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We are pleased to announce the release of the Spring 2025 edition of CovingtonCares, a publication of Covington County Hospital. In this issue, we are proud to highlight the opening of Smith County Emergency Hospital and other inspiring stories and patient testimonials. This edition features a testimonial that captures a patient's positive experience in the swing bed unit and the exceptional level of care she received. We also include an in-depth discussion with Nurse Supervisor Dana Graves, RN, who shares insights into her team’s compassionate approach to nursing. The importance of physical therapy services as a vital resource for both patients and nurses at CCH is explored, emphasizing their significance to patient recovery and functionality upon returning home. Our CCH clinics continue to grow with the recent addition of Dr. David Jameson, MD, at Express Care Sumrall. With three decades of experience in urgent care and family medicine, Dr. Jameson is a tremendous asset to the Sumrall community. We are proud to operate eight clinics conveniently located throughout Covington, Simpson, Smith, and Lamar counties. Additionally, we introduce you to our Pharmacist, Dr. Jennifer Patterson, PharmD, who plays an essential role in ensuring patient safety and care through our pharmacy services. We are particularly excited about the opening of Smith County Emergency Hospital. This important project, which has successfully established emergency services for the residents of Smith County, was completed in a remarkable seven months. While we are unable to name all of those who played a part in this accomplishment, we would like to extend our gratitude to Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith for her vital support in making this project a reality. The establishment of this facility will have a profound impact on Smith County – enhancing access to quality care and contributing to job creation, which will positively influence the community as a whole. We sincerely hope that this edition fosters a deeper appreciation for the dedicated professionals whose expertise and unwavering commitment play a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of our patients and the communities we have the privilege to serve. Thank you for choosing Covington County Hospital. It is our honor to serve your healthcare needs. Gregg Gibbes, CEO MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
06 IN THIS ISSUE 24 08 CCH PARTNERS WITH LOCAL SCHOOLS TO FIGHT EMS SHORTAGE 14 PHARMACY WORKS HARD FOR PATIENT CARE, SAFETY SWING BED PATIENTS BENEFIT FROM COMPASSIONATE NURSING THERAPISTS HELP PATIENTS GET THEIR LIVES BACK EXPRESS CARE SUMRALL EXPRESS CARE YOU CAN TRUST CCH CLINIC TAYLORSVILLE EXCEPTIONAL CARE, RIGHT IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD 10 12 16 EXCLUSIVE! 20 23 28 30 SURGERY RECOVERY PATIENT RAVES ABOUT SWING BED PROGRAM GIFT SHOP HEART HEALTHY RECIPE STAY COOL SAFELY SWIFT WELLNESS WORKOUTS COMMUNITY COMMUNITY WELCOMES SMITH COUNTY EMERGENCY HOSPITAL 27 26
HELLO, FRIENDS I am Kenneth Daughtrey, MD, Chief of Staff at Covington County Hospital. As a proud native of Covington County, I am privileged to be back home serving the community that raised me. Our dedicated team at Covington County Hospital is focused on providing exceptional care for you and our community. In this edition of CovingtonCares, we highlight a busy few months, including the opening of Smith County Emergency Hospital in February 2025. We’re also excited to welcome Dr. David Jameson to the team at Express Care Sumrall. Smith County Emergency Hospital in Raleigh, Mississippi, shares an inspiring story of rural hospitals collaborating to offer emergency services to a neighboring community. We are exceedingly proud of the team that brought this project to fruition. We are honored to welcome our family and friends in Smith County. We are here to serve our communities and deliver award-winning healthcare. Thank you for entrusting us with your health and well-being. Kenneth Daughtrey, M.D. MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF STAFF 2025 Spring/Summer 4
To counteract the effects of surgery, an injury, or any other debilitating condition, therapy can make the difference in returning to a full, rewarding lifestyle. Covington County Hospital’s therapists love guiding their patients back to being themselves. It requires dedication and diplomacy. “We have patients who are in pain or maybe have an illness,” said Mike Williamson, DPT, ATC, Therapy Services Director at CCH. “You have to have a passion for doing that and helping the patient. “It’s very rewarding.” 3 Types of Therapy The hospital offers physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Williamson explained the different therapies this way: “Physical therapy is working with patients on THERAPISTS HELP PATIENTS GET THEIR LIVES BACK
strengthening. If they need help with gait, balance, or range of motion, the therapists will work on that. “Occupational therapy means we work with patients who are experiencing upper extremity conditions as well as on their activities of daily living and functional activities. That may be dressing, transfers in and out of bed, or transfers in and out of a chair or into a vehicle. They may also need modifications in the way they’re doing things and maybe equipment to help with dressing, transfers, or even eating. “Speech therapy will work with them if they have any kind of swallowing difficulty, speech problems, or cognitive memory issues. The therapist will also help if they’re having problems with eating, including adapting the type of utensils or plates they use.” Therapy Staff The therapy staff includes three physical therapists, an occupational therapist, and a speech therapist, plus a physical therapist assistant and an occupational therapy assistant. Williamson himself has been a physical therapist since 1990 and an athletic trainer since 1985. In 2023, the Mississippi Athletic Trainers’ Association inducted him into its Hall of Fame. Therapists serve both inpatients – especially swing bed patients – and outpatients. Custom Care Plans Swing bed patients stay in the hospital for several days or weeks to help them recover from surgery or something else that has weakened them. The therapists work with physicians to create a custom care plan for each patient. Outpatients, including children and teens, come to the outpatient therapy clinic, often for recovery from injury, surgery, or a stroke or neurological disease. During his 35 years as a therapist, Williamson said, techniques and equipment have improved tremendously. For example, patients now jump right into recovery from ACL surgery (repair of the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament). “When I first started doing this,” he said, “they were in a cast for six weeks and didn’t do anything with the knee. Now we have them in bracing where they can start immediately doing exercise for strengthening and range of motion.” Williamson says he’ll put his Covington County Hospital therapy team up against any other, anywhere. 'We Have Everything' “I’ve worked in large cities, medium cities, and small-town hospitals,” he said. “We have everything available here that’s needed. We have all the disciplines – physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Our staff has the necessary training, knowledge, and equipment. “They can offer you the same resources and opportunities that you might find in a larger city, right in your own community.” For outpatient physical, occupational, or speech therapy, call 601.698.0298 after requesting a referral from a primary care physician, specialist, or pediatrician. For more information, scan the QR code. LEARN MORE CovingtonCares 7 Mike Williamson, DPT, ATC, Therapy Services Director at CCH “Our staff has the necessary training, knowledge, and equipment.” – Mike Williamson, DPT, ATC, Therapy Services Director at CCH
CCH PARTNERS WITH LOCAL SCHOOLS TO FIGHT EMS SHORTAGE What if you dialed 911 for a health emergency, and nobody was available to come help you? A shortage of emergency medical service personnel is stressing EMS and ambulance services in Mississippi and nationwide. Covington County Hospital and the county school system are working together to fill that crucial gap – and save lives.
Angie Powell, EdS, NRP CovingtonCares 9 High school seniors in the county can take an emergency medical technician class that gives them the opportunity to begin working as an EMT right out of high school. It’s a dual-enrollment program with Jones College, a community college in Ellisville. Paying Dividends The program, only in its third year, has already sent several graduates to work at nearby EMS services. Graduates can also opt for additional training and step up to being paramedics, who can perform more advanced procedures and administer more advanced life support. And EMT certification can open doors to other lifesaving careers. “A lot of our students want to go into nursing or eventually be a doctor,” said Angie Powell, EdS, NRP. “Having that ‘EMT’ behind their name helps them get into those programs. For example, it’s a point-based system to get into nursing school, and this helps them.” Career & Tech Complex Powell directs the Covington County Career & Technical Education Complex, a ninth-through-12th-grade campus in Collins. It’s part of the Covington County School District. The CTE Complex offers classes in Health Science, and Law and Public Safety, which are prerequisites for the EMT class. Completion of the Health Science class qualifies students to test for certification as phlebotomists (technicians who draw blood) or certified nurse aides. Powell described the Law and Public Safety curriculum as “a combination of law enforcement, fire, EMS, emergency management, and emergency 911 dispatch.” Todd Jones, BS, NRP, CCH EMS Director, is a big fan of the CTE Complex’s programs – in particular the EMT class and its prerequisites. He described them as “invaluable resources for Covington County Ambulance Service and EMS services across Mississippi.” 10,000 Calls a Year The Covington County Hospital Ambulance Service handles nearly 10,000 calls each year. It has 60 employees, six ambulances, and four nonemergency transport vehicles that can accommodate wheelchairs. EMT students ride along with CCH ambulances as part of their training. “This program not only gives students a head start on their career,” Jones said, “but also provides essential workforce support for local ambulance services.” Covington County Hospital and the CTE Complex have strong ties. Powell is a part-time paramedic at CCH, where she has worked since 2016. Melanie Blackwell, RN, the Health Science instructor, is a CCH nurse and leads clinical rotations for Health Science students at the hospital. Law and Public Safety Instructor Jennifer Cade used to work at CCH. First-Year Director Powell is in her first year as CTE Complex Director. She had previously taught the EMT and Law and Public Safety classes. “I love that I can help these kids and hopefully keep them here in Covington County,” she said. “And I love Covington County Hospital. They have always been great to me.” “A lot of our students want to go into nursing or eventually be a doctor.” –Angie Powell CTE Complex Director
Express Care Sumrall is part of the CCH Clinic system in Sumrall, Mississippi, on Highway 42 across a parking lot from Ramey's. The clinic opened in September 2020. No time to make an appointment? No problem! Express Care Sumrall welcomes walk-in patients, and you may choose to receive care without ever leaving your car with our convenient drive-thru. Express Care Sumrall is committed to delivering comprehensive healthcare tailored to the unique needs of each family member. Patients can receive treatment for a variety of chronic and acute conditions, as well as minor injuries. Common ailments treated at the clinic include colds, influenza, allergies, headaches, sore throats, and other health issues that affect individuals of all ages. Dr. David Jameson, MD, is a dedicated family practice physician with over 30 years of experience practicing medicine. Dr. Jameson honed his skills by providing urgent care and emergency services. He says he still enjoys the physicianpatient interaction with each visit. Anna Fails, FNP, is a dedicated nurse practitioner with a wealth of experience in urgent care and family practice. Over her 10-plus years as a nurse, Anna worked in various specialties like neurology, cardiac care, and oncology, preparing her to be a provider. Our providers offer a wide range of routine and preventive healthcare services, such as annual physicals, laboratory testing (including blood tests and urine tests), vaccinations, and screening and treatment for conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. We also treat minor symptoms such as sore throat, cough, or nasal congestion, common illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other infections, and routine injuries such as minor cuts or burns. Express Care Sumrall is dedicated to fostering a healthier community through accessible and highquality healthcare for all residents. The clinic is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Call 769.307.6995, or just come by. David Jameson, MD EXPRESS CARE SUMRALL Express Care You Can Trust Anna Fails, FNP 2025 Spring/Summer 10
CCH Clinic Taylorsville is conveniently located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Highway 28 and Highway 37 in Taylorsville, Mississippi, at 105 Eaton Street. Established by Covington County Hospital in 2020, this clinic serves as a vital healthcare resource, delivering high-quality and compassionate medical care to the local community. Anna Seals, FNP, is a dedicated nurse practitioner whose extensive background spans emergency medicine, urgent care, and family practice. Over her 12-year career as an emergency room charge nurse, Seals developed exceptional skills in managing high-pressure critical care situations with grace and precision. She began her nurse practitioner journey at a regional medical center, specializing in urgent and emergency services. In 2018, she brought her expertise to the Taylorsville clinic. CCH Clinic Director Santana Fulcher expresses a great deal of pride in the clinic's contribution, stating, “Our Taylorsville clinic is a wonderful addition to the area. It provides a crucial healthcare resource for those residing in rural communities. The provider and staff are deeply committed to delivering extraordinary healthcare services to the community.” CCH Clinic Taylorsville provides comprehensive healthcare that is carefully tailored to meet the needs of each family member. Under Seals’ expert care, patients can receive treatment for a wide range of chronic and acute conditions, as well as minor injuries. Common ailments treated at the clinic include colds, influenza, allergies, headaches, sore throats, and other health issues that affect individuals across all age groups. The clinic also offers Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) services for children under the age of 21 enrolled in Medicaid. This program plays an essential role in promoting the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents by ensuring they receive comprehensive and preventive healthcare services necessary for their growth and development. CCH Clinic Taylorsville also performs physicals, including DOT physicals. It welcomes walk-ins and even offers drive-thru service so patients can receive immediate attention and care without having to leave the comfort of their vehicle. The clinic is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 601.452.4280 to schedule an appointment. 2025 Spring/Summer 12 Anna Seals, FNP CCH CLINIC TAYLORSVILLE Exceptional Care, Right in Your Neighborhood
Jennifer Patterson, PharmD
CovingtonCares 15 It’s not open to the public, so most Covington County Hospital patients don’t even know it exists. Nevertheless, the Pharmacy plays a major role in their care and safety – around the clock every day. Medications come into the hospital via the Pharmacy, which logs them into the hospital’s electronic records system by scanning a barcode. At every subsequent step as the medication makes its way to a patient, the barcode acts as a safeguard to make sure the medication is used as intended. Scanning First When a physician or other provider orders medication, Pharmacist Jennifer Patterson, PharmD, verifies the order, checks the medication, and sends it to a nursing station. Any time nurses or other practitioners administer any medication, they scan the barcode first. “If a nurse scans the barcode of an incorrect medication or tries to administer it at the wrong time,” Patterson said, “the system will alert the nurse of the error.” Another of Patterson’s daily tasks is to fill and check the medication carts that are stocked for patients who are on daily medication regimens. To handle new medication orders that occur after Pharmacy hours, a Pharmacy Technician (the Pharmacy’s only other employee) stocks an automated dispensing machine Safeguards A barcode is linked to each drawer in the machine. When the medication’s code is scanned, only the corresponding drawer will open for stocking. For after-hours orders, an on-call pharmacist confirms the order and sends the fulfillment to the Pyxis (automated dispensing machine) for administering. Nurses can only access the medications that are assigned to that patient. Once nurses retrieve the medication, they scan the patient's armband and the barcode on the medication to ensure that they have the “Right Patient, Right Medication, and Right Time.” “When a nurse retrieves a patient’s profile and selects the verified medication order they require,” Patterson said, “only the drawer containing that specific medication will open.” Controlled Substances Patterson also reviews, verifies, and monitors all controlled-substance medications (such as powerful painkillers). And she monitors antibiotics as part of the hospital’s Antibiotic Stewardship Program. That program provides special oversight to ensure that, for each patient, the right antibiotic at the right dose is prescribed at the right time for the right duration. Not only does that optimize treatment, but it also prevents antibiotics overuse, which can help make bacteria resistant to the medications. Patterson earned her doctorate in pharmacy at the University of Mississippi. She has been a pharmacist for 24 years and has worked at CCH for the past 20 years. To relax, she trains and rides horses. “There’s nothing better than hitting the trails and exploring new places with my four-legged friends. It’s always an adventure!” Keeping an Eye Out As she makes her daily orders from medical suppliers, Patterson tries to anticipate and manage potential shortages of certain medications. “I strive to be proactive by identifying shortages early, monitoring medication availability, exploring potential alternative treatments, and informing our providers about any shortages,” she said. Every once in a while, Patterson gets a chance to actually meet patients and help them understand how their medications work. “I’m happy to provide patient education when asked by the patient, nurse, or provider,” she said. “Just let me know.” To learn about what illnesses antibiotics can and cannot treat and why it’s important not to overuse antibiotics, scan this QR code. LEARN MORE
Community Welcomes SMITH COUNTY EMERGENCY HOSPITAL Hundreds of grateful community members thronged the dedication ceremony in January for Smith County Emergency Hospital in Raleigh, Mississippi – showing strong local support for a big healthcare upgrade and major economic boost. “I want to thank the Board of Trustees of Covington County Hospital for being willing to take on this project,” Gregg Gibbes, CEO of the hospital, told the attendees, “and having the vision to be able to say that we can go into another county, like we have in others, and create access to care where it doesn’t exist.” Fits the Mission Gibbes said the project fit Covington County Hospital’s “deeply held mission of serving others, serving patients, and trying to do it in a way that would create sustainability for not just their hospital in Covington County, but for the surrounding areas that they’ve collaborated with.” 2025 Spring/Summer 16
The new hospital gives Smith County its first emergency room in two decades. Previously, many county residents had to travel for half an hour or more to receive emergency services. “I think we’re going to save a lot of people’s lives,” Gibbes said after the hospital’s opening. 24-Hour Care Smith County Emergency Hospital provides 24-hour emergency care and outpatient services by highly trained providers using advanced technology. It features laboratory services and an imaging department with digital X-ray and CT equipment. The facility is expected to create 56 jobs and generate an annual economic impact of $30 million. The building had previously housed Patients’ Choice Medical Center of Smith County, which closed in 2023. Renovations finished on time (seven months) and on budget ($1.5 million). Gibbes said the Smith County Board of Supervisors and other elected officials helped make the hospital a reality. Thanks to Hyde-Smith “A big shout-out goes to U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith,” he said, “because without her, I’m not sure this project “A big shout-out goes to U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, because without her, I’m not sure this project would have been possible.” – Gregg Gibbes, CEO, Covington County Hospital CovingtonCares 17
would have been possible,” said Gibbs. The hospital is a division of CCH. It’s part of a partnership that also includes South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, Simpson General Hospital in Mendenhall, and Magee General Hospital in Magee, all with Gibbes as CEO. Other local medical facilities have welcomed the new hospital, referring patients and using its lab services. New Type of Hospital The facility is a “rural emergency hospital” – a new federal category that went into effect on January 1, 2023. The designation is intended to make rural healthcare more financially viable. Rural emergency hospitals are allowed to provide emergency and outpatient services. Patients requiring stays of more than 24 hours generally must be transferred to other facilities. Smith County Emergency Hospital became Mississippi’s eighth rural emergency hospital. No other state has more than five. Financial Pressures The Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform, a policy center based in Pittsburgh, reported in February 2025 that nearly 200 rural hospitals have closed over the past two decades. In Mississippi, the report says, six rural hospitals have closed since 2005. It doesn’t have to be that way, Gibbes said. “Mississippi has some very successful rural hospitals. We are very intentional about collaboration and thinking outside of the box.” Careful Planning He and the CCH board spent months fine-tuning the new hospital’s business plan. “The financial sustainability and economic impact of this project are significant,” he said. “With job creation, economic development, increased access to care, and services that previously did not exist, we have a solid foundation for success.” If the community’s enthusiastic initial embrace of the hospital continues, then services eventually could be expanded, Gibbes said. Local Solution “The best part of the story is that neighboring rural hospitals are providing the solution, not someone from out of town or out of state who’s out of touch,” he said. “Our independent rural hospitals are partnering together to create a solution for a neighboring community that has a need.” It all comes down to the community, Gibbes said. “The support that they’ve demonstrated is proof that this thing is going to be successful.” CovingtonCares 18 For more info about Smith County Emergency, call 601.374.9070 or scan the QR code. LEARN MORE 2025 Spring/Summer 18
RALEIGH, MISSISSIPPI Covington County Hospital and South Central Regional Medical Center are collaborating to open a rural emergency hospital in Raleigh, MS to serve the residents of Smith County and surrounding areas. The facility will be located at 347 Magnolia Drive and will include a new emergency department, radiology and imaging suite, laboratory, and admissions area. The anticipated construction completion date is December 2024. This project will create approximately 80 jobs with an annual local economic impact of $30 million. OPERATION OUTCOME PROJECT EXPECTATIONS CONSTRUCTION OUTCOME JOB BREAKDOWN DIRECT INDIRECT INDUCED 56 JOBS CREATED 30M $ IN ANNUAL ECONOMIC IMPACT 150K $ IN ANNUAL LOCAL TAXES GENERATED 23 JOBS SUPPORTED 2M $ IN SALES GENERATED 19K $ OF LOCAL TAXES SPURRED 36 (Healthcare) 14 (Suppliers) 6 (Retail) 254K $ IN ANNUAL STATE TAXES GENERATED IMPROVE MEDICAL CARE ECONOMIC BENEFITS IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH OUTCOMES • Accessibility to emergency medical service transport, emergency care, and hospital services • Availability of outpatient services • Accessibility to quality emergency care providers and personnel • Reduce travel distances to healthcare, mitigating stress, and health risks in communities • Decrease inpatient mortality rates for stroke and AMI patients • Provides access to emergency services for 14K Smith County residents • Increase per-capita income • Decrease the unemployment rate • Position Smith County as a more attractive location for business investment For full details, see the full report “Economic Impact Raleigh, Mississippi Smith County Emergency Hospital”. CovingtonCares 19
2025 Spring/Summer 20 SURGERY RECOVERY PATIENT RAVES about SWING BED PROGRAM After ankle surgery last September, Carolyn K. Shedd came into Covington County Hospital’s Swing Bed Program feeling “uneasy.” Her three-week stay turned her worries into delight: “I felt so blessed to have been taken care of by the best.” The Swing Bed Program provides skilled nursing care for anyone who needs an extended stay for physical healing or strengthening. For Shedd, CCH is close to home – convenient for friends and family to visit. Her surgeon had warned her to keep weight off her ankle for eight to 12 weeks. “So I definitely needed to be stronger before I attempted to maneuver on my own at home,” she said. Excellent First Impression CCH made a great first impression by greeting her at the car. “Two staff members helped my son carry my luggage and escorted us upstairs to my room,” Shedd said. “You would think I was at a five-star hotel.” She loved the room’s spaciousness. It was big enough for her to practice scooting around with a rolling knee
“If you want to be in a family-type atmosphere, CCH is the best choice. Be confident that CCH will care well for you or your loved ones.” – Carolyn K. Shedd CovingtonCares 21 walker supporting her surgeryaffected leg. Wheeled Recliners She had a big-screen television, a large cabinet, plenty of shelves, a couch that served as a bed for visitors, and wheeled leather recliners that substituted for wheelchairs in transporting her to therapy. A comfortable bed and roomdarkening blinds on the two large windows made for excellent sleep. “The only thing I didn’t like about the bed,” she joked, “is that it weighs you.” After breakfast in bed every morning came physical therapy, to restore her strength and movement, or occupational therapy, to help with daily activities, such as self-care and coping with her temporary physical impairment. Fun with Therapy Therapy turned out to be fun. Really. “I had a great time with all of the physical therapists and their assistants, as well as the occupational therapists and their assistants,” Shedd said. “It just felt like a family reunion, even though it was the first time I had met everyone in there.” She appreciated CCH’s focus on safety. “There are numerous signs all over the hospital that state, ‘Call, Don’t Fall.’ The nurses reiterated to me to be careful all the time. They wanted me to call to get assistance for anything, any time of the day or night.” Their helpful attitude brightened every day. “As every single staff member left my room, each one would say, ‘If you need anything, let us know,’” Shedd said. “I truly believe each worker at this facility means it, that they really do care. That meant so much to me.” Taking Time to Comfort One night, she was feeling emotional. Her husband had died a few weeks before her surgery. Sometimes, on lonely nights, the heartache felt overwhelming. The nurse making her rounds sensed her sadness and stayed for a while, just to listen. To comfort. Even as Shedd checked out to go home, “The nurses said, ‘If you think of anything you need, call us.’” She concluded, “If you want to be in a family-type atmosphere, CCH is the best choice. Be confident that CCH will care well for you or your loved ones.” Carolyn K. Shedd For information about the Swing Bed Program, call 601.698.0130 or 601.698.0132 or scan this QR code. LEARN MORE SWING BED SERVICES Covington County Hospital’s Swing Bed Program helps those who need extended inpatient skilled nursing care for healing or strengthening. Available services include: • Physical therapy • Occupational therapy • Respiratory therapy • Speech therapy • Dietary planning • Activities • Discharge planning for treatment and assessment. • Transportation is available.
Swing Bed Patients Benefit from Compassionate Nursing It takes a special kind of person to be a nurse. And it takes a special kind of nurse to work in the Swing Bed Program at Covington County Hospital. “It is important to be dedicated to both patient care and the nursing profession,” stated Dana Graves, RN, a Registered Nurse Supervisor at CCH. "In this position, you will have many opportunities to participate in impactful nursing practice." Graves came to the hospital in 1992, left briefly, then returned for good in 1999. She and the other CCH nurses look after both acute care and swing bed patients. Acute care involves short-term treatment for a serious injury or illness or recovery from surgery. Skilled Nursing Care The Swing Bed Program provides skilled nursing care for those who require extended inpatient hospital stays to recover strength or heal from surgery or other debilitating conditions before they’re ready to go home to continue recuperating. “We treat patients like we would want our family treated. Like we would want someone to treat our family, our mother, our father.” – Dana Graves, RN 2025 Spring/Summer 24
Nurses devote the majority of their time to swing bed patients, Graves said. On an average day, she said, they occupy 15 to 18 of the hospital’s 25 beds. Custom Care Plan A team of caregivers, including physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, therapists, dietitians, and others, collaborate to create an individualized care plan for each patient. Discharge planners help patients who need additional care or equipment after they leave the hospital. “We get people who have had knee replacements, hip replacements,” Graves said. “Outside of those recovering from fractures and surgeries and the like, we do get other patients that have just become deconditioned from being sick and staying in a hospital. They need some overall strengthening.” Deconditioning becomes a greater risk with age. “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” Graves said, “and it can happen very quickly with the elderly.” In the Room a Lot Nurses check on swing bed patients every four hours, but, as Graves points out, they often find themselves in those rooms much more frequently. This is because patients have a range of needs that require attention and care. It's important to remember that hospital patients are often not at their best. They may be feeling frustrated or in pain, and it's completely understandable if they come across as cranky, listless, impatient, or uncooperative during their stay. Despite these challenges, nurses are dedicated to motivating and encouraging their patients. They gently remind them to take their medications, participate in their therapies, and follow their care plans. This support is crucial in helping patients regain their strength and mobility, enabling them to return home safely without the risk of falls or other accidents. Graves noted the compassion that nurses have in their interactions. When nurses show kindness and empathy, patients often respond in kind, creating a supportive environment that can significantly aid in their recovery. Important for Healing “I think it plays an important part in their healing process,” she said. “If they have an overall good attitude about everything and are feeling positive, recovery is going to be a faster process most of the time.” By the time patients are ready to “graduate” from the Swing Bed Program, the nurses know them very well. “And they know us,” Graves said. “Usually on a first-name basis. And that’s the way we like it.” She said CCH nurses operate by one simple rule: “We treat patients like we would want our family treated. Like we would want someone to treat our family, our mother, our father.” CovingtonCares 25 For information about the Swing Bed Program, call 601.698.0130 or 601.698.0132 or scan this QR code. LEARN MORE WHY DO PATIENTS NEED SWING BED CARE? Our goal is to help patients return home safely. Swing bed services can help patients who need: • Long-term IV antibiotics • Wound care • Rehabilitation after surgery • Therapy after a stroke, accident, or injury • Rehab or skilled care after a recent hospitalization
INGREDIENTS • 6 cups fresh baby spinach • 1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced • ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional) • ¼ cup pecans or almonds, toasted • ¼ cup sunflower seeds (optional) FOR THE DRESSING • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option) • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • ¼ tsp salt • ¼ tsp black pepper HEART HEALTHY RECIPE STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD As the weather warms up, fresh and vibrant meals are ideal for light and healthy eating. This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors, making it a refreshing dish for spring and summer. Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy nuts, this salad is not only delicious but also full of antioxidants and hearthealthy ingredients. Whether served as a light lunch or a side dish for a barbecue, or paired with grilled chicken or fish, this salad is sure to be a seasonal favorite. INSTRUCTIONS: • Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside. • Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, feta cheese (if using), toasted pecans or almonds, and sunflower seeds (if using). • Dress and toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. • Serve immediately as a light meal or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a more filling option. 2025 Spring/Summer 26
STAY COOL SAFELY CovingtonCares 27 As temperatures rise in the spring and summer, it’s crucial to take precautions against heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can put stress on the body, leading to serious health risks. By following these tips, you can stay cool and safe during the warmer months and recognize signs of illness. Early signs of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, and weakness. If left untreated, it can progress to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency characterized by confusion, loss of consciousness, and a rapid pulse. Seek shade, drink water, and rest if you experience any symptoms. Stay Cool and Hydrated Drinking plenty of water is essential in hot weather. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration. Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and stay in air-conditioned or shaded areas whenever possible. Limit Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat Hours The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late evening. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade and drink water regularly. Protect Vulnerable Individuals Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Check on loved ones regularly and ensure they have access to cool environments and adequate hydration. Use Sun Protection Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Sunburn can impair your body’s ability to regulate temperature, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy the warmer months while keeping your health a top priority. Stay hydrated, stay cool, and make these choices to safeguard your well-being this season! Remember to seek shade whenever possible, especially during the hottest parts of the day, and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to help your body stay cool.
SPRING AND SUMMER FITNESS: YOUR GUIDE TO STAYING ACTIVE As the days grow longer, spring and summer provide the perfect opportunity to refresh your fitness routine. Whether you’re exercising outdoors or finding ways to stay active indoors, these expert tips will help you maintain your health and energy all season long. Make the Most of the Season Take advantage of the warmer months by incorporating these fun and effective workouts: Walking or Running: Enjoy a scenic cardio session in your neighborhood or local parks or on trails. Swimming: A full-body, lowimpact workout that strengthens muscles while keeping you cool. Cycling: A great way to improve cardiovascular health while exploring new routes. Body Weight Exercises: Perform squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks in your backyard or at a park. Outdoor Yoga: Practice stretching or mindfulness exercises in a peaceful setting. Dress for the Season Choosing the right workout attire can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and safe: Wear lightweight, moisturewicking fabrics to keep cool and dry. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher if exercising outdoors. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun. Opt for light-colored clothing to stay comfortable in warmer temperatures. Listen to Your Body Exercising in warmer weather can be challenging, so pay attention to warning signs like dizziness, nausea, or extreme fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, stop, hydrate, and take a break. Modify your workout intensity to match your comfort level. SWIFT WELLNESS WORKOUTS LEARN MORE For information about Covington Fitness, call 601.698.0320 or scan the QR code to learn more.
Smith County Emergency Hospital 2025 Spring/Summer 30
Carrie Smith Retirement Celebration Mize Attendance Center Health Fair CovingtonCares 31
Go the Extra Mile (G.E.M.) Award Winners 2025 Spring/Summer 32
8/22/2023 DISCRIMINATION IS AGAINST THE LAW Covington County Hospital complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Covington County Hospital does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Covington County Hospital provides free aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us and access our services, such as: • Written and spoken information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats, interpreters, etc.) • Handicap parking, curb cuts and ramps, elevators, etc. Covington County Hospital provides free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as information written in other languages. • Name: Lynn Scott • Mailing Address: 701 South Holly Avenue, Collins, MS 39428 • Telephone number: 601-765-6711 • Email: lscott@covingtoncountyhospital.com If you believe that Covington County Hospital has failed to provide these services or discriminated in another way on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex, you can file a grievance with Covington County Hospital’s Compliance Officer. You can file a grievance in person or by mail, or email. If you need help filing a grievance, Covington County Hospital’s Compliance Officer is available to help you. You can also file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/portal/lobby.jsf, or by mail or phone at: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 509F, HHH Building, Washington, D.C. 20201, 1-800368-1019, 800-537-7697 (TDD). Complaint forms are available at https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/filing-a-complaint/complaint-process/index.html. CovingtonCares 33
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