MRHC Introduces New GE Revolution Maxima CT Scanner

New CT scanner at MRHC

The radiology department at Manning Regional Healthcare Center recently upgraded their CT scanner to the state-of-the-art GE Revolution Maxima. The previous CT scanner was installed in 2010 at the former hospital location and brought to the new facility in 2014. Using new CT scanner

“With the acceleration of technology and the advancement of AI software, our old scanner quickly became outdated making the need for a new CT scanner a top priority,” said Director of Radiology, Linda Croghan, RT (R) (M)(CT)(ARRT). “Upgrading to a new model scanner allows for high resolution imaging, lower radiation exposure, more weight capacity and smart technology to account for specific patient anatomy.”

Previously, some patients had to be referred to other locations to receive CT services due to the aging technology. “With this new machine we have not had to refer anyone to other facilities in order to receive higher-quality scans,” said Croghan.

The new system also improves patient position accuracy and simplifies the entire patient set-up process by providing one-click, hands-free detection and automation.

The new scanner also reduces noise, decreases patient breath hold times, reduces time in the scanner, accelerates exam time from start to finish, reduces patient dose, and decreases contrast quantity. It improves the exam quality on patients where hardware (such as joint replacement) is present with metal artifact reduction software.

One of the unique features the CT scanner offers is the ability to the demonstrate the scan process to those who speak a different language or young children who may not understand directions or what is being asked, making the process more convenient for all who use the services.

“With this new scanner, we are able to deliver more personalized and comfortable care due to hands-free operation,” Croghan said. “Our plan is that once we become fully staffed we will begin to offer early detection cancer screenings.”

MRHC is offering a $10,000 sign-on bonus for a radiology technologist to start immediately. The qualified candidate will have a permit to practice radiography in the state of Iowa, be a graduate of an AMA-approved radiologic technology program, and have a current certification as a radiographer ARRT-R. To learn more about this position visit www.mrhcia.com/careers.

Dickson Takes Advantage of Career Opportunities at MRHC

Shelby Dickson

Shelby DicksonMRHC Registered Nurse, Shelby Dickson, is grateful for the opportunity to thrive in a career close to home and make a difference in healthcare. Even at a young age, Dickson knew she was meant to work in the medical field.

“I went to school for radiology and soon realized that I wanted to be involved in the problem-solving piece of patient care,” said Dickson. “I chose nursing because there are so many areas you can work in as a nurse. After getting my CNA and working as an aid on a Med/Surg/Peds floor, I found out that I loved patient care and that it was where I wanted to be.”

Dickson continued with nursing school at DMACC in Carroll and graduated in 2009. She worked in Med/Surg/Peds at Saint Anthony Regional Hospital until 2014 and then worked at a private clinic in Carroll for a year before accepting the health coach position at MRHC.

“At MRHC, employees can potentially wear a lot of hats, and I always took that as an opportunity to learn more and be helpful,” Dickson said. “As the Health Coach, I was a resource for the clinic nurses, so I continued to learn more about the clinic processes which has brought me to the position I am in today.”

Dickson has continued to advance in her career at MRHC and now works as the Clinic Director.

“MRHC has given me opportunities to learn and advance in my career. When the Clinic Director position opened, I had learned enough about the clinic that I was ready to take on a challenge and move up,” she said.

Dickson attributes her ability to advance and excel in her career partially to the management team at MRHC.

“Linn [Block] is always suggesting leadership classes and workshops to help me learn how to be an effective leader. Many managers have been supportive to me when it comes to new obstacles. There is always someone ready to listen and help guide you,” Dickson said.

Even when the pandemic presented new challenges, Dickson felt supported and empowered to make important decisions for staff and patients.

“Administration is always listening to my ideas, and we talk a lot about empathy here – putting yourself in the patient’s shoes. Keeping patients at the center of every decision we make benefits patients,” said Dickson.

The MRHC management team recognizes Dickson’s value to the hospital as well as how she has made significant changes to benefit patients and make the clinic an overall good place to work.

“Shelby has showed continued growth in her ability to lead our Family Practice Clinic, and she is well respected by the team,” said MRHC CEO, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA. “Shelby sees her role as ensuring our community has convenient access to quality, primary care providers.”

As for the future of her career, Dickson is eager to continue to advance in her education as well as grow in her role at MRHC.

“I love the people that I work with and the mission of the hospital. I hope to get my bachelor’s degree and take on more responsibilities here at MRHC.”

For a list of current openings or to apply at MRHC, go www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.