Radiation, like fire, is a resource that can be both helpful and, if used incorrectly, extremely dangerous. Radiation therapy, a procedure in which cancer patients receive measured doses of radiation, has proven to be an effective means of treating a wide variety of malignancies. This therapy is effective because the radiation destroys the DNA of the cancerous cells, killing them. Unfortunately, the radiation cannot distinguish between healthy cells and malignant cells. Therefore, it is crucial that the medical facility administering the radiation take careful safety precautions to limit the danger.
Equipment Check
The first safety procedure before radiation therapy is administered is a thorough check of all radiation-emitting equipment. Beam output should be carefully monitored. This will help ensure that the patient does not receive too much radiation due to mechanical error. It is also standard procedure to double-check and verify all dosing instructions prior to treatment. This helps lessen the chance that human error will result in a life-threatening overdose of radiation.
Protecting the Patient
Precautions should be put in place to ensure effective and safe treatment while the radiation is being administered. Radiation therapy is generally given five days a week for anywhere between two and eight weeks. This schedule allows for small, daily doses of radiation. The radiation is directed by angled beams toward the cancerous area of the patient's body. Both of these procedures help minimize the patient's exposure to radiation, as well as limiting damage to healthy cells.
Protecting the Medical Staff
Precautions should be taken to protect those administering the radiation. The procedure should be done in an isolated room. After adjusting the machine and ensuring patient comfort, the medical professional administering the therapy will then leave the room. During the procedure, no one but the patient is in the therapy room. This is a very important precaution because it helps the medical professional to avoid exposure to radiation. Otherwise, on a daily basis over a long period of time, the medical professional would be in danger of developing complications such as cancer or radiation poisoning.
The discovery of a breast lump will most likely bring on the scare of potentially having cancer. BBC Health describes cancerous lumps as tumors that grow from the multiplication of a single cell. Lumps are also interchangeable with the word masses.
Types
Breast lumps can either be malignant or benign. Malignant means that the tumor is cancerous. Benign lumps contain no signs of cancer.
Significance
Stanford Medicine's Cancer Center states malignant cells are capable of metastasizing, or spreading through the bloodstream to form secondary tumors. These cancerous cells can also damage surrounding tissues and organs.
Identification
Benign lumps are present for a variety of reasons, according to the National Cancer Institute. Cysts are fluid-filled lumps commonly found in women taking menopausal hormone therapy; the most common benign lumps are fibroadenomas that are hard and round but usually painless.
Treatment for Benign Lumps
Biopsies can diagnosis and even remove benign breast lumps without the threat of returning.
Treatment for Malignant Lumps
Malignant lumps may not be removable by a surgical biopsy if the cancer has spread. Breast-conserving surgery to save part of the breast and remove the lump is done followed by radiation. Some cases require a full mastectomy to get rid of the cancerous cells.
Premarin cream is a prescription topical cream for vaginal use. Despite its effectiveness at relieving vaginal dryness and soreness related to menopause, the estrogen contained in Premarin poses a risk for adverse effects.
Types of Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Premarin cream include abdominal or back pain, weakness, headaches, diarrhea, nausea, joint pain, insomnia, coughing, sinusitis, breast pain and changes in vaginal discharge.
Significance
Approximately 66 percent of women who use Premarin cream experience at least one side effect, according to clinical trials published by the Food and Drug Administration.
Drug Interactions
When taken with antibiotics such as erythromycin or antifungals such as ketoconazole, Premarin has the potential to cause uterine bleeding or a return of menstrual periods.
Risks
Because some of the estrogen contained in Premarin cream is absorbed into the bloodstream, use of the medication poses a risk for blood clots and stroke, and increases your risk of developing uterine or breast cancers. Additional risks associated include dementia, gall bladder disease, temporary or permanent blindness and hypothyroidism.
Considerations
Premarin can cause harmful effects to a developing fetus and cannot be used during pregnancy. If you have a history of asthma, epilepsy, cancer, kidney disease, jaundice, diabetes, endometriosis, heart attack, stroke, hypertension, liver disease or dysfunction, lupus, thyroid disease, or migraines, it might not be safe for you to use Premarin cream.
As email became commonplace, advertisers took note. But, rather than send targeted advertising to people who are likely to be interested in the message, a new kind of advertiser took advantage of the nearly free distribution of email. This, of course, came to be known as SPAM: an unwanted and unsolicited email offer. In 2003, Congress passed a bill providing consumers with the first real rights regarding email. The legislation is known as the CAN-SPAM Act (Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act of 2003.)
The Right to Opt-out
CAN-SPAM requires senders to place an opt-out link in all commercial emails. The opt-out option gives the consumer the right to stop receiving further emails from the sender. Once a recipient receives an unsolicited email and responds or opts-out, the sender must comply within 10 business days. CAN-SPAM provides for fines and other civil penalties for violators. And it has provisions for increasingly harsh penalties, especially if the noncompliance can be demonstrated as "willful."
The Right to Honest Messages
Under CAN-SPAM, consumers have the right to receive only honest messages. Deceptive practices are forbidden. Examples of deceptive conduct prohibited by CAN-SPAM include sending false or "spoofed" email addresses that appear to come from someone you know or from a familiar business. Emails cannot have subject lines that appear to be a response to prior correspondence by including an "re:" prefix.
The Right to Identifiable Commercial Senders
Consumers have the right to have senders of commercial email identify themselves with, at least, a physical address. The address does not have to be a physical location; it can be a P.O. box, but it must be a valid mailing address. The point of this rule is make sure that consumers or regulatory or enforcement agencies can send mail to the spammers.
The Right to Sanction
CAN-SPAM does not give consumers the right to sue "spammers". (Consumers can sue through other legal means.) The law allows the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the right to sanction spammers on a consumer's behalf. And it gives the FTC and state attorneys general the right to sue spammers on consumers' behalf. Although CAN-SPAM has widespread approval, many question its effectiveness. Few prosecutions have taken place under CAN-SPAM and the FTC doesn't often levy sanctions or sue spammers. However, the potential consequences seem to have curtailed all but the most unscrupulous spammers.
Tags: have right, right spammers, that appear, unsolicited email
Raising money for breast cancer can take a variety of forms.
Fundraising for breast cancer can be done in a variety of ways. It helps educate people on the disease as well as making them aware of how devastating it can be for those fighting breast cancer. Fundraisers also give hope to those diagnosed with breast cancer. It allows them to see there are people out there who care about them and want to do anything possible to help find a cure. The money raised during these fundraising events go to patients who cannot afford treatment and research companies who are searching for a cure.
Instructions
1. Host a party in your home for family, neighbors, co-workers and friends. Let them know the purpose of the party and why it is important to you. Share a video with them about breast cancer and ask them to support your cause.
2. Speak with the principal at your child's school and start a "Loose Change Day." Print out flyers asking each child to bring in loose change from home to support Breast Cancer Awareness. Get the whole school to participate by letting them count the change and roll it.
3. Hold a garage sale to raise money. Ask friends and neighbors to donate items and make posters that indicate all proceeds will go to breast cancer awareness. Have the local newspaper run an ad about your event. It can help promote sales.
4. Ask your place of worship, school or another organization to host a spaghetti dinner to aise money for breast cancer. This event can be for the whole family to enjoy and usually charge an admission fee to participate. Have friends and family volunteer to help with cooking and serving the food.
5. Make crafts or jewelry with the breast cancer symbol embroidered on it. Sell them at flea markets for a profit. The profit you make can be used as a donation. Some easy crafts to make would be picture frames, scarves, earrings, necklaces and bracelets.
6. Visit local businesses in town asking to help with raising money for breast cancer. Ask them to put out a jar for donations. Most local businesses will not turn you down if it's for a good cause.
7. Host a block party in town and ask a local band to play at the party. Ask local businesses to donate food and drinks for the benefit. All proceeds from the food and drinks sold at the event can be used as donations.
Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, local businesses, money breast, money breast cancer, Breast Cancer
Developmental disabilities are a broad range of conditions that have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected persons. Such conditions can have their roots before a child is born and may manifest as late as 22 years of age, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Developmental disabilities affect many systems, and they can have both physical and cognitive/mental consequences. Although developmental disabilities can negatively impact sufferers' lives, a number of organizations, including the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, work to improve the lives and protect the rights of affected persons.
Types
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) divides developmental disabilities into a number of categories; these include neurological disorders, sensory disabilities, and metabolic and degenerative disorders. Neurological conditions include various forms of mental retardation, the disorders known collectively as autism, Down syndrome, and Fragile X syndrome. Sensory disabilities include hearing and vision loss or impairment (including various causes of blindness and deafness), as well as other sensory-related conditions. Metabolic disorders include phenylketonuria and hypothyroidism, which can lead to mental retardation; one degenerative disorder, Rett syndrome, causes children to regress in acquired skill levels after they have initially made normal progress.
Effects
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) states that developmental disabilities limit the lives of sufferers in ways such as being unable to care for and direct oneself, impairment in the use of language, limited learning and mobility and the loss or absence of ability to provide for oneself. The ADD and many other organizations work to help persons affected by developmental disabilities integrate into the broader community by providing a number of services, including early intervention and housing. The CDC focuses prevention and outreach efforts in areas like cerebral palsy, autism and hearing loss.
Significance
A number of additional factors may arise in the lives of persons with developmental disabilities. They may face bullying as children and various forms of societal discrimination as adults. According to Sally-Ann Cooper of St. George's University of London, as many as 40 percent of people with developmental disabilities may have psychiatric problems, partially in association with the extra-psychological stress imposed on the lives of the affected. The Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Amendments of 1970 and associated laws are designed to provide services for and protect the rights of people with developmental disabilities.
Treatment
The NICHD notes that a number of therapies are available for developmental disabilities. These include speech therapy, occupational and motor therapy, special education, hormone treatments for hypothyroidism and special diets for metabolic disorders. Developmental disorders are not typically curable, and their effects last throughout the course of an affected person's life.
Considerations
With appropriate therapeutic intervention and a strong support system, individuals with developmental disabilities can thrive. Efforts should be undertaken to understand the unique needs of all persons with developmental disabilities and to ensure that there are resources in place to address issues of poor treatment and discrimination against affected persons. For more information on national organizations that work for people with developmental disabilities, see Resources.
Tags: with developmental, with developmental disabilities, developmental disabilities, affected persons, developmental disabilities
Radiology managers are trained as radiology technicians or are physician radiologists.
Radiology managers are responsible for several diagnostic imaging departments, including x-ray, MRI, CAT scans, ultrasound and nuclear medicine. Radiology managers usually have a bachelor's or master's degree and a background in radiology, generally as a radiology technician. Some hospitals and health-care facilities employ physicians as radiology managers or supervisors. Radiology managers are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and have several years experience in the field.
Training
Many hospitals prefer to promote from within, providing education opportunities for radiology technicians to become managers. Physicians who serve as radiology managers have clinical diagnostic duties in addition to overseeing radiologic staff members. They are paid radiologist salaries plus additional pay to compensate for their supervisory duties.
Radiology Manager Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't isolate radiology manager salaries, instead included them in its "Medical and Health Services Managers" data. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2010 information, medical and health services managers earned a median salary of $84,270. The middle 50th percentile pay range was $65,650 to $109,490 a year, with a 10th percentile salary of $51,280 and a 90th percentile figure of $144,880. Salary.com places the median salary of diagnostic imaging managers at $89,012 as of June 2011, with a middle 50th percentile salary range of $77,598 to $95,439, a 10th percentile salary of $67,206 and a 90th percentile salary figure of $101,291.
Physician Radiology Manager Salary
Doctors who serve as radiology managers are paid as physicians, with additional remuneration for administrative duties. Radiologists make a median salary of $454,205, according to the Physician Compensation Survey conducted by the American Medical Group Association. Interventional radiologists, who perform procedures such as biopsies and angioplasties, earn a median salary of $478,000.
Radiologist Technician Salary
Many radiology managers begin their careers as radiologic technicians, gaining experience by taking patient x-rays, conducting magnetic resonance imaging tests, providing ultrasound services and learning all aspects of diagnostic imaging. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a May 2010 median salary of $54,340 for radiologic technicians and technologists. The middle 50th percentile pay range is $44,200 to $65,590 annually, with a 10th percentile salary of $36,510 and a 90th percentile salary of $76,850. The average wage is $26.13 an hour.
Geography
The highest-paying states for radiology manager salaries, included in the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2010 "Medical and Health Services Managers" data, are Massachusetts with an average salary of $112,670, Washington at $109,670 and Rhode Island at $109,580. Cities with the top radiology manager salaries include the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara area in California with an average salary of $123,930, Madera, California, at $123,050, and the Boston area at $120,670.
Outlook
The job-growth rate for medical and health services managers is expected to be above average through 2018 at 16 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Hospitals will continue to be the largest employers of radiology managers. About 283,500 medical and health services managers were employed in May 2010, and those working in hospitals earned an average salary of $87,040, far outpacing average salaries for managers in outpatient facilities, physician offices and nursing homes. Radiology managers with extensive health-care experience, and those with experience in large hospitals and health-systems, will enjoy the best job prospects.
Tags: percentile salary, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, median salary
Annually about 40,000 people have mitral valve surgery. Many of these surgeries are open-heart, involve cracking the sternum and require 12 weeks of recovery. Robotic mitral valve surgery is less invasive and has a much shorter recovery.
The Mitral Valve
The mitral valve is the inflow valve on the left side of the heart. It allows oxygenated blood to flow in only one direction from the left atrium into the left ventricle. The valve needs repair when it does not close properly, causing leakage.
Surgery Prep
The patient's history is taken including a record of all medications. A chest X-ray, routine lab work and ultrasound imaging to check blood flow is completed prior to surgery.
Surgery
Three small incisions are made between the ribs in which the robotic arms and camera are placed. The surgeon works at a console. The robotics improves the surgeon's vision and coordination as he controls the tiny instruments to repair the valve.
Benefits
This type of repair has less pain and scarring and a lower rate of infection. There is less blood loss.
Recovery
The hospital stay is 5 days. Recovery time is about two weeks, but no driving, heavy lifting or strenuous activities are allowed for six.
The Internal Revenue Service permits the deduction of certain health care insurance costs. The manner in which you can deduct your health insurance depends on whether you are an employee or self-employed.
Employees
You can deduct health insurance costs that you pay as part of the medical expenses deduction, which permits you to deduct the amount by which your total medical expenses for the year exceeds 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. You must itemize your deductions to claim this deduction.
Self-Employed Individuals
Self-employed individuals can deduct the cost of their health insurance as an adjustment to income, which means the deduction can be taken without having to itemize deductions. Your deduction cannot exceed your self-employment income.
Types
The IRS permits you to deduct only long-term care insurance premiums and medical insurance premiums. You cannot deduct costs paid for insurance that pays you money to replace lost wages in the event of injury or life insurance premiums. You also cannot deduct insurance costs paid by your employer.
Tags: health insurance, insurance costs, insurance premiums, cannot deduct, costs paid, Deduct Health, Deduct Health Care
Medicaid provides health care coverage to many poor and disabled individuals.
Medicaid is part of a group of health care insurance programs that help pay for health care service to disabled and qualifying low-income families and individuals. The Georgia Department of Community Health administers the Medicaid program and other healthcare programs to Georgia residents. You can apply for Medicaid benefits in Georgia in several ways. Eligibility information and applications for benefits are available at your county Department of Family and Children's Services.
Eligibility
Medicaid provides coverage for disabled individuals receiving Supplemental Security Insurance benefits, pregnant women and children. Elderly, blind or disabled individuals in nursing homes are also eligible for Medicaid in Georgia. Families with children whose incomes are lower than 133% of the federal poverty level may also qualify for low-income Medicaid. In Georgia, the Right from the Start Medicaid program provides coverage for pregnant women and newborns with family incomes lower than 200 percent of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, income of $3,842 per month or lower qualifies for Georgia Medicaid, according to the Georgia Department of Community Health.
Apply by Mail or Fax
If you would like to apply for Medicaid benefits in Georgia or find out more about the program, there are several ways to do it. If you cannot get to a DFCS office, call them and request an application form. When you receive it, simply fill it out and mail it back to them. For faster results, you can fax the application for services to the Georgia Department of Human Services, or DHS. To get contact information for your county's DFCS office, visit the department's Complete List of All County Offices webpage (see Resources).
Apply Online
You can also apply for Medicaid online at the Georgia DHS website (see Resources). Called Compass, for Common Point of Access to Social Services, the site permits you to submit an application or check the status of your application. The Compass website provides an easy to understand application process and guides applicants through it step-by-step.
Apply at County DFCS Office
You can apply for Medicaid and other social assistance programs inside your county DFCS office. To find its location, visit the department's Complete List of All County Offices webpage (see Resources). When you visit the office, you will fill out an application for services or benefits. The next step is scheduling an appointment with a social services worker to determine your eligibility for benefits. The social services workers will provide you with a list of things that you will need to prove your eligibility for Medicaid in Georgia. You will need proof of your identity, citizenship status and income.
Medicaid and the New Healthcare Law
Who can apply for Medicaid benefits is going to change soon. The Affordable Care Act passed in 2010 goes into full effect in 2014. Medicaid coverage in Georgia will expand to cover many thousands more uninsured Georgians who could not be insured due to poverty or pre-existing health conditions. In 2009, Georgia Medicaid covered 2,048,362 individuals. Over 650,000 more Georgians will be eligible to apply for Medicare under the new law, according to Georgia Health News.
Like most mammals, dogs have mammary glands regardless of their sex. In puppies, it is impossible to determine the sex of the dog by inspection of the nipples. Once a female puppy goes into her first heat or estrus cycle, you will notice her breasts enlarge, along with the usual signs of a swollen vulva and bloody discharge. This usually happens when she is between five and 12 months of age, depending on the breed. There are also some instances when enlargement is caused by a mammary disorder.
Structure
The mammary glands run on parallel rows from the chest area and extend to the groin. The female canine can have up to five sets of mammary glands identified as cranial thoracic, caudal thoracic, cranial abdominal, caudal abdominal and inguinal glands. The number of mammary glands may vary depending on the breed, with larger breeds usually having more teats than smaller breeds. Breasts are made up of a complex of glandular tissue and its corresponding nipple. Each nipple will have a number of ducts through which milk comes out during lactation and nursing.
Function
As in all other mammals, the mammary glands of the female canine function as the vehicle for delivery of nutrition to newborn puppies. In the first 24 hours following whelping, they serve to pass on the mother's antibodies to her newborn puppies by secreting colostrum. In the first few weeks of life, colostrum gives the puppies immunity to various diseases, and greatly increases their chances for survival during the critical early weeks.
Causes of Normal Enlargement of the Nipples and Mammary Glands
Enlargement of the nipples and mammary glands happens as a response to the hormone estrogen. Levels of this hormone normally increase when a female dog goes into heat, reaching their peak a few days before ovulation and gradually decreasing as ovulation nears. It is not unusual for a dog's breasts to enlarge during, or right after, a heat cycle.
Breast enlargement is also one of the signs of pregnancy. By the fifth week of pregnancy, owners will notice their dog's nipples begin to darken and increase in size. Milk may be present at nine weeks, just a few days before whelping.
After giving birth, milk production increases to keep up with the demand from the litter. In between feedings, the owner will notice the dog's breasts become engorged as they fill up with milk.
Common Mammary Disorders
Some disorders may also cause enlargement of a dog's mammary glands. Pseudopregnancy, or false pregnancy, is a condition where the dog's body behaves as if it were pregnant, even if the dog was not bred. A possible effect of this condition is breast enlargement, and occasionally, milk production.
Another cause of enlarged breasts is mastitis, which refers to inflammation and infection of the mammary glands.
Mammary gland tumors, which can be benign or malignant, also cause breast enlargement in affected dogs.
Treatment
Pseudopregnancy is a common occurrence in canines and usually does not require any treatment.
Mastitis may be treated simply with a warm compress and antibiotics.
On the other hand, mammary gland tumors require surgery to remove the affected glands and to perform a biopsy. Spaying is also recommended in order to prevent future occurrences. Chemotherapy may also be suggested, especially in aggressive tumors.
Tags: mammary glands, mammary glands, will notice, also cause, breast enlargement
It’s hard not to want those sexy curves, especially when you see them on a daily basis throughout Hollywood and on the fashion runways. Many women aren’t naturally endowed with large breasts. However, there are ways to make your breasts bigger. All it takes is the desire to have a bigger chest and a little bit of money. These steps will guide you on make your breasts bigger.
Instructions
1. Take vitamins. If you go to your local vitamin store, you will see that there are many different types of vitamins that claim to make your breasts bigger. Many of these vitamins do work and you will end up with bigger breasts. However, do your research and find out about any side effects. Some make you gain weight in your breasts and other places as well.
2. Do exercises. Go to your local gym and make an appointment with a personal trainer. Tell your trainer that you would like to strengthen your pectoral muscles. As these muscles get stronger, your breasts will appear and feel firmer and perkier.
3. Buy a push-up bra. A push-up bra can do wonders for a small chest. Buy giving your breasts a little lift you can give the illusion that your breasts are bigger. However, it’s important to know that a push-up bra will only work to push up breasts that you have so if you have a very small chest, proceed to Step 4.
4. Don’t be afraid of a little padding. If you have very small breasts, a padded bra may be a better option for you as opposed to a push-up bra. A padded bra will make it look like there is more there then there actually may be. Check out your local Victoria’s Secret. They have a large selection of bras.
5. Get a breast augmentation. If you’re not satisfied with the temporary fixes that pills and padded bras give you, consider a more permanent solution. Go to a plastic surgeon and get a breast augmentation. This will permanently increase the size of your breasts and what’s even better is that you have a choice of how big you want to go. Make sure you do your research and that your doctor is board certified.
Tags: your breasts, your breasts bigger, breasts bigger, make your, make your breasts, your local
Made popular by television shows such as "Crime Scene Investigation" and "Law and Order," the field of forensics is expected to continue a 10-year period of growth of about 12 percent through the year 2018, according to the United States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. Forensics includes the study of blood spatter, decomposition patterns and toxicology, and is often linked with criminal justice. Many schools offer joint departments of forensics and criminal justice; across the country, students interested in forensic science may earn bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in the field.
Albany State University
Earn a bachelor's degree in forensic science through the criminal justice and forensic science department at Albany State University in Georgia. The four-year program includes coursework such as introduction to forensic science, forensic serology, DNA technology, introduction to criminal justice, criminal evidence and court procedure, forensic microscopy of trace evidence, forensic chemistry and forensic photography. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7. Resources include a computer lab, forensic labs and a mock courtroom. Students who are interested in furthering their education may enroll in Albany State's master of science in criminal justice program. The school is accredited by the American Academy of Forensic Science's Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission.
Albany State University
504 College Drive
Albany, GA 31705
229-430-4600
potentialrealized.org
Columbia College
Columbia College offers a bachelor's degree in forensic science, to be completed over four years featuring classes such as bloodstain evidence, introduction to criminal justice administration, crime scene investigation, anatomy, forensic pathology, criminal procedures, logic and abnormal psychology. Students may attend courses in the daytime or evening. The forensic science program is part of Columbia College's Department of Criminal Justice and Forensic Science. On-campus activities include the Criminal Justice Student Association, Forensic Science Student Association, Mock Trial Association and Forensic Science Honor Society.
Columbia College
1001 Rogers St.
Columbia, MO 65216
800-231-2391
ccis.edu
University of Central Oklahoma
Housed in the University of Central Oklahoma, the Forensic Science Institute offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in forensic science. Coursework includes ethics and testimony, crime scene processing, digital forensics, crime scene reconstruction, firearm and toolmark analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis and forensic toxicology. Students are eligible for the Forensic Science Institute Endowed Scholarship, research and teaching assistantships and tuition waivers. While on campus, students may participate in the Student Academy of Forensic Science and a number of training events hosted by the school.
University of Central Oklahoma
Forensic Science Institute
100 N. University Drive
Edmond, OK 73034
405-974-2000
uco.edu
Tags: Forensic Science, criminal justice, forensic science, Albany State, Columbia College
Thyroid levels are measured using a blood, urine or breath test to check levels of the hormones TSH, T3 and T4. TSH, which is produced by the pituitary gland, triggers the thyroid's production of T4, also known as thyroxine. T4 is then converted to triiodothyronine, or T3. The lack of these hormones---or insufficient levels of them---could result in hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism primary or hypothyroidism secondary. Determining if the thyroid is functioning properly requires a blood test to measure all three hormones.
Instructions
1. Monitor your mood, weight gain, and levels of tiredness, and keep a record of them. If you seem to be more depressed than normal, are gaining or losing weight, or are extremely tired, schedule an appointment with your doctor, who may decide to check thyroid levels.
2. Explain your symptoms to your doctor.
3. Provide a blood sample to your doctor. Tests will measure T3, T4 and TSH levels.
4. Obtain the test results and review them with your doctor. Test results showing high TSH levels indicate primary hypothyroidism. Results showing low TSH levels indicate hyperthyroidism. A measure of T4 and TSH levels together may reveal how the thyroid gland is functioning. It may also indicate whether problems are related to the pituitary gland or to the thyroid gland. T3 results are most useful in diagnosing hyperthyroidism and determining its severity.
Tags: your doctor, levels indicate, measure levels, pituitary gland, primary hypothyroidism, thyroid gland, with your
In Washington state, you will find a number of educational institutions that offer R.N. programs.
Washington state is well-known for the city of Seattle and the recreational opportunities that abound from the various mountainous terrain in the state, including Mt. Rainier. There is a thriving educational scene in Washington, with many higher education programs that offer R.N. programs as a part of the curriculum. When choosing an R.N program, the school should be state certified and you should be able to take the state R.N. license exam upon completion of the program.
Bellevue Community College
Bellevue Community College (BCC) is located in Bellevue, Washington, just east of Seattle, the biggest city in Washington. BCC offers a state certified R.N. program that is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. In this two-year program, students learn a broad range of nursing concepts in medical, surgical, geriatric, pediatric, maternity, and behavioral health nursing. Classes are conducted in classroom and clinical settings.
To be accepted into this program, prospective RN students must complete 44 credit hours of general education courses including subjects such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, math, English and chemistry. Students must also complete an application, get a criminal background check and pass an assessment test. Once accepted in the program, students are subject to random drug testing.
Bellevue Community College
3000 Landerholm Circle Southeast
Bellevue, WA 98007
425-564-1000
bellevuecollege.edu
Tacoma Community College
Tacoma Community College (TCC) is located in Tacoma, Washington. TCC offers three R.N. programs. Two of the programs bridge over to R.N. programs offered at state universities. The bridge program is two years in length, and upon completing the community college portion of the program, students will not able to take the state R.N. license program. Those students that choose the bridge program must complete more coursework at the university level and then take the state R.N. license exam.
The third option is a three-year program that, upon completion, allows students to take the state license exam. All three programs train students in various nursing concepts in classroom and lab settings. However, the classes in each program have a different level of depth, dependent on the program you choose.
To enroll in any of these nursing programs, students must complete an application, take a background test, and complete an assessment test. Students will also be required to fulfill the prerequisite course requirements before they can be eligible to enroll in any of the R.N. programs offered at TCC.
Tacoma Community College
6501 S 19th St
Tacoma, WA 98466-6100
253-566-5000
tacomacc.edu
Whatcom Community College
Whatcom Community College (WCC) is located in north Washington right near the Canadian border in Bellingham, Washington. WCC offers a two-year, associate in science degree program in nursing. Successful completion of this program makes students eligible to take the state R.N. license exam. Students that complete this program also will have the opportunity to transfer to a state university's nursing bachelor degree program. This R.N. program also teaches various nursing concepts to students in classroom and clinical settings. To enroll in the program, students must complete an application, submit to a criminal background test and drug screening, complete a college placement test, and take the required prerequisite courses.
Whatcom Community College
237 West Kellogg Road
Bellingham, WA 98226
360-383-3000
whatcom.ctc.edu
Tags: Community College, state license, take state, take state license, license exam, must complete
CCD camera footage can be played back on a number of devices.
A CCD, or Charged Coupled Device, is the basis of nearly all consumer-grade digital video camcorders. The CCD replaces both the shutter and the film of a traditional camera. The chip that makes up the CCD is covered in millions of cells called photosites, which are extremely small cells that create a charge in response to light. This charge is then converted into a light level. Cameras using this technology save their video digitally, which means it can be played back in a variety of ways, including on a TV.
Instructions
1. Determine if you camera has an S-Video output or a component output. While these connectors should be labeled, if they are not, you can identify a component output by the yellow coloring of the connector. An S-Video connector is a round, black port about 1 centimeter in diameter with holes for several pins.
2. Plug the appropriate cable into your camera's output.
3. Plug this cable into an input on your television. Take note of what number input you are plugging it into.
4. Turn your camera on to the playback mode.
5. Turn on your television and, using the "TV/Video" or "Input" button, switch to the input that you connected the camera to. When you have the correct input, you will see the camera's video screen on your television.
6. Press "Play" on the camera to play back your footage on your television.
Tags: your television, cable into, component output, played back, Turn your, your camera
Several North Carolina schools offer degrees in radiology tech.
Several schools in North Carolina offer radiology tech programs. Radiology techs are also known as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers, rad techs or X-ray techs. They can specialize in imaging fields such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), sonography, computed tomography (CT) and radiation oncology. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology accredits 23 radiography programs in North Carolina (as of May 2010). Here are a few.
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Radiography. Classes include physics, pathology, patient care, radiation protections and more, plus clinical rotations. The program is 75 credit hours. The college also offers an Associate in Applied Science in Medical Sonography.
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Allied Health and Public Services
Radiography
340 Victoria Road
Asheville, North Carolina 28801
828-254-1921
abtech.edu
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a four-year Bachelor of Science program in Medical Imaging, a 20-month certificate program in Radiography and a 24-month Radiologist Assistant certificate program. A radiologist assistant is an advanced radiologic technologist who works with a radiologist.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Department of Allied Health Sciences
Division of Radiologic Science
CB #7130 UNC-CH Bondurant Hall
321-A South Columbia St.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7130
919-966-5146
med.unc.edu
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Fayetteville Technical Community College offers a five-semester Associate in Applied Science program in Radiography. Students take courses in patient care, radiation safety, anatomy, radiobiology, and physiology, and also complete clinical rotations at health care facilities near the college.
Fayetteville Technical Community College
2201 Hull Road
Fayetteville, North Carolina 28303
910-678-8303
faytechcc.edu
Pitt Community College, Winterville
Pitt Community College in Winterville offers an Associate in Applied Science in Radiography. It prepares students for entry level work in hospitals, health care facilities and doctors' offices with classes in radiation protection, laboratories, radiobiology, pathology, physics and more. The college also offers specialized training in radiation therapy, medical sonography, CT, MRI and medical dosimetry.
Pitt Community College
Health Science Division
Radiography Program
1986 Pitt Tech Road
Winterville, North Carolina 28590
252-493-7200
pittcc.edu
Wake Technical Community College - Raleigh
Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh has a 21-month Associate of Applied Science degree training students in both classroom and clinical work. Courses include image processing, pathology, anatomy and more. The college also offers a certificate in CT and a diploma in MRI.
Wake Technical Community College
Health Science Campus
Radiography Program
9101 Fayetteville Road
Raleigh, North Carolina 27603
919-866-5000
waketech.edu/
Forsyth Technical Community College -- Winston-Salem
Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem has a five-semester Associate of Applied Science in Radiography. The college's programs provide didactic, laboratory and clinical experiences and training in both conventional and digital medical imaging. Forsyth also has programs in medical sonography (ultrasound), MRI, CT, radiation therapy and cardiovascular sonography.
Forsyth Technical Community College
2100 Silas Creek Parkway
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27103
336-723-0371
forsythtech.edu
Tags: Community College, North Carolina, Technical Community, Technical Community College, Applied Science
A call is received. After a ring, the answering machine's logical programming begins counting. It counts the number of rings until the right amount accumulate which will trigger its interception of the call. The playback message is played from the memory modules inside the answering machine and the call begins its reception for conversion.
A call is converted and stored. A component inside the answering machine called a micro-controller takes the caller's audio signal and converts it into a digital format. The digital form is stored in random-access memory similar to the RAM found in computers. The stored data is located at a specific memory address in RAM which will allow for messages to be managed individually without affecting each other.
Receiver is notified and allowed to manage. Once a message is converted and stored, the answering machine's processor tells its digital display to notify the receiver of the number of calls stored in the memory. The receiver is then able to play back the message and manage the calls (store, delete) without impacting the others stored.
Tags: answering machine, converted stored, inside answering, inside answering machine, which will
Medical laboratory technicians ensure samples are stored in the required manner.
Medical laboratory technicians help research scientists in their quest to understand and treat diseases. They do so by performing clinical and administrative functions. Their duties include conducting chemical analyses of body tissues and fluids to determine the presence of normal and abnormal components, performing other routine tests such as determining blood type, preparing equipment and samples for research scientists, cleaning the laboratory, and maintaining computer and paper files of the results of tests. Hourly pay rates for the occupation vary according to factors such as experience and location.
Average Pay
In its national employment assessment conducted in May 2009, the Bureau of Labor Statistics gathered pay data from more than 150,000 medical laboratory technicians working in the United States. It concluded that the average hourly salary for the position was $18.20. This extrapolates into a monthly salary of $3,155 and an annual income of $37,860. The bureau's figures correspond with those produced by PayScale.com in March 2011. It put the hourly rate for a technician at between $14.16 and $19.47, dependent upon bonus.
Pay by Industry
The bureau's survey found that the majority of medical research technicians work in general medical and surgical hospitals. It listed the average pay rate for this sector of health care as $18.66 per hour. Positions within scientific research and development services, and those in federal government agencies paid higher rates -- $20.00 and $19.52, respectively, while those in the offices of physicians and medical and diagnostic laboratories were listed with slightly lower averages -- $17.82 and $17.11, respectively.
Pay by Experience
PayScale.com also analyzed how experience affects pay rates for medical laboratory technicians. It found that wage levels increase commensurate with experience. The average pay for an individual with less than 12 months in the job was listed at between $11.21 and $16.03. Someone with one to four years earned between $12.84 and $17.54, while accruing five to nine years experience brought compensation levels of between $14.52 and $18.87. With 10 to 19 years a technician received between $16.78 and $21.21, while 20 years or more in the profession meant pay levels of $17.80 to $23.12.
Pay by Location
Geography is also an important factor in determining technician pay rates. The bureau listed Rhode Island, Maryland and Connecticut as the top three states, with average wages across all industry sectors of $26.68, $22.05 and $21.82, respectively. In contrast, Tennessee was listed at just $16.34. The Champaign, Urbana area of Illinois topped the table of lucrative metropolitan districts with an average of $30.00. The Athens, Clarke County area of Georgia was listed at $13.68.
Tags: laboratory technicians, between while, found that, research scientists, with average
Government grants for women-owned businesses are available throughout the country where the government has identified a need for new business, technology, industries or the jobs they create. The application process is complex and time consuming, but the funding is significant and can be a substantial revenue stream for your business. Women business owners or women that are majority owners are considered minorities and have a special advantage when applying for grant funds.
Application Assistance
Consider hiring a grant writer who specializes in and has a success record in winning government grants. This can save you hours of time and headaches in preparing a proposal in the business language that the government understands. Consider applying for 8a certification, which is a set-aside amount of grant funding to businesses that have been discriminated against and can now qualify for special set-aside funds with this certification. This is another application process that will take time, but it greatly reduces the competition.
Before Submitting the Proposal
Work with the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE). These volunteers are typically housed in the local Small Business Administration office. These management professionals offer valuable advise to entrepreneurs and can save time and money in the development of your proposal. Their consulting advise is free and online workshops are available at their website (see References). Also consider reviewing your business proposal with a Business Development Specialist at the Small Business Development Centers or Minority Business Development Centers. They can usually be found at a community college or local chamber of commerce. These are low- or no-cost opportunities to work with professionals who can help shape your business proposal. They will also be aware of federal and state grant opportunities for which your business may apply based on urban or rural location, number of employees needed, your minority status as a woman business owner or majority owner.
Federal Grant Funds
Unlike the private sector, the federal government has a centralized website for all grant opportunities (see "Federal Grants" in References). This site sorts grants by category, agency, industry, geographic region and subject matter. But don't limit your search to your business category. Do a search by subject for the industry, people you will serve or hire, the location and the product or service you will deliver. The Frequently Asked Question (F.A.Q.) section is well populated with information and a customer service contact is available for further questions. Make sure the grant is unrestricted, meaning a for-profit business can apply.
State Grant Funds
Contact your state economic development office for state and regional funding opportunities. At these sites you can inquire about enterprise or other special business zones which provide tax credits and some grants to start up or expanding businesses. You should also look into county or city grants for funding opportunities and meet with your state representatives about your grant funding goals. They may know of upcoming grant opportunities that have not posted on the website.
Manage Your Expectations
Don't look to federal or state grants to fund all of your business. These funds can be very slow to receive even after you are approved for the contract. And getting payments can be a cumbersome process as well. Make sure your business plan does not have deadlines that will endanger your business by waiting on grant funds. Find other businesses that have been awarded federal or state grants in your area and asked them about their process.
Tags: your business, Business Development, federal state, grant opportunities, that have, application process
Most of us know or have seen a woman with breast implants, but we have always wondered how much she paid for her surgery and never asked. It's actually tough to know for sure, as the costs associated with breast augmentation vary greatly depending on the surgeon, the location and the type and placement of the implant.
Extra Costs
Though national average prices for breast augmentation surgeries range from $3,000 to $4,000, DocShop.com suggests these figures do not reflect the actual amount patients are likely to pay for their surgery. These figures include the cost of breast implants themselves, but do not include the following: anesthesia, medical facility fees, prescriptions, surgical garments and medical testing. Surgeons and anesthesiologists practicing in large cities or more affluent neighborhoods most likely charge more for their services than doctors who practice in more rural areas.
Considerations
According to DocShop.com, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons lists the national average surgeon's fee for breast implants in 2005 at $3,406. The American Society for Aesthetic Surgery, however, lists the average price for breast augmentation at $3,583 for saline implants and $4,005 for silicone implants. Docshop.com argues that these figures are not completely accurate, as breast augmentation prices will vary from region to region and do not include "various associated expenses."
Warning
Experts advise against purchasing "cheap" breast implants, though the idea of paying much less for surgery may sound tempting. Docshop.com recommends basing your decision on surgeon credentials rather than on the price he is offering for surgery. Make sure the surgeon you choose is "board certified, experienced and professional." On the other hand, just because a surgeon offers breast implants at a high price does not guarantee the best results possible. You should always base your decision on the quality of the surgeon, rather than the high or low cost of breast implants.
Insurance Responsibilities
Since breast augmentation is an elective cosmetic procedure, insurance companies do not generally cover costs associated with this kind of surgery. The only exception to this rule might be if the patient is having surgery related to cancer, such as breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, or severe breast trauma. Another important thing to note is that insurance companies generally do not cover costs associated with any kind of surgery complications relating to breast augmentation. Some companies even maintain they will not cover any breast-related treatments for women who have had breast implants.
Types
According to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery, the placement and incision type of breast implants can impact the price of breast augmentation surgery. Women have the option of choosing subglandular implant placement (implants are placed above the chest muscles and under the breast tissue); partial submuscular implant placement (implants are placed partially under the chest muscles and under the breast tissue); or complete submuscular implant placement (implants are placed under the chest muscles). The optimal location of implant placement depends on the size of the breast implant, and costs vary based on implant size.
Tags: breast augmentation, breast implants, implant placement, associated with, breast implants, chest muscles
An MRI tech aide (usually called an MRI technologist or MRI technician) is a health care professional who is trained to operate a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner, which creates images of the human body. MRI scanners are used to detect defects in the body such as tumors or injuries.
Educational Requirements
An MRI tech aide must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. Additionally, a successful candidate must have matriculated from an accredited radiology technology program.
Physical Requirements
MRI tech aides must be physically fit, as the role requires that these professionals stand for much of the day.
Working Hazards
MRI tech aides are exposed to radiation on a daily basis. As a result, these professionals are required to keep track of the amount of radiation to which they are exposed throughout their entire career.
Employment Outlook
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates employment in this sector to increase at a rate of 15 percent between 2006 and 2016. This is anticipated as a result of a growing and aging population.
Salary
Salary.com stated that in 2009, the average MRI technologist earned a yearly income of $62,040.
Tags: magnetic resonance, magnetic resonance imaging, Requirements tech, resonance imaging, tech aide, tech aides, these professionals
There are several different types of radiology jobs available. Choices include an X-ray technician, radiation therapist, ultrasound technician, mammographer and radiology scheduler. Each job in the radiology field requires different skills, so it is important for the job seeker to understand the different radiology careers that are available.
Instructions
1. Speak to a radiologist's office. Talking to the employees of a radiology group will give you a better idea of what types of jobs there are in the field.
2. Choose the type of radiology job that you wish to pursue. There are both administrative and technical positions available in the field. Once you have a general idea of your interests, you can further research those particular positions.
3. Speak to a school advisor or professor. Most radiology positions require some education at a college or technical school. Ask to speak to an advisor that can help you understand the different jobs in the field.
4. Check out the different job descriptions on websites advertising radiology jobs. Call the ads to inquire about the job's responsibilities.
5. Contact a career counselor. Inquire about the different radiology jobs and find out ways that you can go about getting the schooling and experience needed to get one of these positions.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, but it can be treated successfully if detected early. Doing a monthly self-exam is the best way to detect a new lump or any changes in the breast tissue and catch breast cancer early.
Instructions
1. Understand the importance of doing a monthly self-exam beginning at age 20. The best time for a self-exam is just after your period, when the breasts are less tender.
2. Look in a mirror with your top off. Use a wide mirror to see the entire chest area. Check the shape and size of the breasts and the color and texture of the skin with your arms at your sides.
3. Raise your arms in the air and look at your breasts. Sometimes one breast is larger than the other. Learn what each breast looks like normally so you can easily spot any changes that may happen over time.
4. Place your hands on your hips, tighten your chest muscles and bend forward at the waist. Look for any dimpling on the skin that could indicate a lump under the skin.
5. Lie flat on your back on a bed with a pillow under one shoulder and bend your arm at an angle toward your head in an L position. This position spreads the breast tissue evenly. Feel the whole breast with your fingers, from the armpit to the breastbone and the collarbone to the bra line.
6. Use three fingers and make three dime-sized circles, one lightly, one medium and one deeply over each area of breast tissue on the entire breast. Use the pads of the fingers because they're more sensitive to feel a lump than the fingertips. Leave fingers on the skin as you move them around so you don't miss any areas.
7. Cover the entire breast going up and down in strips the size of your three fingers. When you're done, lower your arm and feel the entire armpit. Repeat the entire process on the other breast and armpit to complete your monthly breast exam.
Tags: breast tissue, with your, entire breast, monthly self-exam, three fingers
Soft support workers offer critical support for businesses.
Soft support is a technical term used by labor agencies and businesses to describe support jobs such as cleaners, groundskeepers and mail room employees. These services are often obtained through contracts with outside suppliers.
Types
The definition of soft services support jobs varies but most of the time, workers who handle groundskeeping, cleaning, reception, mail room, waste management/trash, security, laundry and site management are considered soft services. For certain specialty businesses, this definition can also include any non-essential employees.
Contracts
For many businesses, it is more cost-effective to provide soft support services via outside agencies which often step in to provide as-needed help on a contract basis. Most of these contracts only last for one year, although shorter and longer-term contracts are also available.
Geographic Limitations
Although the term soft services is sometimes used in the United States -- usually in a government setting -- it is primarily used in other English-speaking nations. Maintenance and support services are referred to as soft services in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Australia.
Tags: soft services, mail room, Soft support, support jobs
Contemporary medical practices have evolved to incorporating radiology imaging and diagnostics into the way diseases and conditions are noninvasively identified. The need for radiology technicians are in high demand in today's healthcare system, and many schools in New York offer two- to four-year training programs for this innovative and dynamic field.
Identification
Radiology offers very popular diagnostic procedures for analyzing conditions and diseases, where physicians and other healthcare professionals can view the results in vivid, scan images that depict the anatomy of the area in its true form. Tests, such as the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), PET (positron emission tomography) scan, and the CT (computed tomography) scan, are used on a daily basis in healthcare services. The healthcare field has come to depend on the services that radiology offers in the treatment of patients. There is a growing need for radiology technicians, and many schools in New York present the opportunity to pursue a career in this field.
Benefits
One of the benefits of choosing a radiology technician career is its competitive salaries. Radiologic technologists and technicians earn an average salary of $54,000 in New York state. Comparative salaries include diagnostic medical sonographers, who average $56,000 in New York salaries, and medical and clinical laboratory technologists average $51,000 a year in New York.
Radiology Hospital Colleges
There are currently 17 radiography colleges in the state of New York that are affiliated with a hospital. These are the first 10 and the others are available in the link below.
1. Arnot Ogden Medical Center Ellen Richards Radiology Technician Program in Elmira, NY (607) 737-4289
2. Bellevue Hospital Center Radiology Technician Program in New York, NY (212) 562-4895
3. Champlain Valley-Physicians Hospital Fay Ashline Radiology Technician Program in Plattsburgh, NY (518) 562-7510
4. Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare School of Medical Radiography Rosemary Morin Radiology Technician Program in Utica, NY (315) 624-6136
5. Glens Falls Hospital Roger Weeden Radiology Technician Program in Glens Falls, NY (518) 792-3151
6. Harlem Hospital Center Radiology Technician Program in New York, NY (212) 939-3475
7. Long Island College Hospital Sergeo Guilbaud Radiology Technician Program in Brooklyn, NY (718) 780-1681
8. Mercy Medical Center Barbara Geiger Radiology Technician Program in Rockville Centre, NY (516) 705-2274
9. New York Methodist Hospital Bartone School of Radiography Joane Durney Radiology Technician Program in Brooklyn, NY (718) 645-3500
10. Peconic Bay School of Radiologic Tech. William L DeCamp Radiology Technician Program in Riverhead, NY
(631) 548-6173
Radiography Colleges
There are currently 15 independent colleges for radiography studies in New York State. These are the first five listed in the link provided below.
1. Bronx Community College Virginia Mishkin Radiology Technician Program in the Bronx, NY (718) 289-5100, ext. 5396
2. Broome Community College Nancy Button Radiology Technician Program in Binghamton, NY (607) 778-5070
3. Fulton-Montgomery Community College Cindy F Close in Johnstown, NY (518) 762-4651
4. Hostos Community College Allen Solomon Radiology Technician Program in the Bronx, NY (718) 518-4444
5. Hudson Valley Community College Jeanne S Kelleher Radiology Technician Program in Troy, NY (518) 629-7123
Four-year Radiography Programs
There are currently only two college institutions that offer a four-year degree program in radiologic studies. They are the Long Island University CW Post Campus James Joyce Radiology Technician Program( LS 145 in Brookville, NY, (516) 299-2743) and the SUNY Upstate Medical University Radiology Technician Program (Syracuse, NY, (315) 464-6929).
Radiation Therapy Programs
Radiation therapy programs are currently only offered at four institutions in New York State. They are:
1. Erie Community College Patricia A Bennewitz Radiationa Therapy Program in Buffalo, NY (716) 842-2770
2. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Center Wilson H Apollo Radiology Therapy Program in New York, NY (212) 639-6835
3. Nassau Community College Catherine Quane-Smyth Radiology Therapy Program in Garden City, NY
(516) 572-7550
4. New York Methodist Hospital Mary Reynolds Radiology Therapy Program in Brooklyn, NY (718) 780-3677
Four-year Therapy Programs
Lastly, there are two schools in New York State that offer a four-year therapy program. They are the Manhattan College Joanne Habenicht Radiology Therapy Program (Riverdale, NY, (718) 862-7370) and the SUNY Upstate Medical University Joan O'Brien Radiology Therapy Program (Syracuse, NY, (315) 464-6937).
Tags: Radiology Technician Program, Technician Program, Radiology Technician, Community College, Therapy Program, Radiology Therapy, Radiology Therapy Program
Ultrasound technicians in Pennsylvania can earn up to $84,000, per year.
Ultrasound/sonographer technician jobs will grow 18 percent through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median annual salary nationwide, as of 2008, was $62,000, according to BLS. Pennsylvania ultrasound jobs reflect similar growth. Ultrasound technicians operate equipment that uses sound waves to generate images to diagnose patients' medical conditions. In the case of pregnancies, the ultrasound generates an image of a fetus and charts its growth.
Gettysburg
Ultrasound technicians perform imaging examinations of the abdominal area, and obstetrics, gynecology and retroperitoneal scans. They schedule scans with patients, select scanner parameters for each patient and position them for examinations. Employers expect technicians to maintain their equipment and provide written documentation of their procedures with each patient. All employed technicians in Gettysburg, and elsewhere in Pennsylvania, must possess certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). They also must have CPR certification and an Associate of Arts degree in medical-related studies. Up to two years work experience is necessary.
State College
At State College, Pa., medical service companies may seek ultrasound technicians capable of providing arterial, vascular and Venous Doppler treatment. These health care service providers serve area hospitals, clinics and medical offices by sending trained ultrasound technicians to operate equipment at the facilities' venues or bring company-provided mobile equipment. These companies provide a vehicle, Blackberry and pay overhead expenses for the technician. The job requires ARRT certification, possession of a valid driver's license, the ability to work flexible hours and be on call. Lifting equipment up to 50 pounds is part of the job. Technicians with less than two years' work experience are likely to fall into the lowest 10 percent earning category with an annual salary less than $44,000, as of 2008, according to BLS. However, the top yearly earning potential as of 2008 is nearly $84,000.
Williamsport
Working conditions at some medical facilities can be arduous. Ultrasound technicians must lift and carry equipment weighing more than 100 pounds. They also must provide a full range of scans by positioning patients' bodies that require moving and lifting them. When not lifting and carrying, ultrasound technicians stoop, reach and stand for long periods. Finger dexterity, hand/eye coordination and visual acuity are essential to competently perform the job. At the Williamsport Hospital and Medical Center, for example, the ultrasound technician divides his time at the CT-Ultrasound Department at the Rural Avenue Campus and at the Muncy Valley Campus' Radiology Department. The medical center trains its technicians to respond to disaster situations. They also assist radiologists with invasive medical procedures, which may expose them to blood and body fluids. ARRT certification and one year of work experience are necessary. The medical center may also require additional licensing and certification for other duties.
Tags: They also, Ultrasound technicians, work experience, years work experience, 2008 according
Predictive dialers make call centers more productive by letter call center agents spend more time talking to customers or prospects, rather than dialing or dealing with busy signals, disconnected lines or answering machines. Predictive dialers automatically dial numbers from the list you input. They can adjust the number of calls based on the number of agents available, distinguish answering machines from live people, redial after busy signals, and in general help call centers run more smoothly.
Several kinds of predictive dialers are available. Some require the purchase of hardware, some require new software, and some use the internet so agents can work from anywhere that they have an internet connection. Predictive dialers are useful for phone surveys, telemarketing, political campaigns, or reminding customers of deliveries or appointments.
The following steps will help you decide which predictive dialer is right for your call center.
Instructions
1. First, find out telemarketing laws concerning predictive dialers for the areas you'll be calling, and make sure any predictive dialer has the features you need to minimize complaints and keep your call center legal. For example, you'll probably need a do-not-call option for customers to opt out. There should be a way to prevent too many silent calls that have a delay between the time the customer answers and the time the call is directed to an agent. Otherwise, the person may hang up, or the predictive dialer may disconnect, and the number of such calls may be regulated by law. For more information about FTC regulations in the US, see the link in the "Resources" section below.
2. Decide whether you want to invest in new hardware, or only new software, or want a hosted system that works online. Predictive dialers that require installation of new hardware ("hard dialers") are generally more expensive, but may have more advanced features and be able to handle more calls. Predictive dialers that are based on software ("soft dialers") may be less expensive, but may not be as useful recognizing answering machines or fax lines. Hosted predictive dialers have the lowest initial cost and only require each agent to have a phone line and an internet connection, so agents can work at home or from remote locations, but hosted predictive dialers may have more limited features.
3. Make sure the predictive dialer you choose is compatible with the current phone system and software that your call center is using, whether it's a PBX system, VoIP, or agents with individual phone lines and internet services. The predictive dialer should have the capacity to handle the number of agents you employ now, with extra capacity if you plan to expand. If the system is dependent on your internet connection, you'll need the connection to be reliable.
4. Consider how easy the predictive dialer is to use, and include the cost of training employees when comparing prices.
5. Once you've chosen and installed a predictive dialer, test it before beginning to use it on a large scale. Make sure it connects each live person to an agent in a reasonable amount of time, and has a minimal number of mistakes.
Tags: call center, predictive dialer, answering machines, internet connection, predictive dialer, Predictive dialers, your call
Depending on where the breast cancer has spread, symptoms may vary. You may have a new lump within the breast or on the chest wall where the cancer originally formed. Sometimes your surgical scar may thicken or new formations may be found in other parts of your body, such as on your lungs or bones. The skin may begin to change (i.e., dimple or pucker). It is crucial to see your doctor if you begin to notice unusual symptoms or changes with your breasts.
Local Recurrence
With local recurrence cancer, a tumor will appear in the same location as the original cancer formation. If you had a lumpectomy, a new tumor may appear, or if you had a mastectomy, the tumor may be in the chest wall or skin. You may experience a thickness of the breast area, nodules in the skin, the skin will begin to pull back at the lumpectomy site, skin inflammation and redness or a flattening of the nipple.
Regional Recurrence
This type of cancer means the cancer has come back in your lymph nodes, within your armpit or somewhere amongst your collarbone. You may feel a lump within your arm, swelling of the lymph nodes in the arm or lumps and swelling around the collarbone or breastbone. Your arm may swell, you may feel pain in the arm or shoulder and sometimes you will lose sensation of the arm and hand. Sometimes you can experience chest pain (especially when breathing) or difficulty in swallowing.
Distant Metastic Recurrence
This form of cancer means that it has traveled to other locations in the body. It may be that the cancer has found its way into your bones, liver or lungs. You may feel bone pain, a dry cough, difficulty in breathing, chest pain, appetite loss, nausea/vomiting, headaches, jaundice, visual disturbances or seizures.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms may include a discharge from the nipple, fractures of the hip (when the cancer has spread to this area), constipation, fatigue, abdominal pain, edema (fluid collection in the feet and legs), confusion, memory loss, speech difficulty and visual disturbances.
Warning
It is especially important to seek treatment from your doctor if you ever experience any of these symptoms. Always receive an annual mammogram to check for new lesions, even if you've had a lumpectomy. Even though the cancer may have been treated the first time, treatment may have not fully eradicated the cancer cells. The cancer cells may even be resistant to treatment.
Risks
There are many risks with breast cancer, which increase the odds of it becoming metastatic. If cancer is found in surrounding areas of the breast, it may return. If you have a tumor larger than 5 centimeters (about 2 Inches), the odds of the cancer returning is higher. Younger women (under the age of 60), also have higher chances of breast cancer returning, as well as those who choose not to receive radiation after a lumpectomy.
Tags: breast cancer, cancer cells, cancer found, cancer means, cancer returning, cancer spread, chest pain
A breast biopsy is a procedure performed to detect the presence of cancer and other disorders in the breast. It involves the removal of a small amount of tissue or fluid, which is examined in detail for signs of abnormality. In some cases, the area of potential abnormality is small and difficult to pinpoint. Ultrasound-guided biopsy uses special imaging techniques to guide doctors to these small areas.
Reasons for Ultrasound-guided Biopsy
According to the Radiological Society of North America, you may receive an ultrasound-guided breast biopsy to investigate abnormalities including distortions in the structure of your breast tissue, solid masses and areas of unusual tissue change. While ultrasound is typically used to biopsy changes that cannot be felt by hand, you may also undergo the procedure for larger masses.
Biopsy Procedures
Depending on your medical needs, ultrasound may be used as part of three minimally-invasive procedures---core needle biopsy, fine needle aspiration and vacuum-assisted biopsy---or as part of the surgical procedure called wire localization. Core needle biopsy employs a large, hollow needle to remove individual tissues samples. Fine needle aspiration uses a much smaller needle to gather cells or fluid. In vacuum-assisted biopsy, a specialized vacuum device is used to extract multiple samples through a single needle insertion. Wire localization involves inserting a wire into the area under examination as a guide for surgical tissue removal.
Typically, your breast biopsy will be performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthetic. At the start of your procedure, an ultrasound specialist or radiologist (diagnostic imaging specialist) will examine your breast with a device called an ultrasound transducer, which will relay visual interpretations of sound waves from the breast's interior to a viewing monitor. These images will be used as a guide throughout the biopsy. After locating the proper area with ultrasound, your doctor will make a tiny incision on the outside of your breast to mark the entry point for the biopsy needle or wire. Using the real-time ultrasound image, he will then insert the needle or wire through the interior of your breast and into the area designated for sample collection.
If you undergo a core needle procedure, an automated mechanism will guide the biopsy needle to different portions of the target area, where it will extract tissue samples one at a time. Typically, three to six samples are taken. If a fine needle aspiration is performed, a syringe attached to the biopsy needle will be used to collect the sample material. In a vacuum-assisted procedure, the biopsy needle will rotate in place while the vacuum device extracts a series of eight to 10 samples. If you undergo a wire localization, a surgeon will follow the inserted wire and extract a sample. At the end of the procedure, a small marker may be left inside your breast as a guide for potential future examinations.
Needle biopsies can usually be performed in one hour. Surgical biopsy may take longer. Typically, needle biopsy sites heal without the need for suturing.
Tags: your breast, biopsy needle, breast biopsy, needle aspiration, needle biopsy
Swine flu testing in children is more accurate than in adults.
Testing for the swine flu, or H1N1 virus, is not necessary to begin treatment, although it can be helpful for physicians in certain situations. Different tests exist to determine the presence of influenza.
Common Flu Tests
The most common types of influenza tests performed are called rapid influenza diagnostic tests, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Services. This test gives a result in less than 30 minutes, but it is not always accurate.
Effectiveness of Flu Test
According to the Center for Disease Control, the effectiveness of the rapid diagnostic test in detecting the swine flu is only between 10% and 70%, and the test is more accurate in diagnosing the virus in children than in adults.
Viral Culture Tests
Viral culture tests may prove more reliable in determining the presence of the swine flu, according to the CDC, but results take longer to get. Wait time for results may sometimes exceed the window for treatment.
Who is Being Tested
Most people will not be tested for the swine flu, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Services. People who are hospitalized with flu symptoms or those who are pregnant or have underlying medical conditions are most likely to be tested.
Treating the Flu
Due to the nature of false negatives with the rapid diagnostic tests, those who fall into higher risk categories, such as pregnant women, should receive treatment with antiviral drugs even in the event of a negative test result.
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Sore breasts can range from mild discomfort to disrupting your entire day. There are a variety of reasons for sore breasts such as a pulled muscle, hormone fluctuations, and cysts. Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause, and include icing, medications, diet modifications, and massage. Incorporating one or all of these can relieve sore breasts.
Instructions
1. Talk with your doctor to determine if you need a mammogram or an ultrasound to find the cause of your sore breasts. These procedures will show if the pain is associated with cysts, stretched fibers or something else.
2. Take birth control pills for sore breasts associated with hormone fluctuations. Birth control pills contain a combination of estrogen and progesterone that help to balance out the body. There are a variety of choices such as pills or injections. Talk to you doctor about prescription options.
3. Avoid salt and caffeine to ease breast pain. Salt and caffeine can dilate vessels and stretch nerves, causing pain and discomfort. Consider eating more green leafy vegetables and fiber to aid in flushing out the body's estrogen.
4. Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling associated with sore breasts. Wrap the ice pack in a towel and put on sore area for 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid putting ice directly on skin; it can burn you like frostbite.
5. Take ibuprofen for pain and swelling. Ibuprofen works to reduce breat pain and inflammation. Follow the instructions on the bottle for dosing, and talk to your doctor before taking if you are on any other medications.
6. Give or get a massage to relieve painful breasts. Focus on the upper and outer areas of the breast, where the bra hits. Massage releases toxins via the lymphatic system, which can ease pain.
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