JCH&L Burkley Fitness Center Open to Full Capacity

/by

As of June 7, JCH&L Burkley Fitness Center is open to full capacity, after operating with distancing, reduced class sizes, and other COVID precautions since late last year.

The fitness center is open 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Zumba Class will begin again on Monday, July 5. Zumba will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.

Fitness Center participants must still pass a screening when entering, including temperature and questions about any COVID symptoms or exposure to COVID. Masking is optional for fitness center participants. Fitness Center participants MUST mask and have a screened sticker if leaving from the fitness center to other parts of Jefferson Community Health & Life.

Participants are still asked to wipe down equipment after use, and are encouraged to use hand sanitizer before and after using equipment.

Staff members continue to clean machines regularly.

“Throughout the pandemic we have been working hard to keep our members and staff safe,” said Craig Bontrager, fitness center director. “We are happy that our county is in the green risk dial and that we are able to loosen restrictions for our participants.”

Jefferson Community Health & Life will continue to monitor the county numbers and risk dial.

Cognition and Swallowing Among the Common Challenges Persisting for Many Americans After COVID-19

/by

Speech-Language Pathologists Can Help Patients Regain Health and Quality of Life, Jefferson Community Health and Life Expert Stresses During Better Hearing & Speech Month

With an estimated 10 to 30% of COVID-19 survivors experiencing “long-haul” symptoms including brain fog and swallowing difficulties, JCHL speech-language pathologist Amanda Carlson is encouraging the public to seek care from qualified experts who can help them regain their functioning and quality of life. Carlson is sharing this message in recognition of May being national Better Hearing & Speech Month (BHSM).

“The pandemic has posed so many challenges to us all as a society, but one of the persisting and most vexing ones right now is the daunting set of difficulties many people are having for months after contracting COVID-19,” said Carlson. “From brain fog, to difficulty eating and drinking, to speech and language problems, these can affect return to work, the ability to take care of one’s family, and overall recovery. Many people don’t know about the services of speech-language pathologists—professionals trained in these areas who can make a huge difference for these people. This is an important time for us to spread the word: Help is available.”

How They Help

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can help people with, or recovering from, COVID-19 who are having short- and longer-term difficulties in the following areas:

  • Cognition

Many COVID-19 “long-haulers” are reporting persistent brain fog as a debilitating symptom after their bout with the virus. This can prevent a return to work and impact their ability to tend to family responsibilities. SLPs can work with individuals to improve their memory, attention, organization and planning, problem solving, learning, and social communication—such as re-learning conversational rules or understanding the intent behind a message or behind nonverbal cues. The focus is on the person’s specific challenges as well as regaining the skills that are most important to their daily life and priorities.

  • Swallowing

People diagnosed with COVID-19 may experience swallowing problems that can put them at risk for choking or aspirating, which is when food goes into the lungs instead of the stomach. This may be the result of time spent on a ventilator, or it may be another side effect of the virus. SLPs use different types of tests to determine what happens when a person swallows and how the related muscles are working—helping a patient’s medical team, including the SLP, decide on the best course of action with the patient and their family. SLPs may recommend modified textures of food and drink for patients; therapy exercises to strengthen the tongue, lips, and muscles in the mouth and throat; and strategies to make eating and drinking safer, such as modifying the pace of chewing/eating, size of food, and more.

  • Communication

People diagnosed with COVID-19 are also experiencing speech and language difficulties. Some, such as those who spent a significant amount of time on a ventilator or experienced low oxygen to the brain, may have muscle weakness or reduced coordination in the muscles of the face, lips, tongue, and throat—making it difficult to talk. Others, particularly those who experienced a COVID-related stroke, may experience a language disorder called aphasia—which makes it hard for someone to understand, speak, read, or write. SLPs work with patients through targeted therapy to improve their communication and understanding.

People who have severe speech and/or language difficulties may need to find other ways to answer questions or tell people what they want, such as through gesturing with their hands, pointing to letters or pictures on a paper or board, or using a computer. These are all forms of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). SLPs help find the appropriate AAC method to meet an individual’s needs.

Where to Find Care

Jefferson Community Health & Life Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Services speech therapist works in settings that include the hospital, long-term care facility, and patients’ homes. If you or a loved one are experiencing communication challenges, Carlson recommends letting your doctor know.

JCH&L Women’s Health Day Scheduled for June 23

/by

Wellness Experience Offers Women a Convenient Way to Take Control of Their Health

In just about three hours women from Jefferson County and beyond can complete their annual health checks and receive a well-deserved indulgence at the same time. Women’s Health Day is a complete wellness experience designed to make women’s health easy. Jefferson Community Health & Life is now scheduling for the experience on Wednesday, June 23.

The program is available at the Jefferson Community Health & Life Health Center and Fairbury Clinic on select days every month, and includes:

* Personalized guidance from an on-site Women’s Health Day navigator

* Important health screenings, including fasting lab tests, a screening mammogram and a routine annual exam to assess overall and gynecological health (lab test and mammogram results will be available before participants leave for the day, while Pap test results will be provided later by mail)

* Complimentary breakfast and a relaxing indulgence—such as an express manicure or hand massage, for example. Offerings may vary.

* Reserved parking

“It’s so important for women to make time for their own health, but we know life sometimes gets in the way,” said Erin Starr, Chief Nursing Officer. “That’s why we created Women’s Health Day—to provide a convenient way for women to get their essential health screenings all at once, while also taking time to unwind.”

All major insurance plans are accepted for screening and exams (coverage is subject to individual policy terms). JCH&L Fairbury Clinic accepts new patients.

Appointments for the Women’s Health Day experience start as early as 6:30 a.m. To schedule, call 402.729.6841.

Kline Named to ACHE Editorial Board

/by

JCH&L CEO Burke Kline, DHA, CHFP, FACHE, has been named to the American College of Healthcare Executives Editorial Board.

As a member of the ACHE Editorial Board, he is one of 30 board members appointed by the Board of Governors. Each member of the Board of Governors appoints one member. He will serve a three-year term.

This committee is part of the Customer Voice/Requirements decision advisory group whose function is to provide ACHE staff with insight into key requirements for relevant content, valuable features and effective delivery of key programs, produces & services. The board gives direction in the development of the ACHE website, ache.org and gives suggestions on enhancing the value of the website to members.

JCH&L Speech Therapist Stresses Early Intervention During Better Hearing & Speech Month

/by

Families Should Seek Help Immediately If a Child Shows Signs of a Speech or Language Delay or Disorder

With speech and language disorders among the most common conditions that young children experience, Jefferson Community Health & Life speech-language pathologist Amanda Carlson, M.S. CCC-SLP, is encouraging parents and caregivers to learn the signs of communication disorders—and seek an evaluation now if they have any concerns. The message is a timely one, as May is national Better Hearing & Speech Month (BHSM).

“Many parents have questions about their child’s speech, language, or social communication skills but are often told by family, friends, or even other professionals to wait and see if their child outgrows a potential problem,” said Carlson, who provides services at JCH&L Sports Medicine and Rehab Services. “Unfortunately, this often results in a delayed diagnosis of a disorder that is highly treatable—particularly when caught early.”

The COVID pandemic has made it even more important to seek care.

“It’s especially important to be vigilant now,” Carlson said. “Some children who traditionally would have been recommended for speech and language services by a daycare provider or pediatrician may have been missed due the pandemic—since many kids remained at home, with more limited interaction with these professionals. Families should know that early intervention services are still available at this time, even if they have been modified due to the pandemic, through JCH&L Sports Medicine and Rehab Services. Now is the time to act on any concern.”

Here are some signs of a speech or language disorder in a young child (age 3 and under):

  • Does not smile or interact with others (birth and older)
  • Does not babble (4–7 months)
  • Makes only a few sounds or gestures, like pointing (7–12 months)
  • Does not understand what others say (7 months – 2 years)
  • Says only a few words (12–18 months)
  • Says words that are not easily understood by others (18 months – 2 years)
  • Does not put words together to make sentences (1.5–3 years)
  • Produces speech that is unclear, even to familiar people (2–3 years)

Here are some of the key benefits of early treatment:

  • Maximizes a child’s success. Treatment at any age is worthwhile, but earlier is usually most effective. Early treatment can reduce the need for school-based services later.
  • Saves time and money. It can take less time to treat a communication delay or disorder when families act on the early warning signs. Fewer treatment sessions can also mean fewer out-of-pocket expenses. Many early intervention programs offer free or low-cost services to children ages birth to 3 years and their families. They also can link you to other community supports.
  • Prepares a child for kindergarten. What happens between birth and age 3 lays the foundation for kindergarten readiness. Strong speech, language, cognitive, and social skills are necessary for reading, writing, and academic success—as well as all the other demands of school.
  • Sets a child on a course to school, social, and life success. All families want what’s best for their children. Acting early can have positive, long-lasting effects on your child’s communication, social relationships, learning, and daily life activities well into adulthood.

Learn more about the benefits of early identification and treatment at www.IdentifytheSigns.org. An order for speech therapy services prescribed by physician is required for completion of evaluation.

For more information, call JCH&L Sports Medicine and Rehab Services at 402-729-6840.

JCH&L Women’s Health Day Scheduled for June 2

/by

Wellness Experience Offers Women a Convenient Way to Take Control of Their Health

In just about three hours women from Jefferson County and beyond can complete their annual health checks and receive a well-deserved indulgence at the same time. Women’s Health Day is a complete wellness experience designed to make women’s health easy. Jefferson Community Health & Life is now scheduling for the experience on Wednesday, June 2.

The program is available at the Jefferson Community Health & Life Health Center and Fairbury Clinic on select days every month, and includes:

* Personalized guidance from an on-site Women’s Health Day navigator

* Important health screenings, including fasting lab tests, a screening mammogram and a routine annual exam to assess overall and gynecological health (lab test and mammogram results will be available before participants leave for the day, while Pap test results will be provided later by mail)

* Complimentary breakfast and a relaxing indulgence—such as an express manicure or hand massage, for example. Offerings may vary.

* Reserved parking

“It’s so important for women to make time for their own health, but we know life sometimes gets in the way,” said Erin Starr, Chief Nursing Officer. “That’s why we created Women’s Health Day—to provide a convenient way for women to get their essential health screenings all at once, while also taking time to unwind.”

All major insurance plans are accepted for screening and exams (coverage is subject to individual policy terms). JCH&L Fairbury Clinic accepts new patients.

Appointments for the Women’s Health Day experience start as early as 6:30 a.m. To schedule, call 402.729.6841.

Nebraska Community Bloodbank Visits June 14

/by

FAIRBURY –The next Nebraska Community Bloodbank blood drive will be held on Monday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to 2  p.m. in the mobile unit in the parking lot of JCH&L Fairbury Clinic, 825 22nd St.

Everyone who gives blood has a chance to win a VIP package at the College World Series.

All types are needed. Giving blood is giving a gift of life. Nebraska Community Bloodbank is Jefferson Community Health & Life’s blood supplier, and the two organizations partner for blood drives in Fairbury to save lives.

To make an appointment, call JCH&L Outpatient Services at 402-729-6851, or visit NCBB.org and use sponsor code JCHC.

With iDonate you can save time by completing your health history on line ahead of your bloodmobile visit. To get started, visit NCBB.org/iDonate

Grant Project Allows Upgrade of IN2L at Gardenside

/by

A grant project recently updated the It’s Never Too Late computer system for Jefferson Community Health & Life Gardenside, giving more options to residents for activities and contact with their families.

JCH&L Gardenside worked with the Diller Community Foundation to apply for the “Connecting Elders with Family” grant through the Nebraska Community Foundation. The grant was to encourage using electronic devices and complementary equipment to help connect those in care facilities with their families. It was a 1:1 matching grant. JCH&L Gardenside applied for funding to upgrade the current It’s Never 2 Late computer equipment, and add 2 tablets to make it more accessible. The system allows video calls with families, games, participation in activities and more for Gardenside residents.

The Nebraska Community Foundation approved the grant, and matching funds came the Diller Community Foundation, Fairbury Community Foundation and JCH&L’s Jefferson Health Care Fund. The total project was $9,997, with $4,998.50 in matching funds.

“COVID has made it a very difficult year, and we appreciate the grant assistance to make it easier for our residents to stay in touch with the families,” said Deb Sutton RN, Gardenside Administrator. “We thank all of the organizations that have made this possible.”

Shadduck Earns Rural Clinic Professional Certification

/by

Kim Shadduck has earned the Rural Health Clinic Professional certification.

Shadduck completed the National Association of Rural Health Clinic Academy’s Rural Health Clinic Professional online course and passed the examination.

Shadduck has been with the Fairbury Clinic for three years, and has recently been promoted to JCH&L Business Office manager. She was previously a biller in the Fairbury Clinic. She is committed to helping Jefferson Community Health & Life continue to grow and improve and provide excellent customer service.

Gardenside, Cedarwood Update Visitation Guidelines

/by

While news reports are that restrictions on visitation for residents living in nursing home and assisted livings have been lessened, many precautions remain in place. Gardenside and Cedarwood have updated visitation guidelines to reflect current federal guidelines.

Visitation restrictions are based on the vaccination rate of residents and tenants, as well as our county transmission rate (which is updated weekly by CMS.)

Gardenside and Cedarwood currently have 100 percent of residents and tenants vaccinated. Our county transmission rate currently classifies Jefferson County in the yellow risk category, according to data.CMS.gov.

“Our county transmission rate has unfortunately risen in the past month. In late March our rate was less than 5 percent and CMS designated Jefferson as a ‘green’ county. We have increased and are now in the ‘yellow’ designation,” said Deb Sutton, RN, administrator of Gardenside and Cedarwood. “We are hopeful that this recent increase in positive COVID-19 cases in Jefferson County will not continue. If our positivity rate gets back into the ‘red’ zone, we will have additional federal restrictons.”

Each Nursing Home and Assisted Living facility is to establish its own guidelines for visitation in the facility and for residents leaving the facility with family, based upon federal guidelines, and their staffing and ability to monitor and isolate residents as needed.

Guidelines for Visitation at Gardenside at this time:

  • Visits by family, friends and clergy are allowed for any resident not currently in quarantine.
  • Visits are allowed by those who are 6 and older.
  • All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance using SignUp Genius. There is a link to SignUp Genius on the webpage – JCHealthandLife.org, locations, Gardenside.
  • All visitors will be screened for temperature, symptoms of COVID or potential exposures. Individuals not passing the screening will NOT be allowed entry.
  • Hand hygiene will be performed upon entry, as needed throughout visit, and upon leaving facility.
  • Outdoor visits are always preferred over indoor visits if weather allows and if tolerated by our residents. Staff will determine designated area for visitation. Visitors must remain in designated area for visit and avoid contact with other residents.
  • Visitors must remain masked for ENTIRE visit. Visitors who do not comply will be instructed to leave immediately.
  • Visits will be limited to 1 hour each, with no more than 2 visitors per resident per visit.
  • There is no eating or drinking during visits. If you bring treats for a resident, the nursing staff will assist by taking them and provide them to the resident after the visit.
  • 6 foot distancing should be maintained throughout the visit. Fully vaccinated residents (those 2 weeks past their completed vaccine series) may choose to allow close contact with visitors but masks must be in place for close contact (and entire visit.)
  • Visits must be monitored by staff to ensure all precautions are followed
  • Visitors who fail to follow the guidelines will be required to leave immediately. Any visitor who repeatedly fails to follow guidelines and masking requirement will be allowed closed window visits only.

In some cases, residents and tenants may be allowed to leave the facility with their loved ones. Requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Requests for family outings must be made Monday through Thursday and at least 48 hours in advance. Families must provide all details of the event to Gardenside or Cedarwood staff for consideration. A low-risk outing (such as a car ride without any stops or a physician visit) may be allowed without any quarantine or testing. A moderate-risk outing (such as a small gathering with controlled attendance and full mask use) may be allowed with the resident/tenant being tested twice weekly for two weeks following the outing. A high-risk outing (such as a public event, dining, etc.) requires the resident to be re-admitted into a private room for quarantine for 14 days, and the resident will be tested prior to the discontinuation of isolation. For a high-risk outing, the facility will take into consideration its supply of Personal Protective Equipment, availability of private room upon return of the resident/tenant, and staffing.

“Gardenside and Cedarwood are among a very small group of nursing homes and assisted living facilities in the state of Nebraska who have had no cases of COVID-19 diagnosed among residents or tenants,” Sutton said. “We have worked very hard throughout the pandemic to keep our residents and tenants safe, and we will continue to follow the guidelines that have made this possible.”

Those with questions about the guidelines may contact:

  • Deb Sutton RN – Administrator of Gardenside and Cedarwood — 402-729-6843
  • Laura DeBoer RN – Gardenside Director of Nursing Services — 402-587-5228
  • Raven Gerths – Gardenside Social Services Coordinator — 402-729-6849
  • Becky Bruce, LPN, Cedarwood Director of Nursing – 402-729-6883

2200 H St., PO Box 277, Fairbury, NE