“Do I Really Have to Do All This Before Surgery?”

“Do I Really Have to Do All This Before Surgery?”

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Ben Huls, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) at Lexington Regional Health Center, to answer a question many patients ask before surgery: “Why do I have to do so much before my procedure?” Ben breaks down the purpose behind fasting, medication adjustments, lab work, and other pre‑surgery instructions and why each step plays a critical role in keeping patients safe before, during, and after anesthesia. From explaining the commonly referenced “8‑6‑4‑2” fasting rule to addressing questions about chewing gum, smoking, and newer diabetes or weight‑loss medications, this conversation offers clear, practical insight into how anesthesia teams prepare for surgery. Whether you’re facing an upcoming procedure or supporting a loved one through surgery, this episode helps remove confusion and empowers you to feel confident going into surgery day. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * Why pre‑surgery instructions are essential for anesthesia safety * What the 8‑6‑4‑2 fasting rule really means * How eating, drinking, gum, tobacco, and smoking affect anesthesia * Why certain medications may need to be adjusted or paused * The importance of lab work and pre‑surgery physicals * How following instructions can prevent delays or cancellations Why This Episode Matters: Surgery isn’t just about the procedure—it’s about anesthesia, breathing, circulation, and recovery. Many surgical complications are preventable, and careful pre‑operative preparation helps reduce risks, improve outcomes, and ensure surgeries happen safely and on time. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by pre‑surgery instructions or wondered why they matter so much, this episode offers reassurance, clarity, and a deeper understanding of how your care team is working behind the scenes to support your health—every step of the way. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgHSQRXYOpSaOmQ4ySWCGyEqj4_WBW-xj] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vitals-voices/id1843658102] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/7puCg9z6l5EdAwrFHDbPGX?si=5pWuivycT1WQ1KCfZ96C1w]

Urologic Health Explained: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When to Get Help

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Dr. Matthew Rutman, visiting specialist urologist at Lexington Regional Health Center, to talk about a topic many people delay or avoid—when it’s time to see a urologist. Dr. Rutman breaks down what urology really involves, clears up common misconceptions, and explains why urologic care isn’t just for older adults or men. From urinary symptoms and kidney stones to sexual health, incontinence, and preventive screenings, this conversation highlights how urologists often serve as long‑term partners in care for both men and women. Dr. Rutman also shares what patients can expect at their first visit and why many symptoms people assume are “just part of aging” are actually very treatable. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * What a urologist really does  and who they treat * Common signs and symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored * When to see a urologist before symptoms become severe * Why blood in the urine is never normal * How urologic care supports both men and women across all ages * What to expect during a first urology appointment * Why continuity and long‑term follow‑up matter in urologic health Why This Episode Matters: Many people live for years with urinary or pelvic symptoms because they feel embarrassed, unsure, or assume nothing can be done. Dr. Rutman emphasizes that urologic conditions are common, manageable, and often highly treatable especially when addressed early. With access to visiting specialists right here at Lexington Regional Health Center, patients don’t have to wait until symptoms become severe to get answers and relief. If something doesn’t feel right, this episode is a reassuring reminder that help is available and starting the conversation can make a meaningful difference in long‑term health. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgHSQRXYOpSaOmQ4ySWCGyEqj4_WBW-xj] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vitals-voices/id1843658102] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/7puCg9z6l5EdAwrFHDbPGX?si=5pWuivycT1WQ1KCfZ96C1w]

Unplugged: How Digital Detox Affects the Brain and Sleep

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Lindsey Dittmar, Physician Assistant at Family Medicine Specialists Clinic, to talk about something that quietly shapes our days (and nights) more than we realize screen time. From smartphones and social media to tablets and TVs, Lindsey breaks down how constant digital stimulation affects brain health, sleep quality, mood, and even long‑term physical health across all ages. You’ll hear how excessive screen use can contribute to brain fog, anxiety, attention issues, and disrupted sleep cycles and why a digital detox doesn’t mean deleting every app or throwing your phone away. Instead, Lindsey shares practical, realistic ways to reduce screen time, improve sleep, and build healthier habits for yourself and your family—without feeling disconnected from the world. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * What a “digital detox” really means and common misconceptions about it * How excessive screen time affects brain function, attention, and memory * The connection between screens, dopamine, and mental fatigue * How blue light interferes with melatonin and sleep cycles * Simple, realistic ways to reduce screen time without going offline completely * Tips for parents navigating screen time, behavior, and sleep in kids and teens * One small change that can make a big difference in sleep quality Why This Episode Matters: Screens are everywhere and while they’re essential tools, too much screen time can quietly impact mental health, sleep, focus, and overall well‑being for both adults and children. The good news? Even small changes like limiting screen use before bed or setting app time limits can lead to better sleep, better focus, and better days. If you’ve ever felt mentally drained, struggled to fall asleep, or wondered whether screen time is affecting your family’s health, this episode offers compassionate insight and achievable steps to help you unplug just enough to feel your best. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgHSQRXYOpSaOmQ4ySWCGyEqj4_WBW-xj] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vitals-voices/id1843658102] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/7puCg9z6l5EdAwrFHDbPGX?si=5pWuivycT1WQ1KCfZ96C1w]

Is Mental Health Medication Right for Me?

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Stephanie Reutlinger, PMHNP, a Family Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner at Family Medicine Specialists, to have an honest, compassionate conversation about mental health medication what it is, what it isn’t, and how it can support whole-person care. Stephanie shares why she chose to pursue additional mental health certification after years in family practice, how mental health care fits seamlessly into primary care, and why medication should be seen as a tool—not a label. Together, we unpack common fears, misconceptions, and stigma surrounding mental health medication, while offering practical insight for those considering treatment or supporting someone who is. Whether you’ve been quietly wondering if medication might help, feel unsure about starting the conversation, or want to better support a loved one, this episode offers clear guidance, reassurance, and encouragement rooted in real-world care. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * When mental health medication may be helpful—and when it may not be the right fit * Why treatment is never one-size-fits-all * Signs it may be time to talk with a provider * What to expect when starting medication, including timelines and follow-ups * Why regular monitoring and shared decision-making matter * Common myths vs. facts about mental health medication * How to support a loved one without creating shame or pressure Why This Episode Matters: Mental health medication often comes with hesitation, fear, or misunderstanding but for many people, it can be a life-changing part of care. Stephanie emphasizes that needing medication doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you; it means your brain may need support, just like any other part of your body. The good news? Care is personal, confidential, and flexible. Many people benefit from medication short-term, others longer-term, and some not at all. What matters most is having a trusted provider, open communication, and a plan that evolves with you. If you’ve been unsure whether to ask for help—or you’re supporting someone who is—this episode is a reassuring reminder that questions are welcome, options exist, and help is available right here in our community. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgHSQRXYOpSaOmQ4ySWCGyEqj4_WBW-xj] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vitals-voices/id1843658102] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/7puCg9z6l5EdAwrFHDbPGX?si=5pWuivycT1WQ1KCfZ96C1w]

Alcohol & Drug Counseling: Education, Support, and Local Resources

In this episode of Vitals & Voices, we sit down with Jamie Roberts, Provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner and Provisional Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at Lexington Regional Health Center, to have an open, honest conversation about alcohol and drug counseling—and why support is available long before someone reaches “rock bottom.” Jamie shares her journey into mental health and addiction counseling, explains what substance‑use counseling really looks like today, and breaks down the stigma that often keeps people from reaching out. Whether you’re questioning your own relationship with substances, worried about a loved one, or simply want to better understand the resources available in our community, this episode offers compassionate insight and practical guidance. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: * What alcohol and drug counseling truly involves * Why you don’t have to be in crisis to seek help * Common signs counseling may be beneficial * How substance use can affect mental health, family life, work, and school * Therapy approaches used in treatment, including DBT, CBT, and multisystemic therapy * How loved ones and families can be supported through counseling Why This Episode Matters: Substance use is a health issue and support can make a life‑changing difference at any stage. Early intervention, compassionate care, and reducing stigma can help prevent bigger challenges down the road. If you or someone you love is struggling, questioning, or simply feeling overwhelmed, this episode is a reminder that help is available locally and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life. Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected.  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgHSQRXYOpSaOmQ4ySWCGyEqj4_WBW-xj] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vitals-voices/id1843658102] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/7puCg9z6l5EdAwrFHDbPGX?si=5pWuivycT1WQ1KCfZ96C1w]