Curry Health Network Participates in Senior Health Fair
Jeanette Wheeler, RN, Nursing Educator and Nursing Manager of the hospital's Emergency and Med-Surg Departments, and Judy Backhouse, RN and Lead OB nurse, gave residents and community members Personal Medication Record cards and discussed the importance of keeping accurate records of home medications and supplementations.
"It is essential that everyone keeps a personal medication record with them at all times so it can be available if a visit to an emergency room is necessary, and also to take to any appointment with a primary care provider," said Backhouse. She explained that records should not only be kept of prescription medications, but supplementations as well. "Supplementations can have a negative effect on prescription medications," Backhouse noted. The nurses also discussed the importance of drinking plenty of water. "As we age, we may not feel as thirsty and not drink as much water as we should, and many medications can cause constipation. We should all be sure to inform our healthcare providers if we are not drinking as much water as may be required, because that may require a change in medication management."
Wheeler said the Seaview residents were most excited about the news of the approval for a new Emergency Department at Curry Medical Center in Brookings. "The feedback about the availability of emergency services in their community was overwhelmingly positive," she added. Brochures introducing the healthcare providers of Curry Health Network and outlining the myriad of services available were also shared with residents and others attending the health fair.
At the invitation of the facility's Director, Wheeler and Backhouse will be speaking at the facility's monthly community meetings and providing education for their staff. "We're pleased to be offered the opportunity to contribute to the health and well-being of community members, and are looking forward to returning," Wheeler said.