October 25, 2006 Edition

Also in this issue...

Updates planned
at Lawrence Hall

Sarah Wright, new Lawrence Hall Nursing Center administrator, provided the home's management report to a meeting of the Lawrence Health Services Board following her first month on the job. She noted that updates are needed for resident's rooms, such as painting and tile work. A resident committee will help to make some of the decisions, such as selection of the bedspreads or comforters.

The beauty shop area, one she described as being very important to the women in the facility, is in dire need of attention. It will be re-worked to accommodate the massage therapist.

Twenty-two nursing home patients participated in Senior Olympics last week. It was a new experience for many of the residents who enjoyed the competition and spectator events. She reported that information on the event will be featured in the LHNC newsletter, which is being revised to be more informational for patient's families and others interested in the facility. It will retain its most popular features.

Wright told board members that Dec. 21 has been scheduled for the families and friends to join residents in a Christmas party. Families are encouraged to provide their loved one's favorite dessert and a gift. Gifts are to be delivered prior to the event so that the staff can provide a present for those who do not receive one.

Leah Osbahr, president of LHS, noted that the employee survey was recently completed with preliminary results showing a significant increase in employee satisfaction. Approximately 78 percent of employees voluntarily participated.

"The comments made ~ even the negative ~ were very constructive," said Osbahr. "None were the typical 'nobody cares about me' or 'I am overworked and underpaid.'"

"While not all suggestions were feasible, they were constructive," added Sandy Sullins, CFO.

A disaster that occurred with a recent bus wreck resulted in an influx of patients to the emergency department. Parents were described by Osbahr as helpful and considerate, deserving thanks for their presence to assist their children. "They were so polite and respectful," said Osbahr, noting that they had seen the horrible scene of the crash and came to the facility in a time of crisis.

In other business:

Dr. Ted Lancaster gave the medical director's report for LHNC.
the finance committee reported on activity of both the nursing home and hospital. The board approved a quote on property and auto insurance. The numbers of claims ~ attributed to storm damage ~ have increased, causing an adjustment in cost.
Dr. Clay Spencer gave a medical staff report including outcomes of the executive committee meeting, quality assurance meeting and medical staff applications. He also noted the outcome of the blood usage report, with no issues.
it was reported that absences of doctors in September affected numbers of visits to both the clinics and outpatient services.
a report on the LHS Race for the Cure team was shared. A flat tire waylaid the team at the White River Bridge as they headed for Little Rock in the early morning hours. A hunter heading for the deer woods rescued them. Turned out, their hero was from Hoxie ~ Earl Defoor.
The quality and safety update was provided.
Medical staff applications were approved.

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October 25, 2006 Edition

Updates planned at Lawrence Hall

Updates planned
at Lawrence Hall