to get “ruffled” when things are hectic all around them. It’s obvious how well they work together. They make an unpleasant experience quicker with several laughs and smiles. Thank you so much to these three ladies.”

“This super employee (Leanna Clayson, Admitting) knows how to support, comfort and be professional. She asks questions, and clarifying statements. She was very professional and that meant a lot to me because coming in I was needing to be calmed. She is worthy of praise and job mobility.”

“I would like everyone to know about the two wonderful nurses (Michael Canto and Paige Allen, Cardiac Tele) that have been taking care of me. Coming in and out of my room checking on me. They were making sure that I am all right. Helping to keep a smile on my face during my stay. They are doing a wonderful job. They even take time out of their busy schedule to sit and talk to me. I just want to thank God for them. They are truly a wonderful blessing.”

“Rachel (Peterson, Ortho/Neuro) is one of the ‘Angels of the 6th Floor.’ She was the first person to take care of me after surgery. I was hurting and afraid and her calming spirit was such a wonderful thing to have! I was given top notch care here on the 6th floor and Rachel is the great ‘Angel of the Ortho Floor.’”

“She (Rebecca Bears, Ortho/Neuro) was great with my mom. Any and everything she would do. Nice personality. May the Lord bless her and her family. She was very exceptional.”

“Sara (Ohlman, PCU) is an exceptionally hard worker. She is professional; she is efficient; she’s extremely helpful and very good with our patients. She is also very prompt with updating me on any status change or vital signs that are abnormal. Team player with a great attitude. She is awesome.”


We CaRe a monthly focus on a Research Medical Center team

Six Departments awarded With High Compliance by aBaTe

Congratulations to 3 North, 4 North, 4 East, 4 West, 5 East and the 6th Floor for your tremendous efforts in achieving compliance in the implementation phase of the ABATE Infection Project at Research Medical Center. As you may know, this landmark study is a cluster-randomized trial that compares two strategies to prevent infections outside ICUs. The two strategies consist of: Routine Bathing (Arm 1) and Routine Decolonization (Arm 2) which comprises daily showering/bathing with chlorhexidine for all patients and nasal mupirocin x5 days for MRSA+ patients.

The Clinical Excellence department has a variety of responsibilities and wears many hats. It touches all hospital departments in one way or another. For nurses, it is one of the first departments to welcome them to Research Medical Center, and interacts with most of them routinely throughout their employment. Some of the department’s many responsibilities include:

• Nursing department orientation for new employees• Coordination and record-keeping for all student clinical placements• Managing and updating legal affiliation agreements with colleges and universities• BLS and ACLS education and skills check-offs• Healthstream administration for all departments

• Organization and implementation of annual competency fair for nursing, respiratory therapy, radiology, & transportation• Planning and oversight of annual Take Your Child to Work Day activities• Official Missouri Nurses Association continuing education approved provider for nursing education• Coordination of Shared Governance councils• Magnet program coordination• Pathway to Excellence program coordination• Teaching basic dysrhythmia and orientation to critical care classes• Assisting with Trauma Nurse Core Courses• Performing quarterly skin prevalence studies• Running electronic medication record administration reports• Hospital representation on the Kansas City Area Critical Care and Med-Surg Consortium committees• Teaching quarterly 12-lead EKC classes• Coordinating and presenting 4-hour educational seminars 3 times per year• Managing training for Ebola virus disease preparedness • Coordinating Patient Care Technician competency classes

To contact Clinical Excellence, please call (816) 276-4108

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Venetia McFariln, RN, is July’s Employee of the Month. She is a nurse in the NICU with 19 years of service! “Venetia has shown extreme flexibility in her schedule and helped out her coworkers tremendously by rearranging her life to help staff when it mattered most,” says a coworker. She also picks up extra tasks without being asked and does whatever it takes to help the unit run smoothly. In addition, she coordinates our follow-up NICU clinic, which ensures that our high-risk patients receive the care they need after they go home. She is an amazing asset to the unit!” Congratulations!

Paz Shipley, RN, 4 West, is August’s Employee of the Month. “Paz is the picture of Compassion, Attitude, Respect and Excellence,” a coworker states. She shows up to work each day with a beautiful smile and a can-do spirit. Her optimism is contagious and she makes it her goal to brighten the day of her patients as well as her coworkers. She treats each patient as if they were her family making them each feel as if they are her number one priority. She is always ready to lend a helping hand even when busy herself. She embodies what nursing should be and it is a privilege to be able to work with someone like her. Patients and doctors commend the care she gives.” Congratulations Paz on 4 years of excellent service at Research Medical Center!

Amy Waris, RN, 3 North, is Research Medical Center’s 3rd Quarter P.E.E.R. Award Winner. “Amy always goes above and beyond for the unit and hospital, with little recognition. She works very hard at ensur-ing that everyone has their ideal work schedule and does everything in her power to grant requested PTO days. She performs more duties than the rest of us and does so without complaint or frustration. She has an unwavering commitment to 3 North and RMC, and is the silent and often unrecognized force behind 3 North’s many accomplishments. She is such an outstanding coworker.”

Clayton Stiff, Registrar at Research Medical Center Brookside Campus for the past 1 1/2 years, is September’s Employee of the Month. Said by a few coworkers: “Clayton is always friendly and professional and makes sure patients are well taken care of.” “Always smiling, welcoming, and very helpful to all patients and staff.” “Clayton is extremely courteous to all customers! He promptly greets the patient as soon as they enter admitting. Never a scowl, harsh word, or frown. Clayton makes the customer feel at ease and is very fast and efficient with his job. We love him.” “Clayton is an exceptional employee who lives the RMC Care Values every day. I get so many CARE cards and even people stop in the hallway to tell me about his wonderful customer service and how caring he is to our patients. I could not ask for a better employee to represent Patient Access and RMC.”

Research Psychiatric Center Recognizes growth in education

Congratulations Lisa Conrad, RPh, Director of Pharmacy, Research Psychiatric Center

employees Honored at Hospital-Wide Quarterly Celebration


In Celebration of Thanks-giving November 19, 2014 at Research Medial Center Brookside Campus

Research Medical Center hosted a Great Save event featuring three former trauma and emergency patients. This event not only demonstrated the importance of “Great Saves” with the EMS community, but also was a beautiful way to celebrate “Giving Thanks” this holiday season. KCTV 5, KMBC 9 and WDAF 4 were there to cover the great event. To view the newscasts, go to the Newsroom on www.ResearchMedicalCenter.com.

Lori Jones who suffered a cardiac arrest at the DMV is pictured here with her DMV heroes and the Raytown EMS and Fire teams.

Rick Matter is pictured here with the HV and LifeFlight Eagle crews that saved his life from the trauma he suffered and Tina York, NREMT-P, EMS Relations Director.

Rachel Lee was saved from what could have been a stroke by quick thinking and excellent care by Research Medical Center’s Iftekhar Ahmed, MD, Kyle Coffman, MD, and Graham Lee, MD as well as Menorah Medical Center’s Walter Ricci, MD.

Pictured here with Jackie DeSouza, CEO, Research Medical Center, Cory Mead, Jacki Addington, RN-BSN, CNRN, Stroke Program Coordinator and Robyn Miller, RN, Director of Emergency Services.

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Physicians Featured on KCTV5’s It’s Your HealthTo view the newscasts, visit the Newsroom on www.ResearchMedicalCenter.com.

Gregory Starks, MD, is the Director of the Advanced Reproductive Medicine (ART) program at Research Medical Center and specializes in reproductive disorders and the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. He talks to KCTV 5 about infertility and advancements in technology.

To make an appointment with or refer patients to Dr. Starks, call (816) 444-6888.

Midwest Women’s Health Specialists6400 Prospect Ave., Ste. 598 • Kansas City, MO 64132

Sheila Roth, CNM, has been a board-certified nurse-midwife since 1994. With an emphasis on nutrition, Sheila encourages a holistic approach and informed decision-making in one’s healthcare choices. She discusses with KCTV5 the growth of midwives delivering babies nationally.

To make an appointment with Sheila, call (816) 444-6888.

Midwest Women’s Health Specialists6400 Prospect Ave., Ste. 598 • Kansas City, MO 64132

Brent Finley, MD, MBA, is a board-certified maternal-fetal medicine physician with Midwest Perinatal Associates at Research Medical Center. He is a registered diagnostic medical sonographer in both obstetrics and gynecology and in fetal echocardiography. He talks to KCTV5 about the rise in multiple births in the United States.

To refer patients to Dr. Finley, call (816) 350-2024.

Midwest Perinatal Associates6400 Prospect Ave., Ste. 598 • Kansas City, MO 64132


Cancer CornerClinical Research Trials through Sarah Cannon HCa Midwest Health

Sarah Cannon HCA Midwest Health is bringing access to national, cutting-edge therapies for patients in our local communities. With access to these novel therapies through clinical trials we are helping to provide state-of-the-art cancer care close to home for hundreds of thousands of patients, a number unmatched by any single cancer center. Sarah Cannon has a rich history in clinical research beginning in 1993 when its physicians brought clinical trials into the community setting. In 2004, these researchers formally established the Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI).

Sarah Cannon has conducted more than 140 first-in-man (phase 1) clinical trials – this means the first time a new therapy is accessible to a patient, and is among the largest early-phase research programs worldwide. Sarah Cannon has had a leadership role in the development of nearly every breakthrough anticancer drug approved in the last seven years.

The Sarah Cannon HCA Midwest Health clinical research program includes coordinators who specialize in oncology, as well as, cardiology and neuroscience therapeutic lines. A regulatory specialist and a financial specialist are able to support the administration of this program. We have a local Institutional Review Board for initial submission, continuing review, and protocol amendments.

Currently, Sarah Cannon HCA Midwest Health offers more than 60 open clinical research trials for oncology.

For more information about our clinical research trials and to view our video, visit hcamidwest.com/cancer.

For information about our clinical research program contact Jennifer W. Feeback, Clinical Research Director at [email protected].

Wichita Transplant Institute Opens

Wichita Transplant Institute Opens

Wichita Transplant Institute at Wesley Medical Center’s Health Strategies PlazaIn partnership with Research Medical Center• Access to high-quality, specialized kidney transplant services• Evaluation by a transplant surgeon and transplant nephrologist• Pre- and Post-transplant care• Surgical kidney transplant procedures performed at Research Medical Center in

Kansas City, MO• Offers Living Donor Program and Kidney Paired Exchange Program• Apartment available exclusively for transplant patients and family• Research Medical Center is contracted with most payors

Daniel Murillo, MD, FACSTransplant Surgeon

Program Medical Director

Daniel Murillo, MD, FACSTransplant Surgeon

Program Medical Director

Pranav Dalal, MD, MPHTransplant Nephrologist

Pranav Dalal, MD, MPHTransplant Nephrologist

The Transplant Institute6400 Prospect, Ste. 646Kansas City, MO 64132(816) 822-8257www.researchmedicalcenter.com

The Transplant Institute6400 Prospect, Ste. 646Kansas City, MO 64132(816) 822-8257www.researchmedicalcenter.com

Medical Center

Medical Center

Wichita Transplant Institute 551 North Hillside, Suite 520Wichita, KS 67214Phone: (316) 962-6350 Fax: (316) 962-6345

Wichita Transplant Institute 551 North Hillside, Suite 520Wichita, KS 67214Phone: (316) 962-6350 Fax: (316) 962-6345

For more information about transplant surgery, contact:

For more information about transplant surgery, contact:

Wichita Transplant Institute at Wesley Medical Center’s Health Strategies PlazaIn partnership with Research Medical Center• Access to high-quality, specialized kidney transplant services• Evaluation by a transplant surgeon and transplant nephrologist• Pre- and Post-transplant care• Surgical kidney transplant procedures performed at Research Medical Center in

Kansas City, MO• Offers Living Donor Program and Kidney Paired Exchange Program• Apartment available exclusively for transplant patients and family• Research Medical Center is contracted with most payors

Originally envisioned by a lung recipient who wished to thank organ, eye and tissue donors for their gifts of life, the Donate Life Rose Parade Float has grown into a national tradition featuring more than 100 participants each year: Riders who have received transplants; Walkers who are living kidney donors; and deceased donors memorialized in “Floragraph” portraits integrated into the float’s inspiring design. The Donate Life Rose Parade Float entry is a show-case of compassion, perseverance and courage in the face of adversity.

One of the trademarks of the annual Donate Life float design is a “Dedication Garden” that fills the deck of the float with thousands of roses, each placed in a vial carrying a unique, personal message from an individual, family or organization. In appreciation of Research Medical Center’s support of

organ, eye and tissue donation, Jackie DeSouza, CEO, writes a personal message that will be placed in a vial attached to a rose on the “Dedication Garden” of the Donate Life float at the Rose Parade on January 1st, 2015, in Pasadena, CA.

Research Medical Center Receives Recognition from March of Dimes

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Preventing early elective deliveries (EED), also known as non-medically indicated delivery prior to 39 weeks gestation, is becoming a best practice in hospitals around the country. HCA hospitals nationally and Research Medical Center locally have all been participating in an effort to reduce EED to help more babies get a stronger start in life. Medical research has documented the benefits of reducing EED, and health professionals have translated this research into practice which then created a national movement. Research Medical Center is honored to earn recognition for decreasing early elective deliveries to zero in 2014.

Jackie DeSouza Signs Dedication for the 2015 Donate Life Rose Parade Float


The Education Committee is excited to announce a new educational series for physicians called MED Talks. M (microbes) E (environment) D (disease) Talks are 30 minute presentations aimed at providing learning experiences for physicians that are topical and relevant in today’s healthcare environment. On December 3rd, Joel McKinsey, MD, will provide the first MED Talk on “Emerging Infectious Diseases.” Dr. McKinsey will be speaking in the Board Room from Noon - 12:30pm and lunch will be provided. In the upcoming year we hope to offer regular MED Talks on the first Wednesday of every month from Noon - 12:30pm and hope that physicians will be inspired to participate in these information sharing opportunities. AAFP Prescribed credit (0.5 hours) will be awarded to attendees.

For more information, contact Barbara LeGault in the Medical Staff Office at (816) 276-4467, or by email at [email protected].

Holiday Shopping Made Easy with Visa Credit Cards! • Rates as low as 5.75% APR*• Introductory rate as low as 4.90% APR* for the first year• No annual fee• 25-day grace period on all purchases• No balance transfer or cash advance fees

Need a little extra money for the holiday? Refinance your existing auto loan from another lender and we will help you Skip-A-Payment. Rates as low as 1.9% APR*.

Contact Madeline (816) 276-9403 or Dwight (816) 276-9404 for more details.

Holiday Closings: Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 27)Christmas (Thursday, December 25)New Year’s (Thursday, January 1, 2015) Special hours (9:00am -12:00pm) on:• Wednesday, December 24 • Wednesday, December 31

Not a member, join today at www.cuonthenet.org, on B-Level of Research Medical Center or using your smartphone:

*APR=Annual Percentage Rate, based on credit history and other factors

Healthcare Community Credit Union Has New Hours

New Continuing Medical education Opportunity for Research Medical Center Physicians

DeCeMBeR 3: MeD Talks, Research Medical Center Board Room, 12:00pm - 12:30pm

DeCeMBeR 4: Community Blood Drive, Research Medical Center, Meeting Room 1, 8:00am - 1:00pm

DeCeMBeR 9: employee Holiday Meal, Research Medical Center Brookside Campus, Home Base, 11:00am - 1:30pm

DeCeMBeR 11: employee Holiday Meal, Research Medical Center Cafeteria, 11:00am - 1:30pm

DeCeMBeR 11: Volunteer Holiday Celebration, Research Medical Center Brookside Campus, Home Base, 11:30am - 2:00pm

DeCeMBeR 12: employee Holiday Meal, Research Psychiatric Center gym, 11:30am - 1:00pm and 5:30pm - 6:30pm and 12:00 midnight - 1:00am

DeCeMBeR 12: 31 Bags sale to benefit eCHO, Research Medical Center Cafeteria - Meeting Room 1, 8:00am - 3:00pm

FeBRUaRY 20: Winter Nursing education Symposium, Research Medical Center, Classroom J/K on B-level, 8:00am - 12:30pm


Healthy Habits UpdateSuperfood for december – LegumeS!This winter we are warming up with the superfood, legumes! These include peas, beans, lentils, peanuts, and other podded plants. Legumes are so nutrient packed that they double as a protein and a vegetable. They make a great addition to salads, soups, or veggie dip. With their high fiber and protein content, Legumes help maintain a steady glycemic control as well as promoting weight loss by keep-ing you feeling full longer. Please come through the café to sample our promotions throughout the month and be on the look-out for different ways to include legumes into your diet! Enjoy your holiday season by eating right and living well!

Provided by Stephany Moore, RD, LD, Clinical Dietitian

U P C O M I N g

Events

Legumes are so nutrient packed, they play double duty as both a protein and a vegetable.

Plant Power

Clinical excellence UpdateSave The Date – annual Competency FairIt’s mandatory for all nursing, radiology, respiratory, and transport staff hired before December 31st, 2014, to attend one of the following three dates:

• March 12th, 2015• June 9th, 2015 • October 7th, 2015

Save The Date – Winter Nursing education SymposiumFebruary 20th from 0800-1230 in Classroom J/KFree CeUs!!!


Research Medical Center Staff Volunteers With Habitat for Humanity

Thank you to Kathryn Lenox, Kevin O’Brien, Jason Schwan, Theresa Nauser, Patrick Martin, Marrianne Adamson, Tanner Shreeve, Missy Clark, Mary Ann Delgado, Ruth Long, Chelsey Schumacher, Marilee Clites, James Keith, Sherry Potts, Teresa Owens, Jim Harper, Liz Tremain, and Sylvester Glenn for participating and helping those in need!


Holiday HappeningsTurkey GiveawayOn the RMC Main Campus

Outpatient WestTuesday, December 2, 2014: 3:00pm - 5:00pm

Wednesday, December 3, 2014: 6:30am - 9:00am and 12:00pm - 5:00pmThursday, December 4, 2014: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Friday, December 5, 2014: 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Brookside CampusParking Lot “C”

Monday, December 1, 2014: 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Turkeys not picked up by 4:00pm on Friday, December 5 will be donated through Pastoral Care to local food banks.

Research Medical Center Brookside Campus Holiday Meals

Tuesday, December 9: 11:30am - 1:00pm in Home Base

Research Medical Center Holiday MealsThursday, December 11: 11:00am - 1:30pm in Cafeteria

Highlight the Night -- Thursday, December 11: 10:00pm - 11:00pm in Cafeteria

Research Psychiatric Holiday MealsFriday, December 12: 11:30am - 1:00pm and

5:30pm - 6:30pm in the gymSaturday, December 13: 12:00am - 1:00am in the gym


Pastoral Care at Research Medical CenterAn Up-close Interview with Volunteer Sheila McIntosh

This month the Pastoral Care Department would like to highlight one of our hospital volunteers, Sheila McIntosh. Sheila began serving at Research in April 2013 as a volunteer in the lost and found. However, it wasn’t long before they realized her skill level and background in medical records would be very helpful in another area of the hospital—the TIA Clinic.

Beginning as a volunteer was exciting, she says, and she appreciated that people at Research Medical Center were friendly and acknowledged her. At first she didn’t know what to expect, but as she got into it, she discovered she liked the work and found it interesting. Sheila believes “…volunteering helps you think and get a picture of what you might like to do,” and regardless of background, anyone can bring skills they already have and use them as a volunteer. Her experience as a volunteer in the TIA Clinic has helped her clarify and explore her vocation further, and she has been a part of the team that has worked on Research Medical Center becoming certified as a Level I Stroke Center. When Sheila lost her husband, she took some time away. It was not too long before Sheila started to make plans to live the rest of her life…and those plans included a return to Research Medical Center. Sheila especially appreciated the support and encouragement of colleagues such as Jacki Addington, Mary Allen, and all those who work with her. We offer a special shout out to Pam in the Cancer Registry, who first encouraged Sheila to become a volunteer.

It’s a reciprocal relationship, between the hospital and the volunteers. The hospital gets much-needed help, and volunteers get first-hand experience as well as important connections with different staff. Thank you Sheila McIntosh and volunteers like YOU who share your talent and enthusiasm serving others.

Sheila is currently completing degree requirements in health information and technology. She plans to complete her course-work and graduate this December! Congratulations!!

Clothing Drive Gratitude and a Call for Pants

Thank you to everyone who donated clothing during the Pastoral Care Department’s clothing drive in October. Many of your donated items have already been put to use. As the weather gets colder, we’ve discovered a recurring need for more men’s pants. If you have some pants to drop off please bring them to the Chaplain Residents’ office next to the visitor elevators on the B level or the Volunteer Office.

Volunteer Holiday Celebration

All our volunteers are invited to attend the Volunteer Holiday Celebration to be held at the Brookside campus Home Base (6675 Holmes) on Thursday, December 11 from 11:30 am - 2:00 pm. This annual event is our chance to say thanks for all the dedicated work you have done throughout the year! Please RSVP to the volunteer office at ext. 4180 to let us know if you will or will not be able to attend.

15th Biennial Candlelight BallThe 15th Biennial Candlelight Ball netted more than $95,000 in proceeds to support The Research Foundation programs! The Ball, held on November 1st at the Sheraton Overland Park Hotel, was chaired by Dr. Scott and Janet Bjerke and co-chaired by Dr. Andrew and Anne Cusser.

The black-tie event included a cocktail reception, five-course meal, entertainment by BIG SHOW dueling pianos and a Golden Ticket raffle. The Ball also featured TapSnap, a unique photo booth, for attendees to receive complimentary photos. Thank you to all who attended and helped make the event a success! To see more photos from The Ball ,“Like” The Research Foundation on Facebook!

From L to R: Chairman, Dr. Scott Bjerke, Janet Bjerke, Anne Cusser, and Co-chairman, Dr. Andrew Cusser


Important employee Notice for Year end ItemsAs we approach the end of the year, not only are we thinking about the holidays, we also have a few “must do’s.” Employees must file an amended W4 form if your filing status, exemption allowances or exempt status has changed since the last filing of your W4 form.

• Have You Moved?

The address on your check/voucher is the address to which your W2 will be mailed. No W2’s will be distributed by hand. If the address is incorrect and the Post Office cannot find a forwarding address, the W2 may be delayed in arriving. If you need to correct/update your address, please contact your Human Resources office by December 12, 2014, at 816-276-3157.

• Is Your W4 Updated?

Have you had a change in family (adoption, birth of child) or marital status during 2014? If your tax filing status changed, you may need to revise your Form W4 in order to adjust your federal income tax deductions. The Form W4 determines the amount of taxes that will be withheld from your pay. If too much is being withheld, you are making an interest-free loan to the US government and are losing out on the interest that could have been earned. If not enough is being withheld, then you may face a penalty when filing your personal income tax return. To determine if your withholding elections are appropriate, please visit www.irs.gov and click on “individuals” and “IRS Withholding Calculator.”

There are many lifestyle, work, and family related reasons that could change the number of withholding allowances from one year to the next. Here are some (but not all) of the possibilities:

• Change in marital status (marriage or divorce) • Birth or adoption of a child • A child who may no longer be claimed as a dependent • Death in the family • Taking a second job • “Exempt” from withholding

Employees claiming “exempt” from withholding during the prior year on their Form W4 must complete a new Form W4 each year to continue their “exempt” status. The exemption for 2014 expires February 15, 2015. If you do not provide a new Form W4 by February 13, we must begin withholding federal income tax as if you are Single, with zero withholding allowances.

• Name & Social Security Number

Please verify that your name and social security number is EXACTLY as shown on your social security card. If either of these items differs, your wages may not be applied accurately to your account with Social Security Administration. This is very important so please take the time to review the spelling of your name and compare it to your social security card. If you have had a name change due to marriage or divorce, make sure you have contacted the Social Security Administration Office and have obtained a new card with your new name. Changes to your name and/or social security number will require you to furnish Human Resources with a copy of your social security card.

Note - The 2015 W4 form is anticipated to be available from the IRS by the end of December. Copies will be provided at that time.

Questions?

Please contact Human Resources at 816-276-3157.


Research Medical Center is hiring wise night nurses for night and weekend patient care and you may earn a $3,000 referral bonus per nurse you refer who we hire! Make referrals by completing the form linked below (one for each candidate). New nurses need to be hired or accept a full-time night or weekend bonus-eligible position by January 31, 2015. Whoooo can I refer? • Any nurse who is not a current employee of any HCA Midwest Health facility who, • Has a minimum of two years of experience. • One referral bonus can be paid per nurse hired. To refer a nurse and be eligible for the bonus, contact Asbury Broadnax at (816) 276-4176 to receive a referral bonus form. You may either send the completed form to Asbury via e-mail at [email protected] or fax it to Research Medical Center’s Human Resources, Attention: Asbury Broadnax at fax number (816) 276-3571. Please call (816) 276-4176 or e-mail Asbury to confirm receipt of your completed form. What’s in it for me? When Research Medical Center hires your full-time nursing candidates, you will get paid: • $1,500 per referred nurse who successfully completes 90 days of employment • And an additional $1,500 per referred nurse who successfully completes one year of employment (required taxes and deductions will be withheld from each payment). What’s in it for the new nurse? Research Medical Center is also offering these new nurses a $5,000 – 10,000 Night Owl Nurse bonus. When we hire a new full-time night nurse in any of our inpatient units, surgery department, emergency department, or cardiac cath lab, he/she will get paid: • $5,000: $1,000 at 90 days of employment, $1,500 at one-year anniversary, $2,500 at completion of two years working at one of the best hospitals in the region. (required taxes and deductions will be withheld from each payment) or • $7,500: $1,000 at 90 days of employment, $1,500 at one-year anniversary, $2,500 at two-year anniversary, and $2,500 at completion of three years working at one of the best hospitals in the region. (required taxes and deductions will be withheld from each payment) or • $10,000: $1,000 at 90 days of employment, $1,500 at one-year anniversary, $2,500 at two-year anniversary, $2,500 at three-year anniversary, and $2,500 at the completion of four years working at one of the best hospitals in the region. (required taxes and deductions will be withheld from each payment)

To apply for a nursing position at Research Medical Center, go to ResearchMedicalCenter.com/careers/nursing-jobs.dot.

Documents

Research Medical Center's December CARE Newsletter