May is Stroke Awareness Month!

There is emergency treatment for stroke but the window to receive it is based on when a patient was last seen normal, not when stoke symptoms started. Here is a quick and easy way to remember what to do. The National Stroke Association says to just remember the word FAST:

F (Face) Ask the person to smile. If one side of the face appears crooked or drooping this person may be having a stroke

A (Arms) Ask the person to lift both of his or her arms in the air--if he or she has difficulty with one arm this too might be a sign that this person is having a stroke

S (Speech) Ask the person to speak. If his or her words are slurred or they are unable to speak, they might be having a stroke

T (Time) If any of the above symptoms are present you must call 911 immediately.


Meet Your Parish Nurse

Hi , I'm Liz Neterval!  Many have not heard of a Parish Nurse. You may ask what do I do? I am a registered nurse, helping church members and the community to balance the health care system with spirituality. I am considered a member of the church program staff and attend weekly staff meetings. My ministry falls under Congregational Life.

Referrals 

• Pastoral care

• Mental health and community agencies

• Hospice and home health

• Specialists

• Web sites

Equipment

• Medical equipment, such as wheel chairs, canes, walkers, seat elevators, are available for loan.  See me or church staff for use as there is a release to sign.

• First aid kits and AED are maintained.

Education

• This web page is updated monthly with the latest information or topics.

• Newsletters are sent to moms in the congregation 4-6 times a year on parenting and health topics.

• Information is provided on the Health Ministries bulleten board, in the News and Views and in the weekly e-mails sent out by the church.

• Church groups receive education on a varity of topics.

• Speakers are brought in to address groups.

• Individual experiencing a new diagnosis can receive informaiton.

• Books are available in the Health Ministries office and various pamphlets are available there also.  I work with the Christain Education Team to procure education media for the library on topics such as grief, parenting and elder care.

Programming

• Coordinate/schedule  flu shots, blood drives, classes and training.

• Organize annual Valentine Dinners as a way for couples to gather and strengthen their convenants to each other.

Contact me with your questions or concerns!