Watertown, N.Y. – At Samaritan, there are volunteers who serve at the hospital, long term care facilities, special events, off-site offices and on various boards of our respective entities. Initiated in 2023, the HIVE (Helpful Indeed – Volunteering Excellence) Award is a way to honor those volunteers who have contributed an extraordinary level of dedication and shown exceptional service to Samaritan while consistently demonstrating the HEART values, which are Honest, Empathetic, Accountable, Respect, and Trustworthy.
Why HIVE? The beehive is symbolic of teamwork, unity, growth, and development. At Samaritan, we are all caregivers, including those who have committed to showing extraordinary compassionate care as a volunteer. We need each other to care for our community.
The HIVE Award complements the existing DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses®, the BEE Award (Being Excellent Every Day) honoring other outstanding staff members who support patient care, at the hospital and all outpatient clinics, and the OWL (Outstanding Workers in Long Term Care) for the team of caregivers at the Samaritan Keep Home and Samaritan Summit Village. Altogether, we recognize the amazing caregivers of the Samaritan Health System and the culture we embrace.
The recipient for the first quarter of 2024 is David Cheney. David has been volunteering since 2022 and has assisted with various tasks, including distributing flyers, transporting patients within the Medical Center, helping at the Festival of Trees, and more.
Kristan Donoghue, the manager of Volunteer Services, mentioned, “David is always willing to help. He is respectful to staff, patients, and their family members. He never makes people feel rushed and is continually seeking new projects to tackle in various areas.”
David’s manager highlighted several instances of his willingness to assist where needed. For example, when his regular task of patient transportation was slow one evening, he recognized that the Emergency Department required help and stepped in to assist.
Pictured here, David Cheney was surprised with the HIVE Award on June 24 by Volunteer Services Manager Kristan Donoghue.
Those interested in recognizing a Samaritan volunteer may submit an online nomination at samaritanhealth.com/hive there are also paper nomination forms available at the Medical Center and Samaritan Summit Village gift shops.
Summer is the season of fun. Warmer, longer days bring us together for pool parties, campfires, barbecues and road trips. Children get a break from school, families take vacations, and more time is spent outdoors in the sun. Unfortunately, however, summer is also the season of injury.
In June, July and August, more preventable injuries and deaths occur in the United States than at other times during the year. Workplace injuries are also highest during these summer months, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As we enjoy the beginning of summer, let’s take a closer look at some of the most common forms of summertime injuries and how you can take steps to prevent them.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents are the third most common cause of preventable injury-related death in the U.S., responsible for 20% of all preventable deaths in 2022. Car accidents happen all year, but they see an uptick in the summer months as more drivers take road trip vacations, road construction increases, and more people drive under the influence of alcohol.
Some motor vehicle accidents are unavoidable, but many can be prevented with responsible driving habits. Wherever you are driving this summer — and all year — use these safe driving practices:
Don’t drive distracted. Pull over to a safe location if you need to use your cell phone.
Don’t drink and drive. If you plan to drink alcohol, use a designated driver or ride service.
Don’t speed. Risking injury or death is not worth it, even if you are in a rush.
Follow the rules of the road.
Always wear a seatbelt, no matter where you are sitting in a vehicle.
Fire and Fireworks Injuries
Campfires, barbecues and fireworks are summertime staples, but they are also hazards. Burns are common summer injuries, especially around Independence Day and Labor Day when many celebrate with fireworks.
“Year after year, we see visits to our emergency department spike around the summer holidays,” says Dr. Maja Lundborg-Gray, Samaritan Emergency Medicine Physician. “Many patients we treat around this time have preventable injuries like burns, fractures or other trauma caused by a mishap at a party or outdoor gathering.”
Unfortunately, Dr. Lundborg-Gray says, children are especially prone to this type of injury since they may not understand the risks associated with fires and fireworks. Adults should never leave children unattended near an open flame and should be cautious about store-bought fireworks like sparklers, which can quickly ignite clothing or shoes. Following these tips from the U.S. Fire Administration will further prevent burns this summer:
Don’t use fireworks at home. Instead, watch fireworks at a public show put on by experts.
Build campfires at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs and anything that can burn.
Only use barbecue grills outdoors. Indoor use can cause a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Bicycle, Skateboard and Related Accidents
Warmer weather and summer vacation mean more opportunities for families to ride together on bikes, scooters and skateboards. As much fun as these activities are, they commonly cause injuries such as scrapes, fractures and concussions. Accidents involving motor vehicles can cause more serious, life-threatening injuries.
Wearing a helmet is essential when riding a bike, skateboard or similar sports equipment. The American College of Surgeons reports that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 48%, traumatic brain injury by 53%, facial injury by 23%, and fatal injury by 34%. Riders of all ages, including adults, should wear a properly-fitted helmet at all times. Knee and elbow pads are also recommended to protect joints during a fall or collision.
Swimming Injuries and Drowning
As summer progresses and temperatures rise, many people take to the water for swimming, boating and watersports. Swimming is great exercise and a fun way to beat the heat, but it comes with its risks. Just like with fire-related injuries, accidents on the water frequently involve children. The CDC reports drowning as a leading cause of death for children ages 14 and younger. Injuries from jumping into pools, boating accidents and slips and falls are also common over the summer months.
Parents can prevent swimming injuries by remaining vigilant while children are around the water. Never leave your child alone near water; if you have to leave, take your child with you. Enrolling your child in swim lessons is a good idea, but does not make it safe for them to swim alone. Parents can also get training in CPR and First Aid to further protect their children and others. The CDC’s Top Ten Tips for Water Safety are recommended for all who plan to swim this summer:
DO learn to swim.
DO take a friend along. Using the buddy system is safer and more fun!
DO know your limits while swimming.
DO swim in supervised (watched) areas only, and follow all signs and warnings.
DO wear a life jacket when boating, jet skiing, water skiing, rafting, or fishing.
DO stay alert to currents. If you get caught in a strong current, don’t fight it. Swim parallel to the shore until you have passed through it.
DO keep an eye on the weather.
DON’T mess around in the water.
DON’T dive into shallow water. If you don’t know how deep the water is, don’t dive.
DON’T float where you can’t swim.
When Accidents Happen, Samaritan is Here
Summer is an exciting time, and while it can be easy to get swept up in the fun and celebrations, it is important to take precautions to prevent injuries. If accidents happen, Samaritan is here with 24/7 emergency care.
“Samaritan’s Emergency Department takes care of over 30,000 patients a year,” says Dr. Lundborg-Gray. “We have specialty trained emergency medicine doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and registered nurses ready at all hours.”
Learn more about Samaritan Medical Center’s Emergency Department, including tips on knowing when to call 911, at samaritanhealth.com/emergency-care/.
Watertown, NY – On May 29, a select group of Samaritan nurses were recognized for their contributions to the organization, patients, and residents throughout their time of employment. The exclusive celebratory event, held at Samaritan Summit Village, was a testament to their exceptional service. Qualified medical providers were invited to nominate a Samaritan Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) by submitting an essay, highlighting the relationships between nurses and providers.
Samaritan’s Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer John Green said, “I feel honored to be part of the first Nursing Awards event to be held since 2019, pre-pandemic. These incredible caregivers shine brightly day after day, and we are proud to recognize their contributions to our community.”
Samaritan Medical Center President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Carman welcomed the esteemed attendees, and Dr. Marylene Duah, infectious disease specialist, served as the master of ceremonies.
The following individuals were honored in their respective categories:
Education: Recipient: Jordain Forney Sullivan, RN, Emergency Department Nominated by: Maja Lundborg-Gray, MD
Excellence in Nursing Practice (Medical Center): Recipient: John Gahler, RN, Intensive Care / Progressive Care Units Nominated by: Aaliya Burza, MD
Excellence in Nursing Practice (Long Term Care): Recipient: Emily Bachmann, LPN, Samaritan Keep Home Nominated by: Collins Kellogg, MD
Excellence in Nursing Practice (Clinics): Recipient: Heather LaRose, LPN, Samaritan Family Health Center, Adams Nominated by: Joe Wetterhahn, MD
Innovation: Recipient: Kristy Graveline, LPN, Samaritan Home Health Nominated by: Mario Victoria, MD
Quality and Safety: Recipient: Stephanie Peters, RN, Quality Improvement Nominated by: Rory Sears, DO
Rookie of the Year: Recipient: Kasandra Keene, RN, Emergency Department Nominated by: Maja Lundborg-Gray, MD
Pictured here, in front, from left are Pamela Carter, LPN, Stephanie Peters, RN, John Gahler, RN, Kristy Graveline, LPN, Heather LaRose, LPN, and Jordain Forney Sullivan, RN. In back, from left are Nathanial Miletta, MD, Rory Sears, DO, Aaliya Burza, MD, Mario Victoria, MD, Joe Wetterhahn, MD, and Stephanie Droppelmann, MSN, BSN. Absent from the photo are Kasandra Keene, RN, Emily Bachmann, LPN, and nominators Collins Kellogg, MD, and Maja Lundborg-Gray, MD
Watertown, NY – After an extensive search, Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce that John Green, DHA, MSN, RN, NEA-BC has been selected as its next Vice President of Patient Care Services & Chief Nursing Officer. Green has more than 25 years of healthcare experience and is proficient in hospital operations, patient care programs, patient flow and progression, and setting strategic directions with the senior team. He is known for designing innovative care delivery models, enhancing and improving technologies, and fostering collaborative environments that transcend traditional healthcare boundaries.
Green will be responsible for overseeing and coordinating nursing operations within Samaritan Medical Center. He is a member of the senior team and will work closely with nursing staff, providers and other key members to ensure the delivery of high-quality care that aligns with Samaritan’s mission, vision and values.
John Green, DHA, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, Samaritan Chief Nursing Officer
Green comes to Samaritan from Glens Falls Hospital, part of Albany Medical Health System, since 2015 where he served as Nurse Manager, Assistant Director and most recently as Director. In this role he directed overall hospital operations and developed systems and processes that reduced costs and improved patient outcomes.
”We are pleased to welcome John to Samaritan’s leadership team” said Tom Carman, president and CEO of Samaritan Medical Center. “With his track record of nursing practice leadership and dedication to patient-centric care, and innovative technology integration, we are confident that under his guidance our nursing division will continue to thrive and evolve. He trained at Fort Drum and his prior National Guard medic experience is beneficial in meeting the health care needs of our Fort Drum community.”
“As I step into my role at Samaritan Medical Center, I’m struck by the palpable positivity and unwavering dedication of the staff”, said Green. “The HEART values permeate deeply into the core of our culture. I am excited to work alongside our exceptional teams to further embed these values, elevate standards of care, and positively impact the lives of our community and military families.
Green holds an Associate of Science in Nursing from Vermont Technical College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science from Kaplan University, and Doctor of Healthcare Administration degree from Capella University.
Green replaces Kimberly Thibert, who served as Interim Chief Nursing Officer from November 2023 until May 2024.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for April 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.
Kim Smith, Registered Nurse (RN), and Nurse Manager, for Samaritan’s Interventional Radiology (IR) and Infusion units received the DAISY Award. Nursing Assistant (NA) Ryan Washburn of Samaritan’s Progressive Care Unit received the BEE Award.
Registered Nurse Shirley Ward, nominated Smith saying:
“Kim has been my Nurse Manager for over 20 years. Her consistency in following contracts and policies makes her a highly respected manager since this prevents a chaotic environment and encourages growth and camaraderie within the department. I proudly say we have very good morale in IR due to her leadership. Patient satisfaction is always her priority. She also will do anything in her power to ensure we have the tools we need to deliver exceptional patient care. One example is combining resources. Kim was an instrumental force in 2022 when the Pain Clinic needed assistance being able to continue to provide services to their customers. They were short on RN staff, yet IR was short a provider. The creative solution offered up by Kim was to have Dr. Montalvo perform his procedures in the Angio suite, so these patients did not need to travel a long distance for their procedures or not have them done at all.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Smith was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
Washburn was nominated by April Del Prete, RN, with the following statement for nomination:
“Throughout every shift, Ryan consistently demonstrates a level of commitment and compassion that sets a standard for excellence in patient care. Ryan’s willingness to go above and beyond is evident in every aspect of his work and everyone we work with would attest to that, without a doubt. He not only attends to the needs of his assigned patients with diligence and empathy, but he also proactively assists his colleagues, ensuring the smooth functioning of our unit. His proactive approach is reflected in his eagerness to learn, his readiness to offer assistance and in his remarkable ability to anticipate and address the needs of both the patients and staff members.”
Washburn was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Keep Home and Samaritan Summit Village are pleased to announce the OWL award recipients for April 2024. The outstanding workers in long term care (OWL) award recognizes exemplary staff who support the residents, their families, and the caregivers at our long term care facilities.
Brittany Garwick, Licensed Practical Nurse, at the Keep Home, and Summit Village Certified Nursing Assistant Brianna Doss, were nominated and selected as winners by a committee.
Nurse Manager Jeannine Gardner nominated Garwick, and an excerpt from the April OWL award nomination, read:
“Brittany started here as a traveling nurse and, after falling in love with the organization, the staff, and the residents, she signed on as a full-time LPN on the 6th floor. Brittany is a compassionate and dedicated employee and is an absolute asset to this facility and the organization. She is the definition of the Heart Values. She is empathetic and calm while caring for and assisting the residents, visitors, and co-workers for whatever they need.”
The Summit Village OWL honoree was nominated by Jolene Smouse, director of long term care education, saying, “Brianna started at SSV last July. She has made a great impression with staff, as well as residents. She is kind and caring to the residents and always helpful to her co-workers. She communicates with staff and management to provide the best care for her residents and is respectful to families and everyone she comes in contact with. Brianna is a great asset to the Samaritan family, and we are very happy she chose us.”
Brittany Garwick
Brianna Doss
For being recognized, the OWL recipients receive a certificate, special parking spot for a month, an owl pin, special banner recognition, badge buddy, and various treats.
The OWL award will continue to be presented at each Samaritan long term care facility throughout the year, and residents, families, or colleagues can submit nominations at any time. To nominate or learn more about the OWL award, visit samaritanhealth.com/experience.
###
About Samaritan Keep Home
The Samaritan Keep Home is a 272-bed long term care facility connected to the Samaritan Medical Center campus in Watertown. This residential care facility provides a full range of skilled nursing assistance, rehabilitative therapies, and social and recreational activities. Our mission is to provide an atmosphere that allows our residents to thrive and remain socially active in all aspects of their lives.
About Samaritan Summit Village
At Samaritan Summit Village – Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing facilities – our team is committed to providing sophisticated senior living. Whether we’re assisting with daily chores or planning exciting group activities, we’re here to help make living easier The services needed by residents may vary widely, but the goal of our care is always the same: helping seniors to live exceptionally and age in place. With its amazing views, Samaritan Summit Village overlooks Watertown, NY, and offers 120 assisted living beds, and 168 nursing home beds.
About The OWL Award
The owl is symbolic of intuition, protection, and wisdom. At Samaritan, we are all caregivers, including those who have committed to showing extraordinary compassionate care as a long term caregiver. We need each other to care for our community.
The OWL Award (Outstanding Workers in Long Term Care) was established in December 2023 and is awarded to a caregiver who has given their time and talent to the healthcare system and to our residents. The recipients have repeatedly gone above and beyond in their role to help our staff, and residents, to make our community thrive. They exemplify the HEART Values and take their role as a Samaritan Caregiver with pride.
The OWL Award complements our existing DAISY and BEE Awards for staff, and HIVE award for volunteers. Together we recognize the amazing caregivers of the Samaritan Health System and the culture we embrace.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center Foundation of Northern New York will host the 27th annual Thousand Islands Golf Classic event on Thursday & Friday, June 6 & 7, 2024. The presenting sponsor is the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 910 & Northern New York National Electrical Contractors Association.
This year’s event features a dinner reception and live auction on Thursday, June 6, at the Edgewood Resort. On Friday, June 7, enjoy 18 holes of golf at the beautiful Thousand Islands Country Club. Both the old course and lake course will be utilized.
The increased demand for mental health services in our community can be seen as Samaritan’s Emergency Department behavioral health unit patient volume has doubled since 2022, and our inpatient mental health unit continues to be full. A portion of the proceeds raised from this year’s event will be dedicated to enhancing vital mental health services at Samaritan Medical Center.
This year’s online auction is open and runs until 9 p.m. on Thursday, June 6. The in-person auction takes place at the dinner event the evening of June 6. The online and in-person auctions both feature a wide variety of items including vacation rentals, event tickets, gift cards for dining and experiences, designer accessories, artwork, crafting kits, furniture, airline tickets, dirt bike, go cart, grills, coolers, and more. There is something for everyone.
Visit samaritanhealth.com/golfto register for the online auction bidding and to purchase tickets to the dinner and live auction.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for March 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.
Brandi Simpson, registered nurse (RN) at Samaritan Interventional Radiology received the DAISY Award. Brittney Kiblin, registered pharmacy technician at Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.
Nurse Manager Kim Smith, nominated Simpson saying:
Brandi Simpson, RN
“Brandi takes time at the bedside to engage in casual conversation to ease the apprehension and fear of patients receiving treatment for both new and old acute and chronic diagnosis. Brandi makes sure that the support person is always included and provides time for them to ask questions and seek clarification. She always provides them with education and reassurance to always “reach out and call if you have any concerns or questions”. She always maintains that welcoming smile and demeanor. Plus she is always willing to come in on a moment’s notice to help with staffing and make sure patients’ needs are met. I am so proud to have Brandi on my team and for all she has accomplished.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Simpson was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
Kiblin was nominated by Pharmacist Andrea Favret, with the following statement for nomination:
Brittany Kiblin, Registered Pharmacy Tech
“Brittney has been instrumental in preparing for and implementing the new regulations set forth by USP 797 on IV sterile compounding. Without her help, we wouldn’t be as successful as we are at maintaining regulations, training staff, and providing the highest level of care for our patients. Brittney is always willing to lend a hand to her fellow employees to complete the daily tasks in the department even if not scheduled to do so. She is very deserving of this award.”
Kiblin was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Do you treat your mental health with the same care and attention as you do your physical health?
It’s a simple yet important question to consider, especially as we enter Mental Health Awareness Month. Observed every May, this nationwide recognition event shines a light on the often overlooked but critically important aspects of our mental well-being.
For most of us, the honest answer to the above question is “no.” When we have cold or flu-like symptoms, we consult our doctor or an urgent care clinic. If we chip a tooth, we make an appointment with a dentist. Yet, when we feel anxious, depressed or experience a traumatic event, we often avoid asking for help.
“It is quite common for people to brush off feelings of anxiety or depression rather than seek help from a mental health professional,” says Tina O’Neil, director of mental health services at Samaritan Health. “Some may think they can handle these feelings on their own, or they might feel embarrassed or ashamed about seeking help. Some people may not even realize that what they are experiencing is a mental health issue.”
Watch for warning signs
Identifying the warning signs of mental illness can be a difficult – but critical – first step toward getting help. All individuals have different behaviors, and all illnesses have different symptoms, but the following are some common warning signs of mental illness:
Excessive worrying or fear
Feeling excessively sad or low
Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning
Extreme mood changes, including uncontrollable “highs” or feelings of euphoria
Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger
Avoiding friends and social activities
Changes in sleeping habits or feeling tired and low energy
Changes in eating habits, such as increased hunger or lack of appetite
Changes in sex drive
Overuse of substances such as alcohol or drugs
Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress
“Children and teens may also show warning signs of mental illness,” says Samaritan Psychiatrist Daniel J. Williamson, MD. “It is important to be aware of certain behaviors in youth, especially since they may not be capable of or comfortable talking about their full emotions at home.”
In addition to the warning signs listed above, Dr. Williamson encourages families to watch for the following signs in children and adolescents.
Changes in school performance
Excessive worry or anxiety, for instance fighting to avoid bed or school
Hyperactive behavior
Frequent nightmares
Frequent disobedience or aggression
Frequent temper tantrums
Reaching out for help
If you notice any of these warning signs, or even if you think you do, the next step is to reach out for help. Start by voicing your concerns to a trusted family member, friend or your primary care doctor. Then get in touch with a mental health professional in your area.
Here in the North Country, Samaritan offers comprehensive mental health services for patients of all ages. The Samaritan Outpatient Behavioral Health clinic, located at 1575 Washington Street in Watertown, provides various forms of counseling, talk therapy, medication-based treatment, and other interventions.
“Our specialists are trained to treat anxiety disorders, mood disorders — including depression — sleep disorders, psychotic disorders, and just about any other mental or behavioral health concern a patient may need help with,” O’Neil says. “Treatment is tailored to each patient, and we even offer counseling specific to couples, families and other situations.”
New patients can access Samaritan’s Outpatient Behavioral Health clinic by coming to walk-in hours from 8:00–11:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. During the initial walk-in appointment, a caregiver will collect medical history, perform a brief assessment, and schedule a follow-up appointment with a therapist. Space is limited at walk-in hours.
In addition to providing outpatient care, Samaritan has resources to help in urgent mental health situations. The emergency department at Samaritan Medical Center has a unit dedicated to behavioral health emergencies, and just upstairs, a 32-bed inpatient mental health unit provides a safe, caring and confidential environment for adults experiencing a severe psychiatric crisis.
Fighting against stigma
“One other thing I would like to mention about Samaritan is our commitment to educating patients, families and the community about mental health,” says O’Neil. “Raising awareness is our best way to fight against stigma and to help people feel more comfortable about seeking the care they need.”
Fortunately, O’Neil says, she has seen public opinion on mental health changing for the better in recent years, thanks in part to efforts such as Mental Health Awareness Month. Recent polling shows that 23% of American adults visited a mental health professional in 2022, up from just 13% of adults in 2004.
This shows that, while the need for mental health services has increased, so has the emphasis on seeking out help and achieving mental wellness. This trend is inspiring to O’Neil, who hopes to see the support and acceptance continue.
“We want everyone to feel comfortable seeking care for their mental health,” she says. “We can all benefit from counseling or talk therapy at certain points in our lives, just like we all benefit from regular visits to the doctor or dentist.”
If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis and unsure what to do, an urgent mental health hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling or texting 988.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for February 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.
Ann Groff, licensed practical nurse (LPN) at Samaritan Dermatology and Mohs Surgery received the DAISY Award. Melissa McDonald, medical assistant at Samaritan Dermatology and Mohs Surgery, received the BEE Award. This was a first for the committee to award two deserving caregivers to the same outpatient clinic, at the same time.
Rachel Moore, lead clinic LPN at Samaritan Dermatology and Mohs Surgery nominated Groff saying:
“At the end of the day she always makes her rounds to make sure the chores are done and checks to see if anyone needs anything before leaving. She never stops going and is a true team player. Ann helps precept new employees and is very well respected. If the surgical team needs help, she is there and hops right in. We need more nurses like her. Ann Groff is very deserving of the Daisy award because she is a true example of an extraordinary NURSE!! Thank you, Ann, for your hard work and dedication to our patients and for making the lives of others so much easier through your compassion. You are a true Samaritan star and DAISY.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Groff was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
McDonald was also nominated by Rachel Moore, with the following statement for nomination:
“Our patients are in great hands with Melissa. She assists with surgeries, and multiple procedures on a daily basis. Helps prep charts and get things ready for the next week without any hesitation. I hope she continues on for her nursing degree because she would be a fantastic nurse someday. Melissa is trustworthy, dependable, respectful, empathetic, honest and always accountable. Melissa deserves the Bee award with high honors for the fantastic care she gives our patients.”
McDonald was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
Ann Groff, licensed practical nurse, and Melissa McDonald, medical assistant, were presented with certificates for Samaritan’s February 2024 DAISY and BEE Awards.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Samaritan Health is not responsible for content, privacy policy, accuracy or legality of any website assessed through a link on www.samartianhealth.com. A link to another website does not constitute an endorsement, guarantee or approval by Samaritan Health of the linked website or the information, products or services contained therein
