Author: Winneshiek Medical Center

Meghan and Ryan Harrod from Cresco, IA welcomed their first born, Treyton, in 2019 at Winneshiek Medical Center with Andy Goodner, M.D., Mayo Clinic Health System family medicine and obstetrics physician. When they found out they were expecting again they knew they wanted to see Dr. Goodner. Meghan shares, “Dr. Goodner and the OB team were so accommodating when we delivered Treyton. They made sure I was as comfortable as possible, and provided great care.”

On the evening of December 14, 2021, the Harrod’s left home for an induction with their second child. When they had arrived at Winneshiek Medical Center it was evident the organization was preparing for the predicted wind storm about to impact the area the following morning. Meghan says, “Connie (Klimesh), obstetrics nurse at WMC, brought in flashlights to the labor room in case things got as bad as they had expected.” As Meghan’s labor progressed, so did the weather.

The OB team moved Meghan and Ryan to a tornado save room for safety precautions. Once Meghan was settled, the anesthetist came to provide her with an epidural. “I knew I wanted an epidural, but I was nervous. When I received my first epidural during my pervious delivery, my blood pressure had dropped slightly,” says Meghan. “However, I explained the situation to the provider and was reassured with their familiarity of those types of situations. Prior to getting my epidural this time around, I was happy to have my nerves put at ease.”

While things were progressing with Meghan’s labor the nurses were doing their best to keep her distracted by offering baby name ideas. “One nurse even mentioned to me the name Gus because it was going to be “gusty” outside. It was fun to laugh and joke around with them,” says Meghan. “To be honest, Ryan and I wouldn’t have known the weather was bad if it wasn’t for the overhead announcements happening because everyone’s focus was on us and providing a safe delivery for Kal.”

Meghan and Ryan Harrod with their sons Treyton and Kalvin. When they found out they were expecting their second child they knew they wanted to see Dr. Goodner.

Meghan and Ryan welcomed their second son, Kalvin into their family. Meghan shares, “soon after delivery Kalvin was placed on my chest, and just like that the power went out for about two minutes before the generators turned on.” Following the delivery, the Harrod family remained in the labor room for some time for safety reasons due to the power outage. “It’s our goal to provide a secure, safe and comfortable environment for mothers and babies before, during, and after delivery,” shares Brianne Leikvold, RN, nursing director for obstetrics at Winneshiek Medical Center.

Once it was safe Meghan, Ryan, and baby Kal were transferred to their postpartum room, and provided a snack from the nutrition services team. “The kitchen didn’t have power because of the storm, but they made sure to take care of us to the best of their ability,” comments Meghan. “Once the power was restored throughout the facility the meals were satisfactory!”

“Dr. Goodner checked on Kal and I routinely to make sure the wind storm didn’t cause added anxiety or nervousness to either of us. It’s nice to have access to a rural hospital that cares so deeply for their patients,” says Meghan.

“It’s important to me that my patients feel comfortable and safe during their postpartum stay, shares Dr. Goodner. “Welcoming a newborn into the world brings on a whole new level of emotions, so connecting with my patients frequently to assess their needs has always been a top priority for me.”

At Winneshiek Medical Center, birthing is special and personal. Our team of Mayo Clinic Health System physicians, plus one midwife, works alongside our specialized obstetric nurses to provide an unparalleled experience for families. Our providers deliver over 90 percent of their own prenatal patients, a reassuring statistic you may not find in larger facilities. To make an appointment for prenatal care at Winneshiek Medical Center call 563-382-2911.

Winneshiek Medical Center Decorah Clinic Audiology is pleased to provide patients donated hearing aids who qualify through the clinic assistance program. “This has benefited patients who otherwise would be unable to get hearing aids,” shares Cynthia See, Au.D., Mayo Clinic Health System audiologist at WMC Decorah Clinic

The program allows anyone to donate any brand of used hearing aids that are in good condition to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, and then reused for patients in need. “Patients appreciate the program because it truly changes their quality of life,” shares Dr. See.

If you’re interested in donating used hearing aids or want to support the program with a monetary donation contact Winneshiek Medical Center Foundation. You may request a tax-deductible donation receipt if you choose. “We’re pleased offer this program to the patients we serve,” says Holly Kanengeiter, WMC Foundation coordinator. “It’s another way we can address the health needs of our community and support those patients who are dealing with hearing loss.”

Winneshiek Medical Center Audiology specializes in evaluating and treating patients with hearing loss. In addition to fitting hearing aids, Dr. See can help with concerns about hearing, ringing of the ears, dizziness, ear fullness, and ear drainage. For more information visit: Winneshiek Medical Center – Audiology.

The drive home from Christmas break changed the course of Calista Brockman’s junior year at Upper Iowa University.  Just 10 short minutes away from Fayette, Calista lost control of her vehicle on slippery roads and slid in the ditch. Although her car was damaged, Calista did not have any noticeable injuries and was able to end her night without an emergency room visit.

However, within a few days, Calista noticed dizziness and balance issues.  A softball player for UIU, she spoke to her athletic trainer about it who referred her to Emily Connor, M.D., Mayo Clinic Health System orthopedic surgeon at Winneshiek Medical Center. Calista says, “Dr. Connor saw me in the UIU training room the next day, which was really convenient since my car was no longer drivable.  She is one of our team physicians and her specialty is orthopedic surgery.  Dr. Connor thought I had a concussion but wanted someone familiar with concussion care to confirm and follow my recovery.”

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that affects brain function and is usually caused by a blow to the head or violent shaking of the head and/or upper body.  Symptoms of concussion may include, but are not limited to:

• Headache
• Temporary loss of consciousness
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Change in mood or behavior
• Sensitivity to light and sound

Scott Bohner, D.O., Mayo Clinic Health System family medicine physician at Winneshiek Medical Center has been treating patients with concussion symptoms for the past 13 years. In July of 2017, Dr. Bohner furthered his education and obtained his Credentialed ImPACT Consultant (CIC) certification to provide ongoing concussion care to athletes in the region. Dr. Bohner says, “Dr. Connor referred Calista to me and I met with her at Winneshiek Medical Center’s Upper Iowa Clinic on their campus. Through our visit, it was clear she had a concussion. Her best course of treatment was to rest to allow her brain to heal, and to work with physical therapy to address the dizziness and balance issues she was experiencing.”

Calista was out of softball for about one month as she recovered.  Her physical therapy sessions and follow up medical visits were held at UIU and in Decorah.  She says, “Winneshiek Medical Center manages all our health services on campus, including athletics, so it was coordinated to meet my schedule.  I was even given the cell phone numbers of my health care providers in case I needed anything during my recovery.”  Upon her completion of physical therapy, Calista was cleared to go back to practice, and within a few weeks, the team was off to Florida for a tournament.  Calista, who covers some third base, but mostly hits, was able to play with her team.  Calista says, “I’m thankful for the care I received at college.  The doctors, therapist and trainer became my team while I recovered, and it is great to be back on the softball field!”

Senior Circuit exercise classes are held on Tuesdays from 8:45 to 9:45 am in the Calmar Rehab Clinic.

Senior Circuit classes are structured to include exercises for cardio, strength, flexibility, endurance and balance – emphasizing correct and safe techniques for older adults.

Location

WMC Calmar Rehab Clinic
115 North Maryville
Calmar, IA 52132

Cost

Interested participants can purchase one Senior Circuit class for $5, or purchase a 10-class Senior Circuit punch card for $45.  Anyone recovering from a recent injury or surgery should consult with their doctor before attending this class.

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