Lavaca Medical Center News

Safety First!

Hunting is a favorite pastime in Texas, and right now the season is in full swing!

Check out the link below for important firearm safety tips from Texas Parks & Wildlife:

Texas Hunter Education

Happy Hauntings - Halloween Safety

HALLOWEEN SAFETY STAT:
Twice as many children are killed while walking on Halloween than any other day of the year.

BE SAFE AND BE SEEN ON HALLOWEEN!

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIP:
Put reflective tape on costumes and candy bags, use glow sticks, and/or carry a flashlight so drivers can see you and your little goblins on Halloween!

HALLOWEEN DRIVER TIPS:
SLOW DOWN and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods.
Make sure to take extra time and look out for children at intersections, on medians, and on curbs.
Enter and exit driveways using extreme caution.
Get rid of any distractions while driving--like your phone.
Turn on headlights earlier than usual to make sure you're visible to Trick-or-Treaters.
POPULAR TRICK-OR-TREATING HOURS are 5:30pm - 9:30pm. Be especially alert for children during those hours.

Check out more safety tips at the following sites:

Safe Kids.Org Halloween Tips

CDC Halloween Tips

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Medication Safety and Your Health

Key points:

Medicines are safe when used as prescribed or as directed on the label. There are risks in taking any medicine, vitamin or other supplement.

An adverse drug event (ADE) is when a medication causes harm to someone. ADEs include allergic reactions, side effects, overmedication and medication errors. They are a serious public health threat.

ADEs are a preventable patient safety problem.

Click this CDC link for more information -> Medication Safety

Protect Children from Injuries Outdoors & On the Playground

Playgrounds are great places for children to play and explore risks and limits, but they can also put children at risk for injuries. On the playground, using certain types of equipment such as monkey bars, climbing equipment, and swings is more likely to lead to concussions and other brain injuries.

For a safe and fun playground experience, seek out playgrounds with:

Equipment that is right for the child's age.

Soft material below equipment, such as wood chips, sand, or mulch.

Guardrails to help prevent falls.

Look out for things in the play area that can trip the children, such as tree stumps or rocks.

If outdoor play includes riding tricycles or bicycles or using rollerblades, skateboards, or similar wheeled equipment, be sure that children use well-fitting helmets.

While playing outdoors, children may see stray or wild animals. Keep children away from snakes, rodents, and other animal hazards.

Click the link for more information -> Outdoor Play & Safety

HEADS UP! Concussions

Preventing concussion: There are many ways to help reduce risk of concussion or other serious brain injury both on and off the sports field.

Concussion Basics:
- A type of traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- The effects of concussion can be serious.
- A person with a concussion needs to be seen by a healthcare provider.

Concussion is a type of TBI caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth.

The sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching/damaging brain cells.

These brain changes can lead to symptoms affecting how a person
- thinks
- learns
- feels
- acts
- sleeps

Get MEDICAL CARE for a concussion!

Click the link for more information -> Concussion Prevention

OPPORTUNITY TO MEETING WITH GRAND CANYON UNVIVERSITY REPRESENTATIVE - FURTHERING YOUR NURSING CAREER

A representative from Grand Canyon University will be onsite at Lavaca Medical Center in the Johnson Conference Room from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, August 12th.

If you are in the field of nursing and are interested in furthering your career opportunities, please feel free to come by during the above times to visit with the GCU representative!

DROWNING PREVENTION

More children ages 1–4 die from drowning than any other cause of death.

Drowning happens in seconds and is often silent.

Drowning can happen to anyone, any time there is access to water.

Learn basic swimming and water safety skills
Build fences that fully enclose pools
Supervise closely
Wear a life jacket
Learn CPR
Know the risks of natural waters
Avoid alcohol
Use the buddy system
Take additional precautions for medical conditions
Consider the effects of medications
Don't hyperventilate or hold your breath for a long time

Check out these links for more information & tips!!

Drowning Prevention

Summer Swim Safety

HEAT SAFETY AWARENESS

It's almost June in Texas - time to start focusing on HEAT SAFETY!

Protect yourself and others when it’s hot outside by staying cool, staying hydrated, and knowing the symptoms.

Hot days can affect anyone. If you are pregnant, are a child or teen with asthma, or have a heart condition or other chronic health conditions, heat can make your health worse.

Know the Symptoms!
If your body gets too hot, you can get sick. Know the symptoms of your body overheating and know when to seek medical care.

Symptoms can include:
Muscle cramping
Unusually heavy sweating
Shortness of breath
Dizziness
Headaches
Weakness
Nausea

Use this link CDC-Heat Safety to learn more from the CDC!

STRESS MANAGEMENT

April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month to bring attention to the negative impact of stress. Managing stress is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and knowing how to manage stress can improve mental and physical well-being as well as minimize exacerbation of health-related issues. The Mental Health American (MHA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) all provide resources for stress management.

Heart Truth encourages individuals to "Stress Less for a Healthier Heart". Your body reacts to stress - and research shows that stress can make us more likely to get heart disease and have a heart attack. The earlier you learn how to de-stress, the happier you and your heart will be!

Your body's relaxation response can slow your breathing and blood pressure - and decrease your heart rate. You can actually trigger this response in your body. Below are some relaxation response techniques that you can try.

PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION - In this technique, you tighten individual muscles in your body and then release the tension from them. Start by tensing and relaxing your toes, then your calves, on up to your face. One muscle group at a time.

MEDITATION - This is one of the most studied techniques for handling stress. There are a variety of ways to practice meditation, but most styles involve:
-Being in a quiet place with very few distractions.
-Being physically comfortable with either sitting, lying, or walking.
-Focusing your attention on a specific word or set of words, an object, or your breathing.
-Having an open attitude and letting distractions - even thoughts - come and go without judgement.

GUIDED IMAGERY - This technique involves a series of steps that include relaxing and visualizing the details of a calm, peaceful setting, such as a garden.

DEEP BREATHING - You can do this technique anytime, anywhere! Take in a slow, deep breath, let your stomach or chest expand, and then exhale slowly. Repeat these steps a few times.

Kody Selzer, M.D. Joining Lavaca Family Health Clinic Staff - Monday, April 15, 2024

Lavaca Medical Center and Lavaca Family Health Clinic are excited to announce that Dr. Kody Selzer of Shiner, Texas will be joining the hospital/clinical staff on April 15th.

Dr. Selzer is currently accepting new patients and wants to ensure his availability to continue to care for the healthcare needs of his patients. Patients wanting to establish care or continue their medical care with Dr. Selzer can contact Lavaca Family Health Clinic at 361-798-3671 extension 1515, and clinic staff will be happy to assist with obtaining your medical records to ensure continuity of your healthcare needs.

We are currently working to update Dr. Selzer as a physician associated with Lavaca Medical Center and Lavaca Family Health Clinic with insurance plans as quickly as possible. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience that may arise due to the meticulous process of awaiting insurance approvals. While awaiting the insurance process, the providers at Lavaca Family Health Clinic are available to take care of your healthcare needs along with the assistance of Dr. Kody Selzer.

Lavaca Medical Center is extremely honored to have such a great physician joining our team and we are looking forward to the ability to care for even more patients in our community and surrounding areas.

Kody Selzer, M.D. Biography

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ATV Safety - Ride Smart. Ride Safe.

WHAT IS AN ATV?
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are powerful motorized multiple purpose off-highway vehicles that are used for both work & recreation. The vehicles can weigh up to 800 lbs & can reach speeds of 75 mph.

DID YOU KNOW?
92% of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned against behavior such as: not wearing a helmet, riding on public roads, carrying a passenger on a single rider ATV, riding the wrong size ATV, youth riding unsupervised, and riding with no formal ATV training.
About 1/5 of the deaths and about 1/3 of the injuries involve children.
In the state of Texas, you cannot ride an ATV on public property until you complete an ATV safety course.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND AN ATV SAFETY COURSE? You can get information on ATV Rider Courses by calling: 1-8800-887-2887 or by visiting ATV Safety

WHAT CAN HAPPEN?
The most common injuries associated with ATV crashes are to the head, face, spine, and extremities. Some major injuries associated with ATV crashes are skull fractures, brain injuries, coma, paralysis, spinal cord injuries, internal bleeding/damage, and fractured bones. These injuries can lead to expensive & extensive stays at a hospital or trauma center. Some people end up with short term disabilities, long term disabilities, or even DIE as a result of ATV accidents.

WHO CAN OPERATE AN ATV?
A person MSUT be 16 years old to operate an adult size ATV (over90cc). A person aged 14 or 15 can operate an ATV up to and including 90cc, if accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult. A person UNDER 14 years old MUST be under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian. KNOW THE LAWS. An offense of the ATV laws is a Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $200.

(Information included from Golden Crescent Regional Advisory Council - GCRAC)

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Stress Management Tips

Feeling emotional and nervous can be normal reactions to stress.

Here are some healthy ways you can manage your stress levels:

- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news
stories.

- Take care of yourself.

- Take care of your body.

- Make time to unwind.

- Talk to others.

- Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations.

- Avoid drugs and alcohol.

- Recognize when you need more help.

For more information and tips, please visit the following link:
Stress Management Information

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Hunting Season Safety

HUNTING SEASON is in full swing in Texas right now! Lavaca Medical Center would like to remind you of a few hunter safety tips to follow in order to insure a safe hunting experience. They may seem like common sense, but in the excitement of the hunt - simple, everyday rules can be forgotten - review the below for a rule refresher.

RULES HUNTERS CAN LIVE BY:

1. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Always keep the safety on until ready to fire; however, the safety should never be a substitute for safe firearm handling.

2. Treat every firearm or bow with the same respect you would show a loaded gun or nocked arrow. Read your instruction manual carefully before you handle new firearms or bows.

3. Be sure of your target and what is in front of AND BEYOND your target.

4. Unload firearms and unstring conventional bows when not in use. Use gun or trigger locks and guards when necessary - store firearms and ammunition separately and under lock and key.

5. Handle the firearms, arrows, and ammunition carefully. Never jump a ditch or cross difficult terrain with a loaded firearm or nocked arrow. Always carry arrows in a protected cover or quiver. Learn proper carries. Try to use the two-hand carry whenever possible because it affords you the best muzzle control.

6. Know your safe zone-of-fire and stick to it. Your safe zone-of-fire is the area or direction in which you can safely fire a shot. Be sure to know where your companions are AT ALL TIMES. When hunting, wear daylight fluorescent orange so you can be seen from a distance or in heavy cover.

7. Control your emotions when it comes to safety. If you have just shot a target or animal you will probably be excited. Show discipline. Rehearse in your mind what the safe actions will be. Do not allow your emotions to replace good judgment. Show restraint and pass up shots which have the slightest chance of being unsafe.

8. Wear hearing and eye protection. Firearms are loud and can create noises which are damaging to a person's hearing. The damage could be gradual loss of hearing over many years, or immediate - especially if your earls are next to a muzzle blast. Wear glasses to protect your eyes from escaping gases, burnt powder, and other debris.

9. Don't drink alcohol or take drugs before or while handling firearms or bow and arrows. Alcohol and drugs impair normal physical and mental body functions, as well as emotions. Enough said.

10. Be aware of additional circumstances which require added caution or safety awareness. Just because it isn't listed here, doesn't mean you can ignore it if it is dangerous. Use your good judgment, follow any posted rules, and practice reloading safety by following and reading all specific instructions.

Ensure a safe future for you and others as you enjoy the sport of hunting. Good luck!

**According to Texas Parks & Wildlife, every hunter (including out-of-state hunters) born on or after Sept. 2, 1971, must successfully complete a Hunter Education Course. Proof of certification or deferral is required to be on your person while hunting, either printed or electronically (including the Texas Outdoor Annual mobile app). Certification is not required to purchase a hunting license. Minimum age of certification is 9 years. In-person course cost is $15. Persons 17 years of age and older have the option of taking the course in person or on- line. Online course costs vary. Call (800) 792-1112 or view the Hunter Education web pages for information about course options.
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All Treats & No Tricks - Stay Halloween Safe!

☠️HALLOWEEN is right around the corner...in fact some celebrations may begin this weekend, as we inch ever closer to October 31st‼️
A Halloween with NO tricks and ALL treats makes for a good time for all - so here are a few ways to prepare and protect your family during the upcoming festivities!

Alllll the TREATS!

Eat only factory-wrapped treats. If you have any doubt about the safety of a treat, throw it out.
A glow stick is one way to see and be seen on Halloween Night, but the luminescent liquid inside a glow stick is minimally toxic in small amounts! DO NOT allow children to chew on glow sticks. Signs of ingestion can include: mouth/throat irritation and vomiting. A flashlight ????is the best bet!
Confusing medicine with candies can make for some scary moments - REMEMBER: if they can reach it, they can eat it. Keep all medications and vitamins up and out of the reach and sight of children to avoid any confusion with tasty, sweet treats.
Food allergies can make Halloween tricky! Parents: always read labels (avoid treats without labels), carry an epi auto-injector (if prescribed), and learn more about the Teal Pumpkin Project - an initiative to provide non-food treats like stickers and small toys to kids with allergies.

Safety in the Streets...

On average, children are more than 2X as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on ANY OTHER DAY of the year. Here are a few rules of the road to help you protect your trick-or-treaters!
Prepare your kiddo with trick or treat safety items: a flashlight, reflective tape or strips applied to costumes and candy bags, and an emergency contact info card in case they get lost or separate from the group.
Trick or treat as part of a large group WITH a responsible adult.
Walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
LOOK BOTH WAYS ???? before crossing the street at a crosswalk or intersection.
Walk don't run between houses ????to avoid trips and falls.

Use Caution with Costumes ⚠️

DO NOT wear decorative contact lenses ???? without a prescription. They may not fit properly making the eye more susceptible to scratches on the outer layer of the eye, or getting an ulcer on the cornea.
Painting your face can be a fun alternative to wearing a mask????. Make sure to test novelty makeups in a small area on the arm to check for an allergic reaction BEFORE applying it to your face. Remove all make up thoroughly before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
Make sure costumes FIT WELL to avoid blocked vision and to help prevent trips and falls.
Choose costume accessories that are short, soft (plastic or foam) and flexible.
Have FUN, be SAFE, and ENJOY your Trick-or-Treating SAFELY!

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Extreme Heat & Heat Related Illness

Impacts:
Hot temperatures and high heat indices may cause heat illnesses to occur.

Tips:
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

*Visit Extreme Heat for more information.

*Check out the HEAT & HEALTH TRACKER at Heat & Health Tracker

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National PTSD Month

Most people experience a traumatic event a some point in their lives. It's typical for anyone to have a random reaction to such events and recover over time. Some people develop PTSD.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem. PTSD can only develop after you go through or see a life-threatening event. It's normal to have stress reactions to these types of events, and most people start to feel better after a few weeks or a few months. For some people, PTSD symptoms may start later, or they may come and go over time.

About 6% of the U.S. population will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
Women are more likely to develop PTSD than men.
Veterans are more likely to have PTSD than civilians.
When you have PTSD, the world feels unsafe.

You may have upsetting memories, feel on edge, or have trouble sleeping. You may also try to avoid things that remind you of the trauma - even things you used to enjoy.
Remember: anyone can develop PTSD at any age. If it's been longer than a few months and thoughts and feelings from the trauma are upsetting you or causing problems in your life, you may have PTSD.

Visit:
PTSD for more information.

Talk to a family member, a friend, or a medical professional if you believe you may be suffering from PTSD. You do not have to go through it alone.

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In the Know - Pool & Hot Tub Safety at Home

Top Tips -
- Secure your pool with appropriate barriers.
- Designate a "water watcher" and stay in reach of young children.
- Install anti-entrapment drain covers & safety release systems to protect against drain entrapment.
- If a child is missing - CHECK THE WATER FIRST!

Rules & Safe Behaviors -
- Do not enter head first unless in a pool that has a safe diving area.
- Stay away from drains and other openings that cause suction.
- Swim with a buddy.
- Children only swim when supervised.
- If you are supervising others - make sure you are sober and without distractions (i.e. reading or on cell phone).

Water Safety Steps -
- Layers of protection - barriers to prevent access to water, life jackets, close supervision of children.
- Ensure your family members learn to swim and are at least able to achieve skills of water competency: able to enter water, get a breath, stay afloat, change position, swim a distance, and get out of the water safely.
- Know what to do in a water emergency: how to safely help someone in trouble in the water, call for emergency help, and perform CPR.

More information found @:
Red Cross

In the Know - Venomous Snake Bites Symptoms & First Aid

It's Springtime in Texas, and that means snakes are being seen more - be sure to know what symptoms to look for and what steps to take in case of a snake bite.

Signs and symptoms of a snake bite vary depending on the type of snake.

They may include:
+ Puncture marks at the wound
+ Redness, swilling, bruising, bleeding, or blistering around the bite
+ Severe pain and tenderness at the site of the bite
+ Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
+ Labored breathing (in extreme cases breathing may stop)
+ Rapid heart rate, weak pulse, low blood pressure
+ Disturbed vision
+ Metallic, mint, or rubber taste in mouth
+ Increased salivation and sweating
+ Numbness or tingling around face and/or limbs
+ Muscle twitching

First Aid - Steps to Take if a Snake Bites

+ SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION as soon as possible (911/local EMS)
Antivenom is the treatment for serious snake bites. The SOONER antivenom can be started, the SOONER irreversible damage from venom can be stopped.
Driving oneself to the hospital is not advised because people with snakebites can become dizzy or pass out.
+ Take a photo of the snake from a safe distance if possible - identifying the snake can help with treatment.
+ Apply first aid while waiting for EMS staff to arrive
Lay/sit down with the bite in a neutral position for comfort.
Remove rings/watches before swelling starts.
Wash the bite with soap and water.
Cover the bite with a clean, dry dressing.
Mark the leading edge of tenderness/swelling on the skin and write the time beside it.

Visit the website below to learn what NOT to do in this scenario, and to find a printable version of the above.

Snake Bite Tips

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Venomous Snake Bites: Symptoms & First Aid.

In the Know - Heart Attack Basics

"EVERY 40 SECONDS, SOMEONE IN THE UNITED STATES HAS A HEART ATTACK" - CDC

What Is a ❤️Attack?

A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, happens when a part of the heart muscle doesn't get enough blood. The more time that passes without treatment to restore blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart muscle.

What Are the Symptoms of a ❤️Attack?

The major symptoms of a heart attack are:

* Chest Pain or Discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center or left side of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back. The discomfort can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
* Feeling Lightheaded, Faint, or Weak. You may also break out into a cold sweat.
* Pain or Discomfort in the Jaw, Neck, or Back.
* Pain or Discomfort in One or Both Arms or Shoulders.
* Shortness of Breath. This often comes along with chest discomfort, but shortness of breath also can happen before chest discomfort.

Other symptoms of a heart attack could include unusual or unexplained tiredness and nausea or vomiting. Women are more likely to have these other symptoms.

Call 9-1-1 if you notice symptoms of a heart attack.

The sooner you get to an emergency room, the sooner you can get treatment to reduce the amount of damage to the heart muscle. At the hospital, health care professionals can run tests to find out if a heart attack is happening and decide the best treatment.

In some cases, a heart attack requires cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or an electrical shock (defibrillation) to the heart to get the heart pumping again. Bystanders trained to use CPR or a defibrillator may be able to help until emergency medical personnel arrive.

Remember, the chances of surviving a heart attack are better the sooner emergency treatment begins!!

Find more information at: CDC - Heart Attack

In the Know - Avoiding Winter Injuries

For those wanting to get in a few last minute "cold weather" vacations before Spring Season, here are some tips to follow.

The most common winter sports injuries are sprains, strains, dislocations, fractures, and head injuries. Most happen at the end of the day as people become tired. In fact, the CDC reports that snowboarding accounts for 1/4 of all winter sport accidents. In addition, there are about 52,000 sledding accidents each year with 30% being head injuries.

Safety Tips:
- Keep in shape and condition muscles before participating in winter activities.
- Warm up thoroughly before playing or participating. Cold muscles, tendons, and ligaments are vulnerable to injury.
- Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles, helmets, gloves, and padding.
- Make sure that equipment is working properly prior to use.
- Wear several layers of light, loose, and water/wind resistant clothing for warmth and protection. Layering accommodates your body's constantly changing temperature.
- Wear proper footwear that provides warmth/dryness, as well as plenty of ankle support.
- Take a lesson (or several) from a qualified instructor, especially in sports like skiing/snowboarding.
- Pay attention to warnings about upcoming storms and severe temperature drops.
- Drink plenty of water before/during/after activities.
- Avoid participating when in pain or exhausted.
- Never participate on your own in a winter sport.

Information from the CDC

In the Know - Impaired Driving

Don't Drink & Drive - Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving

The Facts: Impaired Driving

Every day, 29 people in the U.S. die in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. That is one death every 50 minutes.

Who is at most risk?
Young people
At all levels of blood alcohol concentration (BAC), the risk of being involved in a crash is greater for young people than for older people.
Among drivers with BAC levels of 0.08% or higher involved in fatal crashes in 2016, nearly 3 in 10 were between 25 and 34 years of age (27%). The next two largest groups were ages 21 to 24 (26%) and 35 to 44 (22%).
Motorcyclists
Among motorcyclists killed in fatal crashes in 2016, 25% had BAC's of 0.08% or greater.
Motorcyclists ages 35-39 have the highest percentage of deaths with BAC's of 0.08% or greater.
Drivers with prior driving while impaired (DWI) convictions
Drivers with a BAC of .08% or higher involved in fatal crashes were 4.5 times more likely to have a prior conviction for DWI than were drivers with no alcohol in their system.

BAC Predictable Effects on Driving (based on a standard drink size in the U.S.):
About 2 alcoholic drinks (.02%) - decline in visual functions; decline in ability to perform 2 tasks at the same time
About 3 alcoholic drinks (.05%) - reduced coordination; reduced ability to track moving objects; difficulty steering; reduced response to emergency driving situations
About 4 alcoholic drinks (.08%) - concentration affected; short-term memory loss; speed control; reduced information processing capability; impaired perception
About 5 alcoholic drinks (.10%) - reduced ability to maintain lane position and brake appropriately
About 7 alcoholic drinks (.15%) - substantial impairment in vehicle control, attention to driving task, and in necessary visual and auditory information processing

What safety steps can you take?
Make plans so you do not have to drive while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.
Before drinking, designate a non-drinking driver when with a group.
Don't let your friends drive while impaired.
If you have been drinking alcohol/using drugs, get a ride home, use a ride share service, or call a taxi.
If you're hosting a party where alcohol will be served, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate a sober driver. Offer alcohol-free beverages, and make sure guests leave with a sober driver.

Think before you drink.

Interesting Comparison - Ford's Drunk Driving Suit

Ford (Motor Company) created a Drunk Driving Suit that mimics the effects alcohol may have on a driver. Read the breakdown of what the suit consists of below.

Earmuffs - Impair hearing to delay reaction time.
Vision Impairment Glasses - produce ghost images & tunnel vision.
Neck Bandages - Restrict head movement.
Elbow Bandages - Slow motion.
Wrist Weights - Affect balance.
Knee Bandages - Slow movement.
Ankle Weights - Affect balance, especially when worn on the limb opposite the wrist weights.

This unique suit was created by Ford to help teach young people the dangerous effects of drinking and driving. The Ford-developed suit restricts movement, impairs vision and throws you off balance. Ford developed impaired driving suits to simulate driving while drunk, and while under the influence of drugs like marijuana.



*Information from the CDC and Ford Motor Company.

In the Know - Hunter Safety Measures

In the Know - Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning Education

Quick Facts:
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil and methane) burn incompletely. (NFPA)
• Each year, Carbon Monoxide poisoning claims approximately 480 lives and sends 15,200 people to emergency rooms for treatment. (USFA)
• Each year, over 200 people die from CO poisoning by fuel burning appliances in the home (furnaces, ranges, water heaters, room heaters). (CPSC)
• A person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over a longer period of time, or by a large amount of CO over a shorter amount of time. (NFPA)
• CO can have different effects on people based on its concentration in the air that people breathe and the person's health condition.
• CO poisoning can be confuse with flu symptoms, food poisoning, and other illnesses - with symptoms including shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, light headedness, or headaches. High levels of CO can be fatal causing death within minutes. (NFPA)
• Consumers can die when they improperly use gas generators, charcoal grills, and fuel burning camping heaters/stoves INSIDE their homes or in other enclosed, or partially-enclosed, space during power outages. (CPSC)

Fast Tips:
• Install a CO alarm (also called detectors) in the hallway of your home near sleeping areas.
• Follow manufacturer instructions to test the CO alarm each month.
• Have BOTH a fire/smoke detector AND a CO alarm.
• Make sure a CO alarm is listed with Underwriter's Laboratories standard 2034, or that information in the owner's manual says it meets requirements of the IAS 6-96 standard.
• Make sure all household appliances are installed correctly.
• Have heating systems (including chimneys & vents) inspected /serviced annually.
• Only burn charcoal OUTDOORS.
• Always make sure to turn off any gas-powered engines, even if the garage door is open.
• DO NOT use gas appliances (ranges, ovens, clothes dryers) for heating your home.
• KNOW THE SYMPTOMS of CO poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, confusion. If you suspect CO poisoning, get to fresh air immediately and then call 911.
• Treat the alarm signal as an emergency each time.
Information from redcross.org

Sources: American Red Cross, U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Late Fall/Early Winter is also a great time to re-visit fire safety. Click the link below to learn more from Red Cross!


Red Cross Fire Safety Information

In The Know - Diabetes Awareness Month

Be Heatlh Aware - Diabetes

NOVEMBER IS DIABETES AWARENESS MONTH

What is Diabetes?

- Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy.
- Your body breaks down most food you eat into sugar (glucose) and releases it to your blood stream.
- When your blood sugar goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin. Insulin acts like a key to let the blood sugar into your body's cells to use as energy.
- With diabetes: your body doesn't make enough insulin or can't use it as well as it should.
- When there isn't enough insulin, or cells stop responding to insulin, too much blood sugar remains in the bloodstream. Over time, this can cause serious health problems like heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.
At this time, there is no cure for diabetes, but losing weight, eating healthy, and being active can help.

Other helpful things: take medications as prescribed, get diabetes self-management education and support, and make and keep your healthcare appointments.

Type 1 diabetes: Thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction. Your body stops making insulin. Approximately 5-10% of people that have diabetes have Type 1. Usually diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults.

Type 2 diabetes: Your body doesn't use insulin well and can't keep blood sugar at normal levels. About 90-95% of people with diabetes have Type 2. It is USUALLY diagnosed in adults - but diagnosis in children and young adults is on the rise.

Diabetes By the Numbers!

- More than 37 million U.S. adults have diabetes, and 1 in 5 don't know they have it.
- Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S.
- Diabetes is the number 1 cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, and adult blindness.
- In the last 20 years, the number of adults with diagnosed diabetes has more than doubled.

In The Know - Slips, Trips, & Falls

SLIPS, TRIPS, & FALLS...OH MY!

Older adult falls is a growing problem that can threaten the health and independence of this population, but it is a problem that CAN be prevented.

Falls ARE NOT a normal part of aging. Older adults, caregivers, and healthcare providers can work together to reduce the risk of falling and prevent devastating injuries.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Older Adults
Talk to Your Healthcare Providers:
-Tell your doctor if you have fallen, if you feel unsteady when standing or walking, or if you're afraid you might fall.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medications to see if any might increase risk of fall.
- Ask your doctor about health conditions (like depression or osteoporosis) that can increase your risk of fall.
- Ask your doctor to check your eyes at least once a year and updated lenses as needed.
Stay Active:
- Do exercises that make your legs stronger and improve your balance (like Tai Chi).
Make Your Home Safer:
- Get rid of trip hazards. Keep floors clutter free.
- Add grab bars in the bathroom.
- Have handrails and lights installed on all staircases.

Caregivers - encourage your loved ones to take action to reduce their fall risk.
- Initiate a conversation with your loved one and their healthcare provider about fall risk and prevention.
- Encourage your loved one to participate in exercise programs that can help improve strength and balance (like Tai Chi).

In The Know #HealthAwareness - September is Sepsis Awareness Month

*Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis.

What Is Sepsis? The body's extreme response to an infection - and it is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. Infections that lead to sepsis most often start in the
-lungs
-urinary tract
-skin
-gastrointestinal tract
Without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.

What Causes Sepsis? When germs get into a person' body, they can cause an infection. If you don't stop that infection, it can cause sepsis. Bacterial infections, viral infections, or fungal infections can result in sepsis.

Sepsis Quick Facts:
Each year...
-About 1.7 million adults in America develop sepsis.
-At least 350,000 adults who develop sepsis die during their hospitalization or are discharge to hospice.
-1 in 3 people who dies in a hospital had sepsis during the hospitalization.
-Sepsis, or the infection causing sepsis, starts before a patient goes to the hospital in nearly 87% of cases.

How Can You Get Ahead of Sepsis?
1. Prevent Infections
2. Practice Good Hygiene
3. Know the Signs & Symptoms
4. Act FAST
*Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you or your loved one has an infection that is not getting better, or is getting worse, ACT FAST. Get medical care IMMEDIATELY. Ask your healthcare professional, "Could this infection be leading to sepsis?" and if you should go to the Emergency Room.

Information gathered from the CDC. Please visit Sepsis to learn more.

In The Know - Summer Safety -> Snake Identification

Is It Venomous?
No single characteristic is shared by all venomous snakes in Texas. Learn to identify species that live in your area instead. There are two broad categories of venomous snakes in Texas - Pit Vipers and Coral Snakes.

Identify: Pit Vipers
All have an opening on each side between eye & nostril called a "pit".
Venom glands on the sides of their heads.
Triangular head appearance.
*There are three types of Pit Vipers in Texas: rattlesnakes, copperheads, & cottonmouths.**
rattlesnakes - only snakes with rattles.
copperheads - thick bodies, no rattles, alternating light & dark bands that look like an hourglass from above.
cottonmouths - also called water moccasins - found near or in water, triangular heads with slender necks, white mouth interior.

Identify: Coral Snakes
Only one species of the group in Texas - the Texas Coral Snake.
Slender bodies, small heads.
Alternating rings of bright red, yellow, & black.
Less aggressive than Pit Vipers.
Extremely potent venom.
Order of colored rings can be used to distinguish them: "Red Touch Yellow Kill a Fellow". Red & yellow together=Texas Coral Snake. You can also think of a stoplight - yellow means caution & red means stop. If read & yellow touch - STOP & don't touch the snake!

Similar BUT Non Venomous
*Bull snakes, Hog-nosed snakes, Water snakes, & Scarlet/Milk Snakes**

Snake Bites & First Aid
*Many "home remedy" snake bite treatments are not helpful and may actually be harmful.**
Anyone bitten by a venomous snake should be immediately taken to an emergency care facility (i.e. emergency room).
If possible, and only if safe, try to identify the snake to inform the doctor (who in turn can more quickly provide the antivenin).
*Aside from that, there are very few things you should do.**
Keep the person calm & reduce their physical exertion as much as possible.
Have them remove all jewelry (rings, bracelets, watches) or restrictive clothing near the site of the bite so blood flow is not restricted if swelling occurs.
DO NOT apply ice to the bite or make a tourniquet, & DO NOT make an incision on or near the bite.
*These "treatments" may harm the victim. The best treatment for a snakebite victim is that given by a doctor.

*A bite from a non venomous snake should be treated as a puncture wound -
Wash area well.
Apply pressure if bleeding.
Keep clean while wound heals.
If signs of infection develop (redness, swelling, pain) seek medical care.

Information from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension & Dr. Maureen Frank, Assistant Professor & Extension Wildlife Specialist.

In The Know - Stay Safe Around Water! Drowning Can Be Prevented

In the United States, Drowning Is a Leading Cause of Death For Children:
- More children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death except for birth defects.
- For children 1-14, drowning is the 2nd leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.

While Children Are At Highest Risk, Anyone Can Drown. Every year in the U.S. There Are An Estimated:
- 3,960 fatal unintentional drownings, including boating-related drowning. An average of 11 drownings per day.
- 8,080 nonfatal drownings. An average of 22 nonfatal drownings per day.

REMEMBER: Drowning happens in SECONDS and is often SILENT. It can happen to ANYONE, anytime there is access to water.

Drowning Prevention Tips:
1. Learn basic swimming and water safety skills.
2. Build fences that fully enclose pools.
3. Supervise closely.
4. Wear a life jacket.
5. Learn CPR.
6. Know the risks of natural waters.
7. Avoid alcohol.
8. Use the buddy system.
9. Take additional precautions for medical conditions.
10. Consider the effects of medications.
11. Don't hyperventilate or hold your breath for a long time.

Learn more on the CDC Website at: Water Safety & Drowning Prevention

In The Know - Summer Heat & Heat-Related Illness Prevention

HEAT REALTED DEATH & ILLNESSES ARE PREVENTABLE. HOWEVER, AROUND 618 PEOPLE IN THE U.S. ARE KILLED BY EXTREME HEAT EVERY YEAR.



It's HOT in Texas - and the temperature isn't finished rising yet!

Read up on some tips you can follow to stay as safe as possible in the heat. Stay COOL, stay HYRDRATED, & stay INFORMED this Summer!

Visit this link to get information on how to beat the heat: Tips For Preventing Heat-Related Illness
{Use the menu to the left to navigate more information & tips!}

In The Know - May: Stroke Awareness

STROKE IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN THE U.S. AND IS A MAJOR CAUSE OF SERIOUS DISABILITY FOR ADULTS. IT IS PREVENTABLE & TREATABLE.

Don't delay - call 9-1-1 right away if you spot the signs of stroke in yourself or someone else. See image below for 5 symptoms to look for. And use F.A.S.T. as an easy acronym to help you remember them - and perhaps save a life!
If you think someone may be having a stroke, act F.A.S.T. and do the following test:

F - *face* Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A - *arms* Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S - *speech* Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is speech slurred or strange?
T - *time* If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away! Note the time that the symptoms first appeared. Do not drive to the hospital or let someone else drive you. Call for an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin lifesaving treatment on the way to the ER.

Acting F.A.S.T. can help stroke patients get the treatments they need. The stroke treatments that work best are only available if the stroke is recognized & diagnosed WITHIN 3 HOURS of first symptoms. Stroke patients may not be eligible for these if they don't arrive at the hospital in that time frame.

For more information click here: About Stroke

In The Know - May: Mental Health Awareness

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It's an important part of overall health, and affects how we think, fell, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

Mental health is important at every state of life, from childhood and adolescence, through adulthood.

Mental Health in America - Facts & Figures:

-1in 5 adults (52.9 million adults) in the U.S. experienced mental illness in 2020.
-Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34.
-1 in 6 adolescents (aged 12-17) in the U.S. experienced a major depressive episode in 2020.
-54% of adults with mental illness did not receive treatment in 2020.
-The average delay between symptom onset and treatment for mental illness is 11 years.

For more information on Mental Health Awareness click here:
Taking Care of Your Mental Health


And here: National Council for Mental Wellbeing

#BreakTheStigma

In The Know - April: ATV Safety & Stats

ATVs: Big, Real, Rough, Tough, and Sometimes...Deadly.

Warmer weather means more time spent enjoying outdoor activities. One such past time is riding ATVs. Unfortunately, each year 650 deaths and 100,000 injuries can be attributed to ATV accidents. Read below for more statistics on ATV accidents, as well as safety tips to follow for proper ATV operation.

- Most ATV accidents occur in the months of May-September
- Injuries sustained in ATV accidents usually affect: the arms and hands (29%), the head or neck (27%), the legs and feet (22%), the torso (20%), and other areas (2%).
- On average, 77 children (under age 16) and 532 adults die in ATV related accidents each year.
- 32% of ATV fatalities occur on paved surfaces.

How To Be Safe on an ATV:

Wear a helmet - be safer with eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants, and long sleeved shirt.

Never allow more riders than the ATV was designed for.

Get training from a qualified instructor.

Stay OFF paved roads and use extreme caution when crossing one is necessary.

Never let a child under 16 ride an adult ATV - use the right machine for the right age.

As you enjoy ATV fun, make sure to follow all safety precautions to ensure the wellbeing of you, and all around you!

Information from: the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

Midday Meet - Featured Topic: Beyond the Basics-Aquatic Therapy

Lavaca Medical Center is happy to introduce a new informational session program being held at the facility. Join us on Thursday, March 24th as we kick-off "Midday Meet" with our first presenter, Kim Brandt, PT/LMC Rehab Director - as she shares information on aquatic therapy. The presentation will be held in the Johnson Conference Room from 11 a.m. to Noon. Light refreshments will be provided.

In The Know - March: Brain Injury Awareness Month

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month.
A concussion, sometimes called a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), is considered the most common type of brain injury. Concussions account for hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits each year.

This month, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention) discusses minimizing the risk of concussion, or other serious brain injury, in our children and teens. Use the link below to visit the CDC website and its concussion resources.


Heads Up - Brain Injury Awareness Month

In The Know - Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide (CO) exposures and poisonings happen more often during the fall and winter months. Check out the CDC article below for information on symptoms of CO poisoning, key facts, and steps you can take to protect your family and yourself during the colder months of the year (and all year round). Click the link below to visit the article.


Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

"In The Know"

Lavaca Medical Center wants to keep you "In The Know" when it comes to various topics, by sharing important information and tips that may affect you and your family! Check the In The News section often for tips and educational articles that we will share!

Blood Drive @ LMC

The need for blood is always high even when the amount of dedicated donors isn't. Please share this invitation with your friends, family, and co-workers and let them know the importance of donating. Local patients are depending on you.

All donors will receive points valued at $20 for an e-gift card. O+/- blood type donors will receive an additional $10 Amazon gift card, and all donors will be entered into a raffle for a $60 Visa gift card for this blood drive only!

Walk-ins are welcome and needed!
Lavaca Medical Center
09/20/21 (12:00 pm - 05:00 pm)
1400 N Texana St
Bloodmobile
Hallettsville, TX 77964

To Register:
https://donor.southtexasblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/131084

Check Back Soon

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Lavaca Medical Center Is On-Line

Lavaca Medical Center has recently developed a web site and is providing many sources for health information and programming. As you can see this is something that will be very useful to our patients, their families and those who may want to know what kinds of services or facilities we have. There are also many other features we hope you will explore. For example, you can look up medications in the drug search or find interesting health information. This is a valuable resource and we hope that you will take full advantage of it.