UNews - Health Centre

Boil Water Order in effect at ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, throughout region

trevor.kenney — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 17:50:09 +0000

The City of Lethbridge has issued a Boil Water Order. This action does affect those living, working and studying on our Lethbridge campus.

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge will remain open with regularly scheduled classes for the duration of this Boil Water Order.

On Wednesday, Mar. 12, the City of Lethbridge declared a local state of emergency due to a critical water storage situation. In response, the City closed its pools and arenas to conserve water. Following the City’s lead, the U of L closed the Max Bell Regional Aquatic Centre and showers in the 1st Choice Savings Centre. The pool will remain closed and showers turned off until the Boil Water Order is lifted.

For additional information on the status of facility re-opening, please look for information here.

The U of L is making arrangements to bring additional bottled water on campus and is taking safety precautions for the duration of this Boil Water Order period. According to the City of Lethbridge, this Order is in effect until further notice and is expected to last several days.

Drinking Water

During the Boil Water Order, students, staff and faculty should not drink water from the fountains or taps and are encouraged to drink boiled or bottled water while on campus. Students living in residence, who have access to a stove, need to follow the Boil Water Order, which is included in a link below.

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ is working with suppliers in an effort to ensure bottled water is available on campus during this situation. It is expected that a significant shipment will arrive Friday morning. Availability may be short in the interim though. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to bring their own water with them until the Boil Water Order is lifted.

Washrooms

Washroom facilities at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ are operational. Please do not consume water from the taps.

Food Services

Food Services will be open on campus. Some regular menu items may not be available as adjustments are made to ensure safety of patrons.

Health Services

The U of L’s Health Centre is aware of this situation. Typical illnesses from untreated water can include signs/symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, and fever.

If you or someone you know is SEVERELY ill, please call 911 for an ambulance to transport them to the hospital.

If you are generally ill with symptoms that are manageable, please call the Health Centre at 403-329-2484 ext. 1 and ask to speak with a nurse about your symptoms. If the phone is not answered, please leave your name, phone number, and your symptoms to the confidential voice mail system. The Heath Centre will track illness due to this water event and will return your call to provide health advice on dealing with your illness.

If you are ill and unsure of what to do, you can Call Health Link Alberta 1-866-408-5465.

Additional Safety Measures

Fire safety/suppression systems are unaffected.

Signage has been placed by water fountains, building entrances and in washrooms alerting the campus community and visitors not to drink the water. Additionally, information about the Boil Water Order, and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s activities related to it, is posted on the Notice Board, Digital Signage and U of L social media channels.

More Information

Information about the City of Lethbridge Boil Water Order and be found on the City’s website.

Alberta Health Services has additional information about what to do during and after a Boil Water Order.

If there is a significant change in the situation, we will notify our campus community by e-mail. Also, please watch the Notice Board or the U of L’s Facebook page for additional updates.

Pomahac made indelible impression

trevor.kenney — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 17:35:23 +0000

On Monday, October 1, 2012, Dr. Anthony "Tony" Pomahac passed away at the Chinook Regional Hospital.

A memorial was held at Martin Bros Funeral home on Oct. 9 with his wife Hazel and family and friends in attendance.

Pomahac was the father of Andrea Glover in the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Library and also had another close connection to the U of L, as he was one of the founding physicians at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Health Centre.

"I have very fond memories of Dr. Pomahac," says Lori Weber, manager of the Health Centre. "He loved being a physician and worked here from 1969 until his retirement a few years ago. Like many of the physicians at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Health Centre who take time from their other clinics to see students and assist with their medical concerns, Dr. Pomahac believed in the education and medical care of young adults as they become our future workforce."

Pomahac was part of the growth of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Health Centre from a small facility that saw just a few clients a day to its current state, where thousands of students can be seen in a month for not only physician clinics, but also psychiatric care, massage therapy, chiropractor, health education, first aid and communicable disease issues.

Chris Moroz, clinic administrator, says that Pomahac left a lasting impression on the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community.

"Anyone who ever met Dr. Pomahac never forgot him, he was a larger than life character."

Indeed, those who knew Pomahac will miss his big booming voice, his sense of humour and his skilled medical care to several generations of ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ students. For a full obituary and to send condolences, please contact Martin Bros Funeral Chapel.

Whiffen looks to standardize first aid program

trevor.kenney — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 20:21:31 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is, in effect, its own bustling city. As such, it has all the infrastructure of what's expected in a small metropolis. The ability to not only deal with but also manage first aid situations is an essential service that has been entrusted to First Aid Co-ordinator Jacquie Whiffen RN (BA '10).

The nursing program alumnus has been in her role for just over a year now and during that time has been working to understand the current first aid landscape with the goal of establishing a program that will standardize and further publicize a co-ordinated program. People have been dealing with first aid situations in their own areas for years but overall co-ordination of all aspects has not been emphasized.

"Departments on campus each have their own way of recording incidents and it makes tracking of first aid issues less cohesive," says Whiffen. "Streamlining the process will aid in communication of key problems and aid in ensuring our overall safety."

Jacquie Whiffen sorts through a campus first aid kit, auditing its contents so that it will be stocked and ready for a possible first aid situation.

Much of her work in the first year has been in terms of an audit, including the creation of a grid that details how many employees are on campus at any given time, day or night. She's also been trying to determine just who on campus has been trained in first aid and whether they need to be recertified. Much of her summer work will consist of finding and charting where all the first aid kits exist on campus, then going through them to see if they are properly stocked.

"One of the main things we'd like to try and do in the fall is to present a first aid awareness campaign to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community so everyone is aware of how to respond to and report first aid situations or issues," says Whiffen. "The idea isn't to come in and change everything. If it's working, why fix it? Occupational Health and Safety Code has strict requirements for first aid in any workplace and we strive to both meet and exceed requirements to ensure everyone's well-being."

Whiffen is originally from Tumbler Ridge, B.C. and worked in a variety of administrative support roles, always telling the people around her that one day she would become a nurse. After giving birth to her first daughter, she decided it was time to finally make that dream a reality and she enrolled at Lethbridge College, putting her on the path to completing her nursing degree at the
U of L.

When she saw the opportunity to return to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ after working for two years as a nurse in a variety of roles, she jumped at the chance.

"I loved being here as a student, and for a nurse building a first-aid program presents a great challenge," she says. "I like to be challenged and this as an opportunity to grow professionally. It is great to be part of a place that people look out for each other and provide support when an individual faces a health concern."

As for first aid crises she faces at the U of L, Whiffen, who is based out of the Health Centre, says she sees everything.

"Nurses at the Health Centre see everything from cuts and bee stings to chronic disease related issues such as seizures or low blood sugar, as well as sports related injuries and slips and falls," she says. "In this position, I am looking forward to working with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ community to ensure people's first aid needs are met."

GET THE FACTS

• Whiffen is expecting her second child and will go on maternity leave in the fall

• Her parents moved from Tumbler Ridge to Elkford, B.C. some years ago, leading her to look at southern Alberta as a possible location to eventually go to school

• Whiffen appreciated the learning model in the nursing program. "I felt a lot of autonomy being here at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, there was a lot of freedom to shape my own education. You're given direction but you are also treated and respected as an adult and as an equal. I really think students appreciate that."

• For all questions related to first aid training or policies, contact Whiffen at jacquie.whiffen@uleth.ca

Whiffen looks to standardize first aid program

trevor.kenney — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:51:14 +0000

Jacquie Whiffen sorts through a campus first aid kit, auditing its contents so that it will be stocked and ready for a possible first aid situation.

When she saw the opportunity to return to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ after working for two years as a nurse in a variety of roles, she jumped at the chance.

As for first aid crises she faces at the U of L, Whiffen, who is based out of the Health Centre, says she sees everything.

GET THE FACTS

· Whiffen is expecting her second child and will go on maternity leave in the fall

· Her parents moved from Tumbler Ridge to Elkford, B.C. some years ago, leading her to look at southern Alberta as a possible location to eventually go to school

· Whiffen appreciated the learning model in the nursing program. "I felt a lot of autonomy being here at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, there was a lot of freedom to shape my own education. You're given direction but you are also treated and respected as an adult and as an equal. I really think students
appreciate that."

· For all questions related to first aid training or policies, contact Whiffen at jacquie.whiffen@uleth.ca

Flu still a valid campus concern

trevor.kenney — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 16:46:59 +0000

By LORI WEBER

After all the media hype and worry about H1N1 two years ago, most people seem to be relaxing when it comes to protecting themselves against influenza or 'flu'. But in the academic world, flu can still be a major problem.

In a 13-week semester for example, taking 5-10 days off can be problematic whether you are a student or employee at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ. So, what can you do individually and what can we do as a community to prevent the spread of respiratory-based illnesses?

On an individual level, handwashing remains as the number one strategy in diminishing your chances of getting ill. If you haven't had soap and water on your hands at least three times during a typical day at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, you haven't washed your hands enough.

When should you wash? You should break out the soap and water after sneezing or coughing, even if you have used a tissue, after toileting and definitely before touching food.

If you haven't cleaned your desk surface within the last few days, or if you are frequently touching your mouth and eyes, you are increasing your risk of illness.

If you do become ill, stay home for the time you are sick. Do not come to the Health Centre when you are ill with a cough/cold/flu. Instead, call us at 403-329-2484 and ask to speak with a nurse who will assess you and assist you with getting appropriate self-care resources or guide you to get medical treatment. Also, consider getting a flu shot in order to avoid illness and missing a chunk of school or work.

On a community level, please think about the people around you. If you have roommates, let them know if you are ill. Everyone in the house should greatly increase cleaning around the bathroom and kitchen areas specifically. As well, clean with a good disinfectant to protect the people around you.

Think about the professors who you are facing. Sneezing spreads droplets toward them at 200 miles per hour – covering your cough with an available Kleenex or even your shirt would be appreciated.

Again, staying home if you are ill protects everyone from your illness!

If you are diagnosed with an illness that can be spread easily, call the Health Centre at 403-329-2484 and ask to speak with a nurse. We will assess the situation and decide upon ways to protect the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ from illnesses such as mumps, chicken pox, stomach flus, etc.

Lori Weber is the manager of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Health Centre

How eating fish can improve your diet

trevor.kenney — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 17:47:47 +0000

By DIANE BRITTON

Are you confused about whether or not to eat fish?

Eating fish regularly is part of a healthy diet. In fact, Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating recommends at least two servings of fish per week.

Current research shows more benefits of fish consumption than drawbacks. However, it is now clear that consumption should consist mainly of fish lower in Methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations and higher in omega-3 concentrations (the healthy fats found in fish).

Best Bets

Fish that contain lower MeHg levels include mackerel, salmon, herring, sardines, oysters, shrimp, Pollock, catfish, scallops, tilapia, sole, arctic char, cod, "light" tuna (skipjack), yellow fin tuna, snapper and haddock.

Buyer Beware

Fish HIGHER in MeHg that should be avoided in large amounts include fish that live longer life spans and larger fish. Fresh or frozen tuna from albacore or blue fin, and other large fish such as shark, marlin and swordfish have higher concentrations of MeHg.

What's the Beef about MeHg?

MeHg concentrations in the environment are rising. Once it is in the fish, upon consumption, humans will absorb about 95 per cent of MeHg. MeHg is a neurotoxin found in both salt and freshwater fish in varying amounts. It is water-soluble and is stored in the muscle of the fish; so eating low fat varieties does not reduce consumption of MeHg.

MeHg affects both human central and peripheral nervous systems and particularly affects the developing brain in a fetus and in young children. Toxic amounts may also cause damage to the cardiovascular system. Eating fish in moderation and the type of fish consumed are important elements in a healthy diet.

For an individual nutrition appointment call the Health Centre (SU 020) at 403-329-2484. Hour-long sessions are $40 for U of L students and employees. Diane Britton is the registered dietitian for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. This is her final column as she has accepted a position with Alberta Health Services.

This column first appeared in the Legend. To view the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Something fishy

trevor.kenney — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 20:37:37 +0000

Are you confused about whether or not to eat fish?

Eating fish regularly is part of a healthy diet. In fact, Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating recommends at least two servings of fish per week.

Best Bets

Buyer Beware

What's the Beef about MeHg?

For an individual nutrition appointment call the Health Centre (SU 020) at
403-329-2484. Hour-long sessions are $40 for U of L students and employees. Diane Britton is the registered dietitian for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. This is her final column as she has accepted a position with Alberta Health Services.

This column first appeared in the Legend. To view the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

How to beat the fast food frenzy

trevor.kenney — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 17:54:29 +0000

By DIANE BRITTON

If you're eating fast food more than a couple times a month, boost your nutrition with these tips to beat the fast food frenzy.

Bank on Breakfast

No matter how little time you have in the morning, always eat breakfast. Even if it isn't the ideal breakfast, it will help you avoid buying a fast food breakfast or mid-morning pastry. Grab-and-go ideas for a quick breakfast include: a homemade smoothie in a travel mug, an apple or banana, or packing a spoon with a yogurt to eat when you get to school or work.

Plan to Eat

Pack healthy foods the night before. Fresh, canned or dried fruit, veggie sticks, low fat cookies such as Fig Newtons, or low fat crackers such as Stoned Wheat Thins with a cheese string or yogurt, are quick and satisfying snacks. They'll provide you with staying power compared to high-sugar snacks that leave you hungry and wanting more.

Skip the Fast Food – Choose Sandwiches

Subs and wraps (select whole grain) loaded with extra lettuce, tomatoes, green peppers, onions and cucumbers are a healthy choice. You can also add a lean protein, such as hummus, chicken, turkey, ham or roast beef, for better aofppetite control. Go easy on the mayo or special sauces to keep your calorie count down. Either purchased or homemade, these sandwiches are delicious and quick to eat.

Beat the Lunch Box Blues

Purchase different foods each time you shop to boost your lunch bag variety. Try different types of grains, protein choices, vegetables and fruit each week. Variety in a lunch packed from home keeps you from being tempted to purchase lunch items from a restaurant or vending machine. Variety is the spice of life!

For an individual nutrition appointment, call the Health Centre (SU020) at 403-329-2484. Hour sessions are $40 for U of L students and employees.

Diane Britton is the registered dietitian for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge

This story first appeared in the Legend. For a look at the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Proper snacking controls weight

trevor.kenney — Fri, 20 May 2011 20:36:50 +0000

By DIANE BRITTON

Do snack attacks hit you when you're least prepared? If you skip breakfast and other meals or snacks throughout the day, eventually the munchies will catch up with you. Here are some healthy ideas for eating on the run that will help control the snack monster in each of us.

Portable Fruits

Fruit is a great snack or healthy addition to any meal or snack. Fresh, dried, frozen (pack in a small portable container) or canned (in its own juice or pear juice won't have added sugar), fruit is always a positive choice. Ideas for good snacking fruits include apples, applesauce, blueberries, bananas, plums, Mandarin oranges, pears, peaches, dried apples or dried apricots.

Veggie Munch Packs

Packing at least one serving of vegetables (125 ml) to eat during the day adds a delicious crunch to any meal or snack. To pack in nutrition and fibre and help control your appetite, eat a variety of colors. Veggies such as carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, peppers and radishes all make quick, satisfying snacks.

Milk Your Snacks

Whether you choose dairy or soy – milk, cheese and yogurt pack a punch when it comes to nutrition and appetite control.

Protein Power

Adding protein to your snacks will help keep you alert and control the munchies. Lean meats that pack in the protein include ham, turkey, chicken, pastrami and roast beef. Add variety to your snacks by including hard-boiled eggs, hummus, tofu, tuna, salmon or 60 ml of nuts and seeds or nut butters.

Diane Britton is the registered dietitian at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. For an individual nutrition appointment, call the Health Centre (SU 020) at 403-329-2484. Hour sessions are $40 for U of L students and employees.

This column first appeared in the Legend. For a look at the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Fast food frenzy

trevor.kenney — Tue, 17 May 2011 20:34:30 +0000

If you're eating fast food more than a couple times a month, boost your nutrition with these tips to beat the fast food frenzy.

Bank on Breakfast

Plan to Eat

Skip the Fast Food – Choose Sandwiches

Beat the Lunch Box Blues

For an individual nutrition appointment, call the Health Centre (SU020) at 403-329-2484. Hour sessions are $40 for U of L students and employees.

Diane Britton is the registered dietitian for the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge

For a look at the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

UNews - Health Centre

Boil Water Order in effect at ��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ, throughout region

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Pomahac made indelible impression

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Whiffen looks to standardize first aid program

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Whiffen looks to standardize first aid program

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Flu still a valid campus concern

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How eating fish can improve your diet

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Something fishy

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How to beat the fast food frenzy

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Proper snacking controls weight

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Fast food frenzy

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Boil Water Order in effect at ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, throughout region