PERTH AMBOY, NJ, November 3, 2010… Board certified plastic surgeon George Philip Smith, MD, with practice locations in Brooklyn and Staten Island, NY, and now Perth Amboy, NJ, has joined the medical staff at Raritan Bay Medical Center.

“I’m happy to join the healthcare professionals at Raritan Bay Medical Center, a wonderful clinical facility and nationally recognized Magnet hospital for nursing excellence,” said Dr. Smith. “My patients will be very happy with the medical center’s amenities and state-of-the-art operating room suites.”

Dr. Smith provides cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to minimize the effects of aging, scarring from injury, and re-contouring or refining of parts of the body. For an appointment call 718.608.1111.

A graduate of the Albert Einstein School of Medicine in New York, Dr. Smith is board certified by the American Boards of Surgery and Plastic Surgery. He completed his medical and plastic surgery residencies at S.U.N.Y. Health Science Center, NY, and Montefiore Medical Center for the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Dr. Smith is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, New York Regional Society of Plastic Surgeons, Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

The doctor accepts most medical insurances. Dr. Smith’s office locations include 2066 Richmond Ave., Staten Island, NY, 476 7th Street, Brooklyn, NY and the recently opened 272-274 High Street, Perth Amboy, NJ.

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OLD BRIDGE, NJ, November 17, 2010… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s (RBMC) Old Bridge laboratory has been awarded accreditation from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) based on the results of a recent comprehensive on-site inspection. The medical center’s Perth Amboy laboratory also received CAP accreditation earlier this year.

“CAP accreditation is the gold standard of excellence for clinical laboratories. Their nationally recognized accreditation process includes an on-site inspection as well as mandatory participation in ongoing proficiency testing,” said Cindy Comerford, director of clinical laboratories, Raritan Bay Medical Center. “It validates what our physicians already know; the exceptional quality of work done by our laboratory technologists.”

The CAP laboratory accreditation program, which began in the early 1960s, is recognized by the federal government as being equal or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program. CAP is the world’s largest association composed exclusively of pathologists and is widely considered the leader in laboratory quality assurance. The laboratories at RBMC’s Perth Amboy and Old Bridge hospitals have held full CAP accreditation for more than 30 years, one of the longest accreditation records in New Jersey. In addition, all of the pathologists at the medical center have demonstrated their competence through board certification by the American Board of Pathology. This combination of independent national accreditation and specialty board certification is widely viewed as one of the hallmarks of quality in all branches of medicine.

CAP inspectors examine the records and quality control of the laboratory for the preceding two years, as well as the education and qualifications of the total staff, the adequacy of facilities, equipment, safety and management to determine how well the laboratory is serving patients.

Realizing that laboratory services are a vital part of the patient’s continuum of care, the medical center installed cutting edge analyzing equipment technology at both its Old Bridge and Perth Amboy locations in 2010, providing for improved testing, result turnaround time and safety as well as accuracy among other features. “Our patients can trust that RBMC’s laboratories provide superior, timely and accurate services,” said Comerford. “A tremendous amount of work goes on behind the scenes to ensure this happens.”

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PERTH AMBOY, NJ, November 24, 2010… In the early morning hours of October 22, Perth Amboy’s emergency first-responders; fire and police departments and Raritan Bay Medical Center’s MICU and EMS units, arrived at the scene of violent head-on collision accident and truck fire on the Outerbridge Crossing, Route 440, from Staten Island.  Vehicular accidents of this type, involving fire and the potential for explosion, make locating and moving drivers and passengers to safety the priority.  When the responders arrived and as they were assessing the situation spilled fuel from the truck ignited and began making its way from the truck to the pinned car prompting everyone to quickly get into action.

Coincidentally, registered nurse Elena Milano from the medical center’s special care unit was also traveling near the Outerbridge at the time of the accident. Despite the danger she and passenger Michael Sterling had stopped and pulled the truck driver to safety, away from the fire before the responders arrived. “I saw the man trapped and I just reacted immediately and used my experience as a nurse to assess the situation and respond as fast as I could,” said Milano. This left just the car’s driver trapped in his vehicle.

Fire Lieutenant Edward Mullen and firefighter Eric Kayser used a fire extinguisher and dry absorbent in an attempt to prevent, or at least slow, the burning fuel from reaching the car. At the same time, Raritan Bay Medical Center Emergency Medical Technicians Gary Batista and Matt Redding, through physical force and sheer determination, were able to gain access and get the driver to safety. Moments later the burning fuel reached the car and engulfed it in flames. “I saw the burning fuel rolling down the highway toward us, I knew if that fire made it to us we were in a lot of trouble. So I focused on getting the patient out of the car as fast as I could,” said Batista.

“Gary Batista is a veteran EMT and knew the risks he was taking were great, but he also realized if he didn’t act quickly the driver wouldn’t survive with the fire rapidly approaching. Redding hopped the barrier to help Elena with the truck driver, and get him ready for transport. It was a tremendous rescue effort by all of the responders on Route 440 that night,” said Mike Semple, director of emergency medical services and emergency preparedness at Raritan Bay Medical Center.

Both the truck and car drivers were treated at the scene and taken to the trauma unit at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. Considering the nature of the accident and subsequent fire, Perth Amboy’s first responders and specifically the intervention of Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Milano, Batista and Redding are credited with saving lives in what could have been a fatal accident.

With both drivers safe, the Perth Amboy fire department, with assistance from the Port Authority Police department’s foam unit, was able to rapidly extinguish the burning vehicle and burning fuel without any additional damage or safety issues.

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PERTH AMBOY, NJ, December 16, 2010… As a vitally important, bustling and life-saving component of the medical center, Raritan Bay Medical Center (RBMC) has made enhancing its emergency services a priority. To that end RBMC began a more than $1 million renovation project to expand and refurbish its Perth Amboy emergency department earlier this year, as part of the medical center’s ongoing growth and renewal program Vision 2011.

The medical center celebrated the 3,530 sq/ft. expansion’s opening December 16, which includes 10 additional patient beds and private patient rooms, new state-of-the-art digital patient monitoring and “see-thru CPR” defibrillator equipment, an expanded Fast Track area (providing speedy care for less serious emergencies) and more physical space enhancing the comfort level for patients and their loved ones.

“I’m extremely proud of the work that went into enhancing our emergency services at Perth Amboy. The additional beds, amenities and cutting-edge equipment will enable our expert physicians and Magnet nurses to triage and care for our patients more efficiently and will streamline treatment processes to speed up care,” said Michael R. D’Agnes, president and CEO of Raritan Bay Medical Center. “Ultimately, our goal is to be the medical destination of choice for the community we serve.”

The new defibrillators may be used in conjunction with RBMC’s Thermosuits, inflatable cocoon-like non-invasive devices that reduce body temperature rapidly, allowing for an extremely effective resuscitation bundle, enhancing RBMC clinicians’ ability to save lives.

The expansion also includes a new emergency department-dedicated elevator allowing easy and rapid transfer of patients, to be admitted, to patient floors and to the medical center’s cardiac catheterization laboratories and stroke unit. The new bedside monitoring equipment standardizes patient data with all departments and, in the near future, will allow caregivers to acquire 12-lead EKG heart data and electronically share with the cardiology department, through the medical center’s computer-based Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), giving cardiologists the data more quickly.

The patient focused and multifaceted Vision 2011 plan will continue in the coming months. As part of this plan, RBMC opened the renovated Dr. Sam. Gordon Berkow Maternity Pavilion in Perth Amboy, physician offices in the Medical Pavilion at Perth Amboy and the Medical Pavilion at Woodbridge, which provides urgent non-emergency care, obstetrical/gynecological physician practice and physical therapy services. Urgent care, provided by a physician or nurse practitioner, is available with or without an appointment 365 days a year, for common illnesses; colds, sore throat, eye, ear and sinus infections and chronic conditions; asthma, allergies, digestive disorders and injuries suffered at home or at work and more.

In the coming months the Old Bridge emergency department’s Fast Track area will be expanded to match the already large waiting room and patient care accommodations.

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At a time when online social media is becoming an increasingly popular and effective means of communication, Raritan Bay Medical Center (RBMC) is embracing the technology to deliver meaningful health programs to the community and thereby remain a trusted health information resource for the community.

On December 17, a knee surgery performed by orthopedic surgeon Jonathan Pine, DO, Human Motion Institute at Raritan Bay Medical Center, will be TWEETED live on Twitter and will be observed in RBMC’s Old Bridge surgical suites by St. Joseph High School (Metuchen, NJ) student Chirag Patel. Patel will be ‘tweeting’ the surgical procedure’s clinical activities to his fellow Medical Club students in the high school’s computer lab. Any Twitter member will also be able to follow the surgery locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Several classes at Perth Amboy High School will also be following along.

Patel participated in RBMC’s week-long, annual Healthcare Connection program this past spring, the program allows local high school students interested in pursuing a medical career to shadow clinicians at the medical center, and was interested in the opportunity. RBMC and agency partner Verasoni (Fairfield, NJ) plans to strategically deliver meaningful programs via social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook in the coming months to provide the community with a go-to resource for general health information and clinical education. Raritan Bay Medical Center will be the first medical center in the tri-state area and one of a handful from around the nation to “tweet” a surgery.

Video and images of the surgical procedure will be available for upload at www.box.net user name: raritanbaymc.media@gmail.com / password: raritanbay

Friday, December 17 – procedure starts at 1 p.m.

Follow at www.twitter.com/rbmchealth

About the Human Motion Institute at Raritan Bay Medical Center
A unique program offering a comprehensive continuum of musculoskeletal care within a highly integrated orthopedic healthcare delivery network, the Human Motion Institute at Raritan Bay Medical Center provides education, assessment, treatment and therapy services as well as preventative services to help patients achieve maximum function and mobility as quickly and safely as possible, while employing the latest medical techniques available. The institute’s clinical professionals are committed to the consistent pursuit of advancements in care, which are the most efficient and effective.

By combining the extensive clinical expertise of the medical center’s physicians with RBMC’s Magnet nurses and their compassionate Patient Family Centered Care Model treatment philosophy, Raritan Bay has created a program known for its high-quality care. Specialties include: Spine Care, Joint Care (Hip, Knee, Shoulder), Hand and Upper Extremity, Sports Medicine, Foot and Ankle and Physical Therapy.

For more information, call Human Motion Institute Manager Maryann Finney, RN, at 732-324-4877.

PERTH AMBOY, NJ, January 11, 2011… Shoveling snow can be dangerous and should be approached with caution. If you have lifting limitations or back problems, then it might be best to hire someone to help you rather than take a chance of injuring yourself. If, however, you are unable to do that and absolutely must shovel your own snow, keep these tips in mind:

• Select a small shovel with a curved handle that is ergonomically tested and proven to decrease strain and pain on the back.
• Lift with your legs and not your back keeping the load as close to the body as possible.
• Take small loads. Don’t try to accomplish too much too fast.
• Avoid twisting at the waist as this can lead to back trouble. Stand in an open stance – with one foot facing ahead and one facing out to the side. This will enable you to pivot easier as you lift and dump the snow.
• If you can find a push shovel, this might be safer than one you must lift.
• When you finish shoveling, plan to relax and let the muscles calm down. Taking a nice warm bath might help you. The key is to try and break a spasm before it has a chance to develop into a painful condition. Massage, heating pads, muscle relaxants, etc. can all help in avoiding the development of muscle spasms.
• If you have a heart condition or high blood pressure, be sure to speak with your doctor ahead of time to determine if there are any precautions you should be taking.

By:  Human Motion Institute at Raritan Bay Medical Center Manager Maryann Finney, RN.

PERTH AMBOY, NJ, January 11, 2011… Major weather outlets are predicting significant snowfall for Central New Jersey over the next 24 hours. Heavy snowfall presents challenges and requires hard work for everyone; homeowners, businesses and municipalities as they all dig themselves out from a winter storm.

But for hospitals, snow removal, maintaining accessibility, preparing for potential power disruption and staff attendance is of utmost importance. This is true at Raritan Bay Medical Center (RBMC) where multiple response plans for significant winter storms and heavy snowfall are in place to ensure that even during bad weather; it’s business as usual.

The following summarizes the major activities RBMC takes to ensure patient care is unaffected by inclement weather:

Snow Removal

• RBMC owns snow removal equipment, de-icing supplies and its maintenance and construction staff stand ready to clear snow from both Old Bridge and Perth Amboy locations.
• RBMC owns snow removal equipment, de-icing supplies and its maintenance and construction staff stand ready to clear snow from both Old Bridge and Perth Amboy locations.
• Additionally, the medical center maintains agreements with snow removal contractors who prioritize clearing the hospital’s inlets, parking and walkway areas.

Staffing

• Staff within five miles of both facilities may request to be picked up from home in four-wheel drive vehicles by RBMC’s security and transportation departments.
• The admitting department will work with the supervisors to consolidate patients as much as possible, freeing up staff to be reassigned if necessary.
• RBMC supervisors working nights, days and evenings are experienced in handling inclement weather situations and ensuring that patient safety is maintained.
• Administrative supervisors will re-assign or float necessary patient care staff as needed.
• Sleepover areas for essential staff are designated in case travel isn’t possible.

Supplies

• Both Old Bridge and Perth Amboy have backup generators with a significant amount of fuel in case of power outage.
• Surplus food and other supplies are stored for patients and staff.
• Extra linen, medications and clinical supplies have been stockpiled in anticipation of inclement weather.

Patient Information

• Families may continue to call the hospital’s main numbers and ask for patient information for information about loved ones, or if they are aware of the nursing unit, they may call directly.

The goal of all inclement weather activities is to ensure that patient care and safety is unaffected, emergency medical situations can be handled effectively and that regular hospital operations continue.

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]]> http://www.rbmc.org/uncategorized/rbmc-stands-prepared-for-heavy-snow/feed/ 0 http://www.rbmc.org/news/family-medicine-physician-harleen-kaur-opens-practice/ http://www.rbmc.org/news/family-medicine-physician-harleen-kaur-opens-practice/#comments Fri, 14 Jan 2011 20:43:08 +0000 Admin http://www.rbmc.org/?p=1753 Family Medicine Physician Harleen Kaur Opens Practice in Parlin and
Joins Staff at Raritan Bay Medical Center

PERTH AMBOY, NJ, January 14, 2011… Board certified family medicine practitioner Harleen Kaur, MD, recently opened an office in Parlin, NJ, and joined the medical staff at Raritan Bay Medical Center.

“I’m excited to join the healthcare professionals at Raritan Bay Medical Center, a nationally recognized Magnet hospital for nursing excellence,” said Dr. Kaur. “My patients will be pleased with the medical center’s amenities and its courteous and expert staff.” Dr. Kaur provides care for all aspects of family medicine, from acute to chronic conditions, for children, men and women in all age groups. For an appointment call (732) 727-5110.

Dr. Kaur received her medical degree from Guru Gobind Singh Medical College in Punjab, India. She completed her residency in the United States at North Shore University Hospital at Glen Cove, NY, where she was chief resident. Prior to coming to New Jersey, Dr. Kaur practiced as part of the Family Care Center in Stoneham, MA, and the Lynn Community Health Center’s walk-in clinic in Lynn, MA. She has a special interest in helping patients effectively manage their diabetes.

The doctor accepts most medical insurances and is now accepting new patients. Dr. Kaur’s office is located at 238 Ernston Road, Parlin, NJ 08859. For more information, visit www.ansonya.com.

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OLD BRIDGE, January 24, 2011… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Old Bridge Auxiliary is holding a Valentine’s Day Friends and Family Brunch Sunday, February 13, 12 noon to 3 p.m., at the Buttonwood, Matawan, NJ. Cost is $27 per person, $13.50 per child (age 6-12), children age 5 and under are free and proceeds benefit the medical center’s Center for Women, Old Bridge. A gift basket auction and 50/50 raffle tickets will be sold.

Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Old Bridge Auxiliary is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2011 and remains committed to supporting RBMC and the community. For more information or to make reservations call Trudy at 732.254.6954 or Susan at 732.324.5006.

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PERTH AMBOY, NJ, January 31, 2011… Raritan Bay Medical Center’s (RBMC) Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer Joan Harewood, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, received the Organization of Nurse Executives/New Jersey’s 2010 Nurse Executive Award at the organization’s annual meeting in December. The award recognizes nurse executives who demonstrate exceptional leadership, guidance, and service to their institution and to the nursing profession.

“Joan has created a positive and inclusive practice environment at Raritan Bay Medical Center through her exemplary vision, conduct, resourcefulness and nursing support,” said Michael R. D’Agnes, president and CEO of Raritan Bay Medical Center. “Joan has enabled, and been the driving force behind, many of the patient care accolades we have received. I can’t imagine a stronger candidate for this award.”

During her time at the medical center, Raritan Bay has successfully achieved national Magnet re-designation in 2009, recognizing overall nursing excellence. The medical center has also received a variety of recognitions acknowledging successful patient outcomes. These include the Bronze Get with the GuidelinesTM award for stroke care and the Silver Get with the GuidelinesTM award for treating heart failure from the American Heart Association, and HealthGradesTM has ranked RBMC among the top 10 percent of hospitals in the nation in the treatment of pneumonia care. RBMC is also a New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services designated Primary Stroke Center and recently launched the Human Motion Institute at Raritan Bay Medical Center, which provides high-quality patient outcomes in the field of musculoskeletal care.

The Organization of Nurse Executives/New Jersey (ONE/NJ) is affiliated with the New Jersey Hospital Association and the American Organization of Nurse Executives. Since 1971 the organization has represented and strengthened nurse leaders and aspiring nurse leaders by providing opportunities for professional networking, education, mentorship and consultation.

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About the Organization of Nurse Executives/New Jersey
Since 1971, the Organization of Nurse Executives/New Jersey has been the professional organization of choice for nursing leaders in their quest for a united voice in representing nursing administration and management in all practice settings. The Organization of Nurse Executives/New Jersey (ONE/NJ) is affiliated with the New Jersey Hospital Association (NJHA) and is also affiliated with the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE).

ONE/NJ exists to represent and strengthen nurse leaders and aspiring nurse leaders by providing opportunities for professional networking, education, mentorship and consultation. The strategic plan of ONE/NJ identifies its core business as education and leadership development, public policy advocacy, career development, information resources and research. ONE/NJ has established goals for each of these areas to further the mission of the organization and enhance the image of the profession.

The membership of ONE/NJ is inclusive of the engagement of all nurse leaders and aspiring nurse leaders in the state. It is committed to ongoing professional development, creating and sustaining formal and informal nursing mentorship opportunities at all levels, and mapping the future of safe patient care delivery in NJ.