We recently had a teenager who after gym class reported to his teacher that his testicles were hurting. The teacher sent him to the clinic where he demonstrated a lot of pain. Upon examination, it appeared that he had a left testicular torsion, this is confirmed by ultrasound and is a medical emergency. We were able to call CCHMC emergency and let them know we had a teen with a suspected torsion en route by ambulance. They were prepared for him when he got there and upon Ultrasound it was confirmed that he did have a torsion and was taken to surgery. Because we were in close proximity to the school and able to evaluate and get him the treatment he needed quickly, he did not lose a testicle.
Every day we are doing things that make a difference in the lives of the students and community members served here. Some things are “the big things” like the student with the torsion, and most of them are “the little things,” like vaccinations, treating infections and illnesses, and keeping them out of the emergency department by managing their chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and hypertension.