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When it comes to intimidating procedures such as surgery, cardiac catheterization (Cath) or interventional radiology (IR), there can be a lot of unknowns. What can I expect on the big day? What will happen after I’m all done? Will I have to worry about my orders not being in the system? Who can I call if I have any last-minute questions? It’s easy for your thoughts to race as you approach your procedure date, but luckily, there is a team who puts your mind at ease.  With Renown Health’s Surgery & Procedure Scheduling department, patients can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that all the nitty-gritty is taken care of before they step foot in the procedure room. This team operates in the mindset of a complex Tetris board – fitting in all the pieces to make sure every patient is set on the path for surgery success.  Consistent Contact Our Surgery & Procedure Scheduling team has a unique history. Initially operating as two separate teams, over the last year, our leaders skillfully combined the two teams together under one umbrella. That allows the now singular team to have line of sight across every surgery and Cath or IR procedure plan and be better stewards of the resources they have at their fingertips to provide streamlined, more-connected care for patients.  As one might imagine, with the merger of the two teams, the day-in-the-life of each team member is full of a variety of crucial checklist items to cross off – all supporting constant communication from patients to providers.  On the surgery scheduling front, these team members are resource rockstars. From working with referring providers to get patients scheduled appropriately to ensuring rooms and equipment are available for every patient, this team makes sure everything and everyone is in place when the time comes to help create a successful procedure and the best possible patient experience.   “In surgery scheduling, we handle inbound calls for the outside offices to get time scheduled for each patient in the operating room (OR),” said Lydia Sharkey, Senior Scheduler. “We make sure there are plenty of anesthesia resources and equipment for every surgery, including any important information that we need to schedule patients appropriately and adding all documents to the OR board. If we need to swap rooms or move patients around, we handle that process too.”  Over on the IR/Cath scheduling side of things, this team is on the frontlines of patient communication. They are experts in helping patients navigate their procedure from start (seeing their provider and obtaining the proper referrals) to finish (the day of the procedure and post-procedure process).  “My day is a little different than the hospital schedulers; our part of the team handles the outpatient aspect,” said Adrienne White, Senior Scheduler. “We are in constant contact with patients and the IR and Cath departments. We help them navigate their procedure, including what to expect during and after the procedure. We get them through the process as easily as possible and ease their minds, so they know what is going to happen every step of the way. It’s all about communication, communication, communication!”  This department has a significant overarching role: make sure all documents and ancillary information is set up for all our clinical teams that help with surgeries and procedures. This critical work means that every process is followed, and no important details are left out.  “No one wakes up and says, ‘I want to have surgery;” our team goes above and beyond to make sure every single detail is taken care of so that when patients arrive, everything is in place,” said Trisha White. “Our team works hard to ensure everything runs as efficiently as possible because we want to use our resources in the best way possible to serve our patients without delays. We make sure we receive all the orders, codes and insurance and that the teams that follow after us – including our pre-admit team and nurses – have all the information they need to do their job seamlessly."  With all the work they accomplish daily – not to mention how they wholeheartedly support each other through it all – it’s no question that the entire team has a lot to be proud of. Besides helping make patient care possible, the team puts their departmental merger and the move to fully remote work at the top of the list.  “We’re most proud of merging the surgery scheduling and procedure scheduling teams together and therefore more cohesive,” said Mary Gray, Senior Scheduler. “The merger has made our team blossom and be able to connect with and rely on one another even more. We aren’t afraid to speak up and say something. At the end of the day, we’re here to take care of the patient, but we also help each other out. Our morale has gone up, and everybody is happier. Even though we all work remotely, we are more connected and have a great work-life balance.”  “Along with transitioning the two teams into one big team, the move to being fully remote was huge," added Patricia Cruz-Hernandez, Surgical RN Scheduling Coordinator. “We worked through all the glitches, and it was a seamless transition to move into a remote setting. What’s great is that it did not affect patients at all; everything still gets done exactly as it should.”  No matter how busy the days may get, Renown’s surgery and procedure schedulers always remember one thing: they are incredibly grateful for their fellow team members.  “We have a very efficient and hard-working team of women,” said Pam Chapa Valencia, Senior Scheduler.  “I could not have handpicked better people for our team,” added Trisha White. “I feel so lucky to have the team that we have.”  A Renown “Why” Our Surgery and Procedure Scheduling team members all have diverse stories to tell about their road to Renown and why they’ve stayed in the department for as long as they have. Whether they’ve been with us for two years or two decades, they all share the same strong calling to care for their community.  “I always wanted to help people, and my grandma was a nurse,” said Pam Chapa Valencia, Senior Scheduler.  “I loved hearing her stories, and it made me want to be involved in patient care.”  “I have a caring nature, and a hospital nature seemed like the right fit – I've been here for 25 years,” added Mary Gray.  Several of our schedulers recognized the influence Renown has within our community and the ability to grow professionally and personally, both of which were a driving factor in their decision to make our health system their long-term career.  “I’m originally from southern California, and I moved here about eight years ago; my husband always talked so positively about Renown, especially with how big it is and how it has the only level II trauma center in northern Nevada, so my goal was always to get a job here,” said Lydia Sharkey. “It’s been a great environment to be a part of.”  “I’ve been with Renown for 17 years, and I chose to come here because of the reputation of the services Renown provided and care they gave,” added Trisha White. “I also knew what opportunities there were for me professionally, and in doing so, we are taking care of our community. I’ve had the chance to grow within my own professional skills and leadership skillset.”  A profound feeling of ‘home’ is a common theme among this department. These team members appreciate the sense of community Renown has, the strides we’ve made in expanding our reach and how our health system gives healthcare professionals who are new to the field a chance to succeed.  “At the time, Renown was the only hospital that would train nurses, and as a brand-new nurse, I had no experience – Renown took a chance on me,” said Patricia Cruz-Hernandez. “I feel like this is home. Our health system is so community-based and people-first minded, keeping ‘mission over margin.’ We’re growing, we’re expanding, we’re everywhere!”  “I was a part of a transition as the cardiology private practice I worked with became a Renown practice, and it was great,” added Adrienne White. “This transition enabled us to provide more services and better care to patients. I stay here because I see the leaps and bounds we’ve been able to make in terms of procedures, accessibility and patient experience.”  As true advocates for both patients and each other, the team is proud to have found their niche – and the ultimate beneficiaries? Everyone undergoing a surgery or procedure at Renown.  A Culture of Kindness and Gratitude When you meet the Surgery & Procedure Scheduling team, you are greeted with warm smiles and an enthusiastic “Nice to meet you!” You can’t help but smile back and feel the infectious kindness they exude.  Renown operates with a People-First mindset, a vision that this department especially takes to heart. They emulate the exact definition of our “Collaboration” cultural commitment.  “We’ve built very good relationships and rapport with the OR managers and board runners,” said Lydia Sharkey. “The communication that we have at all three locations is very solid.”  “The OR leadership is always so willing to help out whenever they can, and the resources they’ve provided have been huge for us,” added Adrienne White.  “All the teams that see the patients after us – especially the surgical pre-admit team and the case managers, are fantastic about collaborating with us and reaching out to solve any issues they may have,” added Trisha White. “We all work so well together, especially since we all impact patient care.”  In any organization, strong and compassionate leadership is key to a thriving team. Luckily for our surgery and procedure schedulers, they have Trisha White on their side. They attribute a lot of their success to having a supportive leader who “gets it.”  “Trisha has been a scheduler like us, so she completely understands when we’re having an issue, because she’s struggled with the same thing and knows where we are coming from,” said Mary Gray. “It makes us feel like we are not alone – I can always reach out to her, or any of my other coworkers, to ask questions and figure out a solution together.”  Despite being a remote-only team that meets in-person only one or two times a month, this group never misses an opportunity to reconnect both online and offline. They frequently shout out their Culture Ambassadors, schedulers Pam Chapa Valencia and Roxanne Abundis, for their team’s high morale.  “Even though we all primarily work remotely, our in-person days are some of my favorite days of the month,” said Trisha White. “We feel so uplifted, we laugh and we have fun. We love being with each other. Pam and Roxanne are our Culture Ambassadors, and they both have been amazing at planning fun things for our teams. They go above and beyond to make our team feel cohesive and included.”  “Pam and Roxanne have been leaders in creating a fun environment and supportive culture for us,” added Lydia Sharkey. “Whether it’s creating care packages or making sure we all have a good time when we see each other in person, they deserve a lot of credit.”  As this team excels in their roles and foster a culture rooted in kindness and gratitude, we can trust that Renown’s surgeries and procedures will continue to thrive, and patients will continue to benefit from their diligent efforts and commitment to efficiency.  “We make the magic happen!” closes Mary Gray.

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© Arthon Meekodong via Canva.com Breast cancer screening has long been a cornerstone of women's healthcare. With 1 in 8 women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime1, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has developed screening recommendations to help detect early-stage cancer. Notably in 2023, the USPSTF revised the recommended age for biennial mammogram screenings for women with average risk to start at age 40 instead of 502, estimated to result in 19% more lives being saved3 by starting screening earlier. While initiating screening at an earlier age offers advantages to a wide demographic, concerns about the potential of over-screening prompted research into the feasibility of identifying women with lower breast cancer risk who could safely delay mammograms. While guidelines address high-risk individuals, a notable gap exists in providing recommendations tailored to those at lower risk. To gain insight into a patient's risk level, physicians are able to utilize genetic testing to understand an individual's genetic makeup, providing precise insights into their predisposition to various health conditions, including breast cancer. Armed with this genetic information, healthcare providers could craft tailored screening strategies that align with an individual’s specific risk profile. This genetic risk-based approach underscores the value of genetics in individualizing the onset of screening to help avoid over-screening and its associated costs. Surprisingly, genetic information is not currently being widely utilized to identify women at risk of breast cancer or other diseases in clinical practice, despite its potential to make a significant positive impact for patients. A recent retrospective analysis of 25,591 women from the Healthy Nevada Project4 sheds light on the potential benefits of this genetic risk-based approach. The study classified 2,338 (9.1%) of these women as having a low genetic risk for breast cancer. What's remarkable is that these women exhibited a significantly lower and later onset of breast cancer compared to their average or high-risk counterparts. This finding suggests that it might be safe for low-risk women to delay mammogram screening by 5 to 10 years without compromising their health.

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The month of September recognizes several cancer-related health observances. Join us in celebrating our Medical Oncology team at Renown!  No person ever wants to hear the words, “You have cancer.” Those three short yet impactful words immediately change the course of someone’s life. As these patients Fight the Good Fight against cancer, there are a lot of intimidating unknowns that can take over their minds. What happens next? What will my treatment be like? What is my prognosis? How will I be able to handle this physically and emotionally? What will it take for me to beat this?  Who is better to be by their side than the devoted team members at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health? From helping patients manage the process of complex paperwork and referrals to delivering personalized oncology and hematology treatment options tailored to each individual diagnosis, those fighting virtually any type of cancer are never alone, thanks to this team. The William N. Pennington Cancer Institute always lives up to that promise, guiding patients through the daunting journey of cancer treatment ahead, one step at a time.  Courageous Against Cancer Our exceptional Medical Oncology department inherently understands that each moment in life is precious, especially for patients battling cancer. This team is dedicated to orchestrating the most comprehensive plan for each patient, seamlessly weaving together diagnoses and treatments, oral chemotherapy, medication management, clinical trials, radiation oncology and more.   With the many patients they impact, there’s no question that there is never a dull moment in the day of the life of a healing hero like those in this department.  “No day is the same in Medical Oncology,” said Hollyann Dehm, Registered Nurse. “As a nurse, we wear many hats in the clinic. Our role is to educate patients on their treatment plans and specific drugs they are receiving, triage symptom calls from patients, refill medications and implement our oral chemotherapy program.  We help provide direct patient care by accessing ports, drawing labs and giving IV hydration when needed.  We also help fill out family and medical leave (FMLA)/disability paperwork, help with physician orders, help obtain prior authorizations for prescribed medications and treatments.”  “We do our best to let our patients know that they will not be going through this alone,” added Danielle Say, Physician Scheduling Coordinator. "We will be here for them every step of the way, guiding them and making sure their treatment is as smooth as possible and making ourselves available to them as much as we can. We end up getting to know many of our patients on a very close, personal level, and this helps to build that trust.”  “Our day-to-day activities include seeing patients and helping to manage their therapies as well as their toxicities,” added Dr. Harry Menon, DO, Oncology Physician. “We work closely with our infusion room staff and have a robust team to help us deal with these complex patients. We also work very closely with our surgical and radiation oncology colleagues in a multidisciplinary fashion to provide comprehensive care for our patients.”  The Medical Oncology team excels not only in providing cutting-edge cancer care but also in their compassionate approach to helping patients reduce the anxieties they understandably feel. Recognizing that a cancer diagnosis can be an emotionally overwhelming experience, this dedicated team combines medical expertise with unwavering support to create a healing environment.  “When patients are referred to our department, a lot of them have many fears and questions,” said Heather Cortez, Medical Assistant. “A majority of what our team does is focused on the mental support that our patients require to help them have the most successful outcomes. One thing I have learned about cancer care is that positivity in the face of adversity is everything. Just being there to listen to our patient’s concerns can make all the difference. Helping them to navigate their many appointments and taking the time to explain things in a patient and compassionate way, is part of how our team serves this vulnerable population.”  “The uncertainty is one of my patients' biggest fears: How far has my cancer progressed? How long will I have left? Is treatment even an option?” added Mary Wilson, Senior Medical Assistant. “The best advice that I can give my patients is that they are not alone. While this battle is going to be one of the hardest parts of their lives, they are surrounded by constant support to try and help with any burdens they may be facing. I also tell my patients that we have to take the little wins no matter how small they may be, because while cancer treatment is a physical battle, it is also a large mental battle."  “While we don’t have answers to all the questions patients and their family members may have, we do our best to listen to their questions and concerns regarding their cancer diagnosis and treatment and guide them through their cancer journey," added Hollyann Dehm. “We provide emotional support and education on their type of cancer, managing their pain and side effects of their treatment.  We also connect them to nurse navigators and our social worker who also help identify barriers to care and provide the patient with resources.”  Whether it's explaining treatment options in understandable terms or offering emotional support through difficult moments, this department is committed to empowering patients on their journey toward healing. Their holistic approach not only treats the disease but also nurtures the spirit, all while being a strong advocate on each patient’s behalf.  “Getting a cancer diagnosis can be the worst news that a person can hear; what we try to do is focus on improving quality life and focus on goals that help to promote quality of life,” said Dr. Harry Menon. “If the option for a cure is on the table, we try and focus on that goal in concert with promoting quality life. I try and have our patients focus on what they can control, with the understanding that even if some things are out of our control, the way we approach and manage those things, including our mindset, is still within our control.”  “In our clinic, we truly value our patients and how they are cared for,” added Mary Wilson. “The amount of compassion our team shows is incredible. Patients constantly commend our team on how much they feel like the provider's care. Our providers and staff are not afraid to advocate for patients and that truly is an accomplishment in and of itself.”  “We know patients are only hearing a small amount of the immense volume of information we provide them, so we encourage them to ask questions until it makes sense because the timeframe is different for every patient,” said Lillian Morton, APRN of Medical Oncology. “Cancer is an anxiety inducing lack of control whirlwind – if we can help by being responsive to patient calls and messages, we do so.”  With their harmonious and integrated approach, each patient’s treatment journey progresses uninterrupted, bringing them closer to a brighter and healthier future.

Read More About Department Spotlight: Medical Oncology

This Department Spotlight is dedicated to Jason Simpson, Manager of Respiratory Services at Renown Children’s Hospital.  Take a moment to breathe deeply. Inhale in, exhale out. We rely on our lungs to provide us with the air we need to live a healthy life – and this essential bodily function is something that many of us don’t think twice about since it comes easily for us. Now, imagine yourself as someone who is living with severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or someone who was recently diagnosed with a frightening respiratory condition like COVID-19 or pneumonia. The simple act of breathing can prove to be an intimidating venture requiring the care of a professional. Who are the people that take on the challenge?  Meet Renown Health’s Respiratory Care Services department. Serving patients across 13 service lines, three acute facilities, outpatient locations and telehealth, our respiratory specialists – including respiratory therapists, respiratory care aides, inpatient COPD respiratory therapy navigators and educators and more – use their expertise to help restore the vitality of all their patients with every inhale and exhale, shaping a healthier livelihood one lung at a time.  The Guardians of Respiratory Wellness  Whether they are managing lifelong respiratory conditions or offering crucial support in emergencies, the Respiratory Care team strives to enhance the quality of life for every patient. As an indispensable member of the clinical team at Renown, our respiratory therapists work collaboratively with doctors and nurses to tackle a wide range of tasks, tailoring care for each patient’s unique needs.  “Respiratory care is involved with all stages of life, from beginning to end,” said Sarah Kurtz, Respiratory Therapist. “We work closely with nurses and doctors and perform arterial punctures, breathing treatments, weaning maneuvers for patients on life support, intubations and much more. We assess patients constantly to see if their care needs to be upgraded or if they can be weaned to get them back home with their families.”  “You start your morning researching your assigned patients,” added Tim Start, Respiratory Specialist. “We go over lab values and chest radiographs and decide the best plan of care for each patient. Our objective is to improve their respiratory status by giving them medications and doing breathing exercises. We participate in other forms of care with nurses, such as activities of daily living (ADLs) and mobilization. We work as a team, and that enables us to provide great patient care.”  For patients living with COPD, enjoying all that life has to offer comes with a separate set of obstacles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 200,000 people across the Silver State are living with this chronic condition. Luckily for them, Renown has a specialized team to help these patients optimize their life and manage their condition with individualized treatment and education.  “We run a report every morning to identify all the patients currently admitted who have a history of COPD, take respiratory medications or smoke,” said Amber Beck, Inpatient COPD RT Navigator. “After looking through their charts, we visit with the patient (and possibly their family) at the bedside to help them better understand how to manage their breathing issues.”  As a vital part of the Respiratory Care team, Renown’s respiratory care aides help ensure the seamless operation of our respiratory care services. These dedicated professionals provide essential support to respiratory therapists not only during intricate procedures but also outside of face-to-face patient care by transporting equipment, restocking supplies, assisting in the mobilization of patients and more.  “We are responsible for the maintenance of unit supplies and making decisions regarding levels of stock to be maintained,” said Dia Ramos, Respiratory Care Aide. “We also transport equipment, refill the oxygen tanks on the floors and intensive care units (ICUs), order and stock respiratory care supplies, mobilize patients and assist the respiratory therapists during bronchoscopies in the ICUs. In addition, we clean respiratory equipment like mechanical ventilators, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and bilateral positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines, high flows and aerosol poles.”  Once the COVID-19 pandemic hit, a special spotlight shined upon respiratory care teams across the country for the heroic care they provided patients in respiratory distress. While their roles in health systems have gained a better understanding nationwide, this team understands it is vital for them to educate the community about the important jobs they hold for our patients.  “Respiratory care can be under the radar,” said Pam Umek, Respiratory Specialist. “Once, when I told someone that I am a Respiratory Therapist, they said, ‘Oh, like a yoga breathing instructor?’ I then explained all the things we do: intubation, extubation, bronchoscopies, transports, traumas, codes, rapid responses, pediatrics/NICU, breathing medications/therapies, open heart rapid ventilator weaning … needless to say, that individual walked away with a better understanding of not just Respiratory Care Services but also the enormous effort it takes to care for our community.”  The accolades and achievements continue to pour in, from national awards and certifications to implementing different jobs in care units to optimize the patient care experience.  “We have earned and continue to maintain the Joint Commission Disease-Specific Certification for COPD,” said Amber Beck. “We are well below national averages for 30-day readmissions, lengths of stay and mortality due to COPD. Sandy, one of our COPD Coordinators, was a recipient of a patient advocacy award from the American Association of Respiratory Care and FACES Foundation.”  “We have started implementing Respiratory Care Aides in the critical units, starting with the Cardiac ICU,” added Dia Ramos. “We work as one team and are always helping each other with their tasks.”  Education and mentorship are at the core of Renown’s mission to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of every patient. Nurturing the next generation of medical professionals – including respiratory care professionals – is a task that the Respiratory Care team takes seriously.  “It has been great being able to help educate students in different disciplines,” added Pam Umek. “We have been able to offer shadow shifts to students in emergency medical services (EMS), nursing and medical school. These opportunities help students entering the medical field have a better understanding of the many ways we can help care for our respiratory patients.”  From the moment of birth to the final stages of life, Renown is fortunate to have a Respiratory Care team that tirelessly ensures every breath counts, safeguarding their role as a trusted partner within our health system.  A Tribute to Jason Simpson, Healthcare Hero

Read More About Department Spotlight: Respiratory Care

June offers an official welcome to summer and the height of outdoor activities in northern Nevada such as hiking, camping, days spent at the lake and embracing long days and warm evenings with friends and family. Enjoying all that the summer season has to offer may not be as easy for those living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, which effects more than 15 million Americans. What is COPD? COPD is a group of lung diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis that result in airflow blockages from the lungs. People may experience frequent coughing and shortness of breath among other symptoms. COPD typically impacts adults ages 65 and older and is becoming increasingly more common among women. Although smoking plays a key role in the development of COPD, air pollution and indoor air quality, and respiratory infection also contribute to disease development. While there is no cure for COPD, limiting progression of disease and managing symptoms can be achieved through lifestyle changes, therapy, and medications. Tips for Living with COPD This Summer, and Always Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is extremely important for people with COPD, especially during the summer. Not drinking enough water can make breathing more difficult because it increases respiratory symptoms. Make sure to always keep a water bottle with you and aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water daily. Be Mindful of Temperature: COPD symptoms can be exacerbated by hot weather. It is best to participate in outdoor activities during the cooler times of day, like the morning or evening. Check Air Quality Before You Go: Before engaging in outdoor activities, be sure to check the air quality index and plan your activities accordingly. Pace Yourself: Exercising can be difficult for people who have COPD. To make the most of your summer, try not to push yourself too hard and take breaks when you need them. If you start to feel out of breath or tired, take a break in a cool, shaded area until you feel better. Take Matters Into Your Own Hands To address the needs of community members living with COPD, the Renown Health Research Office has teamed up with Pulmonary Medicine to provide patients who are former or current smokers and have a history of frequent exacerbations with an option to participate in the ARNASA study. "COPD exacerbations have a huge negative impact on patient’s lung function” states Dr. Farah Madhani-Lovely, Chief of Pulmonary Medicine at Renown Health and Assistant Dean of Clinical Research at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. “We have had inhalers and prednisone for decades but patients are still having exacerbations. Now we have a new pathway we think will prevent exacerbations which is what this clinical trial is designed to prove.” This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of astegolimab compared with placebo in participants 40-80 years of age with COPD. “This study in particular is so exciting because of the enthusiasm from the sponsor’s end” says Katie Buckley, Lead Clinical Research Coordinator working on pulmonology studies at Renown’s Clinical Research Office. “Often times sites aren’t assigned particularly passionate or engaged personnel who aid in carrying out these studies, but you can tell Roche Genentech’s team truly cares about the success of the study, the safety of their participants, and proving the efficacy of the investigational agent. Working on a study like this takes a village, and when the individuals on all ends share similar mindsets and work towards success as a collective unit instead of as individual moving parts, it’s amazing to see everything we’re able to accomplish.” Renown’s team of expert pulmonologists and researchers are available to join patients with COPD in support of their healthcare journey. If you are interested in learning more about this clinical trial option at Renown Health, talk to your pulmonologist at your next appointment or contact us at 775-982-3646. At Renown Health, our goal is to make it easy for patients to access clinical research as a care opportunity where patients can access a variety of standard care treatment options for their health condition or choose to participate in a clinical trial. For more information about clinical trial opportunities available to you or to ask any questions, contact the Renown Research Office at Renown-CRD@renown.org or 775-982-3646.

Read More About Living with COPD? How to Maximize Your Summer Experience

February is American Heart Month. While cardiac care is crucial every time of year – especially as heart disease stays the number one killer in the United States – American Heart Month serves as a great reminder to stay on top of your heart health. We spoke with Malina Ruiz, a cardiology nurse practitioner at Renown Health, on three key ways to embrace heart-healthy living and how genetic screening can help inform you of certain genetic risks that can play a role on the cardiac life stage.  1.  Invest in a heart-healthy diet. Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats (including monounsaturated fats such as avocados and polyunsaturated fats such as sunflower oil) is a key defense in protecting your cardiac health, according to Malina. While you are filling your plate with these nutritious foods, remember to keep an eye on your saturated and trans-fat intake, and try limiting foods that are high in those fats.   “No matter what age we are, maintaining a heart-healthy diet will always be important,” said Malina.    Need help finding cardiac-friendly meals? The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute makes it easy with heart-healthy recipes and tips from experts.  2.  Do an exercise audit. “Keeping an active lifestyle during our younger years is one of the most important factors that affect heart health in future years,” said Malina. Maintaining a regular exercise regimen that allows you to raise your heart rate and break a sweat can help prevent future cardiac events.     A good rule of thumb is to aim for 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity exercise, which averages out to 30 minutes a day on 5 days out of the week.    It’s never too late to start a regular exercise routine! Exercise doesn’t have to be something you dread – leverage American Heart Month to find activities that you enjoy. The American Heart Association can help you discover new ways to move your body. At the end of the day, as Malina emphasizes, “any movement is better than nothing!”  3. Don't skip those check-ups. Regular preventative visits with your primary care provider can help you identify possible risk factors for heart conditions before they start actively affecting your life. “Check-ups become even more important as we age, along with being aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease, heart attack and stroke,” added Malina.     There’s no time better than the present – call our expert scheduling team today at 775-982-5000 to request a preventative check-up with your primary care provider.

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While viruses can attack year-round, colds, flus and other respiratory illnesses are typically more prevalent during fall and winter. People spend more time indoors, which allows viruses to pass more easily from one person to another. The cold, dry air can also affect the respiratory system, making it more susceptible to germs. According to the CDC, flu activity in the U.S. often begins to increase in October and peaks between December and February. “Flu season” can last as late as May.  When it comes to the cold and flu, prevention and preparation are key. Getting the flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine is the first and most crucial step in protecting against these two respiratory illnesses. Preventative actions, such as washing your hands, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and getting enough sleep can also help you avoid getting sick. However, despite your best prevention efforts, the time may come this winter when you start to feel a little scratch in your throat or a fever coming on. By taking steps ahead of time to assemble a cold and flu survival kit, you’ll be more prepared for whenever illness strikes, allowing you to stay home, rest and avoid spreading germs.  Tips for Managing Symptoms Keep these tips in mind to ease your cold or flu symptoms: Stay home and rest Drink plenty of fluids Treat aches and fever with over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen Manage a cough with over-the-counter expectorants or suppressants  Run a humidifier or sit in a steamy bathroom to ease congestion What to Stock in Your Flu Survival Kit Be ready when a cold or the flu strikes by having a flu survival kit filled with these get-well essentials stocked in your pantry, fridge and medicine cabinet: Over-the-Counter Medications: Take advantage of over-the-counter medications to make yourself feel better and ease most common flu symptoms of fever, headache, cough, muscle aches, sore throat, and runny or stuffy nose Pain relievers - Ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol): for fever and aches Decongestants: for sniffles and congestion Cough expectorant (guaifenesin): for a “wet” cough to help clear secretions from the lungs Cough suppressant (dextromethorphan/DM): for a severe “dry” cough to block the cough reflex Cough syrups and drops Drinks: Water Herbal tea Low-sugar sports drinks Pedialyte Foods: Chicken soup Broth Vitamin C-containing fruits and vegetables Oatmeal Toast (add some avocado, honey or egg) Miscellaneous items: Tissues Lozenges Protective mask Thermometer Humidifier When to Seek Care and Where to Go Most healthy adults who have a cold, the flu, or other mild respiratory illnesses don’t need to see a care provider and will recover at home with self-care measures. Because these are viral illnesses, antibiotics won’t work against treating them. Your care provider may be able to prescribe an antiviral medication that can relieve your symptoms and shorten the duration and severity of your illness; however, this needs to be started within 48 hours of symptom onset and is often only prescribed to individuals at high risk for developing complications from the flu or those experience severe symptoms. Primary Care or Urgent Care Contact your primary care provider or visit an Urgent Care if you are at an increased risk, including those who: Are 65 years of age or older Have chronic medical conditions Are pregnant or recently gave birth Have a weakened immune system Find a primary care provider If you are otherwise healthy and not at increased risk of complications, seek medical advice if your flu symptoms are unusually severe, such as mild difficulty breathing, a severe sore throat, coughing that produces a lot of green or yellow mucus, or feeling faint. Emergency Care Go to the Emergency Department if you are experiencing emergency warning signs such as severe pain (chest, abdomen), concern for heart attack or stroke (slurred speech, new localized weakness), severe dehydration (needing IV fluids) or severe shortness of breath.

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Becoming a parent for the first time means lots of new unknowns – from learning to breastfeed and swaddle to buckling your newborn into the car seat for the first time. But when it comes to putting them to bed safely, it’s important to remember it really can mean life or death. It’s something we’re taught before our little one is even here: the correct way to put your baby to bed safely. Sadly though, the number of infant deaths continues to climb. The main culprit of sleep-related infant death continues to be all the items parents leave in the crib with their babies. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there are about 3,500 sleep-related deaths among babies each year. “The best advice is ‘bare is best.’ Keep your infant’s sleep space clutter free – no blankets, bumpers, toys or pillows,” said Karen Wagner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Follow the ABCs for Safe Sleep Remembering the ABCs is an easy way to remember how to put your little one to bed safely. A: Alone No blankets, toys or pillows. “We do recommend using a sleep sack as a blanket alternative,” said Karen. “It prevents the risk of suffocation and keeps your baby warm.” Keep in mind, the greatest risk for suffocation happens when babies are under 1 year of age, so it’s best to save the toys, blankets and pillows for their “big kid bed,” or around 18 months old. B: Back The slogan “back is best” is another good reminder. Keeping your baby on their back until they’re old enough to rollover helps reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). C: Crib It is best to have your baby sleep alone in their crib. While co-sleeping may be enticing, especially after a late-night feed, it increases the risks of possible suffocation. However, “having your child in your room, in their own crib or bassinet, is protective for SIDS,” Karen said. “In fact, we think co-rooming reduces SIDS risk by almost 50 percent.” Co-rooming allows parents to keep new babies in close reach and helps parents oversee their baby’s sleep, just in case something happens.

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Many millennials are fortunate to have good health, but it’s important to be prepared for your next doctor’s visit. Here are three things that millennials should stay on top of for tracking and maintaining their health. For many millennials, doctor visits and preventive healthcare fall by the wayside. Alison Lynch, MD, a family medicine provider with Renown Medical Group says there are a few key things you can do now to set yourself up for a healthy future. 1. Establish with a Primary Care Provider Millennials are more likely to go to urgent care or consult the internet when a healthcare issue arises. While these are helpful tools, here’s a better one: a primary care provider. The benefit of establishing with a primary care provider is that your medical records, history and a baseline for your health will be documented. That means that when a problem or question comes up, your doctor will already have helpful information on file and can help you navigate your needs. Having a primary care provider is often required for prescription refills and referrals to a specialist. By establishing now, you’ll be able to get what you need in the future much faster. Make an Appointment Today 2. Protect Yourself and Your Community There are a few vaccinations and screenings that Dr. Lynch recommends for millennials. Flu Shots: These are available every year and are recommended for protecting not only yourself against the flu but also others you may come into contact with. Flu shots are usually available from August through December through your healthcare provider, pharmacies and pop-up events. Tetanus or Tdap: Most people receive a tetanus shot as a child, but it’s recommended that everyone get a booster every 10 years. If you are overdue, talk to your primary care provider or pharmacist about getting updated. Pap smear: If you’re a woman, a pap smear is recommended every three years in your 20s and every five years in your 30s. HPV vaccine: This vaccine helps prevent the virus that causes cervical cancer as well as the majority of head and neck cancers and warts. The HPV vaccine is recommended for all genders up until age 45. STD screening: Consider an STI/STD screening if you’re sexually active.

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What exactly is the relationship between genetics and disease? Powered by Renown Health, the Healthy Nevada Project is one of the most visible genomic studies in the United States. They are recruiting participants here in northern Nevada to understand the relationship between genetics and nonalcoholic liver disease. Joseph Grzymski, Principal Investigator at the Healthy Nevada Project and Chief Scientific Officer at Renown Health, shares why this study is so important and who should take part. Many people are aware that heavy drinking can lead to liver disease. Yet they are unaware that other types of liver disease are not caused by alcohol consumption. These types of liver disease are more difficult to diagnose but are equally dangerous. What is NASH? A build-up of fat causes nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in the liver. The most dangerous form is called Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). It causes inflammation and damages liver cells, leading to fibrosis, scarring of the liver, and decreased liver function. If NASH goes untreated, irreversible liver damage can occur, leading to cirrhosis, cancer, or liver failure. These conditions can be fatal. What’s most concerning about NASH is that the symptoms don’t typically cause pain and aren’t noticeable. The good news is that a new local study is raising awareness about this disease by recruiting at-risk people for NASH. Am I at risk for developing NASH? The following factors put you at risk: Obesity Type 2 diabetes Metabolic syndrome High blood lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides Does having a family member with nonalcoholic liver disease increase my risk? We do not know a lot about inheriting NASH, although a lot risk factors run in families. One goal of this study is to better understand the genetic component of NASH. There are certainly other risks too, such as environmental and behavioral risk factors. However, we don’t yet have a good grasp on how these impact NASH risk. How is NASH diagnosed? Diagnosis is traditionally done with either a liver ultrasound or biopsy. However, both procedures are expensive and the invasive biopsy has risks. Therefore doctors often use risk factors or less invasive blood tests for diagnosis. This NASH study will include a new blood test called the enhanced liver function (ELF) test. Doctors and researchers have data suggesting that the ELF test is a better diagnostic test for NASH risk. Conducting this cutting-edge test with study participants allows them to share results with their doctors to ensure the best care. What can I do to reduce my NASH risk? Limiting exposure to the risk factors of NASH often lowers risk. Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a recommended weight and exercising regularly can proactively lower your risk.

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The Healthy Nevada Project (HNP) is one of the most visible genomic studies in the United States, and guess what? Renown Health powers it! The Healthy Nevada Project (HNP) aligns with Renown's goal to do the best for our patients. The genomic study is at no-cost for Nevadans and gives participants insight into different genetic traits, including results on three prevalent and serious health conditions known as CDC Tier 1 conditions. CDC Tier 1 Conditions Include: Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) Lynch Syndrome Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Not only does HNP give participants insights into their genetic background, but it also facilitates Renown's ability to study population health. Research lays the foundation for the future of medicine, and Renown's HNP is on the cutting edge of genetic research. We do this by providing skilled researchers access to studies for the diseases that currently have limited treatment, including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis liver disease or NASH. For example, the observational NASH study helps researchers understand genetic links to the disease. Make an Appointment to Get Screened If you haven't already, join the over 55,000 HNP participants and make an appointment to have yourself screened. You can schedule a screening appointment through MyChart. Click “Schedule an Appointment" and select Research Appointment - Genetic Screening. Prior to your appointment, please complete e-Check-in and complete your consent form.

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Colorectal cancer is the number two cancer killer in Nevada, only second to lung cancer, yet it is also one of the most preventable. Still, in 2020, 20.7% of Nevadans said they had never been screened for this deadly disease, according to the Nevada Cancer Coalition. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, unfortunately many healthcare services were halted, including colorectal cancer screenings. Those delays in screenings can lead to delays in diagnoses of colorectal cancer, resulting in poorer outcomes. Per the American Cancer Society, if colorectal cancer can be found early the relative 5-year survival rate is approximately 90%. Screening is key, and it is important to engage in preventative care. Even if you have no personal or family history of colorectal cancer, ask your doctor about colorectal risk factors and when to start screening, and if you’re up to date on your screenings, talk to loved ones and make sure they are too. According to the American Cancer Society, most colorectal cancer cases are found in those without a family history. This month let us help raise awareness for colorectal cancer and the importance of routine, life-saving screenings. To learn more, we spoke to Renown Health oncology nurse Christina Alsop, APRN. What is Colorectal Cancer Colorectal cancer is a disease in which the cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. It usually forms from precancerous polyps, or abnormal growths, in the colon or rectum, which can become malignant without presenting any symptoms. How do Screenings Work Screening tests like stool tests, colonoscopies and others can detect these precancerous polyps, so they can be removed by a physician before turning into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, resulting in better treatment outcomes. As of 2021, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends adults begin colorectal cancer screenings beginning at age 45, through 75. Screening methods include a blood stool test, which needs to take place every year or a colonoscopy, which takes place every 5-10 years. Healthy Habits Can Help Stave Off Risk Routine screenings are the only way to determine colorectal health, yet some healthy habits may reduce your risk for colorectal cancer. These factors include maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, limiting alcohol intake and not smoking.

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