NEWS RELEASE

Ephraim McDowell Health will be offering a free hernia screening on Saturday, May 13 at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center. Surgical experts will share information about this common, but poorly understood condition, and the latest minimally-invasive procedures using the da Vinci Surgical System. Participants will also be able to view the da Vinci Surgical System.

Individuals experiencing any of the following symptoms may benefit from the screening:

• Swelling, a bulge or pain in the abdomen, pelvis or groin area

• Pain or discomfort, especially when bending over, coughing or lifting

• Weakness, pressure or a feeling of heaviness in your abdomen

The screening will take place from 8 a.m. to noon on the second floor (surgery waiting area) at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center. The screening is free, but pre-registration is recommended by calling (859) 239-2010 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Lifeguard recertification

McDowell Wellness Center is offering a lifeguard recertification class beginning May 5. The training will take place on May 5 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and May 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The class may also meet on May 7 if there is a large number of participants. Participants must have held an American Red Cross lifeguard certification within the last two years and the certification should not be expired more than 30 days to qualify for recertification training.

All participants are required to pass the pre-test: must be able to swim a total of 300 yards, consisting of 100 yards freestyle, 100 yards breaststroke, and an additional 100 yards of either freestyle or breaststroke. Students must also be able to tread water for two minutes and be able to recover an object from the bottom of the pool and return to the other end of the pool in a set amount of time.

The training consists of a lifeguard review course and in-person skill sessions over a period of 2-3 days. After successful completion of the course, participants will receive certification for Lifeguarding and Professional Rescuer, which includes CPR with AED and First Aid training.

Anyone interested in the recertification class should register by May 4. The class fee is $100 and includes participants’ review training, in-person skill sessions and certification card. Please call Karla Curtsinger at (859) 936-7219 or email Karla at: kcurtsinger@emhealth.org to register or for more information.