Newsbriefs

Employees invited to participate in “Baking Wars 2019”

Show off your baking skills while supporting United Way and Icing Smiles at Baking Wars 2019 on Nov. 7. Contestants are invited to create homemade, handheld confections such as cookies, cupcakes, donuts, brownies, muffins or scones. Bakers must include at least two of four mandatory ingredients: dark chocolate, bacon, strawberry and mint. Sixteen spots are available for bakers, so sign up soon by emailing [email protected].

Language Services information tables Sept. 30

Language Services will celebrate International Interpreter and Translator Day Monday, Sept. 30, with information tables at the York Street Campus cafeteria entrance, 9 am - 3 pm, and the Saint Raphael Campus cafeteria entrance, noon - 4 pm. Staff will answer questions and provide information about accessing services and becoming a medical interpreter and translator. Employees are also invited to enter a raffle for a chance to win a prize. For more information, email [email protected].

Employee and Family Resources offers depression awareness webinar Oct. 1

It’s normal for people to feel “down” or “blue” at times, but if those feelings linger for long periods, it may be a sign of depression. With help, depression can be managed and treated effectively, but many people with severe symptoms do not seek treatment. Some people may not realize they are struggling; others may be ashamed of their feelings. Learn how to recognize depression symptoms and identify resources for those who need help at an upcoming depression awareness and treatment webinar, 2 pm Tuesday, Oct. 1. To register, visit the YNHH intranet homepage or the Employee and Family Resources (EFR) website and select Webinar Events. Concerned about your own feelings and want to learn more? Visit the EFR site to take a brief, confidential online depression screening. From the homepage, select Resources, then Assessments to access the questionnaire.

Safety matters: Surgical and procedural attire reminder

Surgical and procedural attire, such as gowns, masks, disposable hair or shoe coverings must be removed before leaving the work area. Do not wear these items in public elevators, cafeterias, restrooms, lounges, conference or break rooms. Practice 200% accountability. If you see a co-worker wearing a surgical mask outside a surgical or procedural area, remind the person to remove it. For more information, call Accreditation Safety and Regulatory Affairs (ASRA), 203-688-6374, or contact your ASRA liaison.

Pharmacy Technician Training Program dates announced

YNHH’s 19-week Pharmacy Technician Training program is for employees and members of the public interested in becoming a pharmacy technician. Under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist, technicians refill medication dispensing machines, manage emergency medications, prepare sterile and non-sterile compounds and perform other duties. Program admission requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 2.0 and adequate performance on a mathematics exam. Tuition is $3,350, but can be covered by the hospital’s Tuition Reimbursement Program. Sessions are scheduled to begin: Oct. 28, 2019, and in 2020: Jan. 13, March 30 and June 15. For information and an application, visit www.ynhh.org or contact [email protected] or 203-680-6392.

Upcoming health lectures and events

To register, visit www.ynhh.org/events.

• Understanding Kidney Disease: 7 - 9 pm Thursday, Sept. 26, Old Saybrook Medical Center, 633 Middlesex Turnpike.