At St. Cloud Surgical Center, our pre and post-anesthesia nurses are the backbone of patient care, ensuring comfort, safety, and expert guidance throughout every surgical journey. As we celebrate Perianesthesia Nurse Awareness Week, we take a moment to recognize their dedication, skill, and the impact they make every day.
To give you a closer look at the heart of outpatient care, we sat down with two of our incredible nurses to hear their stories, insights, and what makes their work so rewarding. From the fast-paced nature of their role to the deep connections they build with patients, here’s what they had to say.
SCSC: Hi, Monica and Steph; thank you for taking the time to sit with us today. We look forward to talking more about what you do here, as your role is crucial to our success.
Monica & Steph: Thank you for having us. We’re honored to sit down with you today.
SCSC: How long have you both been with the center?
Monica: I have worked at the St. Cloud Surgical Center for the past ten years in the PACU (Post Anesthesia Care Unit) department, where I help prepare patients for surgery and care for them after their procedures.
Steph: I also work in the PACU alongside Monica. I’ve been here since 2022 after making the transition from an inpatient setting.
SCSC: Are you glad you made the change?
Steph: Absolutely. There are so many things that I appreciate about being at the surgical center, but really, the people here make it special, and all the satisfaction results can back that up. We collaborate and work like a true team every day. The culture here is like nothing I have experienced in my nursing career.
Monica: I couldn’t agree more. There are many things I like about working here, but certainly, one of them is just the people I get to work with. Whether it’s other nurses, staff, or our surgeons, we all work well together and enjoy being here, making it a nice place to work.
Steph: I like what you said about everyone working together well. While we all have a role, we’re willing to pitch in when needed. Every team member comes to work with the idea of giving excellent care and working together while doing so.
SCSC: So, you wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the center as a place to work?
Monica:Again, I’ve been here for 10 years. I wouldn’t be if I didn’t enjoy it, and the people that I get to work with and the patients we get to work with here. You really feel like you’re a member of a really large extended family when you work here.
Steph: Exactly. The culture here is beyond comparison. I’ve had jobs in healthcare and all have been great because I love what I do, but at the end of the day, the culture here is something that you don’t really get until you’re here. I remember when I interviewed at the Surgical Center, I had so many people say what a family we are. And I’ve heard that at other places. But truly, here, you’re cared about in ways that go beyond the walls of work.
Monica: Well said, Steph. I would just like to add that even though the center gets bigger and we add more and more surgeons, we still have been able to keep that feeling of community, our staff that really translates to great care for our patients.
SCSC: We really do have an excellent team! And teamwork is one of our core values, as well as clinical quality, integrity, service excellence, accountability, continuous improvement, and inclusion. Could you both share how you see our core values come to life here?
Monica: I know we’ve touched on this already, but our teamwork here is unmatched. Recently, we had a pretty significant outage with our computer system, which really curtailed the day. This is healthcare, though, and things can’t just stop. We all came together and did what we had to do to keep things running smoothly for the day.
SCSC: Sounds stressful!
Monica: It really was, but because we can work so well together, we could put our patients first and kept surgeries running smoothly and safely.
Steph: That was a crazy day, but as Monica said, we are a team and came together to keep our patients safe. This is the perfect example of how our core values are on display every day, and even though the day could have been a bust, we continued to operate within our standards of care.
SCSC: So, service excellence was still on display this day?
Steph: Absolutely. No matter the circumstances, we are committed to service excellence from the time a patient enters the door to the time they leave. We need to give our patients the most positive experience. No matter their age or procedure, surgery is a hard and scary thing to go through. They should feel welcome and safe here.
SCSC: On that note, when people ask you about having a procedure here, what do you tell them?
Steph: When people ask me about having a procedure at the surgical center, I think the truest testament is that I have had my own family members come here, including my children. I know that when my loved ones are here, they’re going to get the best care. From the nursing staff to the physicians and MDAs, everybody here does an excellent jo,b and they care so much. It’s hard not to bring your loved ones here when you know what they get.
Monica: The same goes for me. In fact, I have even had surgeries here. My mom had her knee replacement here as well. So, if it’s good enough for my own family, I certainly recommend it to others.
Steph:What people need to know is that from the time that you walk through our doors, you’re in the best of hands. I have full faith in everybody that we have here. Everybody’s role is important, and we value our patients to a degree that it’s not even tangible. We value the patients that walk in the door and it is our utmost priority to give them the best experience and to give them the best care.
SCSC: Wow, thank you ladies. These are incredible insights that I think prospective patients and employees will appreciate hearing. I want to end this by saying thank you to both of you and your teams for all that you do at the center. We wouldn’t be able to deliver the highest level of care without the work you do.
The dedication and experiences of our perianesthesia nurses at St. Cloud Surgical Center are at the core of exceptional patient care. Through their stories, it’s clear that they believe in the mission of our center and are proud to share it with others. Not only are they exceptional teammates, they make a lasting impression on every patient they serve.
As we celebrate Perianesthesia Nurses Week, we extend our deepest gratitude to these incredible professionals. Their commitment to service excellence, teamwork, and patient well-being is what makes St. Cloud Surgical Center a trusted place for surgical care.
To all the perianesthesia nurses here at our center, thank you for your hard work, your heart, and the difference you make.
If someone approached you on the street and asked you what the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men and women is, would you know?
The answer: colorectal cancer.
Thanks to advancements in healthcare, colon cancer is now one of the most preventable cancers through proper screening, early detection, and removal of growths.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we’re committed to making this vital screening as accessible and stress-free as possible. That’s why we offer colonoscopies to patients aged 45 and older without requiring a referral. We aim to make an uncomfortable process less intimidating by removing this extra step.
Michael Dorle, MD has provided this service at our center for over 25 years, and starting in 2025, we’re enhancing our colonoscopy program with the return of Dr. Manuel Moran further expanding the expertise and care we provide.
WHEN SHOULD YOU GET A COLONOSCOPY
A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive, safe procedure used to evaluate the colon for cancer and other gastrointestinal symptoms, such as rectal and intestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits. This procedure plays an important role in colorectal cancer prevention.
In 2021, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force began recommending men and women should get a colonoscopy every ten years starting at age 45. This adjustment from the previous recommendation of age 50 reflects a rise in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults.
However, each individual should weigh their risk factors when determining the age and frequency at which they receive a colonoscopy.
Average Risk: You should have a colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 45. If no polyps are found, the next screening can typically wait another 10 years.
Increased Risk: Individuals with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer may require more frequent screenings based on their doctor’s recommendations.
Bowel Conditions: If you experience ongoing symptoms of bowel irritation or inflammation, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, your doctor may suggest more frequent colonoscopies, sometimes multiple times a year.
Polyps: If polyps were discovered during a previous colonoscopy, a follow-up procedure may be needed to remove additional growths and monitor for recurrence.
Dr. Manual Moran, a leading colon and rectal surgeon, began conducting colonoscopies at our center years ago. We are excited to welcome him back in 2025!
PREPARING FOR AN UPCOMING COLONOSCOPY
If you’re feeling apprehensive about an upcoming colonoscopy, know you’re not alone. With this procedure, it’s easy to let your imagination run wild. However, much of what you hear about colonoscopies is not fact-based. Our mission is to make our patients feel comfortable every step of the way. Rest assured, you’re in good hands with the Gastroenterologists at
St. Cloud Surgical Center!
And if you’re still nervous, let’s address some common misconceptions.
MYTH #1 – It’s Going To Hurt
This is one of the biggest misconceptions! You’ll be sedated throughout the procedure and won’t feel a thing. Most patients don’t even remember it afterward.
MYTH #2 – I Don’t Need A Colonoscopy Until I Have Cancer Symptoms
Not just a myth, this is a dangerously false claim. Most pre-cancers are found in people who don’t have pain or symptoms. Regular screenings can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by more than 50%.
MYTH #3 – Getting A Colonoscopy Is Humiliating
As a patient at St. Cloud Surgical Center, we prioritize privacy and dignity. Our team will ensure you have a respectful and comfortable experience from start to finish.
While a colonoscopy isn’t a walk in the park, it could save your life. If you are 45 years of age or older, you can schedule your screening colonoscopy at our center without a referral.
How to Schedule Your Colonoscopy at SCSC
St Cloud Surgical Center makes Colon Cancer Screening easy. By scheduling your colonoscopy screening with us, you’re assured a timely and comfortable experience and exceptional medical care.
Step 1: Confirm you meet the age or risk criteria for screening.
Step 2: Verify insurance coverage and understand any potential costs.
Step 3: Contact SCSC directly at 320-229-3201 to set up an appointment.
Step 4: Follow the preparation guidelines provided by the center before your procedure.
When you’re ready, you can schedule your colonoscopy appointment here.
Taking charge of your health is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. If you’ve been putting off your first colonoscopy, make 2025 the year you take control. A colonoscopy is not just a screening, it’s a proactive step toward the healthiest you.
Call our experienced and comforting staff at St. Cloud Surgical Center today to schedule your appointment. Your future self will thank you.
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…It’s the happiest season of all.”
Or at least that’s how the song goes.
The holidays are in full swing, and while the season is meant to be full of joy, love, and laughter, for many of us, it’s often met with a whole lot of stress. Between finding the perfect gifts, creating a menu everyone will enjoy, and ensuring Uncle Joe is on his best behavior, there’s a lot on your plate.
In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, around 38% of people report increased stress levels during the holiday season. And all that stress, well, it can quickly build up to affect your mental and physical well-being during a time of year when we’re supposed to be the happiest!
If you struggle with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, we encourage you to set some boundaries and practice more self-care.
Not sure how to do that? Keep reading!
We’re sharing five tips to help manage stress while prioritizing health and happiness.
TIP ONE: Prioritize Your Health
We’ve all heard the phrase, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Humans are creatures of habit. That’s what makes us efficient, and we’re often living at our healthiest when we stick to a daily routine. During the six weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, people often kiss their routines goodbye, making it hard to stay on top of their physical and mental health. But taking care of yourself should always be the top priority!
First things first, make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep can increase stress and make you more prone to illness. Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, even during the holidays.
Next, eat mindfully. It’s easy to overindulge during holiday meals, but eating mindfully can help you feel better in the long run. With that said, please enjoy the Christmas cookies and eggnog; simply aim for balance rather than deprivation.
Last but not least, stay active! We know this time of year makes it hard to get outside in Minnesota, so instead, turn to your local gym or in-home workouts. When you’re feeling extra stressed, movements like walking, yoga, or strength training can release lots of positive endorphins!
TIP TWO: Set Realistic Expectations
This is a big one.
Holidays don’t need to be perfect, and neither do you. Setting unrealistic expectations can lead to unnecessary stress. At the end of the day, the people around you just want to see you happy.
Start by planning ahead with a simple schedule for shopping, meal prep, and activities to avoid feeling rushed. Instead of focusing on making everything “just right,” embrace the joy of the season and remember that the holidays are about connection, not perfection. Often, the best memories come from unexpected moments, so let go of the need for everything to be flawless and leave room for spontaneity.
When in doubt, plan it out and remember to go with the flow!
TIP THREE: Manage Gift Giving
Financial concerns, including gift buying and managing costs, are the number one stressor for families during the holidays, especially if you’re on a tight budget. It’s important to remember the reason for the season. Hint: it’s not the gifts.
If you’re struggling with financial overwhelm this year, set a budget and stick to it. There are many thoughtful yet affordable gifts to give the ones you love. You could even make something homemade!
Give Experiences. In today’s world of overconsumption, think about an experience you could give inside, such as memberships, concert tickets, family outings, or even a homemade meal.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to simplify. It’s okay to give fewer gifts or skip it altogether if it’s adding too much pressure. Perhaps try drawing names so you only have to buy one family member a gift.
TIP FOUR: Do Less
When in doubt, do less.
Trying to do everything can leave you feeling burnt before the holiday season is even over. If you’ve suffered from this feeling in the past, this year, consider scaling back on activities and instead choose simple traditions that bring you joy. If you don’t want to be the one to host the holiday party, don’t. You are not obligated to open your home or attend every gathering. This time of year can be great practice for exercising your right to say “No.”
The holiday season is meant to be a happy time. If something isn’t bringing you the joy it once did, give yourself permission to skip it.
TIP FIVE: Reach Out for Help If Needed
If you’ve made it this far, you can see there are many reasons why the holiday season may be stressful for you, and sometimes, that stress is too much to handle on your own.
If you find yourself in that situation, please know you are not alone. Chances are, many loved ones in your life also feel the weight of it. Take the time to talk with someone about how you’re feeling. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings with a friend, family member, or counselor.
And in that same vein, ask for help! This can be very hard to do but think about how nice it would be to have an extra hand in the holiday shopping, meal prep, and ensuring everyone has a memorable experience this year. Pretty nice, right?
You’re not in this alone. It’s time to step off your island and lean on your village.
The holidays are meant to be a time of celebration and connection, not stress and burnout. You can embrace the season with peace of mind by prioritizing your health, managing expectations, simplifying your plans, and asking for help. Remember, you don’t have to do it all—just focus on what matters most.
Here at St. Cloud Surgical Center, we operate on a set list of values, one of which is service excellence. If you head to our About page, you’ll see that it means, “we seek to exceed the expectations of patients, physicians, and each other in everything we do.” When you enter our doors, we want you to immediately feel you are among a community of healthcare professionals who built their careers on trust and care. We know each patient’s journey is unique, and we’re committed to providing comfort and support from the first step. At the heart of that journey is the partnership between our facility and the surgeons we work with, who bring together skill and compassion to provide exceptional care.
One of our valued partners, Dr. Kim Schaap, is an orthopedic surgeon dedicated to helping patients get back to doing what they love. With a talent for putting things back inplace, Dr. Schaap brings years of experience to our team, ensuring that every patient’s path to recovery is carefully constructed.
We recently interviewed Dr. Schaap to learn more about her journey and what being a woman in medicine means to her. Take a look!
SCSC: Hi, Dr. Schaap; thank you so much for sitting down with us today. Can you tell us briefly about yourself and what you do at St. Cloud Surgical Center?
Dr. Schaap: Thank you for having me. My name is Dr. Kim Schaap. I am an orthopedic surgeon at St. Cloud Surgical Center and a partner at St. Cloud Orthopedics, where I have been practicing since 1999. My area of expertise is sports medicine and minimally invasive total knee replacements. Years ago, I did more shoulder and hip replacements, but as we all seem to do, I have focused on the procedures I am really good at and enjoy.
SCSC: You’ve been practicing for a long time. An expert, no doubt! As a valued partner at SCOA, why do you continue to encourage partnerships between our organizations?
Dr. Schaap: There are many reasons why I support our partnership with St. Cloud Surgical Center. For most surgeons here, the biggest reason we stay is our ability to be nimble. The pace is fast, and we’re able to handle a lot of cases efficiently. We rest easy knowing that our patients get excellent care, and if we ever feel like things aren’t working well or new technology would help us in our pursuit to be the best we can be, the leadership here will listen. That’s not always the case in healthcare, especially with big systems. You have to go through many, many channels, and it takes a lot of time for change to happen. That’s not the case here.
SCSC: Speaking of technology, you’re a fan of the Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Knee Replacement procedure. Can you talk more about that?
Dr. Schaap: Absolutely. The Mako technology we use at St. Cloud Surgical Center is a combination of two successful things: Mako robotic technology and the Stryker Triathlon knee replacement system and components. Alone, both were successful in their own right, but together, I felt they could change the future of orthopedics, and they have. Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Knee Replacement has become an incredibly successful platform and has helped us become more precise surgeons. Not better surgeons, but more precise.
SCSC: Not better, more precise. That’s a great way to explain it. Are patients ever nervous about the use of robotics in their surgical plan?
Dr. Schaap: The use of robotics, I feel, is incredibly important now as the expectations of patients have increased or become much more likely to expect an outpatient procedure, a quicker recovery, the ability to expect that they will be up and moving much more quickly than it used to be. Twenty-five years ago, when I started, it was customary for patients to stay in the hospital for three, four, or even five days. And now it’s rare for patients to stay in the hospital at all. The use of robotics has been one of the factors that has allowed that. The Mako procedure improves joint mechanics more quickly.
SCSC:Thank you for taking some time to talk about Mako. In the second half of this interview, we want to hear more about your experience as a woman in medicine. What inspired you to pursue a career as an orthopedic surgeon?
Dr. Schaap: My interest in medicine, particularly orthopedic surgery, began at a very young age. I grew up on a farm, and we always fixed things. I saw a lot of overlap in that experience and orthopedic surgery. It’s pretty concrete; something is broken, and be it with a plate, rod, etc., you fix it to function again, just like tractors on the farm. As I began to explore the medical field through my education, my love of sports also impacted me. I played sports in college and had access to a lot of different training rooms, where I saw many injuries from high ankle sprains to torn ACLs.
SCSC:It sounds like you were destined for this path. What, if any, challenges have you faced during your medical career as a woman?
Dr. Schaap: I’ve been working as a surgeon for more than 25 years, and I’ve seen the proportion of men vs women in the field shift. When I went to medical school, more men than women were in my class. It’s different today. That said, I’ve found that the same principles apply. As a woman in the medical field, you’ll earn respect as long as you are capable and confident but not overbearing. Respect others, and others respect you.
SCSC:So true. Aren’t we all just looking to be respected in our careers?
Dr. Schaap: Exactly. And the perception of female surgeons, although it’s taken some time, has changed too. Of course, it’s common to see a female pediatrician or OB-GYN, but our Academy of Orthopedic Surgery is still about 6% women. I’m excited and hopeful to see that growing, though!
SCSC: Interesting. Do you feel respected by patients as a female surgeon?
Dr. Schaap: Oh yes, patients are very accepting, especially once they get to know you. I did just as much training as my male counterpart, and I might add that women in our seem to probably have a little more empathy and better listening ears—not always, but sometimes.
SCSC: You can’t drive respect; you earn it. That’s so powerful, and I think it’s true for women everywhere. Thank you, Dr. Schaap, for your time today. I have one final question for you regarding the future of orthopedic surgery. What do you think is on the horizon?
Dr. Schaap: As orthopedic surgeons, we always look for ways to improve and hit our next target. While a lot has changed in the last twenty years regarding total knees and hips, there’s room to do better. Total shoulders, I think, are on the horizon. And we may even see some opportunities for the use of robotics in spine surgery. Our goal is simple: allow surgeons to be surgeons still, while simultaneously taking some of the human factors out of the process. Again, our thinking is not better, just more precise.
If you are experiencing pain that may need assistance from an Orthopedic Surgeon, don’t wait to contact one of our experienced providers. The solution you have been looking for could be right around the corner. Contact us today for more information.
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