New director named
St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz has named Jennifer Downing as its director of surgical services, according to a news release.
In the new position, Downing will lead teams in preoperative, anesthesia, surgery, postoperative, PACU (postanesthesia care unit) and ambulatory care.
Her responsibilities include monitoring quality of care and safety, and ensuring the hospital adheres to regulatory guidelines and established national standards, the release said.
Prior to her appointment at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, Downing was nurse manager in surgical services at BayCare’s Mease Countryside Hospital in Safety Harbor (2016-2022) and Morton Plant North Bay Hospital in New Port Richey (2011-2016).
Downing has more than 30 years of health care experience with BayCare including registered nurse experience in preoperative, PCAU, recovery and discharge, critical care and operating room. She also is a certified nurse of the operating room, in addition to having registered nurse credentials.
Her education includes a master’s in nursing from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio; a bachelor in science from Florida State University, and two associate degrees, one in nursing and another in science, both from St. Petersburg College.
Resolve to be healthier
The West Central Florida County Health Departments, including Hillsborough and Pasco counties, recommends these healthy resolutions for the new year, according to a news release:
- Quit Smoking. Kicking the habit can lower the risk of cancer and heart disease. Free help is available at TobaccoFreeFlorida.com for tips, support and supplies.
- Be More Active. Join a gym or work simple exercises into your day such as walking, playing with the kids, or riding a bicycle. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of exercise a week, which can be broken into five 30-minute brisk walks. Visit CDC.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults for more guidance.
- Eat Healthier. Add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. There is no need to give up sweets and treats, but they should be saved for special occasions. Learn how to make a healthier plate by visiting CDC.gov/healthyweight/losing_weight/eating_habits.html.
- Visit Your Doctor. Use the new year as a time to reconnect and have a regular doctor checkup. Preventative maintenance is far less expensive than a trip to the hospital to treat an emergency. Call the local health department to see what resources may be available if you are uninsured or underinsured.
- Get Vaccinated. Vaccines can help prevent illnesses such as tetanus, measles, polio, mumps and whooping cough, in addition to COVID-19 and the flu. Make sure vaccines are up to date.
For more information or questions, call your local health department: DOH Pasco at 727-619-0300 or DOH Hillsborough at 813-307-8000.
