Jennifer Crosby

Meet our new patient advocate Jennifer Crosby! This week, we sat down with Jennifer to learn more about her and the dedication to patient advocacy she brings to Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital.

Why is patient advocacy important to you?

There is a saying- “They just need someone to talk to.” I want to be that “someone.” When you are in the hospital, you need someone to be on your side- I want to be that “someone.”  When you are confused and need someone to help explain things to you- I want to be that “someone.” Healthcare can be very confusing for those who are not familiar with it. I want to make sure all of our patients know they have “someone” to listen, to care, to give them explanations, and to stand by their side. I do not want anyone to feel alone.

What are you most excited about for the coming months in regard to patient advocacy?

I am most excited about our new patient experience program. Our goal is for everyone to ALWAYS have the best care possible at Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital. Our staff is dedicated to meeting all the needs of the patients and their families. This new program will highlight the care we give.

What is first on your priority list for this new role?

My first priority has been for all patients to have my phone number. There is a flyer with the patient advocate line in all of the rooms and around the hospital. It can also be found on the website.  I want them to know someone is available to speak to them if needed. No one is alone at Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital.

Alabama or Auburn football?

I am a graduate of Auburn University. War Eagle!

What’s one thing you’d like your coworkers to know about you?

As the patient advocate, I am not only here for the patients, but for the staff as well. If you have a patient who needs my help, please call me. I am available anytime you need me.

If you’d like to reach out to Jennifer, feel free to send her an email at JCrosby@RMCCares.org or call our patient advocate line at 256-231-8762.

It’s no secret that as we age, our bodies begin to experience more health problems, and the wear and tear of life takes its toll. Your joints are usually the first parts of your body to indicate signs of old age, with pain and stiffness becoming more frequent and the development of arthritis, especially in the knees and hips. As a remedy, surgeons have been performing knee replacement surgeries for decades now and have gotten pretty good at it. In fact, a National Library of Medicine review found that most total knee replacement surgery studies report 80–100% of post-op patients being satisfied.

During knee replacement surgery, the surgeon removes bone and cartilage damaged by arthritis and replaces them with metal and plastic parts that make up an artificial joint and work just like the patient’s natural knee. As technology has advanced, robotics has been introduced to surgery to increase its success rate. However, no technology is without its flaws. In this blog, we’ll explore both the advantages and disadvantages of robotic knee replacement.

What Is Robotic Knee Replacement?

The difference between knee replacement and robotic knee replacement is that a robot assists the operating surgeon by increasing accuracy and precision. The robot can feed the surgeon information and reports on the patient based on previous scans, like X-rays and MRIs, and real-time photos from a camera.

The robot assists the surgeon with making surgical bone cuts and positioning the new joint. They’re especially helpful if the surgery requires working around screws or hardware from previous surgeries. With robotic knee replacement, the surgeon can usually leave the old hardware in place, and the robot helps the surgeon safely install the new hardware, helping reduce the amount of time the patient is in surgery.

When there’s no robot assisting the surgeon during knee replacement, they use their skill and years of training to determine where to cut and how much bone and cartilage to remove.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Robotic Knee Replacement

Like we said, no technology is perfect. So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of robotic knee replacement? Let’s start with the positives!

Advantages

• Robotic assistance enhances the surgeon’s precision and accuracy when cutting, removing bone and cartilage, and placing the implant.
• Some robotic systems enable the surgeon to tailor the replacement for the patient’s specific anatomy, resulting in a better, more natural-feeling fit.
• Some patients experience shorter recovery times due to less tissue damage, with some experiencing a 50% reduction in the time it takes them to get back to normal activities.
• Reduced surgery time lowers the risk of complications, infections, and post-surgery pain.
• Faster healing means patients spend less time in the hospital, which lowers their hospital bill.

Disadvantages

• Robotic knee replacement is more expensive, sometimes by thousands of dollars, than traditional knee replacement. 
• Not every hospital and medical center has access to robotic knee replacement.
• Not every surgeon is trained and experienced with robotic knee replacement.
• It also has the same risks as traditional knee replacement, including ongoing knee pain, stiffness, infection, and the implant not working correctly.

Have Your Robotic Knee Replacement Questions Answered at Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital

Whether you’re experiencing knee pain due to injury, overuse, or arthritis, our experienced orthopaedic surgeons can help find the right treatment plan for you! If you’ve tried more conservative treatment methods that didn’t work out, robotic joint replacement could help restore your quality of life.

Here at Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital, our surgeons have access to the state-of-the-art Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology to provide you with a personalized surgical plan based on your unique anatomy. Get in touch today for the guidance and support you need to determine if robotic joint replacement is the right choice for you!

Funding will allow local high-quality care to continue and address long-term debt

Anniston, AL (October 4, 2024) – The Health Care Authority of the City of Anniston (RMC) is
pleased to announce the approval of a new loan issued by Greystone Funding Company, LLC
and fully insured by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under a special
hospital financing program. This loan will enable Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital to address existing long-term debt.
“This is a significant milestone for Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital and our entire community,” said Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital Board Chairman
Hinton “Bud” Owsley. “We are confident that with this support, we will be able to keep highquality care local and ultimately better serve the healthcare needs of our region now and in the
future.”

The loan approval is the result of a rigorous process that included leadership meetings in
Washington, DC, and Anniston, as well as extensive evaluations by HUD. The decision
underscores the importance of healthcare in Northeast Alabama and demonstrates the bright
future ahead for the region.

“We are proud to be one of only a few hospitals in the nation selected for this unique
opportunity,” said Louis Bass, CEO of Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital. “It’s a testament to the strength and resilience of
our community – and the collaboration of all involved. We are deeply grateful for the support of
the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama, the City of Anniston, our dedicated Board,
and our partners at Greystone and HUD. It would not have been possible without them.”
Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital intends to apply for a second loan through the HUD program that will address capital
equipment needs. Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital is excited about the progress to date and confident about the next steps
in the process.

“This achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital,” Bass added. “We are proud
of what we’ve accomplished together and even more excited for what lies ahead. Our team, our
community, and our partners are what make us who we are.”

About The Health Care Authority of the City of Anniston
The Health Care Authority of the City of Anniston (RMC) is the premier regional healthcare
provider for a five-county service area in northeast Alabama. With a total of 463 inpatient beds
located at its Northeast Alabama Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital and Stringfellow Campus, and
numerous outpatient facilities, urgent care and specialty clinics, Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital is the region’s leading
provider of choice. More than 1,900 employees, 300 volunteers and over 200 physicians, who
represent a full range of medical specialties – including cardiac, women’s, orthopedics,
oncology and emergency services – provide state-of-the-art healthcare to patients with integrity,
skill and compassion. Learn more at www.rmccares.org.

As a first-time parent, you’re no stranger to feeling overwhelmed by all the information you think you should know when caring for your baby. From their diet to vaccines to skin care products used and whether or not they should play with plastic toys, there are so many decisions to make regarding how you will raise your little one, and some you probably haven’t even thought of. One of those unknowns you may not have considered until now is what kind of water to use in your baby’s formula.

With various options available, you might wonder, “Can infants drink distilled water? Is it the best water for formula feeding?” Keep reading to have these questions and more answered.

What Is Distilled Water and How Is It Made?

Distilled water is created through the distillation process, whereby water is boiled to produce steam. This steam is then condensed back into liquid form, leaving it free of impurities and minerals. The result is pure H2O that doesn’t contain bacteria, viruses, or anything harmful to your baby.

Distilled Water vs. Other Types of Water

But distilled water isn’t the only kind of clean water out there. So, how does it compare to other types of water? Understanding the differences can help you make informed decisions for your baby.

• Purified Water: Like distilled water, purified water undergoes filtration to remove impurities. However, it may still contain trace minerals.
• Tap Water: Tap water is readily available and often treated for safety; however, it usually contains fluoride and other minerals. Be aware that too much fluoride, even in formula, can lead to fluorosis, a condition where soft white lines or streaks appear on your baby’s teeth. Tap water safety can vary significantly based on your location.
• Spring Water: Spring water retains the natural minerals of the springs it comes from. This can be beneficial, but it may still include contaminants depending on the source. 

When Can Babies Drink Water?

Babies generally don’t need additional water added to their diet before they’re six months old, the same age they’re ready to start consuming solid foods. Until then, breast milk or formula provides adequate hydration for your little one. In fact, introducing water too early can fill their tiny stomachs and leave less room for the essential nutrients they get from milk or formula. 

Additionally, since infant kidneys are not fully developed, consuming too much water can lead to water intoxication. This dangerous condition dilutes the sodium in their bloodstream and can result in serious health consequences like seizures, brain damage, or even death.

Is Distilled Water the Best for Formula Feeding?

Many pediatricians recommend using distilled water for mixing formula because it’s free from impurities and contaminants. Its lack of minerals ensures your baby receives the right balance of nutrients from the formula without interference. If you’re still unsure, talk to your baby’s pediatrician before changing their diet.

Can Infants Drink Distilled Water? Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital Answers

Navigating the best water options for your infant can be challenging. Choosing pure, safe distilled water can offer peace of mind and ensure your baby receives the proper nutrition without the risk of contaminants or fluorosis.

At Baptist Health Calhoun Hospital, we prioritize your child’s health and well-being. Our pediatric services and Women’s and Children’s Pavilion provide comprehensive care for your little one. Schedule an appointment with one of our friendly pediatricians to discuss the best nutrition options for your baby!

Welcoming a new baby into your home is an exciting and joyous occasion, but it also brings a host of new responsibilities—you need to create a safe environment for your young kids to prevent bumps, bruises, and other serious accidents.

However, when it comes to baby-proofing your house, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. From securing furniture to covering electrical outlets, baby-proofing identifies and mitigates any potential hazard that could endanger small children as they begin to explore their surroundings.  Here’s a checklist to baby-proof a house and transform every corner into a safe space for your curious explorer, whether it’s the nursery, kitchen, bedroom, or living room.

How to Begin Baby-Proofing Your Home

When learning how to baby-proof a house, the first step is to thoroughly assess your home for potential hazards. Get down on your hands and knees to see the world through your baby’s eyes and spot dangerous items you would have otherwise missed.

Here’s a checklist to guide you through babyproofing your home.

Securing Cabinets, Drawers, and More

Cabinets and drawers can harbor a multitude of dangers for curious toddlers, including:

• Cleaning products like detergents and disinfectants that can cause poisoning when ingested
• Over-the-counter and prescription medications that can be harmful if swallowed
• Knives, scissors, and other sharp utensils that can cause cuts and injuries
• Pots, pans, and other heavy objects that can fall and cause harm
• Electrical cords and outlets that can cause shock and burns

Depending on your needs and preferences, here are some baby safety locks to consider:

• Magnetic Cabinet Locks: These use magnets to keep cabinet doors closed. Adults can easily open them with one hand, but they remain shut for curious little fingers.
• Slide Locks: You can only unlock your cabinet by sliding a button or lever into a specific position.
• Swivel Locks: They’re similar to slide locks, but the lever needs to be swiveled to open.
• Spring-Loaded Latches: They require pressing a button to release the latch and open the cabinet.
• Press & Pivot Latches: They require a combination of pressing a button and pivoting a lever to unlock.

Here are some tips for baby-proof cabinets and baby-proof drawers for child safety.

• Choose the Right Child Safe Lock: When choosing a lock, consider the type of cabinet or drawer, its accessibility, and your desired level of discretion.
• Installation: For optimal security, follow each lock’s installation instructions. Additionally, the locks should be out of the baby’s reach, typically on the top corner or towards the back of the cabinet door.
• Double-Check: Once installed, test the locks to ensure they function properly and can’t be easily opened by your child.
• Cabinet Door Straps: For additional security, especially for lower cabinets, consider cabinet door straps that prevent the doors from opening fully.
• Secure Out-of-Reach Areas, Too: Don’t forget about cabinets and drawers in higher areas. These might seem inaccessible, but curious climbers can reach surprising heights.
• Replace worn-out locks: Locks can wear down over time. Regularly inspect them and replace them if necessary.
• Educate Older Children: Teach older siblings the importance of locking cabinets and drawers to protect younger children.

Baby-proofing Doors and Handles

Babies grow quickly and often reach door handles sooner than you anticipate. Left unchecked, your child may pinch those tiny fingers between the handle and the door frame, causing pain and injuries. Additionally, your curious baby may wander into areas that are off-limits, like bathrooms, pools, garages, or even outside. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent accidents and baby-proof door handles:

• Child-Proof Handle Covers: These plastic covers fit snugly over door levers, preventing tiny hands from gripping and turning them.
• Door Knob Covers: Similar to handle covers, these work for round doorknobs. Opt for brightly colored covers for visual deterrence.
• Safety Gates: Install safety gates at doorways leading to off-limit areas like stairs, kitchens, or bathrooms. Look for pressure-mounted gates for easy installation without drilling.
• Door Stops: Install door stops to prevent doors from slamming shut completely. These wedge-shaped devices, made of various materials, such as foam or rubber, prevent painful finger pinches.
• Focus on High-Traffic Areas: Prioritize babyproofing doors in areas your child frequents and where there are potential hazards.
• Double Duty: Consider combination door locks with handle covers for extra security, especially for lower doors.
• Test Regularly: Ensure door handle covers and safety gates are secure and functioning correctly.
• Temporary Solutions: For situations where permanent installations aren’t feasible, temporary door knob alarms or pinch guard straps can offer a quick safety measure.

Comprehensive Baby-Proofing Checklist

This comprehensive baby-proofing checklist addresses potential hazards in every room of your home to create a secure environment for your child.

General Home Safety Nursery and Bedrooms Kitchen Bathroom Living Room Laundry Room Outdoor Areas

Baby-Proofing FAQ

How often should I re-evaluate my home’s baby-proofing measures? Are there any baby-proofing considerations for pet owners? Can houseplants be hazardous, and how do I baby-proof them? What should I do to baby-proof my home for a visiting child?

Conclusion

Baby-proofing your home is an ongoing process that evolves as your child grows. By taking proactive steps and regularly updating your safety measures, you can create a safe and nurturing environment for your little one to explore and thrive. Start baby-proofing your house today and enjoy peace of mind as your child discovers their world safely.

Remember the first time you held your newborn? That magical bond wasn’t just emotional—it was physiological, too! This powerful connection is fostered by something as simple yet profound as skin-to-skin contact, where your bare chest meets your baby’s bare skin. But what is skin-to-skin contact, and what are the significant benefits (and any potential disadvantages) for both you and your baby? Let’s explore the science behind skin-to-skin time and how to make it a part of your parenting journey.

What is Skin-to-Skin Contact?

Otherwise called kangaroo care, skin-to-skin contact is more than just a cozy cuddle. When a baby lies on their parent’s chest, the warmth and familiar heartbeat create an environment that promotes neurological development and emotional bonding. The World Health Organization recommends that the baby be placed on the mother’s chest immediately after birth, and should occur for as many hours as possible in the days after birth.

In addition to regulating the baby’s temperature, heart rate, and breathing, this simple act triggers the release of oxytocin, the “love hormone,” that fosters trust and affection, ensuring a smoother transition from the womb to the outside world.

Here are some famous quotes by notable industry experts:

Benefits of Skin-to-Skin Contact

Both the child and their parents enjoy the benefits of kangaroo care. Here are the many physical and emotional benefits of skin-to-skin contact.

Emotional Connection and Bonding

The close, loving touch releases powerful bonding hormones like oxytocin, which allows your child to feel your warmth, closeness, and affection. This first interaction sets the pace for a strong attachment and trust that will shape your relationship for years to come.

Preventing Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression can affect your emotional well-being by triggering sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness. You might even struggle to care for your newborn and maintain healthy family relationships.

Fortunately, skin-to-skin contact can reactivate pathways to lower the risk of depression and balance maternal hormones. The release of oxytocin during skin-to-skin care can also reduce maternal anxiety and strengthen attachment.

Reduced Stress and Crying 

Your newborn infant communicates their discomfort by crying. When you nestle your baby against your chest, the reassuring warmth, heartbeat, and familiar scent triggers calming hormones. 

According to a 2022 study in Developmental Psychology, at least an hour of skin-to-skin time every day improved sleep and reduced crying among babies.

Improved Cognitive Development

Strong cognitive skills enhance your child’s ability to learn, solve problems, and adapt to new situations. They also contribute to better decision-making, critical thinking, and mental well-being. Kangaroo care is one of the most effective ways to achieve all these.

A Canadian study published in the October 2012 issue of Acta Paediatrica revealed that preterm infants receiving skin-to-skin contact had better brain function at 15 years old than those placed in incubators. This bonding process stabilizes the baby’s heart rate, improves oxygen levels, and enhances sleep, all of which promote brain development.

Increased Milk Supply 

Kangaroo care is also known to promote breastfeeding. The warmth and closeness of skin-to-skin contact can trigger your baby’s rooting reflex, making it easier to latch and breastfeed. Skin-to-skin contact also triggers oxytocin release to promote the milk ejection reflex.

This is in addition to stimulating the production of prolactin, which is responsible for milk synthesis. Furthermore, your young one quickly picks up on hunger cues from your scent and the smell of your breast milk—the more your baby nurses, the more milk your body produces, and the longer the breastfeeding session.

Promotion of Healthy Weight

Skin-to-skin contact helps regulate a baby’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing. This reduced stress allows the baby to conserve energy that goes towards growth and development, including healthy weight gain. The calm and secure environment created by skin-to-skin contact also improves digestion and absorption of nutrients. That’s not to mention the gentle stimulation that promotes gastrointestinal motility and enhances nutrient uptake.

Improves Heart and Lung Function

The calming effect of skin-to-skin contact can help regulate heart rate and breathing patterns in newborns. This is especially true for preterm babies who may struggle to maintain stable heart and breathing rates on their own. Additionally, kangaroo care regulates the infant’s body temperature, reducing the metabolic demand on their heart and lungs. A stable temperature means the body doesn’t work as hard to keep warm, conserving energy for heart and lung function.

How to Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact

More is better when it comes to skin-to-skin contact. However, the first two hours after the baby’s birth are the most important as they embed familiarity and lifelong connections in the parent’s and child’s minds.  

Continuous skin-to-skin contact is still helpful much later, with experts recommending kangaroo care for at least the first 20 weeks of life. This is particularly true for premature babies with a low birth weight who struggle to regulate their body temperature. 

What you’ll need to practice kangaroo care:

• A comfortable and quiet space
• A blanket
• Loose-fitting clothing that opens at the front (for you)
• Diaper (and possibly a hat and socks to keep your baby warm)

Steps:

1. Get comfortable: Find a relaxing position, like sitting in a chair or lying down. Prop yourself up with pillows if needed.
2. Undress yourself and your baby: Take off your shirt or bra and loosen any pants or bands. Undress your baby down to their diaper, leaving a hat and socks on if needed to keep them warm.
3. Position your baby: Place your baby directly on your bare chest, tummy to tummy. Their head should be turned to one side so their breathing isn’t obstructed.
4. Cover yourselves: Drape a blanket over both you and your baby to maintain warmth.
5. Relax and bond: Hold your baby close and enjoy the closeness. You can talk softly, sing, or simply cuddle.

Keep doing it as long as both you and your baby enjoy it. When they start squirming and trying to pull themselves off your chest, it might be time for something else.

Addressing Common Concerns

FAQs

Can both parents do skin-to-skin contact? What should I expect from my first kangaroo care? Is skin-to-skin contact only beneficial for newborns? Can skin-to-skin contact be done after a C-section? How long should skin-to-skin contact last? Is skin-to-skin contact beneficial for mothers? Does skin-to-skin contact support breastfeeding?

What safety concerns should I be wary of?

There are no known disadvantages of skin-to-skin contact for healthy newborn infants. However, your healthcare provider may delay kangaroo care if:

• The caregiver has a contagious illness that could affect the newborn skin.
• The mother is experiencing severe medical complications postpartum, such as excessive bleeding, severe preeclampsia, or is under anesthesia and not fully conscious.
• Your baby's breathing is troubled.
• The mother has used substances that could affect her ability to safely handle the baby, including certain medications, alcohol, or drugs.

Conclusion

In addition to promoting bonding, kangaroo care helps regulate the baby's temperature and heart rate while reducing stress and encouraging healthy breastfeeding patterns.

Feel free to contact us with any concerns about skin-to-skin contact and your child's development.

If you've gone through the process, we'd love to hear about your experience in the comments box below. Your insights will go a long way toward encouraging others on their parenting journey.