HPC Travel Blog Chicago – July 14-15, 2012

Hospital Procedures Consultants recently completed another CME Course in Chicago this past weekend.  The course was held at the stunning Crowne Plaza Avenue Hotel located in the middle of downtown Chicago.

It was exhilarating to be able to teach a stellar group of motivated and energetic hospitalists, emergency physicians, nurse practitioners, and medical students!  The hotel was in close proximity to Lake Michigan the view from which is shown below.

Our Hospitalist and Emergency Procedures CME Course is founded on simulation-based training and the photos below provide a glimpse of the procedural skills labs that we conduct in our two-day ACCME-accredited course that provides 17 hours of Category 1 CME credit:

                                                           

Endotracheal intubation lab

 Glidescope intubation lab

Lumbar puncture lab

Paracentesis lab

Ultrasound-guided Thoracentesis lab

  Diagnostic Ultrasound Training

  Vascular Access lab

Best regards,

Hospital Procedures Consultants
“Teachers Invested in Your Success”

SAN ANTONIO

PLAY, EXPLORE, DINE & STAY

San Antonio is a playground of arts, culture, heritage, sports, natural or man-made adventures, theme parks, museums, and nature.  Whatever you’re about, San Antonio has it all and will not disappoint.  Voted one of the most picturesque cities in America, it hosts over 2 million visitors a year. 

THE CROWNE PLAZA RIVERWALK

Need a room….we recommend the beautiful Crowne Plaza San Antonio Riverwalk, ideally positioned along the historic San Antonio River Walk.  This hotel puts the city's most popular destinations within walking distance. 

THE RIVER WALK

The San Antonio River Walk is a public park, open 365 days a year.  It’s a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, one story beneath approximately 5 miles of downtown San Antonio.  Lined by bars, shops and restaurants, the River Walk is an important part of the city's urban fabric and a tourist attraction in its own right.  It’s the perfect place to stroll any time of the day!

“REMEMBER THE ALAMO”

 More than 2.5 million people a year visit the 4.2 acre complex known worldwide as “The Alamo.” Most come to see the old mission where a small band of Texans held out for thirteen days against the Centralist army of General Antonio López de Santa Anna. 

Located on Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio, the Alamo represents nearly 300 years of history. Three buildings – the Shrine, Long Barrack Museum and Gift Museum – house exhibits on the Texas Revolution and Texas History. Visitors are welcome to stroll through the beautiful Alamo Gardens.  Just a short distance from the River Walk, the Alamo is a “must see” for all who come to San Antonio.

SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART

Since its opening in 1981, San Antonio Museum of Art has become home to an array of Greek and Roman antiquities, Asian art, Latin American art, European and American paintings, contemporary art, Oceanic art, decorative art, and near Eastern and Islamic art. It is housed in the historic Lone Star Brewery.  It’s not unusual for the first-time visitor to be astonished at the size and scope of this magnificent Museum’s collections.  This is a must see for the first time visitor to San Antonio.

RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT!

If you’re looking for that “Ohh..Ahh” moment, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum is just for you.  Ripley’s San Antonio is America’s largest and most interactive Ripley’s Museum with 3 stories of oddities from all over the world! Located inside Ripley’s is Louis Tussaud’s Wax Museum.  Ripley’s Believe it or Not offers weird class family fun!

SEA WORLD ADVENTURE PARK

From Shamu to dolphins, sharks, seals, sea lions and much more, Sea World San Antonio is the world's largest marine life park. After hanging out with Shamu or watching one of Sea World's shows, head over to the roller-coaster action with the Great White, which is Texas' first inverted steel roller-coaster or the Steel Eel for a bout of weightlessness. To cool off, ride Journey to Atlantis which is part roller-coaster, part water ride or dip into the Lost Lagoon.  It’s a wonderful park for a great day of thrills on your vacation.

TOWER OF THE AMERICA’S CHART HOUSE RESTAURANT

Enjoy a breathtaking view at the Tower of the America’s Chart House Restaurant.  Located in downtown San Antonio, the 750-foot-tall Tower of the Americas provides guests the most spectacular view of the Alamo City.  Enjoy the gorgeous panorama from the Tower's revolving Chart House Restaurant, take in the scenery from the Observation Deck or experience the thrilling 4D Theater Ride. For a taste of the best dining and fun that San Antonio River Walk restaurants have to offer, come take a flight with the Tower of the Americas.

SAN ANTONIO GRAND TOUR

Want to see it all in comfort…then jump on the San Antonio Grand Tour.  See all the best sights of San Antonio like El Mercado, the Japanese Sunken Gardens, and Mission Concepcion with the San Antonio Grand Tour. This tour will take you throughout town by motorcoach and boat, so you don't miss any of the beautiful attractions of the city. It's the comfortable way to get in some fantastic sightseeing while in San Antonio.  This tour is led by professional guides who will provide you with interesting facts and lots of information about San Antonio making your vacation a memorable one!

HPC at Society of Hospital Medicine 2012 Conference

Hospital Procedures Consultants made a successful showing at The Society of Hospital Medicine 2012 conference in San Diego between April 2-4.  Our booth offered clinicians free training in ultrasound-guided central line placement which was a smashing success.  There was tremendous interest by many hospitalists in HPC’s Hospitalist and Emergency Procedures CME courses and in our new HPC procedural reference cards.  In addition, HPC started a good dialogue with a number of organizations who wanted further procedural training for their hospitalists. 

Joe Esherick teaching a hospitalist physician how to perform an 

ultrasound-guided internal jugular line using the Out-of-Plane technique

Joe Esherick teaching a hospitalist physician how to perform an 

ultrasound-guided internal jugular line using the In-Plane technique

During the conference, I had the privilege of meeting with a number of leaders in Hospital Medicine.  But, the highlight of the conference for me was the opportunity to chat with several of the leaders of hospital procedural education including Drs. Sally Wang, Bradley Rosen, Diane Sliwka, and Mark Ault.  It was great to share ideas about hospital procedural education with these educators.  We all agreed that there is a huge demand for such procedural training at all levels around the country: in medical school, residency, and post-residency.  I was thrilled to pick the brains of these great educators who all share the same passion for procedural training that I have.

Discussing procedural education with Bradley Rosen (second from left), 

Sally Wang (second from right), and Diane Sliwka (far right)

Discussing procedural education with Sally Wang (left), 

Bradley Rosen (second from right), and Mark Ault (far right)

I certainly hope to continue collaborating with this group in the shared effort that we optimize hospital procedural education for all hospital-based providers!

Cheers,

Joe Esherick, MD, FAAFP

Co-President

Hospital Procedures Consultants

www.hospitalprocedures.org

Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Paris / Bally’s

We’re looking forward to Las Vegas in May!  We’re excited because everything is available right there at the hotel!  Here’s a little information on what to do while at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas:

• ·       Gaming
• ·       Spa / Fitness Center
• ·       Dining
• ·       Shows
• ·       Nightlife
• ·       Tours
•    Shopping
•    Pool (FYI – Average Day Temperature in May is 88 degrees & 60 degrees at night!)

Paris Hotel

Experience everything you love about Paris, right in the heart of The Strip.  Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino has the same passion, excitement, and ambiance as Europe's most romantic city, in the entertainment capital of the world.  No wonder they say everything is sexier in Paris.

Classic style, fine craftsmanship, and authentic details all combine to create Paris Las Vegas' unique ambiance. Their elegant hotel tower has spacious guestrooms and suites. Sumptuous fabrics, custom European furniture, and marble bathrooms make each room a sophisticated private retreat.

SHOWS

For information and reservations on Shows, go to the hotel website

Just for thought…

·       JERSEY BOYS is now playing at Paris, Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Review Journal rates it the number one show on The Strip and The New York Times says, The crowd goes wild! Get your tickets in the Paris, Las Vegas lobby.

·       Rob Riggle– Comedy

·       Anthony Cools  - Hypnotist

Quitting smoking.  Eating less.  Psychotherapy. Where's the fun in that?

Hypnotist Anthony Cools is back at Paris Las Vegas, using his skills for decidedly evil purposes, tapping into the carnal desires and subconscious naughtiness of his audience, shearing off all inhibitions.

Signature stunts in his hilarious and interactive 90-minute show include handshakes that induce vocal, sexual responses, as well as several other tricks so shocking, we can't even print them. Cools pushes the limits of the mind and body, while remaining careful not to embarrass his subjects, a courtesy that has earned him a cult following.

·       Eiffle Tower Ride

Experience the breathtaking view from the single most romantic spot in all of Las Vegas. The Eiffel Tower Ride is located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, 46 stories above the city level.

A signature of the Las Vegas skyline, the Eiffel Tower Ride at Paris Las Vegas is a replica of one of Europe’s most famous landmarks.

On your journey to the observation deck of the Eiffel Tower Ride, our knowledgeable Ambassadors will point out unforgettable Las Vegas landmarks. Once on the observation deck, you will encounter a breathtaking 360 degree view of the Las Vegas Valley.

After indulging in the spectacular views at the top of the Eiffel Tower, don’t forget to stop by the Amazing Pictures kiosk to purchase a commemorative photo of your trip into the sky! It is the perfect keepsake for an unforgettable moment.

And don’t miss the Eiffel Tower Restaurant, located on the 11th floor, for an exquisite Continental cuisine, an extensive wine list and another incredible view.

Tickets are available for purchase at the Eiffel Tower Box Office located inside the Eiffel Tower Gift Shop

Restaurants at the Paris Hotel

Paris is the epicenter of fine dining in Europe, and Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino follows its namesake. Some of the most celebrated Las Vegas restaurants are found inside Paris Hotel & Casino. Once you pair the French-infused fare with the charming atmosphere, you'll find thatt every meal becomes an experience.

Looking for Five-Star dining? You'll enjoy the best-of-the-best at the Paris’ world-class restaurants. Crafted inside the replica Parisian landmark, the Eiffel Tower Restaurant serves the most acclaimed French cuisine in Las Vegas. Sitting more than 100 feet above the Strip, the restaurant provides one of the most vibrant views of the Strip.

You can also choose Mon Ami Gabi, our charming French bistro with al fresco dining on the Strip.Want convenience without sacrificing quality? We also offer an outstanding variety of eateries for guests on the go as well.

SPA

No visit to Paris is complete without your requisite pampering. Located on the 2nd level of Paris Las Vegas, the incredible Paris Spa by Mandara brings you the rejuvenation in luxury that only Paris Las Vegas could offer. 

Fitness Center Day-Pass Entry Fee Includes

·       Use of our fitness center with state-of-the-art fitness equipment.

·       Use of Mandara Spa Sauna, Steamroom, Showers, Luxury Whirlpool.

·       Complimentary fresh fruits, juices, teas, coffee and bottled water during your visit.

·       Use of our vanity bar stocked with luxurious Mandara bath and styling products to use during your visit.

$25 Entry fee for Paris Hotel guests.
$35 Entry fee for non-hotel guests.

SHOPPING

What would Paris be without the shopping? Paris Hotel offers a variety of top-rated shopping in two shopping promenades, the Paris-Bally's Promenade and the shops at Le Boulevard. You'll find everything from exquisite accessories to the latest fashions. Why not pick up something to make tonight extraordinary?

Bally's-Paris Promenade
At Bally's-Paris Promenade shops, you'll find exclusive French jewelry, women's accessories from internationally renowned designers, an art gallery shop of French and French-inspired work and much more.

Le Boulevard
The shops at Le Boulevard house boutiques, gift shops, a home and garden store, a gourmet food shop, our newsstand and much more. Luxurious and elegant stores line Le Boulevard and bring a world-class shopping experience to guests of Paris Las Vegas.

NIGHTLIFE at Paris

Nightfall is when the City of Light shines, and Paris Las Vegas brings the same experience to the Strip. Whether you're entertaining guests, catching up with friends or looking for a romantic setting, Paris Las Vegas has a nightspot that's right for you. With seven unique bars and lounges, you'll find the right place for the right mood.

You can sip a cocktail and relish the Parisian atmosphere at Gustav's, right in the vibrant heart of our casino, or sip French wines and specialty drinks at Le Cabaret, our French lounge in a garden setting. Napoleon's, Le Central and Le Bar du Sport all offer your favorite cocktails, and a seat right in the middle of the action!

Chateau Nightclub & Gardens
Chateau Nightclub & Gardens at Paris Las Vegas combines classic French opulence with modern eclectic style, offering a sophisticated and unparalleled nightlife experience in Las Vegas.

Napoleon's Dueling Piano Bar
Be a part of the action at our dueling piano bar as the pianists face off nightly. Sing along and join in the fun as they perform your favorite hits. Enjoy a cocktail from our full service bar and enjoy the fun atmosphere created with you in mind.

Gustav's Casino Bar
Take in the expansive view of our casino floor, or enjoy built-in video gaming, at this stocked bar in the center of the action. Located at the southeastern leg of our Eiffel Tower, Gustav's makes a great drink and a great place for people watching.

Le Cabaret
Le Cabaret is a charming, open lounge designed to create the feeling of sitting outside in a garden area. Live entertainment entices our guests to sit at bistro tables and enjoy their drinks under trees laced with twinkling lights.

Le Central Lobby Bar
People watching is an art form at Le Central. With an elevated view of the Paris casino floor, the elegant Lobby Bar serves a wide selection of beverages.

Le Bar du Sport
Located beside the Race & Sports Book, Le Bar du Sport has large-screen TVs so our guests may view their favorite sports as they sip their special drinks.

POOL

You can sunbathe beside the replica Eiffel Tower while relaxing at Paris Las Vegas' two-acre rooftop pool. Nestled inside a manicured French garden, our pool offers ample room for swimming. Or, if you prefer, indulge yourself with a dip in the spa.

Poolside attendants, as well as an outdoor cafe (du Parc), are on hand to take care of your every need. Paris Spa by MandaraOffers the ultimate luxury: poolside massage. For guests who desire a more secluded sunbathing experience, private outdoor cabanas are available for rental.