Do any of these factors apply to you?

• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Complaints about your sleeping habits
• Snoring that interrupts your daily life
• Waking with a dry mouth and tongue

If you answered yes, you may want to talk to your health physician about a sleep study. A sleep study, also known as a polysomnography, determines how well you sleep and how your body responds to problems in your sleep. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System offers this service and is accredited for sleep studies by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care.

Why Are Sleep Studies Important? 

You know that sleep issues can cause problems during your daily life, but did you know unresolved sleep issues can lead to serious health implications? For instance, if you have untreated sleep apnea, your body is being deprived of vital oxygen needed to run your organs. Oxygen deprivation can put stress on these organs, which raises your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. Sleep studies can diagnose many sleep problems, such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, sleep deprivation and periodic limb movement disorder. Once diagnosed, the problems can be treated - which means an improved quality of life for you.

PLHS Sleep Order Form

Prairie Lakes offers a high field traditional 1.5 Excite GE scanner.  The traditional high field scanner is tube-shaped with flared openings at both ends. A recent software upgrade provides us with the ability to scan multiple exams in a short amount of time, while still providing high resolution images. When your exam is complete, a board-certified Radiologist from CRL will interpret the scan and provide a written report of the findings to your referring physician within 24-48 hours.

How it works

Magnetic Resonance Imagings (MRI) are formed using two natural forces – magnetic fields and radio waves – to create a detailed, clear picture of your body that includes structures not visible with traditional x-rays. MRI exams are painless, and, unlike x-rays and other imaging technologies, MRI does not use radiation. MRI has become a preferred method by doctors for diagnosing potential problems in many different parts of the body. It is useful for examining soft tissue such as organs, muscles, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and bones. MRI is used primarily to evaluate the brain, spine and joints and is useful in diagnosing problems in the breasts, chest, abdomen and pelvis.

What can I expect during my MRI exam?

The MRI technologist will position you on the padded table that will move into the opening of the magnet. Whichever part of your body is being scanned will need to be in the middle of the scanner.  Once the scan begins, you will hear some loud knocking/buzzing type of sounds and you may feel some vibration. Your technologist will provide either music or earplugs depending on the exam being performed. Should you become uncomfortable or need help, just speak out loud. There is a built in intercom system so staff can see you and hear you the entire exam.

MRI and metal don't mix

The MRI system has a powerful magnet inside, so you need to:

• Inform your referring doctor or the technologist if you have:
  • A cardiac pacemaker
  • An artificial heart valve or stent
  • A metal plate, pin, or other metallic implant
  • A cochlear implant or hearing aid
  • Aneurysm clips

And if you have questions, don't hesitate to contact your physician or the Radiology Department at Prairie Lakes at 605-882-7770.

CT is an abbreviation for computed tomography, which is a valuable diagnostic medical exam that combines X-rays and computers. Sometimes called CAT scans, CT scans have been performed successfully for over 30 years. It gives the Radiologist a non-invasive way to see inside your body.

One advantage of CT is its ability to rapidly acquire two-dimensional pictures of your anatomy. Using a computer, these 2-D images can be presented as 3-D images for in-depth clinical evaluations.

Why do people need a CT scan?

CT exams are performed when people are ill or injured, or when a doctor suspects a medical problem that cannot be detected easily with a routine physical examination. CT is also used to rapidly obtain specific diagnostic information that hasn’t been provided by other imaging technologies, such as ultrasound, traditional X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

What Should I expect?

A CT technologist will escort you into the CT scanning room, where you’ll see a table and a large, doughnut-shaped device called a gantry. You will be positioned comfortably on the padded table and asked to be as still as possible. You’ll also be asked to hold your breath for a short time to minimize any body movements and motion artifact.   

How long will the exam take?

You will have to lie still only for a few seconds during the actual scan, in which the CT scanner acquires X-ray images of your body. The rest of the CT exam, however, takes longer while you wait for the images to be processed on the computer. The exam can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes depending on the type of exam.  Most patients will be in and out of the room in under 20 minutes.

Are IVs or shots involved?

Depending on the exam, a solution called “contrast” might be administered through an IV to improve the accuracy of the examination. Because of this, it is very important to let your doctor know beforehand if you any allergies, especially an allergy to iodine-based products.

Safety of CT scans

Nearly 80 million CT exams are performed in the U.S. every year. The registered Radiologic Technologist (RT), who performs your CT scan must be certified by the American Registry of Radiology Technologists.

Preparing for a CT exam

Unless directed by your physician, the following guidelines will ensure your CT scan is performed under optimal conditions.

• Arrive dressed in comfortable clothing containing no metal.
• Visit the restroom shortly before the scan
• Take medications as usual, with minimal water. If you are taking pain medication, please do so 30 minutes before your scan to help you lie still.
• If you have had barium studies of your stomach or colon within the last 48 hours, please tell your physician beforehand or tell the CT technologist when you arrive.

For specific exams, follow these guidelines unless otherwise directed by your physician:

• Head Scan: Remove hairpins, earrings, etc. The scan will last less than 30 minutes.
• Abdomen and Pelvis Scan: You will usually be required to drink a water prep to outline the digestive system before the scan. This will be given to you by the CT technologist with instructions on how long to drink the prep. Do not eat or drink anything else (except taking medications) for four hours before your scan time. You will be asked to place your arms comfortably over your head and will be asked to hold your breath for about five seconds several times during the scan.
• Chest Scan: Do not eat or drink four hours before your scan time. Clothing containing metal should be removed. Women should remove their bra before the exam begins. You will be asked to place your arms comfortably over your head and will be asked to hold your breath for about five seconds several times during the scan.
• Spine Scan: It is not necessary to fast before your scan. You may be asked to place your arms comfortably over your head or your chest.
• Extremities: It is not necessary to fast before your scan. You may be asked to lie in an uncomfortable position for the extremity being scanned, but it will only be for a short period of time.

Prairie Lakes Healthcare System has a full-service retail pharmacy conveniently located in the lobby of Prairie Lakes Hospital. Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy serves walk-in customers as well as inpatient and outpatient patrons of Prairie Lakes Healthcare System.

Pharmacy Services

• Dispensing quality pharmaceuticals to customers and patients
• Offering drug information, education and counseling
• Retaining patient/customer history profiles
• Direct communication with medical staff
• Monitoring and assurance of quality drugs
• Nonprescription items

Hours

Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy is open for retail business Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location

The convenient location of Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy in the hospital lobby allows one less stop for patients being discharged from the hospital or for people receiving services from:

• Same Day Surgery
• Emergency Room
• Kidney Dialysis
• Home Health
• Sanford Clinic - Watertown

Pharmacy Specialists

Our fully licensed pharmacy staff works closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to meet a full scope of pharmacy needs. 

Working Together with Other Hospital Departments

Operating in conjunction with the hospital pharmacy, Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy offers special services to patients of other hospital service departments or other on-campus facilities.

Home Health: Clients of the Prairie Lakes Home Health program are invited to take advantage of the services offered by Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy. These special services include:

• Home delivery of prescriptions by Home Health nurses
• Home Health nurse dispensing prescriptions into the client's pill boxes or organizers
• Review of patient education materials by Home Health nurse
• Mailing prescriptions directly to the client's home

Home Health clients who are not customers of Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy can easily be transferred to Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy by pharmacy personnel. After the transfer, clients may begin taking advantage of these convenient services immediately.

For more information, contact the Prairie Lakes Campus Pharmacy at 605-882-7790.

Pastoral Care is available to patients and their loved ones for prayer, spiritual concerns, and support. Pastoral Care Visits provide safe and confidential opportunities to discuss concerns and vent emotions while promoting balance and encouraging healthy coping.

Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is guided by basic Christian tenets of healing and respect for the dignity of the whole person. Total care takes into consideration the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of each patient.

If you would like special information, counsel, or a visit from our staff, call the Pastoral Care Department at 605.882.7714, or talk to someone on your healthcare team who will refer you to the Prairie Lakes Pastoral Care Department.

May God's peace be with you on your journey.

The Nutritional Services department at Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is managed by Sodexo, a food service and environmental services company. The team is dedicated to creating and offering services that contribute to a more pleasant way of life for people whenever and wherever they come together. Inpatient and outpatient counseling is available. Whether you simply want to improve your everyday eating habits or you need to establish a comprehensive plan to lose weight or manage a disease the dietitians are here to support your goals in efforts to making every day a better day.

Inpatient:

Our team plays a diverse role by working with physicians and hospital staff to provide quality nutrition care to patients. Registered dietitians help patients understand the role nutrition plays in recovery and supports patients with knowledge and tools to continue their nutrition goals after they go home.

Outpatient:

• Nutrition therapy for people with medical conditions such as heart disease, cancer, kidney failure, diabetes and obesity.
• Core 4, a weight management program that consists of 12 one-hour weekly sessions.

For more information on our services please contact the Prairies Lakes Healthcare System/Sodexo registered dietitians at 605-882-7874. 

Childbirth Class Series

At Prairie Lakes, we help make the birthing experience happy and memorable for everyone involved.

The three-week series will be offered in-person once a week. Please try to attend a series a few months before your delivery date.

This series of three classes is designed to prepare the expectant mother and her support person for labor and delivery. Updated relaxation, breathing techniques and childbirth trends will be presented by certified childbirth educators. For Spanish class options and education, please call 605-882-7628.

Register for Childbirth Classes

Car Seat Safety

To encourage proper use of child safety seats, Prairie Lakes Healthcare System offers car seat education and free car seat checks. 

Learn More About Car Seat Safety & Classes

Breastfeeding Education & Lactation Consultants

The focus of our staff, which includes Certified Lactation Counselors (CLC) and International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC), is to provide education and support to new moms, fathers, and support people before, during and after the childbirth process. After baby arrives, mothers also have access to our certified lactation consultants who help with breastfeeding questions and concerns.

Breastfeeding Education & Classes

Starting in 2025, The Prairie Lakes Baby Café will meet every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the waiting area of the Labor and Delivery department. The Baby Café is a welcoming, and informal space for expecting and new moms to connect and receive free breastfeeding support.

Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages while receiving guidance from certified lactation counselors. Whether you need help with latching, baby weigh-ins, or simply want to share experiences with other moms, the Prairie Lakes Baby Café is here to support you on your journey. No appointment is necessary—just drop in!

Additional Resources:

Use the Birthplan Form below to plan for your birth experience and to let staff and providers know your labor and delivery wishes.

Download Birth Plan Form

The ER Registration Form below allows you to fill out your admitting/registration form ahead of time to save time when you arrive at the hospital.

Download ER Registration Form (English)

Download ER Registration Form (Spanish)

Losing a child is a devastating tragedy. At Prairie Lakes, we take special care in helping parents who have suffered the loss of a child. Our Infant Loss Coordinator spends as much time as needed with parents who have lost a child and offers support, keepsakes, and other resources that might help during this difficult time. 

As heartbreaking as losing a child is, many parents find it comforting to remember their child with a photograph. Prairie Lakes has relationships with local photographers who can capture these precious moments.

For questions regarding infant loss, please contact the Prairie Lakes Maternal Child Health Department at 605-882-7735.

The Prairie Lakes surgical staff is dedicated to making sure the surgical experience is positive for you and your child. Our surgical nursing and anesthesia staff has experience and special training in pediatric surgery.

Your role as a parent in preparing for surgery

There are special presurgical medical preparations espeically for childlren's medical needs. (SEE LINK) For their emotional needs, your actions and words can make a big difference. There are special things you can do to reduce your child's fear and anxiety -- as well as your own. Children who are less fearful and anxious have a more positive experience before and after surgery. The following suggestions will help a child's surgery experience be positive.

• Display a calm, soothing, and trusting manner. You child will follow your lead.
• Schedule a pre-admission tour of our facility.
• Let your child know it's okay to be afraid. Encourage the child to talk about those feelings.
• Answer your child's questions honestly. If you don't know an answer, we can help.
• Let your child know to expect some pain after surgery, but medicine to help ease the pain.
• Plan to be there with your child to provide comfort.

The day of surgery

Unless otherwise directed by your physician, plan to arrive at the surgery center about 45 minutes before the scheduled surgery. You and your child will be shown to a private pre-operative room. There, your child will dress for surgery. The nurse and anesthesiologist will visit with you about the procedure and answer any questions.

You may go with your child as he or she is brought to the operating room. We have found that children's anxiety levels are greatly reduced when a parent is able to be at his or her side right up until the anesthesia is administered.

Following surgery, your child will be moved to a recovery area. You will be notified immediately when your child begins to awaken. At that point, you can join him or her in the recovery room.

Discharge and at-home instructions

At the appropriate time, your child will be discharged. You will receive complete postoperative instructions and advice on your child's at-home care. Within a day or two, a nurse will call you at home to check on your child's progress. At any time, however, please feel free to call us with your concerns.

Your donation of blood makes a difference to people right here in the Watertown area. All of the blood donated at Prairie Lakes through the Community Blood Bank comes back to the hospital for our patients. The donation process takes 20–30 minutes.

Donors must:

• Be at least 17 years old (16 years old with signed parent consent form)
• Be in good general health
• Weigh 110 lbs. or more
• Eat and drink plenty of fluids prior to donating blood
• Bring an ID. An ID is required at the time of donation.

You may donate in the bloodmobile during one of Watertown's blood drives. Blood drives occur almost every quarter at Prairie Lakes Hospital.  View the Community Blood Bank's calendar.

For more information, please call 605-882-7750.