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Weekend Doctor: What is a "swing bed"?

Posted by Staff on Saturday, December 9, 2023

By Emily Koogler, LSW, CCM
Social Worker-Case Manager, Bluffton Hospital

What is a swing bed?
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) grants approval to critical access hospitals to provide post-acute care in the hospital setting if the facility meets certain requirements. The swing bed concept allows a critical access facility to use its beds interchangeably for either acute care or post-acute care. The patient swings from receiving acute-care services and reimbursement to receiving skilled services and reimbursement while staying in the hospital setting.

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One thin wafer: Weight loss medication

Posted by Staff on Sunday, December 3, 2023

By Karen L. Kier
Pharmacist on behalf of the ONU Healthwise Team 

In Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life, there is a scene where Mr. Creosote explodes after eating too much food and being offered one thin wafer. The movie was released in 1983 after success with their other movies. 

The British comedy troupe formed in 1969 and started a comedy series on the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The Monty Python’s Flying Circus was viewed from 1969 to 1974. The group’s comedy style was considered revolutionary. In 1988, the group won a BAFTA for their influence on comedy.

After holiday meals, one might express a feeling of fullness. We are entering the time of year when individuals are considering weight loss and thinking about New Year resolutions. 

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Weekend Doctor: Heel pain

Posted by Staff on Saturday, December 2, 2023

By Thomas Vail, DPM
Podiatry, Medical Staff Member of Blanchard Valley Health System

Heel pain is the most common foot condition that brings patients to my office. Heel pain is caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, multiple muscles, the bursa, nerves and the periosteum under the heel.

For most people, heel pain is at its worst in the morning. While you are sleeping, your feet rest in a downward, relaxed position, causing your muscles to tighten. When you take your first steps out of bed, stretching these tight muscles can cause pain.

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Weekend Doctor: Taking care with fall yardwork

Posted by Staff on Sunday, November 26, 2023

By Misty Watkins, LPN
Primary Care Manager, Blanchard Valley Medical Practices

As the trees are in their final stages of losing their leaves, the temperatures begin to drop, and the winds begin to pick up, many homeowners start feeling the pressure of getting their fall yard cleaning done before winter sets in. 

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Healthwise: Turkey Lurkey Time

Posted by Staff on Wednesday, November 22, 2023

By Brendan Sheridan, Student Pharmacist
and Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist on behalf of the ONU Healthwise Team

Turkey Lurkey Time was a song and dance routine from the Broadway musical Promises, Promises: The Musical Comedy. The 1968 production was based on a book by Neil Simon with the music by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Turkey Lurkey Time was featured on the 1969 Tony Awards and season four of the Fox TV hit Glee. 

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Weekend Doctor: Treatment for spinal stenosis

Posted by Staff on Saturday, November 18, 2023

By Heather Auxier, APRN-CNP
Certified Nurse Practitioner, Blanchard Valley Pain Management

Spinal stenosis is a debilitating condition characterized by narrowing of the spinal canal or neural foramen that can lead to compression of the spinal cord and nerves. There are various treatment options to help this condition.  

Conservative therapies include physical therapy, activity modification, and exercise. These treatment options help to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and enhance posture to alleviate pain symptoms.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Tylenol or ibuprofen can offer temporary relief by reducing pain and inflammation. Long term medications should be carefully monitored due to potential side effects.

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