Baptist Health Fort Smith & Van Buren

12/23/2025

Even Santa needs to BE FAST when it comes to stroke awareness! Luckily, Nurse Amy is here to spread cheer and education.

Long nights, lots of cookies, and holiday stress can put anyone at risk. Good news: knowing the signs can save a life.

🚨 BE FAST 🚨
Balance – Sudden dizziness or trouble walking
Eyes – Vision changes
Face – Facial drooping
Arm – Arm weakness
Speech – Slurred or hard-to-understand speech
Time – Call 911 immediately

If Santa (or anyone!) shows these symptoms, don’t wait—every minute matters. This holiday season, give the gift of knowledge and help keep everyone merry, bright, and stroke-smart.

12/22/2025

Congratulations to Teddi Meek, RN, on receiving a DAISY Foundation Award!

Teddi was nominated by a patient who shared how her compassion, respect, and kindness made a lasting impact during a very difficult time. Through her calm presence and genuine care, Teddi helped the patient feel valued, supported, and deserving of dignity and respect. Her ability to provide not only excellent clinical care, but also encouragement and empathy, reflects the true heart of nursing. This DAISY Award is a powerful testament to the difference Teddi makes every day in the lives of her patients.

12/19/2025

Part two of Toy Safety Month with Dr. Janell Vinson! Listen to her safety tips for online games and applications.

12/18/2025

Out of gift ideas (or cash)?

Crystal Lougin, LPC, and director of behavioral health, and other community leaders, share ideas on creative no-cost ways to show you care this holiday season.

Local leaders say kindness is “emotional medicine” during the holidays. Simple, no-cost gestures can ease stress, and brighten the season.

12/18/2025

Ron James was recognized with a Besty workplace award for going above and beyond to help a coworker. When a fellow employee lost their vehicle after an accident, Ron stepped in—offering daily rides to and from work to ensure they didn't experience added stress or hardship.

Ron’s thoughtful actions exemplify our core values of teamwork, respect, and service. His willingness to help not only supported a coworker during a difficult time, but also helped maintain consistent staffing for the team. We’re grateful for employees like Ron who lead with kindness!

12/16/2025

Please join us in congratulating Quinton Schluterman, RN, a proud DAISY Foundation Award recipient.

Nominated by a grateful family, Quinton was recognized for the extraordinary compassion he showed during a very difficult ICU stay. From celebrating a patient’s birthday and lifting her spirits, to caring for a large family with patience, warmth, and positivity, Quinton went above and beyond at every step. His kindness, attentiveness, and genuine concern helped turn an intimidating ICU experience into one filled with comfort, confidence, and hope.

The DAISY Foundation honors nurses who provide exceptional, compassionate care to patients and families when they need it most. Quinton truly embodies the heart of nursing—bringing skill, empathy, and humanity into every room he enters.

Congratulations, Quinton, and thank you for making such a meaningful difference for your patients and their loved ones.

12/15/2025

Nothing says holiday spirit like our dedicated Baptist Health–Fort Smith Auxiliary sharing a moment with Santa himself! Our Auxiliary pours their hearts into supporting our staff and patients all year long, and there’s no doubt they’re on the nice list this season!

We’re grateful for everything you do to make our hospital a brighter, kinder place.

12/12/2025

Keep slime fun, not risky!

Dr. Janell Vinson shares tips on how to keep slime sessions safe and worry-free.

12/11/2025

Between the pies, parades, and shopping lists, your health deserves a spot on the schedule, too! Baptist Health Family Clinic–Massard makes it easy to fit in your care this holiday season — with trusted providers Dr. Upton Siddons, Dr. Eric Drolshagen, Dr. Chans Nouansavane, and Nycole Oliver, DNP, all accepting new patients.

Because feeling your best is the best gift of all.
Learn more at https://baptist-health.co/massard

12/10/2025

As the days get shorter, many of us experience a dip in mood, often called the "winter blues" or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Here are 5 tips on how to stay proactive to maintain your mental well-being.

Find more mental health tips on our BHealthy blog by visiting: baptist-health.com

12/09/2025

Polycystic O***y Syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 women, but is widely misunderstood.

Dr. Sabrina Doffing, our newest OB/GYN, is breaking down PCOS in our latest The Tea blog.