- News & Press Releases, Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogPeer-reviewed publication in New England Journal of Medicine validates findings first announced in December The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) has published final results of a nationwide multicenter study led by researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health that show plasma from patients who have recovered from COVID-19 and whose blood contains antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, the causative virus, is an effective and safe option as an early outpatient treatment for the disease. Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center was one of twenty-two academic medical centers nationwide that participated in the study. The research showed that antibody-rich COVID-19 convalescent plasma —collected from recovered patients and administered to COVID-19 outpatients within nine days after testing positive — reduced the need for hospitalization by more than half. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently authorizes this plasma as a treatment option for inpatients and outpatients with immunocompromised status. “Based on our findings and conclusions — which are now validated through the peer-review process — we encourage health care professionals to keep SARS-CoV-2 antibody-rich blood plasma available in their blood banks as part of the treatment arsenal against early-stage COVID-19,” says study co-lead author David Sullivan, M.D., professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health with a joint appointment in infectious diseases at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “We believe that the best role for convalescent plasma is extending its use to early outpatient treatment when other therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies or drugs, are either not readily available — as in low- and middle-income countries — or ineffective, as with SARS-CoV-2 variants that are resistant to certain monoclonal antibodies,” Sullivan adds. “The research team at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) honors the patients involved in this study who are among the more than 400 patients at LHAAMC who have participated in research studies for COVID-19,” said Barry Meisenberg, M.D., chair of the department of medicine at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center and local principal investigator for the study. “Their voluntary participation has led the search for lifesaving therapies, not just for themselves, but for future patients all around the world.” In the outpatient early-treatment study conducted between June 2020 and October 2021, the researchers provided 1,181 randomized patients with one dose each of either high antibody containing convalescent plasma (containing a concentrated mixture of antibodies specific to SARS-CoV-2) or placebo control plasma (with no SARS-CoV-2 antibodies). The patients were 18 and older, and had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 within eight days prior to transfusion. The study found that 17 patients out of 592 (2.9%) who received the convalescent plasma required hospitalization within 28 days of their transfusion, compared with 37 out of 589 (6.3%) who received placebo control plasma. This translated to a relative risk reduction for hospitalization of 54%. Patients treated within 5 days of the positive test appeared to have an even better outcome: reduction of 80% in the risk of hospitalization, similar to other authorized therapies. The next step, the researchers say, is to make convalescent more accessible to those who might need it. As part of that effort, they have provided clinicians with a guide for implementing a plasma transfusion center for outpatients with COVID-19, including logistical, staffing and blood banking requirements. The team also continues to seek more understanding of how convalescent plasma works. A soon-to-be published study will look at the ability of plasma to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants, including delta and omicron, despite no previous donor exposure to those viruses. You can read the pre-print manuscript here.0
- Digestive CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogSoon, kids everywhere will be making their way back to the classroom — and in some cases, for the first time in quite a while. Whether thoughts of your little ones heading back to school evoke tears or applause, this much is clear: It’ll take some time to get back in the swing of things, even for mom and dad. Though you may be out of practice packing your kids’ lunches, this midday meal is essential to fuel your child’s mind and body for the afternoon. You might be thinking, “how do I prepare a healthy meal for my child? Or, “how do I get them to eat it?” These are good questions, and we’ve got the answers. 1) Brush up on food facts A healthy meal for a school-aged child is pretty much the same as a healthy meal for an adult. It includes nutrient-rich foods from key food groups — proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and dairy products — and goes easy on added sugars, and saturated fats and sodium. By design, school lunch programs provide nutritious meals that are a good value for your money. But if your kiddos would rather bring a meal from home, allowing them to pack will go a long way in ensuring they get a midday recharge. 2) Consider a sandwich makeover Sandwiches are a noontime staple. To boost their nutritional content, serve them on whole-grain bread and add veggies, such as baby spinach, tomatoes, sliced cucumbers or shredded carrots. To make a sandwich more interesting — and something your child will be more likely to eat — you could even use cookie cutters to make them into fun shapes. Other unique “sandwich” options include: Making mini sandwiches on sweet potato or whole wheat crackers instead of bread Rolling meats, cheese and lettuce, in a whole wheat tortilla and then slicing it into small rounds Smearing low-fat cream cheese low-sodium pickle or carrot stick and wrapping it in deli meat 3) Rethink your child’s drink Choosing a healthy drink for your child’s lunch is just as important as choosing healthy foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends providing mostly water and unflavored milk for beverages. The amount of fluid your child will need every day will depend on their age, but in general the recommendations can range from 32-64 ounces per day. To help limit the amount of added sugar your child drinks per day, limit flavored milks, sports drinks, and other juices that contain added sugar. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting 100% fruit juices to 4 to 8 ounces per day. 4) Think outside the (lunch) box Of course, sandwiches don’t have to be part of every lunch. Mixing things up may keep your child from getting bored. Get creative and try: Finger foods. Cubed cheese and deli meats, sliced hard boiled eggs, berries, baby carrots, popcorn, and nuts are great choices. (Be sure to check the school’s policy on nuts in the lunchroom. They can be dangerous for kids with allergies.) Fruit kabobs. Place your kids’ favorite fruits on a wooden skewer to make rainbow kabobs: think blueberries, green grapes, pineapple, cantaloupe and strawberries, for example. It’s also fun to include also plain yogurt for dipping. Veggie kabobs. Just like fruit kabobs, veggie kabobs can be appealing and delicious. Options include cucumber slices, zucchini chunks, grape tomatoes, olives or whatever your child enjoys. Hummus, peanut butter or light ranch dressing are possible dips. 5) Eat the rainbow Choosing colorful food can help make a more attractive plate that is fun to eat for kids. The different colors of fruits and vegetables provide different vitamins and minerals. So, by including a variety of colors in your child’s lunch you are increasing the amount of nutrition they get from their meal. 6) Get the kiddos involved Kids are more likely to be excited about their lunches if they have choices and are involved in the process. Here are a few suggestions: a. Make a list. Together with your kids, create a list of healthy foods they enjoy within each key food group. It might look something like this: Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, low-fat cheese, cottage cheese Fruits: Apples, grapes, watermelon, berries, pineapple, cantaloupe, olives (Yep, they’re fruit!) Protein: Deli turkey or roast beef, hard-boiled eggs, nut butters, hummus, nuts Vegetables: Carrots, celery, grape tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli, cucumbers Whole grains: Whole wheat tortillas, popcorn, whole-grain bread, pasta, crackers, cereal b. Shop together. Take your kids to the grocery store with you and let them pick out healthy items (with your approval). They might even find new foods they’re willing to try. It’s also a good idea to get your child’s input when purchasing a lunch bag and storage containers. Just like a backpack, this back-to-school item allows kids to show a little personality. Kids are also more likely to take care of their belongings if they love them. c. Plan a menu. Based on your purchases, sit down together and plan a lunch menu for the week. Aim to include foods from each category each day. And occasionally, a few bites of dark chocolate or an oatmeal raisin cookie are nice. d. Pack ahead. Try bagging or packing items on the weekend for the upcoming week. It’s easy enough to keep them fresh in the fridge, and it will help your mornings run more smoothly. It’s also fun to add a note, funny picture or joke every day. These little pieces of home give kids reassurance, encouragement and something to look forward to at lunch time. 7) Keep it safe When it comes to food, safety should always be a priority. Before packing the lunch pail, consider these safety tips: Freeze drinks, such as juice boxes, water bottles or milk cartons. They should thaw by lunchtime. Use an ice pack to keep perishable foods safe. A frozen water bottle also works well. Wash reusable storage items every day, including lunch boxes, utensils, cups or thermoses and reusable storage containers or bags. Author Allie Helbling, MS, RD, LDN, is a dietitian at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center.0
- News & Press Releases, Cancer CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLanham, MD — Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC) has received a meaningful donation made in memory of Tyrena Spry, a beloved mother, sister, daughter, and friend who was cared for at the hospital before her passing in 2012 following a courageous battle with breast cancer. The donation of “chemo comfy bags” is intended to support patients currently undergoing cancer treatment and to honor Tyrena’s enduring spirit, strength, and compassion. Known as the glue that held her family together, Tyrena Spry was affectionately called Ma, Tye-Tye, Weenie, May May, Rennie, and Auntie Rena. Even as cancer challenged her body, Tyrena remained defined by her warmth, creativity, and devotion to her son, Kennedy Birdwell, while continuing to uplift everyone around her. "The hospital staff was with our family during one of the most difficult chapters of our lives," said Shavon Spry, Tyrena’s sister. "This donation is our way of saying thank you and carrying on Tyrena’s belief that even in the hardest moments, kindness and hope matter. She would want every patient to know they are not alone and that their strength is greater than they realize." The donation of “chemo comfy bags” are designed to provide comfort and encouragement to patients undergoing cancer treatment. Each bag is thoughtfully filled with items such as books, journals, cozy blankets, scarves, hats, snacks, and more to help ease long treatment days. The family initially set a goal of assembling 50 bags in honor of what would have been Tyrena’s 50th birthday, but the effort quickly gained momentum throughout the community. With support from friends, neighbors, and a local Girl Scout troop that joined the initiative, the drive ultimately resulted in the donation of more than 100 “chemo comfy bags” to cancer patients. To express gratitude for the family’s generosity and the opportunity to carry Tyrena’s legacy forward, nurses, physicians, and care team members gathered for a ceremony honoring Tyrena’s memory and reflecting on her courageous journey. “We are deeply honored to receive this donation in memory of Tyrena Spry,” said Deneen Richmond, president of LHDCMC “Her story reflects the courage, love, and perseverance we see in so many of our patients every day. Gifts like this help us provide comfort, compassion, and support to individuals and families navigating cancer treatment, and we are grateful to the Spry family for allowing us to be part of Tyrena’s lasting impact.” The donation will help support comfort initiatives for patients undergoing treatment, offering reassurance during a challenging time. The Spry family hopes that each recipient feels a sense of peace and encouragement, carrying forward Tyrena’s message of courage, faith, and joy. "Tyrena taught us that true strength isn’t about never falling," added representatives of the family. "It’s about rising every time and lifting others along the way."0
- Senior CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogNo one wants to think about getting sick or hurt on vacation. But if this does happen, being prepared can make the experience much better—and safer. Here’s a safety checklist for your pre-trip planning. If you’re older or have chronic health issues, see your doctor four to six weeks before your trip to make sure it’s safe for you to travel. Tell your doctor where you’re traveling, for how long and what activities you might do. Check to make sure your vaccinations are current, including a flu shot. Make a list of your current medications and allergies and take the list with you on your trip. Include the names and phone numbers of your doctors and your pharmacy. If you have a history of heart disease, ask your cardiologist to give you a wallet-sized version of your latest electrocardiogram (EKG). This will give emergency department (ED) doctors something to compare if you have heart troubles while away. It’s also a good idea to bring over-the-counter medicines: Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, Benadryl and a thermometer should be part of your travel health kit. Remember to bring a note on your doctor’s letterhead if you are taking controlled substances or injectable medications. For older travelers with health conditions, be careful about your amount of activity —going to graduations, weddings, reunions and other parties on top of sightseeing can be stressful and make health issues worse. Try to build in rest time so you stay safe and healthy. What to expect in the ED If you do end up in the ED, a nurse will assess your symptoms, measure your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature and oxygen level), and gauge any pain you may be having. This process helps define how severe your condition is, so that the most urgent patients are seen first. The ED has an expert team led by emergency physicians to assess and treat problems. Other team members may include registered nurses, physician assistants, registered nurse practitioners, ED technicians, respiratory therapists, care managers and social workers. Most EDs, like ours, have specialists such as orthopedists, cardiologists and surgeons on call 24/7. We can call them in to provide care when needed. After your care team reviews all necessary treatments and procedures, your provider will determine whether you can leave the hospital, or if it’s necessary to stay. If you require follow up while you’re still in town, a doctor will refer you to a local primary care provider or specialist. In some instances you may need to return to the ED for a final checkup. While you may not be able to prevent an illness or injury while traveling, planning ahead can make it easier to deal with. Author Mike Remoll, MD, is the medical director of the Emergency Department at Anne Arundel Medical Center. Originally published June 29, 2016. Last updated May 21, 2019.0
- SpecialtyEvery parent wants their child to be happy and healthy. When your child is sick or injured, we provide the specialized, age-appropriate care they need. We offer skilled pediatrics teams in both pediatric emergency and pediatric inpatient care. Surgeons from both Children's National Medical Center and Johns Hopkins University are providers within our community. This allows us to offer your child the care they would receive in a children's hospital, close to home. Our units are child and family friendly, with special staff devoted to making the experience easier., Why Choose Luminis Health Our pediatric experts help provide a unique experience throughout your child's visit, including: Nurse navigators: We're your family's personal point of contact during *your child's visit to the ER or if your child is admitted. We coordinate your child's care in the hospital and connect you with outpatient support as needed. We also answer all your questions about your child's diagnosis and treatment. Nurse navigators can provide emotional support and the educational resources you need. Certified child life specialist*: With backgrounds in psychology and child development, these experts help kids to feel more secure in an unfamiliar environment. We use age-appropriate language and medical materials to help your child understand what to expect with their treatment and recovery. We also use therapeutic play to help your child cope with the stress, fear, and confusion that can occur during a hospital experience. * These are services typically found at specialized pediatric hospitals, but we offer them for your family here, close to home. Pediatric donation props View the list of donation props0
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