News and Events

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Kathryn Weil Center for Education releases June community education events

‘Farmer’s Market or Supermarket: Is There a Difference?’ is June ‘Lunch and Learn’ topic


Kathy Murray and Jeff Phillips, both with Purdue Extension’s Tippecanoe County office, will discuss the nutritional and monetary value of fresh produce and the difference between organic and non-organic foods during the June 7 “Lunch and Learn” program called “Farmer’s Market or Supermarket: Is There a Difference?” Elise Gustafson, R.D., a dietitian with Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health, and Jenna Dormer will have table displays highlighting healthy summer eating and garden safety tips.

“Lunch and Learn” is a monthly program offered by the Kathryn Weil Center for Education. This session will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 7. Lunch is available for $6 for Spirit of Women members and $7 for non-members at 11:30 a.m., with the free educational program starting at noon. The program will be held at the Kathryn Weil Center for Education located in the Medical Arts Building at 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette.

Seating is limited and reservations are required; lunch reservations must be received by noon on Tuesday, June 5. To register or for more information, call the Kathryn Weil Center for Education at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

Kathryn Weil Center for Education to host SHARE support group

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education will host the SHARE support group for parents who have experienced the loss of an infant. The group meets at the center at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. The next group meets June 5.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is located on the fourth floor of the Medical Arts Building, 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette. For more information, please call the center at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.



Kathryn Weil Center for Education to host Zumba

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education will host Zumba, continuing through June

Classes will be offered twice a week – on Tuesdays and Fridays in June. Cost is $4 per class or $30 for the month.

Classes will run from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and will be on the following dates:
  • Tuesday, June 5
  • Friday, June 8
  • Tuesday, June 12
  • Friday, June 15
  • Tuesday, June 19
  • Friday, June 22
  • Tuesday, June 26
  • Friday, June 29

The class is taught by Diana Quinonez, a certified Zumba instructor. Classes are suitable for all levels of physical activity, including postpartum moms.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is located in the Medical Arts Building, 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette. For more information, please call the center at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

Smoking cessation program scheduled


The Kathryn Weil Center for Education will present a smoking cessation program utilizing the Cooper Clayton Method for smoking cessation.

The program consists of 13 one-hour sessions. Sessions are scheduled for Wednesday, June 13 to Wednesday, Sept. 5 from 6 to 7 p.m. The introductory session on June 13 is free.

The course fee is $60 and includes a take-home handbook. The Cooper Clayton Method is a safe and effective way to help people stay smoke-free for the rest of their lives. The Cooper Clayton Method is a comprehensive behavioral smoking cessation program, based on science utilizing proven methods, which include education, skills training and social support. It was started by two faculty members at the University of Kentucky. Thomas Cooper, DDS, a dentist and former heavy smoker, developed the program with Richard Clayton, Ph.D., an expert on drug addiction.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is located on the fourth floor of the Medical Arts Building, 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette. For more information or to register, call the Kathryn Weil Center for Education at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.


Cholesterol screenings scheduled at Kathryn Weil Center for Education

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education will offer cholesterol screenings by appointment on Thursday, June 14 at the center. The price is $35 and registration is required; a special price of $31.50 for Spirit of Women members is available. The screening checks total cholesterol, HDL, total cholesterol/HDL ratio, triglycerides, LDL and glucose levels. Fasting is recommended, as it provides more accurate results, but not required. You are encouraged to drink water prior to your test; black coffee and black tea are also acceptable. A staff member will discuss your individual results.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is located on the fourth floor of the Medical Arts Building, 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette. For more information or to schedule your screening, call the center at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health offering tours of St. Elizabeth East Women’s Center

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education and Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health will offer tours of the St. Elizabeth East Women’s Center for expectant parents during June.

Participants in the tour will need to meet at the Heartland Perks coffee shop in the 3900 Building, located at 3900 St. Francis Way on the campus of St. Elizabeth East.

Tour dates and times are as follows:

  • Monday, June 4: Noon-1:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, June 7: 5-6:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, June 12: 4:30-6 p.m.
  • Thursday, June 14: 1-3:30 p.m.
  • Monday, June 18: 6-7:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday, June 20: 9-10:30 a.m.
  • Tuesday, June 26: 2-3:30 p.m.
To register for the tour, please call the Kathryn Weil Center for Education at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

Car seat clinic set for June 9 and June 15

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education will host a car seat clinic from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 9 and from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, June 15. To participate in the clinics, families must make an appointment by calling the center at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is located on the fourth floor of the Medical Arts Building, 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

‘New Baby Day Camp’ for siblings set for June 9

A new addition to the family affects everyone, especially the new baby’s older brother or sister. New Baby Day Camp, a program from the Spirit of Women, is a specific class for siblings. Open to children ages 3 to 9, this class assists in preparing the “expectant” sibling for the arrival of a new family member, the changes that might occur and how to discuss feelings regarding the new baby.

Seated around a “campfire,” children will listen to a story about what it means to be a big brother or big sister, discuss ways to help with their new sibling and have hands-on practice to prepare for the baby’s arrival. Children will have the opportunity to create a keepsake certificate announcing their new status as a big brother or big sister.

Information about visiting mom and the new baby at the hospital will be included. Children will receive a souvenir backpack with birth announcements and other items to prepare them to visit their new sibling in the hospital. At least one parent is expected to attend; however, both are welcome.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education and Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health are members of Spirit of Women, a national coalition of hospitals and health care providers that pledge to provide the highest standards of excellence in women’s health, education and community outreach.

The program is set for 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 9 at the Kathryn Weil Center for Education. Cost is $15; additional siblings are $5 each.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is located in the Medical Arts Building, 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette.

For more information or to register, please call the center at (765) 449-5133.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

Kathryn Weil Center for Education offering community safety and parent education classes

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is offering community safety and parent education classes in June. Courses include:
  • Expectant parent education classes (in classrooms or online), including Preparation for Childbirth, breastfeeding courses, newborn care, infant first aid and infant CPR
  • Creighton Model Fertility Care classes/pre-conception classes
  • Public and health care provider CPR
  • CPR/AED (automated external defibrillator)
  • First aid classes
  • Neonatal resuscitation classes
  • Tours of the Women’s Center at St. Elizabeth East.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is located in the Medical Arts Building, 415 N. 26th St., Suite 400 in Lafayette.

For more information or to register, call the Kathryn Weil Center for Education at (765) 449-5133 or visit www.ste.org/kwce.

The Kathryn Weil Center for Education is the community education department of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Local physician attends course

Louis S. Metzman, M.D.
Louis S. Metzman, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with Athens Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, recently attended "Current Advancements in Total Joint Arthroplasty" on May 10-11 in Chicago. Dr. Metzman enjoys taking these courses so he can stay up-to-date on the latest advances in total hip and total knee replacements.

Athens Orthopedic and Sports Medicine is located at 1702 Lafayette Rd. in Crawfordsville. For more information or to make an appointment, please call (765) 362-4400 or visit AthensMed.org.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health’s Food and Nutrition Services offers tips for sensational summer grilling, making a great burger


With warmer weather, family cookouts and picnics fast approaching, Executive Chef Chris Watson and Clinical Dietitian Anna Busenburg of Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health’s Food and Nutrition Services are offering food safety tips and tips to making a great burger.

  • Keep beef refrigerated: Grilling times are based on beef being taken directly from the refrigerator to the grill not at room temperature. Shape burgers in advance, cover and refrigerate until the grill is ready.
  • Trim, if necessary: Remove visible fat from meat and poultry before grilling to help prevent flare-ups and excess smoke formation.
  • • Marinating mantra: Always marinate in the refrigerator. Tender beef cuts can be marinated for 15 minutes to 2 hours for flavor. Less tender beef cuts should be marinated at least 6 hours – but no more than 24 hours – in a mixture containing an acidic ingredient or a natural tenderizing enzyme. Pat beef dry after removing from marinate to promote even browning and prevent steaming. Do not save marinade for reuse. If a marinade has been in contact with uncooked beef, it must be brought to a full rolling boil before it can be eaten as a sauce.
  • Grilling temperature matters: Grilling over medium heat ensures even cooking and flavorful, juicy meat. If beef is grilled over too high heat, the exterior can become overcooked or charred before the interior reaches the desired doneness. Charring meat, poultry or fish is not recommended.
  • Watch the charcoal: Never grill while the coals are still flaming. Wait until the coals are covered with gray ash (approximately 30 minutes), spread in single layer. To check cooking temperature, cautiously hold the palm of your hand above the coals at cooking height. Count the number of seconds you can hold your hand in that position before the heat forces you to pull it away; approximately 4 seconds for medium heat.
  • Know your gas grill: Since gas grill brands vary greatly, consult the owner’s manual for information about preparing the grill for medium heat.
  • • Turn properly: Use long-handled tongs for turning steaks; spatulas for burgers. A fork will pierce the beef causing loss of flavorful juices. And don’t be tempted to press down on burgers – it only releases the juices and creates flare-ups.
  • • Use a thermometer: The best way to determine doneness of burgers and steaks is to use an instant-read meat thermometer, inserted horizontally from the side to penetrate the center of the meat. Allow 10 to 15 seconds for the thermometer to register the internal temperature.
  • • Internal temperature matters: Cook burgers to at least 160°F the color of cooked ground beef is not a reliable indicator of doneness. Cook steaks to at least 145°F (medium rate doneness). The color will be very pink in the center and slightly brown toward the exterior.
  • Practice food safety: Keep raw meat separate from other foods both in the refrigerator and during preparation. Wash hands, all utensils and surfaces in hot soapy water after contact with raw meat. Never place cooked meat on platters that held raw meat. Use clean serving platters and utensils. Serve cooked food promptly and refrigerate immediately after serving (within two hours after cooking).

Busenburg offers the following tips to spice up your hamburger, veggie burger or other sandwich option:
  • Add flavor by adding spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic and onion powder.
  • Add moisture by adding egg whites or blueberries.
  • Use lean beef (choose 90% meat/10% fat).
  • Cook to an internal temp of 160ºF.
  • Use 100% whole wheat bun or use a sandwich thin.
  • Top with lots of vegetables such as bean sprouts, lettuce, tomato and red onion.
  • Make “spicy mayo” by mixing today 3 tablespoons reduced fat mayo, 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce or chili powder and 1 teaspoon lime juice.
  • In place of mayonnaise, try adding sliced avocado, which is rich in heart healthy fat.

For additional information, please visit StE.org.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health to host fun fair for families and NICU reunion

The Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health Pediatric Center will host a Healthy Families Fun Fair on Saturday, June 2, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in partnership with State Farm’s Annual Child Safety Day on the St. Elizabeth East campus located at 1701 S. Creasy Lane, Lafayette.




The goal of the fair is to inspire families in a fun way to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. The event is free and will feature fun, kid-friendly activities at every booth. Activities include:
  • Free car seat checks provided by State Farm and the Kathryn Weil Center for Education – During the event, parents can drive up to have their child’s car or booster seat checked by a certified car seat installer.
  • A bike helmet fitting provided by Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine. To help prevent bike related brain and spinal cord injuries, the neurosurgeons at Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine are giving away bike helmets to the first 150 children who are fitted (sizes vary from toddler to teen).
  • The K-IDS BMV mobile unit, sponsored by the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, will be on hand to provide free child ID cards. Each card features your child’s photo, finger print, identifiable features and important medical information. Child identification cards are an important tool to help expedite the quick recovery of a missing child.
  • Healthy eating tips and activities provided by Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health Food and Nutrition Services.
  • Various games and activities for families and children 12 and under including face painting and photos with a princess. All children under the age of 18 can enter to win a Wii.
  • Other groups with booths/activities at the event include Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health Pediatric Therapy, Kathryn Weil Center for Education, Lafayette OB/GYN, Pediatric Associates, Premier Healthcare for Women, Riggs Community Health Center, Sigma Medical Group, Woman’s Clinic and Unity Healthcare. Police, Fire and EMTs also will be on hand with safety information.
In addition to the Healthy Families Fun Fair, Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health will host a reunion for NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) graduates. Families with children who were treated in the Home Hospital or St. Elizabeth East NICU are invited to come and share their experiences with other families and to visit with the NICU physicians and nurses who cared for their child. A group photo will be taken at 11 a.m.

“Throughout the last 30 years Home Hospital and St. Elizabeth have been there to care for area babies during their time of need,” said Dr. Rosario Chua, NICU doctor. “It’s a very powerful experience for everyone involved. The NICU reunion is a chance to celebrate the children and connect with other families who share a similar experience.”

The Healthy Families Fun Fair is held in front of the 3920 Building on the St. Elizabeth East campus. Parking is available in the hospital parking lot. For more information, call (765) 502-4688 or to watch a video of last year’s event, go to www.ste.org/NICU.

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health teaching the risks of distracted driving

Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health is focusing on distracted driving during National Trauma Awareness Month. Collaborating with the Society of Trauma Nurses, Emergency Medical Services for Children and the American Trauma Society, Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health is urging our community to focus on this problem in May 2012 and throughout the year. This year’s theme is "Decide to Drive, Arrive Alive."

Distracted driving is a significant trend in our area. Motor vehicle collisions resulting in major injuries accounted for 54% of all traumas in the last 10 months at Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health’s facilities in Lafayette. Many of those are attributed to distracted driving.

The principal actions that cause distracted driving and lead to vehicle crashes include:
  • Electronic device use (cell phone, GPS, radio);
  • The driver’s state of mind;
  • Conversations with passengers;
  • Eating or snacking;
  • Reading or taking notes; and
  • Applying makeup.
Regina Nuseibeh, R.N., Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health’s trauma coordinator, will be reaching out to the public and local high schools to educate them on what distracted driving is and encourage them to make a pledge to drive safely.

Each year, a national committee convenes to develop materials for National Trauma Awareness Month. Committee members research current trends in traumatic injury, and based on this the committee selects one cause of major injuries to focus on during National Trauma Awareness Month.

Informational booths will be set at Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health – Lafayette East campus, 1701 S. Creasy Lane in Lafayette each Friday over the noon hour. For more information, please contact Regina Nuseibeh at (765) 502-4412.