April 7, 2010

Dear Children’s Hospital,

I would like to thank all the ER personnel who helped my son Jeremiah with a broken arm on Friday, 4/2/10. Dr. Ryan Redman was so nice and helped me as a mom relax and let them do their job. KOC’s doctor John Crawford was impressed with how well Jeremiah’s arm had been set and casted. I would also like to mention the nurses and support staff were wonderful in helping our family during this time and their care of my son. God bless you all for the work you do. Tabitha Cannon

Knoxville

Dennis Ragsdale, Chairman • Jeffory Jennings, M.D., Vice ChairmanMichael Crabtree, Secretary/Treasurer • Debbie Christiansen, M.D. • Dawn Ford Keith D. Goodwin • Steven Harb • Lewis Harris, M.D. • Dee HaslamA. David Martin • Larry Martin • Christopher Miller, M.D. • Steve SouthBill Terry, M.D. • Laurens Tullock • Danni Varlan • Jim Bush, Chair EmeritusDon Parnell, Chair Emeritus • William G. Byrd, M.D., Chair Emeritus

John Buchheit, M.D., Chief of Staff • Lise Christensen, M.D., Vice Chief of Staff Mark Cramolini, M.D., Secretary

Lori Patterson, M.D., Chief of MedicineCameron J. Sears, M.D., Chief of Surgery

Keith D. Goodwin, President/CEO • Bruce Anderson, Vice President for Legal Services & General Counsel • Laura Barnes, R.N., M.S.N., C.N.A.A., B.C., Vice President for Patient Care • Joe Childs, M.D., Vice President for Medical ServicesZane Goodrich, CPA, Vice President for Finance & CFO • Rudy McKinley, Vice President for Operations • Sue Wilburn, Vice President for Human Resources

Ellen Liston, APR, Fellow PRSA, Director of Community RelationsWendy Hames, APR, Editor • David Rule, Director of DevelopmentNeil Crosby, Contributing Photographer

www.etch.com

Board of Directors

Medical Staff

Chiefs of Services

Administration

It’s About Children Staff

“Dear Children’s”

A quarterly publication of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, It’s About Children is designed to inform the East Tennessee community about the hospital and the patients we serve. East Tennessee Children’s Hospital’s vision is Leading the Way to Healthy Children. Children’s Hospital is a private, independent, not-for-profit pediatric medical center that has served the East Tennessee region for nearly 75 years and is certified by the state of Tennessee as a Comprehensive Regional Pediatric Center.

“Because Children are Special…”…they deserve the best possible health care given in a positive, family-centered atmosphere of friendliness, cooperation and support -- regardless of race, religion or ability to pay.”…their medical needs are closely related to their emotional and informational needs; therefore, the total child must be considered in treating any illness or injury.”…their health care requires family involvement, special understanding, special equipment and specially trained personnel who recognize that children are not miniature adults.”…their health care can best be provided by a facility with a well-trained medical and hospital staff whose only interests and concerns are with the total health andwell-being of infants, children and adolescents.

Statement of Philosophy East Tennessee Children’s Hospital

April 13, 2010  

Dear Children’s Hospital,

Hello. My son, Michael, visited your

emergency room Sunday evening, April 11. He

received excellent care and told me that the “lady

who did his x-ray was really nice.” We came back

for a follow-up on Monday morning. We were

quickly processed and put into a room.

Everyone we met was friendly and helpful.

Our discharge instructions were clear. Thanks

to Dr. Morgan for her kindness and careful

explanation of Michael’s injury. She even took

time to show Michael his x-ray and gave him

a short lesson. So “thanks” seems like such

a small word in comparison to the excellent

care we received and the kindness of

the staff. Sheri Burns

Knoxville

June 4, 2010

Dear Children’s Hospital,

I wanted to write in reference to your Radiology Department. Over the past

two years, my family has become all too familiar with Children’s Hospital. My

daughter, Arianna, suffers from Central Precocious Puberty, a Benign Optical

Tumor and a new diagnosis of Neurofibromatosis. At the age of 4, she has had

to have an Ultrasound done in April, an MRI in April of the Adrenal Glands

and in May an MRI of the brain. I can’t say enough about your Radiology

staff -- from the warm greeting I receive when I see Susan (I feel like I know

her personally) to the wonderful Anesthesia Group and then the Radiologist.

During such a stressful time in my daughter’s life, I can tell you I wouldn’t want

anyone else treating her!

I wish to compliment your Lab Department as well. Arianna has to come

in for labs every three months, and sometimes a visit in between. Although she

knows as soon as we enter the building and begins to freak out in the room

when it comes time for her lab work, the staff is always amazing. I can’t

remember one time when the staff has had to stick her a second time. They

make an uncomfortable visit as comfortable as they possibly can. Although no

one likes having labs, I know that when I bring her in, my daughter is getting

the best care possible! Once again, I love Children’s Hospital, and I’m grateful

that we live here in Knoxville and wouldn’t want to take my children anywhere

else! Thank you for all that you do for our children!

Angela Dixson Knoxville

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Children’s Hospital NOTESVolunteers receive awards for service to Children’s Hospital

Goodwin joins Knoxville Chamber Board East Tennessee Children’s Hospital President/CEO Keith Goodwin recently joined the Board of Directors for the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce for the 2010-2011 year. Goodwin will serve with 15 Knoxville area professionals; the board helps direct the organization, create its budget and set policies that uphold the Chamber’s mission: driving regional economic prosperity. The Knoxville Chamber of

Commerce unites business, industry and service professionals by hosting events, working with other local chambers for business

development and is dedicated to Knoxville’s economic prosperity. “I am excited to become a member of the Chamber Board,” Goodwin said.  “The work of the Chamber is essential to the long-term growth of the greater Knoxville community. Children’s Hospital is a great selling point to businesses coming to or expanding within our community.  Serving on this board provides me with a great op-portunity to educate others about Children’s Hospital’s impact on and importance to our community.”   As a member of the board, Goodwin will attend bi-monthly meetings that focus on current business issues and the development of long-range goals and objectives to help Knoxville area businesses thrive. by Claire Quinn, student intern

Children’s Hospital presented awards to several volunteers

at its annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on April 20. This

event celebrated the many volunteers who dedicate their time and

talents to Children’s Hospital on a regular basis.

      The first group of awards was given to volunteers who had

achieved their hour milestones. In addition to these awards,

special awards were presented to four outstanding volunteers for

Children’s Hospital.      The first special award, presented by Keith Goodwin,

Children’s Hospital President/CEO, was the Edna H. Duncan

Award. This award is given each year to a volunteer who displays

“personal and professional excellence through service to the

hospital.” Established in 1991, this award was first given to

Duncan, who accumulated more than 28,000 volunteer hours

during her 16 years of service to the hospital.

      This year’s recipient was Jan East, who has been greeting

families and visitors at the Information Desk for more than seven

years. Remarkable for her calm demeanor and sweet disposition,

East has served on the Volunteer Council and has helped with

Fantasy of Trees as well as many other hospital events. She is

always willing to help and give support to others.

      The second special award was presented by Elizabeth Thomas,

Director of Volunteer Services and Resources. She presented the

Anne D. Regas Award, which was established in 1988. This

award is presented to a volunteer who displays “exemplary

commitment, courage and perseverance in volunteer service

to Children’s Hospital.”       This year, the Anne D. Regas Award went to

Jean Gangaware, who began her volunteer service in 1995 by

helping with the Toy Cart in Child Life. With more than 3,700

hours of service to Children’s Hospital, Gangaware continues

to work at the Information Desk today. She has participated in

Fantasy of Trees, holiday greeting card sales, the Valentine kisses

sale and many other fundraising events for the hospital.

      Cheryl Allmon, Volunteer Coordinator, presented the third

special award of the night, the “24 Karat” Award. Established in 1982,

this award is given to a volunteer who demonstrates “enthusiastic

participation in volunteer service to Children’s Hospital.”

      The recipient of this year’s “24 Karat” Award was “Papa” Joe

Wilson, who is a relatively new volunteer at Children’s Hospital.

Since he began in 2009, Wilson has already served in a variety of

volunteer roles. His desire to provide a “Grandpa” experience to

patients and their families is one of the many ways he cares for and

enriches the lives of others.

      The Shining Star Award, presented by Judy Caudill, Associate

Director of Volunteer Services, was the last special award presented at

the Appreciation Dinner. Established in 1993, this award is given to a

volunteer who is dedicated to evening or weekend volunteer services

at Children’s Hospital.      This year’s recipient was Jeff Stevenson, whose passion for

easing the fears of children facing surgery won him the award. For

more than 11 years, Stevenson has used his enthusiasm to organize,

promote and participate in many fundraising efforts for Children’s

Hospital. He embraces any challenge because of his love of children.

He especially enjoys helping children -- who often come to

Children’s Hospital worried and apprehensive -- to leave relaxed and

ready for surgery.      Children’s Hospital extends its appreciation to these individuals

and all of our dedicated volunteers who help to brighten the lives of

many patients, families and staff every day. by Taylor Griffin, student intern

2010 Children’s Hospital Volunteers honorees (left to right): Jan East, Joe Wilson, Jean

Gangaware and Jeff Stevenson.

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It just took two months for Courtney Charland’s life to be changed forever. Two years ago, Courtney was an active sixth grade student at West Valley Middle School in Knoxville. Courtney challenged herself everyday by running track, competing in gymnastics and excelling in academics. She loved to be on the lake with her family in the summer and on the ski slopes in the winter. Courtney, now 14, was the picture of a healthy, driven girl.

In May 2008, Courtney and her family spent a day at the lake tubing and enjoying the hot weather. When Courtney took off her life jacket, her family immediately knew something was wrong; Courtney’s back did not look normal – it was “twisted.” Courtney’s parents, Mike and Melissa, asked themselves how they could have missed such an obvious problem. “Two months ago we were at the beach and we didn’t notice anything abnormal,” Melissa said. “How could it change that quickly?” Her spine had changed dramatically in a short period of time. Mike and Melissa took Courtney to her pediatrician right away, who immediately sent her to Children’s Hospital for an x-ray. Within a week, Courtney was sent to see an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Jay Crawford, M.D, at Knoxville Orthopedic Clinic. He explained to Courtney and her family that she had a diagnosis of Idiopathic Scoliosis. Rather than being straight, her spine was curved three times into what looked like an extended “S” shape. Idiopathic scoliosis is a condition that causes abnormal curvature of the spine; its cause is not known but is usually associated with growth during puberty. Dr. Crawford then explained that the curvatures in her spine were significant and would require spinal surgery at Children’s

Hospital. “Finding out I had scoliosis was the worst part for me. After I was diagnosed with scoliosis, I just focused on the operation,” Courtney said. Courtney’s case is not uncommon, as scoliosis is only outwardly apparent in moderate to severe cases. In hindsight, the only warning signs the Charlands could remember were that Courtney would sometimes complain of being uncomfortable while sitting in the stands at track meets. She had also complained of pain in her back while doing gymnastics. Courtney was such an active, healthy girl, it seemed impossible that suddenly she could have such a significant medical condition. Mike and Melissa wanted a second opinion on Courtney’s diagnosis and treatment plan. “We located a doctor at Vanderbilt who was well regarded in pediatric orthopedics, and even though we felt comfortable with Dr. Crawford, we thought we should get a second opinion on such a significant operation,” Mike said. The Charlands traveled to Nashville and met with the doctor;after reviewing the X-rays and examining Courtney, he gave them exactly the same diagnosis and treatmentplan as Dr. Crawford.

Courtney

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a lil about CourtneyName: Courtney Alexis Charland

Age: 14

School and grade: Bearden

High School, ninth grade

Personality traits:

Trustworthy, driven,

hard-working

Favorite color: Red

Foods I wanted after my

surgery: Chicken f ingers

and guacamole

Favorite food: Stroganoff

Favorite school subject:

Math

Favorite place to visit:

ANY beach

Dislikes: brussel

sprouts, bacon

What I want to be

when I grow up:

Maybe a doctor

Favorite things

to do: volleyball,

tubing on lakes, snow

skiing, snorkeling,

beach, hiking

Board game:

Monopoly

Candy: Twix

5

When the Charlands said they lived in Knoxville, the Vanderbilt surgeon said, “You have one of the best pediatric spine surgeons in Knoxville. What are you doing here?” The Charlands knew exactly what they wanted to do at that point; there was no question in how they would proceed. They talked to Dr. Crawford and had the surgery scheduled as soon as possible. Courtney enjoyed the rest of the summer with family and friends while preparing for her big surgery. “I was very nervous. I was ready for the surgery and waiting all summer was scary. I just wanted to get it over with,” Courtney said. During the summer, Courtney became familiar with the medical staff and Children’s Hospital in preparation for surgery. Doctors and nurses walked Courtney and her family through the entire surgery process to reassure them. “The time spent to prepare us was priceless. They gave us a walk through, explained everything in detail and even got our cell phone numbers so they could give us updates when the surgery took place,” Mike said. Courtney had her surgery on August 6, 2008. The procedure required two pediatric orthopedic surgeons, Drs. Crawford and Cameron Sears, as well as clinical neurophysiologist Dr. Ron Leppanen and a team of nurses and anesthesiologists in the operating room. The surgery involved fusing Courtney’s spine and inserting two steel rods, many screws and two rod connectors in Courtney’s back to correct the deformity, a procedure that takes several hours. “During her surgery, we received updates from the OR about every 30 minutes. The environment was great,” Mike said. Courtney spent five days in the hospital sleeping, making friends with her nurses and beginning to walk again. “I didn’t want to go home when Dr. Crawford told me I could. I had so much support from the medical staff and Child Life Department,” Courtney said. When Courtney returned home, her family moved her bed downstairs into the den while she regained her strength. Courtney recovered at home for two weeks before returning to school for half days. Courtney is proud of her accomplishment since Dr. Crawford said normal recovery time was four to six weeks. Two weeks after that, she was back to school full-time, only needing a pillow to support her back. Courtney’s ultimate goal was to ski in December, as the Charlands had a ski trip planned over the holidays. Courtney worked very hard to recover and was skiing down the most

difficult slopes a couple days before Christmas. “It was such a great feeling to be completely back to normal again. I felt like I had accomplished something really great,” Courtney said. After the holidays, Courtney played volleyball for the K2 competitive travel team and ran track for West Valley Middle School. During one track meet, Courtney fell while trying to avoid a penalty during a relay race. Many in the crowd, aware of Courtney’s recent surgery, were afraid that Courtney had injured herself and were concerned. Courtney was not hurt but remembers that moment well. “After her surgery, Dr. Crawford indicated that Courtney may break everything else but she wasn’t going to hurt anything on her back. It was very secure,” Melissa said. Courtney started school at Bearden High School in August and has already made the Bearden High School volleyball team. This summer, Courtney volunteered at Children’s Hospital. “It is cool to give back to the hospital. They took such good care of me, and I am glad I have an opportunity to help out and give back,” Courtney said.

Since the surgery, Courtney’s spine has healed properly, and she is back to her normal, active self. The Charlands are thankful for Children’s Hospital and everything the hospital was able to do for Courtney. “We have moved seven times. We came to Knoxville to raise our children, and this event really made us realize that this is the place to settle down. It is a great thing to know that just in case something happens, and it’s going to, Children’s Hospital has really great doctors,” Mike said. “These are people that look at their work not as a job, but as an opportunity to help people. You ought to walk into Children’s Hospital and see what it is like, because someday, if you have kids, you are going to need Children’s Hospital. “The hospital, to us, made Knoxville an even better place to live.”

by Hayley Martin, Public Relations Specialist

Courtney

While volunteering at Children’s Hospital as a Volun“teen” during the summer of 2010,

Courtney places temporary tattoos on children’s arms in the

main lobby.

6

History shows that dogs have been “man’s best friend” for more than 15,000 years, with much recorded history showing dogs and humans living close together and acting as companions. At Children’s Hospital, man’s best friend has become child’s best friend through Human-Animal Bond in Tennessee (HABIT), a program that takes dogs to visit patients while they are staying at the hospital or visiting as outpatients. When this program was first introduced more than 15 years ago, it wasn’t immediately obvious how successful it would become. There was only one dog that visited the former Children’s Hospital Intensive Psychiatric Services (CHIPS) unit, until it expanded to the Hematology/OncologyAmbulatory Care Clinic in 1995. Now, 10 dogs make up the Children’s Hospital HABIT team. These dogs visit outpatient clinics and also spend time with children in their rooms on the Second and Third floors. The expansion of the HABIT program to the inpatient units was the result of extensive research by Mary Pegler, Director of Child Life. “We have seen some amazing results,” Cheryl Allmon, Volunteer Services Coordinator said. “Children have agreed to go through difficult procedures because the HABIT dogs have been there with them.” Patients at Children’s Hospital have the opportunity to play with the dogs that come to visit. This provides them with the psychological benefits of improved social and communication skills, and reduction of stress that results from spending time with a pet. Sometimes patients will respond to the dogs, even when they are not responding much to other visitors or staff. Volunteers and their dogs come to the hospital on a regular basis. The 10 dogs and their owners that participate in the HABIT program at Children’s Hospital include Amber Alesse and her greyhound, Arnold; Liza Bengston and her golden retriever, Aidan; Joan Cohn and her cocker spaniel, Sophie; Janet Craig and her black Labrador retriever, Harley; Suzie Ferguson and her German shepherd, Apachi; Phyllis Hirsh and Maggie, a golden retriever from the

Leading the Way

HABIT dogs help patients find happiness during hospital stay

HABIT loaner program; Stephanie James and her blue tick hound, Leo; Jean LaRocca and her Pomeranian, Kayla; and Dawn Meek and her shel-ties, Sierra and Sasha. These volunteers have seen the close bond that patients develop with these dogs. “Often a parent will tell me their child was very unhappy when they knew they were coming to the clinic, but once they got to visit with a HABIT animal, the child started looking forward to coming,” said Cohn, a HABIT volunteer since the early 1990s. Founded in 1986, the HABIT program is an animal-assisted therapy organization affiliated with the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. There are more than 300 dogs, cats and rabbits that serve area hospitals, nursing homes, schools and other facilities with HABIT volunteers. To become a volunteer with HABIT, animals must go through a behavioral assessment to evaluate how they will respond to people in the facilities they visit. Medical evaluations and history forms must also be completed. The human volunteer must attend an Information Meeting, as well. After finishing this process, HABIT dogs and volunteers assigned to Children’s Hospital are ready to bring a smile to patients’ faces and to ease the nerves of children dealing with hospitalization. To learn more about becoming a HABIT volunteer with your pet, please visit www.vet.utk.edu/habit or call (865) 974-5633.

by Taylor Griffin, student intern

Children’s Hospital’s vision statement is “Leading the Way to Healthy Children.” In this series in It’s About Children, we are sharing with our readers some of the many ways we are “Leading the Way.” Outstanding practices by Children’s Hospital departments are highlighted – things that are, although quite commonplace at our pediatric medical center, actually rather unique. This series showcases the exceptional work done at Children’s Hospital and demonstrates how the hospital is a great place to work.

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Subspecialist Profile:John Stephen Corns, D.O.

About Dr. CornsFamily - Wife, Akiko; twin 13-month-old daughters, Ellie and EmmaPersonal Interests - Friends and family, church, golf, film and art

Academic BackgroundB.S. (Aerospace Engineering with a Mathematics Minor) – Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va., 1990D.O. – University of North Texas Health Science Center, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Worth, 2004Residency (General Pediatrics) – Carolinas Medical Center, Levine Children’s Hospital, Charlotte, N.C., 2004-07Fellowship (Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Bone Marrow Transplantation) – Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, 2007-2010

Approachingeachmedicalschoolrotationwiththeviewthatitwasthespecialtyhecouldfocusanentirecareeron,JohnStephenCorns,D.O.,foundhisnicheinpediatrichematology/oncology.“Ifoundmyselflikingworkingwithkidsthemost,”Dr.Cornssaid.“AndIfoundhematology/oncologythemostinteresting.IreallylikedthefamiliesImetinthehematology/oncologyrotation,aswell.”

InJuly,Dr.Cornsjoinedthepediatrichematology/oncologypracticeofRayPais,M.D.;VictoriaCastañeda,M.D.;LeoHamilton,M.D.;andShahidMalik,M.D.atChildren’sHospital.TheincreasingvolumeofpatientsofthispracticeledtotheexpansionoftheserviceandtheadditionofDr.Cornstothestaff. Thepediatrichematology/oncologygroupatChildren’sHospitalisamemberoftheChildren’sOncologyGroup.Thisorganizationofmorethan200memberinstitutionsworldwideconductsclinicaltrialsandperformsresearchtoidentifycancercausesandpioneertreatmentsandcures.Becauseofthisaffiliation,Children’sisabletoofferthesametreatmentregimensasotherChildren’sOncologyGroupinstitutionsformosttypesofchildhoodcancer.Amongthemorewell-knownoftheCOGmemberinstitutionsareMemorialSloan-KetteringCancerCenterinNewYorkCity;MayoClinicinRochester,Minn.;St.JudeChildren’sResearchHospitalinMemphis;andMonroeCarellJr.Children’sHospitalatVanderbiltinNashville. Dr.CornsmostrecentlywasinfellowshiptrainingatNationwideChildren’sHospitalinColumbus,Ohio,wherehefocusedonpediatrichematology/oncology/bonemarrowtransplantation.Heandhiswifewereinterestedinrelocatingtoaplace“halfwaybetweenthegrandparents”forthebenefitoftheirtwintoddlerdaughters,EllieandEmma.Dr.CornsisaVirginianative,andhisparentsstillresideinthatstate,whilehiswife,Akiko,hasfamilyinColumbus. “Welovethisarea,”hesaid.“It’sclosertomyhome,anditputsusclosetothemountains.IalsolovedthepeopleImetwhenIinterviewedhere.Theopportunityseemedlikeareallygoodfit.” Dr.Cornsenjoysthefullspectrumofcaseshetreatswithhis

youngpatients.Whilehesaidthe“wholefieldisinteresting,”ifhehadtochooseaspecialinterest,hewouldidentifythehematologysideofhisprofession,inparticularanemia(lowredbloodcellcount),neutropenia(lowwhitebloodcellcount)andisolatedthrombocy-topenia(lowplateletcount).Thesearesomeofthepredominantreferralstohispractice,alongwithevaluationandmanagementforbloodclotsandbleedingdisorders. Diagnosesforpatientsreferredtoapediatrichematologist/oncologistincludealltypesofcancersandbloodproblems,suchashemophilia,thalassemiaandsicklecelldisease.Commonadultcancersofthelung,breast,prostateandcolonarenotseeninchildren.Instead,childrenaremostcommonlydiagnosedwithleukemias,lymphomas,braintumorsandothersolidtumors;lesscommonpediatriccancersincludesarcomas. Pediatriccancertreatmentprogressedrapidlyforanumberofyears,leadingtogreatlyimprovedsurvivalrates.Inthelastseveralyears,therehasbeenlessofachangeinsurvivalrates,sooncologistssuchasDr.Cornsfocusonimprovingotheraspectsofcancertreatment.“Therehavenotbeenhugeleapsrecentlyincancertreatment,andprogressisslowerthanithadbeen20orsoyearsago.Itcanbefrustrating,”hesaid. Forthisreason,thefocushasshiftedtobetterchemotherapy.“Thereisalotofpushingtheenvelopetocomeupwiththeidealchemotherapyregimen.Wewanttosuccessfullytreatthecancerbutalsodecreasethesideeffects,”hesaid. Sideeffectstochemotherapyarenotoriouslysignificantandunpleasant,soanyimprovementinthisareaisawelcomebenefitforpatients.“Biologicagents,suchasantibodies,arewhereweareseeingthemostadvances,”Dr.Cornssaid.“Thesearetargetedtherapiesusedinconjunctionwithtraditionalchemotherapy.” Treatingchildrenwithlife-threateningconditionslikecancerisadailychallenge.“Theoutcomesaresometimesdisappointing,butbetterthantheywereinyearspast.Youhavegoodandbaddays,”Dr.Cornssaid.“Butit’srewardingtobeabletohelppatientsandtheirfamiliesthroughthesechallenges.Evenwhenthetreatmentcourseisdifficult,youcanstillseerewardsalongtheway.” Children’sHospitalwelcomesDr.Cornstoourpediatricreferralcenterandlooksforwardtoworkingwithhiminprovidinghematology/oncologycaretothisregion’schildren.

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A journey is often a long and winding path. For Children’s Hospital, the journey to the Electronic Medical Record is a five-year, nearly $6.4 million project that will enhance technology at our pediatric medical center. But the completion of the journey will yield a faster, easier and safer way to deliver health care to our patients. What is an Electronic Medical Record, or EMR? It is a patient’s medical record in a digital format on a secure computer database. The record includes the patient’s medical history, documentation, physician notes, medication allergies, radiology images and other related health information. It is an alternative to traditional paper medical records. “Development of the electronic medical record for Children’s Hospital is a very important and strategic decision,” said Keith Goodwin, President/CEO. “This technology will provide us with the opportunity to improve care to our patients, facilitate communications between care providers and provide us with more consistent information from which to help us improve services.  Of all the health care reform issues debated over the last two years, there has been absolute consensus around the need to automate our information systems. The federal government has provided the potential for significant funding support  to both hospitals and physicians to achieve automation and connectivity.  We are very excited about the opportunity to improve care and enhance decision making and communications through development of the EMR.”  Today, when a patient is seen by a physician at Children’s Hospital, the following steps occur: the physician sees the child, then writes (on paper) orders for the child’s care. Next, a nurse or unit secretary inputs the physician’s orders into a computer; the nurse may need to verify aspects of the handwritten order before it is entered into the computer. If the order is for medication, it is sent to the Pharmacy, where a pharmacist must enter the information into the computer system. In either case, it is quite a few steps, creating the possibility for errors at any point, as well as creating a delay for the child to receive the order. With an EMR, the steps would be reduced to the following for a medication order: the physician sees the patient and enters an order into the computer. The step of the nurse or the pharmacist entering the order is skipped. The pharmacist only has to verify the order once it is received. This significantly reduces the possibility of errors, decreases needed staff time and speeds up the process. An EMR offers a number of benefits: The medical record is available by computer at the point of care – a nurse or doctor can quickly access information from a laptop or tablet computer (such as an iPad) from the patient’s bedside, rather than needing to track down – and then search through – a thick file folder. Patients and parents do not have to be asked the same questions repeatedly, such as “What medications is the child allergic to?” Because some locations, such as the Emergency Department, currently rely on paper records and their own computer system, staff in other departments may ask questions that parents already answered in the ED. Now, the ED staff will be able to input the information immediately, making it accessible for staff in other departments if/when the patient is transferred to a different unit. Since 66 percent of Children’s Hospital’s inpatients first come to the Emergency Department, there is much repetition. Past test results and other medical information from previous hospital visits are easily accessible for comparison with new results to look for changes in a patient’s condition. Evidence-based protocols are put in place to offer the recommended standard of care for a diagnosis such as asthma. Physicians will be able to check which steps are appropriate and necessary for each patient according

to individual need, but the protocol will help to ensure no steps are missed. Physicians can see patient test results no matter where they are in the hospital – so they can order medication or other treatment as soon as they see results, even if they are not at the patient’s bedside. This expedites care. Multiple care providers all have access to a patient’s record at the same time – unlike a paper record that can be viewed by only one person at a time. This is especially important for patients with serious or multiple medical issues who see numerous physicians. Electronic medical records are securely stored online and backed up so that they cannot be lost, unlike paper records. Providers can immediately enter orders (for tests, medications, etc.) and staff can quickly see the orders and process them. Computer data entry is safer than handwritten orders – handwriting is sometimes difficult to read and understand, and computer systems have built-in “checks and balances” to make sure an order is correct. For example, a physician can order a medication online, and the system can double check the dose against the patient’s weight and other medications to make sure it is the proper dose and won’t cause interactions. An EMR requires limited storage space, whereas paper files can take up a great deal of physical space. EMRs are also environmentally friendlier because they significantly reduce paper use. John Williams, M.D., pediatric emergency medicine specialist, said, “The biggest change for physicians will be moving from a paper record to an electronic record. Both physician charting and placement of medical orders will be done within the EMR. Physicians will have quicker and more direct access to patient information while maintaining a secure environment regarding all medical records. “The greatest benefit to patients will be an even higher commitment to improvement in quality of care. The EMR will contain many checks and balances to ensure the highest quality possible is given to our patients.” The project at Children’s Hospital is now well underway, according to Rudy McKinley, Vice President for Operations. The in-house computer system, called MEDITECH Magic, has been in place since 1992 (with occasional updates to keep up with technology enhancements); however, it is not compatible for a hospital-wide EMR with broader information-sharing capabilities. A new MEDITECH product, 6.0, will meet the hospital’s needs at a reasonable cost, and it will be launched in August 2011. For the past several months and continuing into next year, Information Systems staff, along with teams of clinicians including physicians, nurses, pharmacists and technologists in a number of other disciplines, will work diligently to prepare and upgrade a variety of hospital systems for the MEDITECH 6.0 platform launch next summer. While Children’s Hospital set the EMR as a strategic goal several years ago, federal stimulus funds recently made available will offset part of the Information Systems infrastructure costs to implement the EMR. The hospital has contracted with InfoPartners as a management partner both to help reach the goal of the EMR and to secure federal stimulus funding. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – valued at $790 billion – includes a large block of funds dedicated to the improvement of health care in some form. The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (“HITECH”) includes a net appropriation of $19 billion specifically for health information technology. Certain requirements must be met to qualify for any of this funding; it is hoped the hospital can receive back about half of the total $6.4 investment.

Journey to the Electronic Medical Record

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What’s New at“Art of Healing” program enriched by two local artists

When walking through the halls of Children’s Hospital, it is hard to ignore the warmth radiating from the new art covering the walls. Patients, families and visitors stop to take in the sight of the inspirational artwork donated by professional artists, hospital patients and school children from throughout the Knoxville area. The artwork, acquired through the new “Art of Healing” program, brings smiles to many faces, and in a small way, helps patients through an often difficult healing process. Elizabeth Thomas, Director of Volunteer Services, says this initiative was created “to transform visual culture and have more artwork in a whimsical fashion that enlivens the hospital.” Two local artists are among those who have made generous donations of their own artwork to help fulfill this mission. Whimsical artist Gigi Wright built 3-D figurines called “jeetles” that were painted by children at her studio. Twelve children, ages 5-12, designed an animal, insect or human, and Wright built them accordingly. The children then attended classes where they helped assemble and decorate the figurines. This is the hospital’s first encounter with 3-D artwork, which adds a new dimension to the visual appeal within the facility. Wright hopes to someday turn these figurines into plush dolls to hand out to patients. As a child amputee and cancer survivor, she understands how children feel when they are in the hospital. “My goal is to bring joy and delight to children of all ages through my whimsical art,” Wright said. Another artist, RaRa Schlitt, created and donated 50 paintings that display words of encouragement for patients. Schlitt is a folk artist who specializes in paintings with inspirational phrases. She has collected hundreds of quotes over the 20 years she has been making these paintings. According to Schlitt, the two most important messages found in all the quotes are to serve others and to love. When choosing what to paint for Children’s Hospital, she decided that animals with these phrases would make children smile. One of the paintings is of sunflowers with the saying, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” Another inspirational message is seen in her painting of a peaceful angel with the phrase, “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” Many children from local schools have been adding even more flair to the hallways through paintings and drawings. These art project donations are especially interesting for patients to look at because they have been made by their peers.

by Taylor Griffin, student intern

(Top) Gigi Wright helps a student working on his “jeetle” during a recent art class. (Middle) Wright and participants in one of her art classes.(Bottom) RaRa Schlitt with some of the paintings she donated to Children’s Hospital.

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What’s New atChildren’s Hospital adds Board member, says goodbye to retiree

  WithmanyyearsofexperienceontheboardofCovenantHealth,aKnoxville-basedhospitalsystem,LarryMartinbringsatremendousamountofknowledgeandunderstandingofhealthcaretohisnewroleontheChildren’sHospitalboard. “WhenIwasapproachedfortheboardofChildren’sHospital,itwasaneasydecision,”Martinsaid.“Ihaveservedonseveraldifferentboardsandhaveenjoyedthat.Thisisaspecialplace,andI’mgratefulfortheopportunity. “Children’sHospitaliswellrun,”Martincontinued.“Ithasanoutstanding

staff,bothphysiciansandemployees.ItalsohasaverygoodBoardofDirectors.IhopetohelpwhereverIcanbebeneficial.” ThroughouthiscareerinKnoxville,MartinsometimescrossedpathswithretiredPresident/CEOBobKoppel,forwhomhehasanenormousamountofrespect.“IwasimpressedwithhispassionforChildren’sHospitalandforpediatrichealthcare,hisorganizationalskills,hisunflappablepersonality,”Martinsaid. “I’mequallyimpressedwithKeithGoodwin[currentPresident/CEO].

BeingaskedtojointheChildren’sHospitalBoardofDirectorsinJuly1994wasatremendoushonorforDuganMcLaughlin. “I’vehadareallylongrelationshipwithChildren’sHospital,”hesaid.“I’vealwayshadasoftspotforthehospital.Ilosttwobrothers,whobothdiedatthehospital.” McLaughlinwas9andthen11whenthetwoboysdied.First,Michaeldiedofanillnessasaninfant.Thentwoyearslater,9-year-oldTighewasseriouslyinjuredinabaseballaccident.HewastakenfromtheballfieldtoChildren’sHospital,wherehediedafewdayslater.

FollowingTighe’sdeath,thefamilyaskedfordonationstobemadeinhismemorytoChildren’sHospital,andaplaquewasdedicatedinhishonor.ThosetwodeathscertainlyhadanimpactonayoungDugan,so“tomeit’sanhonortoserve”Children’sHospitalforsomanyyearsontheBoardofDirectors. McLaughlinandhiswife,Stephanie,havethreechildren:Shelley(24),wholivesinManhattan;Reid(22),aUniversityofTennesseestudent;andHailey(15),ahighschoolstudent.Allthreeofthechildrenhavebeenpa-tientsatChildren’sHospitalatonetimeoranother.“We’vebeentheremoretimesthanIcancount,”helaughed. SincetheBoardofDirectorsinstitutedtermlimitsseveralyearsago,itwasMcLaughlin’stimetoleavetheboard.Butduringthepast15years,hechairedsuchcommitteesasDevelopmentandCommunityInvolvement,andhefocusedhiseffortsonfundraisingforthehospital.Hismajorareasof

Hewasagreatfindwhohadtostepintobigshoesbutwhohasdonesowithstyleandgrace,andhehasdoneareallygoodjob,”Martinsaid.“Ilookforwardtotheopportunitytoworkwithhim.” Martin,whoretiredfromtheCovenantBoardinlate2006,alsohadasignificantpersonalexperiencewithChildren’sHospitalinthelate1980s.Hisyoungerdaughter,Meg,becameill,andtheMartinscheckedinwiththeirneighbor,pediatricianWilliamTerry,M.D.Dr.Terry,alongtimememberoftheChildren’sHospitalBoardofDirectors,suspected–correctly–thatshehadarupturedappendix.TheMartinstookMegtoChildren’sHospital,wherepediatricsurgeonJohnMaddox,M.D.,operated. “Itwasunfortunatetoneedthehospital,butwewerefortunateitwasthere,”Martinsaid. Martin,whoisDeputytotheMayorfortheCityofKnoxville,holdsabachelor’sdegreefromUT-Knoxville.Heandhiswife,Jane,aretheparentsoftwoadultchildren:HopeMartin,wholivesinNorthCarolina;andMegBrereton,wholiveswithherhusbandinColorado.MartindescribeshisworkwiththeCityofKnoxvilleasasecondcareer;heisretiredfromthefinance/bankingbusiness. OthercommunityorganizationswithwhichhecurrentlyservesareEastTennesseeFoundationBoardofDirectors,FirstTennesseeBankadvisoryboard,ProjectGraduation,KnoxvilleandBoyScouts.BesidesCovenantHealth,otherpastprojectsincludedtheUnitedWayandtheChamberofCommerce.

involvementhavebeentheCenterStagecelebritygala,theChildren’sHospitalInvitationalGolfTournamentandtheFantasyofTrees.HealsorecentlybegantakingpartintheChildren’sMiracleNetworkTelethoneachJanuary. “IwasinvolvedwithCenterStagefromthebeginning.Itwasfunfromthefirstyear.BecauseofBobby[Goodfriend,formerBoardmemberandfounderoftheCenterStageevent]andbecauseofthehospital’sreputation,ithasalwaysbeensoeasytosecuresponsorsfortheevent,”McLaughlinsaid.“It’salwayssoorganizedandsuchagoodevent. “BeingabletointroducethehospitaltoprospectivedonorsandcentersofinfluencehasalwaysbeeneasybecauseIknowhowgoodthe‘product’is,”hesaid.“Asafundraiser,yousometimeshavetocrossyourfingersthatwhatyoupromiseaprospectivedonorwillbedeliveredonbytheorganizationyouaresolicitingsupportfor.IhaveneverhadthatworrywithChildren’sHospital. WhileMcLaughlin’sskillsandcommunitycontactsmadehimanaturalfitforfundraisingforChildren’sHospital,hehasalsohadafrontrowseattothechallengesofhealthcareinrecentyears. “ChangesinthehealthcarelandscapeinKnoxvilleandnationwidewillnevergoawayandwillcontinuetobeachallenge,”hesaid.“We’vebeeninarecessionnationallyforthepasttwoyears,andtheBoardhashadmanyactiveandenergeticdiscussions.Wehavereallyhadtobeengaged. McLaughlin,whoholdsabachelor’sdegreeinfinancefromtheUniversityofTennesseeatKnoxvilleandisprivatebankerwithMerrillLynchinKnoxville,hasalonghistoryofcommunityinvolvementbeyondChildren’sHospital.HeservedontheboardoftheBoys&GirlsClubandUnitedWayformanyyears,wasamemberofNucleusKnoxville(anunder-40businessprofessionalsgroup),cochairedtheKnoxvilleOpenGolfTournament,andhasdonatedhistimeandeffortstomanyotherorganizations.

ThefaceoftheChildren’sHospitalBoardofDirectorshaschangedthissummer,astheBoardhasaddedanewmemberandsaidgoodbyetoalongtimesupporter.ThenewBoardmemberisLarryMartin,whoreplacestheterm-limitedDuganMcLaughlin.“Changestothehospital’sBoardofDirectors,whichoccureveryyearortwo,arebittersweet,”saidKeithGoodwin,Children’sHospitalPresident/CEO.“WealwayslookforwardtoworkingwithnewBoardmemberslikeLarryMartin,whobringsvaluableknowledgetoourBoardandwillundoubtedlycontributemuchtothehospital’songoingsuccessandgrowth.Atthesametime,Children’sHospitalextendsatremendousthankstoDuganMcLaughlinforhismanyyearsofservicetotheBoardofDirectorsandforhisdedicationtothechildrenofthisregion.WearegratefulforallhehasdonetohelpChildren’sHospitalgrowintothepediatricmedicalcenterthatitistoday,andwe’llmisshispresenceontheboard.”

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What’s New at

Goodwin joins Knoxville Chamber Board

Hospital honors first DAISY winner In celebration of Nurses Week (May 6-12), Children’s Hospital implemented the DAISY Award, which recognizes nurses for the education, training and skill they put in their work and the compassion with which they deliver care. Children’s Hospital’s first DAISY award recipient was Amy Hill, RN, a nurse on the third floor inpatient unit. Her colleagues nominated her for this award and stated in their entry that Hill is “a diligent, dedicated nurse whose expertise is very valued on our floor.” She has also received many compliments from patients and colleagues commending her on the kindness and patience she displays on a daily basis. The DAISY Award and DAISY Foundation were founded in 2001 to honor J. Patrick Barnes, who died of complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a bleeding disorder in which the blood doesn’t clot as it should. Now, nurses in more than 500 health care organizations throughout the country have been given this award for their hard work and dedication to the nursing profession. Children’s Hospital is the first hospital in the Knoxville area to honor nurses with this award. DAISY award winners receive a plaque proclaiming her or him an “Extraordinary Nurse,” a DAISY award pin and a unique stone sculpture hand-carved by the Shona people in Zimbabwe titled “A Healer’s Touch.”

DAISY Award winner Amy Hill (second from left) with Karyn Cole, ER Assistant Nurse Manager; Laura Barnes, Vice President for Patient Care Services; Nancy Camp, Nursing Director of Medical Services; and Loretta Maples, Nursing Director of Support Services.

Construction underway on hospital lobby project After almost 40 years, Children’s

Hospital’s main lobby is experiencingan extensive $1 million makeover and expansion, funded in part by a $500,000 donation from the Regal Foundation (part of the Regal Entertainment Group). This project also involves a much-needed renovation of the lower main lobby. The first phase began May 24 with the construction of temporary walls around the first-floor atrium, which will be enclosed as part of the expansion. Volun“teens”

(teenage volunteers) could be seen at the construction project soon after it began, digging through the dirt and rock of the former atrium pond to collect coins that had been tossed in over time. Children’s Hospital is grateful to the Volun“teens” for taking on this messy and lengthy task. The hospital also thanks adult volunteer Janice Davis, a manager for Regions Bank, who arranged to have the thousands of coins shipped to the U.S. Mint to be exchanged for their cash value. To make the drab temporary walls around the atrium more interesting, Children’s Hospital Family Advisory Council members were asked to bring their children to the renovation area to add colorful, kid-friendly art to the walls. About 20 children of all ages wore aprons and “hard hats”

while using markers to add their artistic drawings on the walls. Once demolition of the atrium was completed -- which included removal of the overhead structure, walls and outdoor flooring -- a new roof with two six-foot skylights was installed in that space. Workers are currently putting in new flooring and completing rough-in work for the walls and columns in the former atrium area. In the hospital’s main entrance lobby off 21st Street, ceiling work is now underway. The lobby work does not interfere with use of the elevators, which will remain accessible for the duration of the project. Scheduled for completion in January 2011, the lobby renovations have been a source of excitement at the hospital that will result in a comforting atmosphere for patients and families. The Regal Foundation’s gift to the hospital last fall totaled $750,000 for facility improvements. The remaining $250,000 was used to remodel and expand the Pre-Operative Holding and Family Waiting Areas in the Children’s Hospital Surgery Department. This holding area provides a place for families and patients to stay together until a few moments before surgery. The area also is where families usually meet with their child’s surgeon and anesthesia staff prior to surgery. For more information, visit www.etch.com/lobbyren.cfm.

by Taylor Griffin, student intern

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What’s New atAcute & Emergency Care Pediatrics conference set

Children’s Hospital will host the ninth annual Update in Acute & Emergency Care Pediatrics Conference at Wilderness at the Smokies Hotel & Waterpark Resort in Sevierville on October 1-2. The conference will feature three tracks: Acute Care, Pediatric Office and Pre-Hospital/Field. Topics will include pre-hospital pain control, office emergencies, non-trauma surgical emergencies, pediatric sedation, communicating with children, child abuse, social media and health care, disaster planning in pediatrics and much more. The conference is designed for pediatricians, nurses, emergency physicians, family practitioners, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, EMS professionals, health care students, intensivists, residents, fellows and other health care professionals. Following the conference, participants should be able to: • Discuss clinical practice guidelines related to multiple acute and pediatric emergency conditions. • Identify available resources to assist them with the care of pediatric patients. • Describe specific strategies they will utilize to change their clinical practice of acute and emergency pediatric care.

The 2010 conference will take place in Sevierville at the Wildernessat the Smokies Resort, which features Tennessee’s largest year-round water park and is just 30 miles from Knoxville. Special resort rates for conference participants include lower rates for early arrivals on Thursday or for guests staying after the conference’s Saturday activities end. The stay includes tickets to the resort’s water park. Early bird registration fees are $250 for nurse practitioners, physicians and physician assistants; $150 for nurses, RTs, residents and fellows; and $100 for pre-hospital providers and EMS professionals. The early registration deadline is September 15; after September 15, rates increase by $25 per person. The registration fee includes course material, continental breakfast, lunch on Friday and snacks during breaks. Sponsors include the Tennessee Chapter of the American Academyof Pediatrics (www.tnaap.org) and Tennessee Emergency Medical Services for Children (www.tnemsc.org). Cosponsors are T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital in Chattanooga; LeBonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis; and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville. Register online at www.tnemsc.org or for more information, call (865) 541-8618 or (615) 343-3672.

Julie L. Bacon, R.N.C., BA, CPEN, C-NPT, All Children’s Hospital, St. Petersburg, Fla.; Florida Emergency Medical Services for Children; and Southlake Hospital Women’s Centre, Clermont, Fla.Greg Blackmon, M.D., FAAP, Blackmon Pediatrics, KnoxvilleLee Blair, R.N., CEN, EMT-P, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, NashvilleAngela M. “Angie” Bowen, R.N., BSN, CEN, CPEN, NREMT-P, East Tennessee Children’s HospitalMary Palmer Campbell, M.D., East Tennessee Children’s HospitalJ. Michael “Mick” Connors, M.D., East Tennessee Children’s Hospital; Pediatric Analgesia and Sedation Specialists, PLLC, Knoxville; and Society of Pediatric SedationChristy Cooper, R.N., MSN, CEN, CPEN, NREMT-P, East Tennessee Children’s HospitalCommander Kimberly Elenberg, M.S., R.N., United States Public Health Services, Office of the Surgeon GeneralJames W. “Trey” Eubanks III, M.D., FACS, LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, MemphisMarvin Hall, M.D., T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital and University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga

Z. Leah Harris, M.D., Vanderbilt University Department of Pediatrics, NashvilleMelissa Lashock, R.N., BSN, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, NashvilleRobert B. Lembersky, M.D., Children’s Anesthesiologists, P.C., KnoxvilleMichael R. Liske, M.D., FACC, East Tennessee Pediatric Cardiology, Knoxville; and Vanderbilt University, NashvilleRakesh Mistry, M.D., M.S., Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, PhiladelphiaJay Pershad, M.D., FAAP, FACEP, LeBonheur Children’s Hospital and University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis; and Pediatric Emergency and Sedation Specialists, PC, Ellendale, Tenn.Ryan Redman, M.D., FAAP, East Tennessee Children’s HospitalE. Steven Roach, M.D., Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OhioJoseph A. Skeleton, M.D., M.S., Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, N.C.Rick Slaven, NREMT-P CC, BS, I/C, Walters State Community College, Morristown, Tenn.; and Claiborne County EMS, Tazewell, Tenn.Tammy VanDyk, R.N., MSN, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital

Faculty for the conference include:

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Safe Kids of the Greater Knox Area, along with lead organization Children’s Hospital, continues to expand its reach throughout East Tennessee by hosting and participating in child safety events around the region. The mission of the local Safe Kids coalition is to reduce unintentional injuries in children up to age 14 in the East Tennessee region by promoting awareness and implementing prevention initiatives. The local Safe Kids is part of Safe Kids Worldwide, a network of coalitions whose primary purpose is to prevent unintentional injuries in children by providing children and adults caring for them with information about how to stay safe. These are some of Safe Kids’ recent activities:

Tennessee Smokies Safe Kids Health and Awareness DaysApril 27-28 and May 11

Through a continuing partnership with the Tennessee Smokies Baseball Team, Safe Kids was able to reach more than 15,000 students and nearly 700 teachers in Knox, Sevier, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Jefferson, Hawkins and Blount counties with events on three separate days at the Smokies ballpark sponsored by Safe Kids and Children’s Hospital. The two key messages were about helmet safety and sports safety, and Safe Kids distributed information on these two

Helping besafety areas to teachers in attendance. Students participated in a safety relay on the field during the event, which included the children properly putting on a life jacket, correctly putting on a bike helmet and placing a stuffed bear into a five-point harness child restraint.

State Farm Child Safety DayHarrimanMay 22

Through a continuing partnership with State Farm Insurance, Safe Kids hosted a National Child Passenger Safety Technician Certification course in Harriman on May 17-20. This course allowed 16 participants from Harriman Fire Department, Harriman Police Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Oak Ridge Police Department and Tellico Plains Police Department to become Child Passenger Safety technicians and take those skills back to their communities to make children safer when riding in motor vehicles. State Farm Insurance awarded a grant to Safe Kids to pay for the training; as part of the grant, Safe Kids also hosted a State Farm Child Safety Day along with State Farm agent Scotty Dykes in Harriman. During the Child Safety Day, 18 car seats were checked, and all had some type of misuse indicated. Ten car seats were

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in East Tennesseereplaced after being deemed to be unsafe by the event’s child passenger safety technicians for transporting a child. As a result of this training, Harriman Fire and Police Department are now hosting a monthly car seat checkpoint at the local Regions Bank.

Water Safety DayDollywood’s Splash CountryJune 9

On June 9, Safe Kids of the Greater Knox Area and Children’s Hospital partnered with Kohl’s Department Stores, Dollywood’s Splash Country and Knoxville Pediatric Associates for Water Safety Day at Splash Country. Demonstrations and activities at Splash Country included a rescue demonstration by staff lifeguards; information on CPR and how to be prepared for an emergency from Children’s Hospital; safety tips from Safe Kids, the Pigeon Forge Fire Department, the Pigeon Forge Police Department and American Red Cross; and opportunities to win great water safety items and Splash Country merchandise.

Shoney’s KidCare ID program set for August 27-29

A parent’s number one concern is his or her child’s safety.

To help parents keep their children as safe as possible, Shoney’s

Restaurants and the National Center for Missing and Exploited

Children are teaming up for the program’s 15th year to sponsor

three KidCare ID events in East Tennessee.

The KidCare ID program provides an opportunity for parents

to obtain photo identification of their children that can be used

if one of their children were to go missing. A KidCare ID can

dramatically speed up the process of finding a missing child. At

the events, parents can also have their children fingerprinted by

the Knoxville Police Department. All services are provided free

of charge. Representatives from Children’s Hospital, Safe Kids of the

Greater Knox Area and the Knoxville Police Department will also be

at these events to provide additional information on children’s safety.

Working with Shoney’s Restaurants, co-sponsors include Children’s

Hospital, Star 102.1 radio, WVLT-TV 8/Volunteer TV, the Knoxville

News Sentinel, the Knoxville Police Department and Safe Kids of the

Greater Knox Area. The KidCare event times and locations are as follows:

• Friday, August 27, 1-7 p.m. at Knoxville Center Mall (Knoxville)

• Saturday, August 28, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at West Town Mall (Knoxville)

• Sunday, August 29, 12-6 p.m. at Foothills Mall (Maryville)

For more information, contact Annie LaLonde at Shoney’s

at (865) 690-6331.

Whenever possible, Safe Kids of the Greater Knox Area partners with pediatric offices associated with Children’s Hospital and coalition member agencies. If you are interested in hosting an event, please contact Susan Cook, Coordinator for Safe Kids of the Greater Knox Area, at (865) 541-8622 or srcook@etch.com.

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More than 15 years before Children’s Hospital opened its doors, an event occurred in Chattanooga, Tenn., that later led to the enhancement of the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities and will benefit thousands of East Tennessee children for many years to come. On March 12, 1922, Nathan and Goldie Cloogman had a baby they named Harold; they raised him with care and love. After graduating from Chattanooga

High School, Harold came to Knoxville, where he completed an agriculture degree at the University of Tennessee. He then turned his sights west to Memphis, where he attended the UT College of Dentistry and received his D.D.S. Dr. Cloogman returned to Knoxville to open his practice and capably served his patients for 55 years until his death in the spring of 2005. Dr. Cloogman’s caring and philanthropic nature, evident throughout his life, led him to carefully plan his estate, providing generous bequests to friends, his synagogue, his college and Children’s Hospital.

His gift to Children’s Hospital was used to bring digital X-ray technology to our pediatric facility, reducing the radiation to which patients are exposed and producing high-resolution images that can quickly be shared electronically throughout the hospital. Dr. Cloogman’s generosity will benefit thousands of children each year. His gift has helped purchase technology that was in its infancy when he began practicing dentistry. No one can predict the helpful medical advances that will take place over even the next decade, but you can be certain your bequest will be put to excellent use helping area children treated at Children’s Hospital. Every bequest – large or small – is important. Call the Development Office at (865) 541-8244 today for information on how to help. As Dr. Cloogman did, you can make an enormous impact on the children of today and on generations to come.

David Rule, Director of Developmentdsrule@etch.com, (865) 541-8172

Teresa Goddard, CFRE, Senior Development Officer-Grants Managertgoddard@etch.com, (865) 541-8466

Joe Brandenburg, Major Gifts Officer jwbrandenburg@etch.com, (865) 541-8467

Planned givingCloogman bequest enhances diagnostic capabilities for children

Mark your calendars NOW for several upcoming events to entertain families and benefit Children’s Hospital. Thanks to the generous people of East Tennessee who host and participate in these events, Children’s Hospital can continue to provide the best pediatric health care to the children of this region.

Bowen Engineering Charity Golf Tournament Golfers are invited to play 18 holes at the third annual Bowen Engineering Charity Golf Tournament benefiting Children’s Hospital. The tournament will take place at Gettysvue Country Club on Monday, September 27, beginning at 9 a.m. Participants will receive refreshments, a chance to win prizes and a meal following the tournament. For registration or sponsorship information, contact Thomas Lawlor at (865) 293-4042 or tlawlor@bowenengineering.com.

Bluegrass Festival The 2010 Bluegrass Festival is set for Saturday, October 2, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Union Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Farragut. Admission is $5 per person, and children under 12 are admitted free. Parking is also free.

Calendar of Events Championship barbeque, arts and crafts, and other merchandizing vendors from all over Tennessee will be at this event. The featured Bluegrass bands are Barry Scott & Second Wind; Darin and Brooke Aldridge; Still-House; Will Tate and 6ix Mile; Logan Murrell; Southern Gospel – Bethel University; and Bluegrass – Bethel University. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Children’s Hospital. For more information, contact Gaye Clingingsmith at (865) 966-9040.

Phonathon Children’s Hospital will host its 19th annual Phonathon during September and October to ask previous donors to consider renewing their pledges for the upcoming year. Last year, the Phonathon raised over $70,000 with the help of various businesses, professional organizations and University of Tennessee student groups who donated their time to call donors. To volunteer to make calls this year, call the Development Department at (865) 541-8441.

by Taylor Griffin, student intern

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Q&APart 3 of 4

The Impact of Concussions Some sports injuries are obvious — a fracture, a torn ligament, a swollen joint. But concussions can be harder to detect and care for. Because the treatment of concussions relies heavily on symptom reporting by those who incur them rather than more obvious signs, many athletes have been encouraged to “play through” head injuries. This is especially troubling for younger athletes, in whom repeat concussions can be serious. So it’s important to prevent concussions from happening in the first place and, if they do, to know the signs and how to make sure a child recovers completely. The brain needs time to heal after a concussion, so it’s important to wait until all symptoms have ended before returning to normal activities. They shouldn’t participate in sports or other physical activities until a doctor says it’s safe, even if they insist they feel fine or are urged by competitive coaches or teammates to play. The term concussion conjures up the image of a child knocked unconscious while playing sports. But concussions — temporary loss of brain function — can happen with any head injury, often without any loss of consciousness. Children who sustain concussions usually can recover within a week, without lasting health problems, by following certain precautions and taking a breather from sports. But a child with an undiagnosed concussion can be at risk for brain damage and even disability. The brain is made of soft tissue and is cushioned by spinal fluid. It is encased in the hard, protective skull. The brain can move around inside the skull and even bang against it. If the brain does bang against the skull — for example, if a child hits his or her head on the sidewalk — the brain can get bruised, blood vessels can be torn, and the nerves inside the brain can be injured. These injuries can lead to a concussion, which is the temporary loss of brain function. Head injuries that result in concussions can be caused by car, bike and motorcycle accidents; falls; assaults; and contact sports (football, ice hockey, volleyball, lacrosse, basketball, wrestling, field hockey, rugby, soccer, softball, baseball, etc.).

Few issues are closer to our hearts or more crucial to our future than the health of children. As an abundance of children’s health issues hit the media spotlight last year, it was a challenge for many parents to keep track of them all or determine which matter most. From financial turmoil to immunization challenges, 2009 turned out to be a year of reflection and reaction. In 2010, Children’s Hospital is highlighting 10 important children’s health issues to watch. Each issue of It’s About Children this year will focus on two or three topics. This Top 10 list is not meant to be comprehensive, nor does it suggest that other health issues aren’t also important. But we think these 10 subjects will have a lasting impact on children’s health well into the future.

There are three different types, or grades, of concussions. The severity of a concussion determines the length of time needed before a player can safely return to sports activities: • Grade 1 concussions involve no loss of consciousness and cause a temporary change in mental state, like confusion, disorientation and trouble focusing, which resolves within about 15 minutes. • Grade 2 concussions are similar but the change in mental state lasts longer than 15 minutes. • Grade 3 concussions include a loss of consciousness, regardless of how long they last. Other signs of a concussion include: • feeling confused and dazed • temporary amnesia • blurred vision • headache • slurred speech or saying things that don’t make sense • difficulty concentrating, thinking or making decisions • difficulty with coordination or balance (such as being able to catch a ball or other easy tasks) • vomiting • trouble remembering things, such as what happened right before or after the injury • feeling anxious or irritable for no apparent reason Call an ambulance or go to Children’s Hospital or the nearest hospital emergency department right away if, after a head injury, your child: • can’t be awakened • has one pupil — the black part of the eye — that’s larger than the other • has convulsions or seizures • has slurred speech • seems to be getting more confused, restless or agitated. Though most children recover quickly from concussions, some symptoms — including memory loss, headaches and problems with concentration — may linger for several weeks or months. It’s important to watch for these symptoms and contact your doctor if they persist.

Texting & Driving: Just Say No Does your teen brag about her mad texting skills without so much as a glance up from her keypad? Does your son live to upload cell-phone pictures and videos to YouTube? As irritating as such proficiencies can be for “old-school” parents, they can be far more than just annoying. On the road, these distractions can be deadly. One report estimates that teens are four times more likely than adult drivers to get

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into an accident related to cell-phone use. Another report found that texting was, by far, the most potentially dangerous and lethal activity related to cell phone use on the road. Traffic crashes are the leading cause of teen fatalities, accounting for 38 percent of all teen deaths in the United States. Joining inexperience and drunk driving as top concerns are the numbers of teens with cell phones who, more and more, use them while driving. Many lawmakers are trying to curb texting behind the wheel, but parents need to jump in, too. If your state doesn’t have laws banning cell phones, ban them yourself in your teen’s car. And be a good role model yourself. That means no texting or talking (even hands-free) on the phone while driving, especially when your children are in the car. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, seven states (California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Washington), the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands prohibit all drivers from using handheld cell phones while driving. No state bans all forms of cell phone use (even hands-free use) for all drivers, but many prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers and school bus drivers. Text messaging laws are tougher than those pertaining to general cell phone use. Twenty-eight states as well as the District of Columbia and Guam ban text messaging for all drivers. Laws vary by state as to whether the offenses are primary or secondary (a primary offense means an officer can cite a driver for that violation only; for a secondary offense, a driver must be stopped first for another traffic violation, such as speeding, running a red light, etc.). In Children’s Hospital’s service area, no state has a law banning all forms of cell phone use. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association the laws are as follows: • Kentucky – Cell phone use of any kind is prohibited for school bus drivers and drivers under age 18; texting is banned for ALL drivers. These are all primary offenses. • North Carolina – Cell phone use of any kind is prohibited for school bus drivers and drivers under age 18; texting is banned for ALL drivers. These are all primary offenses. • Tennessee – Cell phone use of any kind is prohibited for school bus drivers and drivers with a learner’s permit or intermediate license; texting is banned for ALL drivers. These are all primary offenses. • Virginia – Cell phone use of any kind is prohibited for school bus drivers (primary offense) and drivers under age 18 (secondary offense). Texting is banned for ALL drivers and is a secondary offense for most drivers (but is a primary offense for school bus drivers). According to a recent study, when parents set firm rules about driving and car usage in a helpful, supportive way, it lessened by 30 percent teens’ likelihood of talking or texting on a cell phone while driving. It also drastically reduced the odds of other dangerous driving behaviors and boosted good habits (for instance, doubling the odds that teens would wear a seatbelt). When your teen gets a driver’s license, it’s important to set some rules of the road beyond the relevant driving laws. By clearly defining your expectations before you hand over the car keys, you’ll reduce the risk of frustrating conflicts, costly accidents and other problems. And

most important of all, you’ll feel more confident about your teen’s safety. The rules you establish may cover a wide range of factors such as seatbelts, passengers, curfews and dealing with distractions like cell phones. Try to involve your teen in the process of creating the rules and consequences. A few areas to consider include:

Distractions It’s wise to prohibit multitasking while behind the wheel, whether it’s text messaging, making phone calls or operating MP3 players. Give your teen alternatives to these bad habits, like pulling into a parking lot to answer and make calls, and getting directions before leaving for an unfamiliar place.

Passengers Many states restrict the number or ages of passengers that teens can have when they first get their license. Learn the rules in your state and consider adding others based on your child’s driving experience, temperament and the driving situations likely to occur. You may want to start by prohibiting your teen from driving with peers, then loosening the restriction as your teen gains experience and comfort.

Nighttime Driving Ease teens into driving after dark. While many states’ provisional licenses don’t require teens to be home until midnight, you might want to set an earlier curfew, then extend it as you see fit.

Speeding Make sure your teen driver understands the consequences of speeding — how it can lead to accidents, costly tickets, demerit points associated with tickets and revoked driving privileges. You might want to make your young driver responsible for paying speeding tickets and any insurance rate hikes they cause.

Seatbelts Studies show teens are the least likely age group to wear safety belts, so it’s important to stress the importance of wearing them. Make buckling up a rule for your teen and all passengers. Nearly every state fines drivers and passengers for not wearing seatbelts, sometimes as much as $200.

Drinking and Driving Teens should understand that driving under the influence ofdrugs or alcohol — or getting in the car with someone who is —could be a fatal mistake. Encourage teens to call for a ride, regardless of the time or whether they’re somewhere off-limits, when in a situation where the driver has been drinking — and promise to withhold punishment and questions.

Other Considerations • Consider whether you want to make driving privileges contingent on maintaining a certain GPA or other responsibilities, like doing chores. • Teach your teen basic car maintenance that will keep the car safe and prevent breakdowns.

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• Set ground rules about driving under poor weather conditions. Explain that if he or she is driving and a strong storm starts, it makes sense to pull over and wait it out. • From time to time, get in the passenger seat while your teen drives to get a sense of his or her driving skills.

The Toll of Constant Social Networking Does it seem like your children are always online? Are their status updates on Facebook seemingly a matter of life and death? If so, you’re far from alone. And what was once the domain of older children and teens is skewing younger and younger. Facebook and MySpace users are required to be at least 13 years old, but with no real way to verify ages, both sites are popular with young users who say they’re older when creating their profiles (two recent studies report that 38 percent of respondents ages 12 to 14 said they had an online profile). Are children mature enough to make good decisions about their online privacy? Most experts think that children are smart enough by their early teens to know what, and who, to avoid. Younger children, though, need more parental supervision — for instance, parents should make sure that children’s accounts are set to provide as little personal information as possible, and that their activity can be seen only by confirmed friends. In today’s Internet-connected world, many parents mourn the loss of face-to-face family time and worry their children are spending too much time online. In 2000, researchers at the Center for the Digital Future reported that 11 percent of respondents said family members under 18 spent too much time online, a figure that jumped to 28 percent in 2008. If you’re troubled by all the online activity in your house, consider setting ground rules. For instance: • Limit screen time (especially on school nights), including not just computer time but also television and video games. • Keep the computer in a high-traffic area where you can monitor who’s doing what; avoid putting a computer in your child’s bedroom.

• Shut down electronics well before bedtime so children can wind down and you can spend some time just hanging out together and catching up. • Share an email account with younger children. That way, you can monitor who is sending them messages. • Bookmark your child’s favorite sites. Your child will have easy access and be less likely to make a typo that could lead to inappropriate content. • Spend time online together. Teach your children appropriate online behavior. • Monitor children’s use of chat rooms. Be aware that posting messages to chat rooms reveals a child’s email address to others. • Find out about online protection elsewhere. Find out what, if any, online protection is offered at school, after-school centers, friends’ homes, or any place where children could use a computer without your supervision. It’s also wise to become computer-literate, if you’re not already. Learn how to block objectionable material and recognize an unsafe website. Check out the sites that are most popular with children and teens. And in case you haven’t heard, social networking is a hit with adults, too. In fact, the number of adult Internet users with a profile on a social networking site has more than quadrupled in the past few years, with four out of five adults using social media at least once a month. If you’ve joined the online crowd yourself, make sure your own screen time isn’t crowding out the quality time you could be spending with your children and your family. It’s also important to make sure children have a wide variety of free-time activities like reading, playing with friends, and sports, which can all play a vital part in helping them develop a healthy body and mind.

Upcoming community education classesCPR Certification CourseDates: August 23, September 13, October 18 and November 8Time: 6-10 p.m. This certification course teaches the American Heart Association chain of survival -- from when to call 911 to how to effectively administer CPR to an infant, child or adult. This course is designed for anyone who may be expected to respond to emergencies at home or in the workplace. Participants must be at least 14 years old. Following the course, participants will receive an American Heart Association Heartsaver certification card. This course is $25 per person.

Safe SitterDates: August 28, October 9, October 16, November 6Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (lunch is provided) Safe Sitter is a national organization that teaches young adolescents safe and nurturing babysitting techniques and the rescue skills needed to respond appropriately to medical emergencies. Instructors

are certified through Safe Sitter nationally. Participants must be ages 11-14. This course is $25 per person.

Class size is limited, so preregistration is required. All classes are offered in the Koppel Plaza at Children’s Hospital unless otherwise noted. For more information, to register for any of these classes orto receive our free Healthy Kids parenting newsletter, call(865) 541-8262. Announcements about upcoming classes can be seen on WBIR-TV 10 and heard on area radio stations. Or visit our web site atwww.etch.com and click on “Healthy Kids Education and News.” Children’s Hospital’s Healthy Kids Campaign, sponsored by WBIR-TV Channel 10 and Chick-Fil-A, is a community education initiative of the hospital’s Community Relations Department to help parents keep their children healthy.

Content edited and abridged from the KidsHealth section of www.etch.com. © 2010 The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth. Used under license.

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Artist creates “River Ride” for Children’s Hospital

Anewpaintingbynationally-knownartistRobertA.TinoofSeviervillewillhelpthepatientswhomakemorethan155,000visitstoEastTennesseeChildren’sHospitaleachyear.Tinowilldonateaportionoftheproceedsfromthesaleofhislatestwork,titled“RiverRide,”tothehospital.Thefund-raisingeffortwillbenefitthe

endowmentfortheChildren’sHospitalSpecialServicesFund,whichassistspatientfamilieswithspecialneedsimmediatelyafterapatient’sillnessforthebenefitandrecoveryofthatchild. “RiverRide”featuresatrioofchildrenenjoyingasummerafternoon“tubing”lazilyalongthePigeonRiveramidthebackdropoftheEmert’sCoveCoveredBridgeinPittmanCenterneartheGreenbriarentrancetotheGreatSmokyMountainsNationalPark. “Thepaintingreflectsthefunchildrenareabletohavewhentheyarewell,enjoyinga‘ride’downtheriverastheyapproacharusticcoveredbridge,surroundedbythebeautyoftheirmountainhome,”Tinosaid.“Itrepresentsthecarefreedaysofchildhood,andIthinkweallwantchildrentobecarefreeandnothavetoworryaboutillness.” ThislatestpaintingtobenefitChildren’sHospitalagainfeatureschildrenhavingfun--setagainstthebackdropofEastTennessee’sabundantnaturalbeauty.“OnethingIlikeabout‘RiverRide’isthatitshowsthesimplejoystobefoundinchildhoodandtherichmemoriescreatedbydoingactivitiestogetheroutdoors,”Tinosaid.“Asachild,Ialwayslovedtubing,andnowitispartofthesummerfunIenjoywithmyownchildren.Itseemsonceyouhoponyourtubeandstartyourjourneydownriver,alloflife’scaresdriftaway.” TinohaspreviouslydonatedfundsfromfourprintstoChildren’sHospital,in1990,1995,2000and2005.Since1995,heandhiswife,MaryJohnTino,havehadtwochildren,eventsthathavealteredhisperspectivequiteabit. “It’sevenmorespecialnowtodosomethingforChildren’sHospital,becauseIunderstandevenmorethatchildrenarespecial.Whenourchildren,oranyfamily’schildren,getsick,it’salmosttheendoftheworldforme–Ihavetodosomethingtohelpthemgetbetter,”Tinosaid.“WearesoawareofhowluckyallofEastTennesseeistohaveourChildren’sHospital;it’ssomethingourfamilyisproudtobepartofandcontribute

whatwecan.WhenMaryJohnandIhearaboutthepositiveexperiencesourfriendsandfamilieshavehadatChildren’sHospital,itmakesusevenmoregladthatwecanbeasmallpartofthiswonderfulplacethatimpactssomanychildrenandfamily’slives. “It’shardtoseechildrensick,andit’sunfairthatsomechildrenhavetogothroughseriousorchronicillness.MywifeandIwanttodoanythingwecantohelp.WebelievestronglyinwhatChildren’sHospitaldoes,andthat’swhywewanttodothis,”headded. “RiverRide”willbeunveiledtothepublicinearlySeptemberthroughtheKnoxvilleNewsSentinelandwillbeavailablebeginningOctober1attheTinoFallHomecomingeventattheTinoGalleryinSeviervilleandatgalleriesthroughoutEastTennessee.Allprintswillbesignedandnumberedandcanbepre-orderedbeginninginearlySeptemberbyvisiting www.etch.com orwww.robertatinogallery.com. Thereleaseof“RiverRide”consistsof25Artist’sProofs,25GicleeCanvasPremiereprints,95GicleeCanvasses,125PremiereEditionprintsand500LimitedEditionprints.ThePremiereEditionandArtist’sProofEditionsof“RiverRide”willalsoincludeasmallercompanionpiecethatisstilluntitled. TheKnoxvilleNewsSentinelistheexclusivesponsoroftheTinoprintreleasetobenefitChildren’sHospital.