The recovery after tummy tuck surgery can be a difficult one. Not only is skin removed, sometimes fat is removed, and muscle is strengthened. This type of surgery can be traumatic on the body at first. It takes more than several weeks to feel back to normal. If you are considering a tummy tuck, or have had tummy tuck surgery, read this article to understand best recover.
Instructions
1. Take 2 weeks off from work. Many doctors recommend taking 4 weeks off, but the majority of plastic surgeons recommend 2 weeks off after a tummy tuck surgery. This gives your body a chance to heal in a non-stressful environment.
2. Wear an elastic belly band for 2 or 3 weeks after tummy tuck surgery to reduce swelling. This is almost like a thick girdle. Although it can be restricting and somewhat hot, belly bands will help you recover.
3. Wear compression hose on your legs for at least 2 days after tummy tuck surgery. The risk of blood clotting is significantly reduced with the use of compression hose. In fact, women who have given birth via cesarean are also required to wear these stockings.
4. Participate in non strenuous walking after tummy tuck surgery. Almost every doctor believes you should get up and walk as soon as you can. In the first couple of days after your tummy tuck, simply moving around the house is all you need to do. After a week or so, short walks around the block will help speed up your healing time.
Tags: tuck surgery, tummy tuck, after tummy, tummy tuck, tummy tuck surgery
Sample Letters of Recommendation are ways of recommending someone for a job position, college admittance letters, teacher fellowship, law school, etc. This sample recommendation letter format can be used for recommending someone for positions in various situations.
Instructions
1. First at top left format your sample letters to include full name to whom you are recommending someone (may begin Mr. or Mrs.), title, name of company, institution, etc., and address where sending the recommendation.
2. Next include a sample greeting such as Dear followed by Mr. or Mrs. and the contacts last name.
3. Begin the letters with a sample statement of intent or purpose you are recommending someone, why you are sending the recommendation to them, and the name of the person you are recommending.
4. Second include a statement explaining your relationship with the person you are recommending in your sample letters. Discuss any professional relationship first, then personal, followed by length and extent of relationship.
5. Third offer factual information in your letters supporting your recommending someone including a sample of their performance, professional attributes, and personal character traits you admire.
6. Next provide testimonial statements in your recommendation letters indicating sample situations as evidence why you would recommend someone.
7. Lastly restate your sample endorsement specific to the position you are recommending someone followed by an offer in your letters to contact you for more information needed.
Tags: recommending someone, sample letters, your sample, your sample letters, Letters Recommendation
Over the span of an equine athlete's career, the risk of injury is ever present. Stress and trauma can cause damage to soft tissue or bone. Bone spurs are a frequent side effect of injury. In an effort to reverse or prevent further damage caused by these bony projections, shock-wave therapy has been implemented into the equine industry.
Equine athletes benefit from shock wave therapy.
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs, located radiographically, are symptoms of damage, not disease itself. They are classified as either osteophytes or enthesiophytes. An osteophyte is visible on a radiograph. It occurs at the area of the joint where the articular cartilage blends into the bone. An enthesiophyte effects the attachment of the joint capsule or ligaments around the joint. It exists at the insertion of the joint capsules, tendons and ligaments. The radiographic changes present represent the tearing of fibers that attach these soft tissue structures to the bone.
Shock Wave Therapy
Extracorporeal ("outside the body") shock wave therapy is a non-invasive way to perform some surgical procedures without having the risk of internal surgery, making the treatment beneficial for horses. Shock wave therapy originated in removing renal caculi (kidney stones) in humans. A shock wave unit is basically a box that generates acoustic waves to a wand. It sends high-energy acoustic pulses, much like sound waves, through the body. These pulses pass readily though soft tissue to effect hardened material such as mineralized deposits or bone.
Procedure
An equine athlete diagnosed with bone spurs is lightly anesthetized; this keeps the horse from moving and aids in accurately direct the pulses to the correct location. The treatment location is shaved to improve contact. A coupling or contact gel is placed on the skin. The session lasts minutes and involves no pain. Veterinarians recommend two days of rest following each treatment.
Treatment
Shock wave unit penetration ranges are 5 mm, 20 mm, 35 mm and 60 mm. Depth, energy and accuracy of the wave vary among manufacturers. Setting are determined based on how deep the wave must travel to reach the spur. The treatment consists of 1500 to 2500 pulses. Treatment sessions are performed at intervals of seven to 10 days. Treatments range from one to five, based on severity of the injury. Most injuries require at least three sessions.
Benefits
Following treatment, studies have shown an 80 percent reduction in pain. Part of this is a result of temporarily disrupting nerve impulse transmission, which reduces the perception of pain. Shock-wave therapy also has an anti-inflammatory action by reducing the amount of inflammatory bio-chemicals that cause pain. By reducing bone spurs and the pain they inflict, many horses are able to return to pain-free healthy condition. This allows them to compete without affecting their ability to perform.
The Apple iPhone is much more than a cellphone. Like most popular smartphones on the market, it can run applications, connect to the Web for surfing and send and receive email. Setting up an existing email account on the iPhone takes only minutes.
Instructions
1. Turn on the iPhone and tap the "Mail" icon on the home screen.
2. Choose your email account type from the splash screen that appears. Choices include Microsoft Exchange, MobileMe, Gmail, Yahoo!, AOL and Other.
3. Enter your email address, username and password. If this is one of the account types listed, with the exception of Other, you are now done. If you select "Other," there is more work to do.
4. Click "Other," followed by "Add Mail Account." Type in your name, email address and password. You will be asked to enter other information, which varies depending on your provider. However, you'll likely be asked to specify a service type -- iMAP or POP, for example -- and your incoming mail server, which will resemble "mail.example.com." Enter your outgoing mail server in the format "smtp.example.com." If you have this email account set up on a computer, the information can be located there. Otherwise, see an IT professional at your office or seek the information in any documentation you received from your email provider.
Tags: email account, your email, email address, Enter your, mail server
X-ray techs take images that help to diagnose medical problems.
An X-ray tech uses radiography equipment to produce internal images of patients for diagnosis of disease, injured bones and other problems in many different settings. Most X-ray tech careers require at least an associate degree in radiography. Licensing requirements vary by state, but many states require a license from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in order to work as an X-ray tech. Jobs in this field are expected to grow by 17 percent through 2018.
Medical Imaging Center and Lab
An X-ray tech at a medical imaging center or lab takes images of patients referred to the center by a physician. You prepare the patient by explaining the procedure, removing any metal articles from the patient and placing the patient in position near the X-ray equipment. You then take the image. Some X-ray techs may discuss the resulting X-ray films with the patient and then send the films on to the referring physician. The median annual wage for X-ray techs and technologists at imaging labs and centers as of 2008 was $55,210.
Hospital
Hospitals also hire X-ray techs to provide X-ray imaging in emergency rooms or specific departments such as surgery and orthopedics. A hospital X-ray tech may reassure a patient coming from the emergency room or one who is being prepped for surgery. You may also have to pick up and drop off your patient from the hospital department where he is. You will remove metal jewelry and put radiation shields in place for female patients. You then may use portable radiography equipment to take an X-ray of a patient's injured area or any areas requiring surgery. The median annual wage for X-ray techs and technologists at hospitals as of 2008 was $52,890.
Physician's Office
You may find that you have the most contact with physicians in an X-ray tech career within a physician's office. Physicians may consult with you on any X-ray images and any changes found. You also may find that you get to know the patients and their medical histories as they return for additional X-ray imaging. X-ray techs may work in a physician's office that specializes in a medical field such as oncology or orthopedics, and you may be responsible for ensuring that required X-rays get to the correct hospital when surgery is needed. The median annual wage for X-ray techs and technologists at physicians' offices as of 2008 was $48,530.
Outpatient Care Center
Patients are often transferred from hospitals to outpatient care centers when their medical condition has stabilized, but they still need care to recuperate. You will get to know your recuperating patients and their doctors as a medical X-ray tech in an outpatient care center. You may perform repeated X-rays to monitor a patient's healing progress and consult with doctors. The process is essentially the same as in any other organization where X-ray techs are employed. You explain the imaging procedure, remove any metal objects from the patient, position the patient and take the X-ray image. The median annual wage for X-ray techs and technologists at physicians' offices as of 2008 was $50,840.
Tags: X-ray techs, X-ray tech, annual wage, annual wage X-ray, median annual, median annual wage
If you’ve ever owned a pet that’s been injured, you know how hard it can be to deal with a pet that has an injury that you cannot actively fix yourself. Broken ribs are a major part of this. Here are a few tips, though, that will help you deal with your dog’s pain at home.
Instructions
1. The first thing you need to do with your dog is to transport the animal in the easiest manner possible. Make sure that you don’t jostle the animal too much, but take them to the hospital as soon as you can.
2. Often, if the dog as a broken bone, you want to muzzle them. However, broken ribs can restrict breathing, so you don’t want to make it harder for your pet
3. After your dog gets home, more often than not, you’ll have suggestions on care for you dog. The best thing you can offer your pet, though, is rest. Make the dog comfortable and make sure you keep a close eye on your pet.
4. If your dog doesn’t seem to be healing so well, or if pain seems to be getting worse, take your animal back to the veterinarian.
5. A broken rib is extremely dangerous for your pet, so don’t leave this one up to self-diagnosis and treatment. Always, always take your pet to the vet, and this is certainly no exception.
Radiology technologists work with imaging equipment, such as the x-ray.
Radiologic technologists perform imaging exams with x-ray, computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and mammography. The radiologic technologist programs in Illinois all culminate in the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) testing and certification for work in imaging departments in hospitals, physician clinics and dedicated imaging facilities. The employment outlook for radiologic technologists is anticipated to grow in Illinois.
Wilbur Wright College
The radiography program at Wilbur Wright College, a Chicago City College, is 75 credit hours toward an associate's degree in applied science. The 24-month program requires hands-on clinical experience at area hospitals including Children's Memorial Hospital, Illinois Bone and Joint Institute, Loyola University Medical Center, Mercy Hospital and Shriners Hospital for Children Chicago. The program comes with an educational guarantee: if any employer finds a graduate lacking in basic competency, the employee will be eligible for 12 hours of additional skills training tuition-free.
Wright College
4300 N. Narragansett
Chicago, IL 60634
773-777-7900
wright.ccc.edu
Lincoln Land Community College
The 69-credit-hour associate degree program at Lincoln Land Community College is six semesters long and starts each June. Radiology students have 1,500 clinical experience hours at hospitals, clinics and imaging centers. Admission into the program is selective. Applicants must have a minimum ACT score of 20 and have a minimum grade point average of 2.5 in pre-requisite courses in math, English and science.
Lincoln Land Community College
5250 Shepherd Road
Springfield, IL 62794
217-786-2200
llcc.edu
Kishwaukee College
The two-year associate degree in applied science at Kishwaukee College has an option for transfer to a four-year university for a bachelor's degree. Kishwaukee's radiological technology program requires clinical experience in major trauma centers, community hospitals and dedicated imaging centers, providing students with a wide range of experience. The selective admissions process begins with a mandatory information meeting.
Kiswaukee College
21193 Malta Road
Malta, IL 60150
815-825-2086
kishwaukeecollege.edu
Heartland Community College
Heartland Community College has a two-year diagnostic medical radiography program that focuses on lifelong learning, critical thinking and professional team play. More than 75 percent of the program's graduates are employed as radiologic technologists. The admissions process is selective with pre-requisite coursework in subjects such as math and English.
Heartland Community College
Health & Human Services Division
1500 W Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761
309-268-8740
heartland.edu
Illinois Central College
The radiologic technologist program at Illinois Central College is six semesters within a 23-month period. Students of the program take coursework at Illinois Central College and log 1,600 to 1,700 hours of supervised, hands-on clinical experience at the Methodist Medical Center, Pekin Hospital and Proctor Hospital. Prerequisite classes in math and English, a minimum GPA threshold and four hours of observation in a radiology program is required for admission for the program.
Illinois Central College
1 College Drive
East Peoria, IL 61635
309-694-5422
icc.edu
Richland Community College
One hundred percent of students from the Richland Community College radiology program have passed the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists for certification since 2004. Richland's 72-credit-hour program involves both classroom and a lab component, where students position themselves or work on the lab phantom, Pixy.
Richland Community College
One College Park
Decatur, IL 62521
217-875-7200
richland.edu
Tags: Community College, Central College, clinical experience, Illinois Central, Illinois Central College
Not all jobs related to radiologic technology require a medical background or education.
Medical professionals use radiologic technology to take diagnostic images of patients' organs or to reduce the size of cancer cells and tumors. Radiologic technologists must complete training and gain certification in the field; however, there are some nonmedical jobs related to the field of radiologic technology.
Medical Equipment Technician
Medical equipment technicians are responsible for fixing, maintaining and calibrating the medical equipment used in hospitals and health care facilities. These individuals are also sometimes referred to as biomedical equipment technicians, and they are trained to repair medical imaging equipment such as X-ray machines, CAT scanners and other radiological technologies. They are also often responsible for repairing and maintaining patient monitors, operating room tables and similar equipment. Individuals interested in working in the field often earn an associate's degree in biomedical equipment technology. They gain the training necessary to work with electronics, controls and electrical systems. They also learn apply that training specifically toward medical equipment. The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) offers the Certified Radiology Equipment Specialist (CRES) designation for those technicians who specialize in fixing radiologic equipment.
Biomedical Engineer
Medical equipment technicians may be responsible for repairing health care equipment, but biomedical engineers are responsible for developing and creating that equipment. They are professionals who often have advanced training in both health sciences and engineering. They are responsible for devising new and more efficient technologies for diagnosing patient conditions and treating patients. Most forms of radiologic technology currently used in health care facilities today were designed and produced by biomedical engineers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, biomedical engineers make a median salary of about $78,860 per year. They often have advanced degrees in engineering or bioengineering.
Professor of Radiologic Technology
Another non-medical job related to the field of radiologic technology is a professor of radiologic technology. These individuals are responsible for teaching the curriculum found within associate's degree, bachelor's degree and certificate programs in radiologic science and radiologic technology. They often have bachelor's or master's degrees themselves and are often registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT). Professors and associate professors of radiologic technology must not only have a solid understanding of radiologic imaging procedures and equipment but must also be able to communicate their knowledge to college-aged students.
Tags: radiologic technology, biomedical engineers, equipment technicians, health care, often have, radiologic technology, associate degree
X-ray technicians, or techs, administer diagnostic tests that use radioactive energy to create images of the internal structures of the body, particularly the bones. Technicians work in a variety of settings, like hospitals, physician offices and outpatient care centers, and may perform tests upon people of all ages. In addition to the actual testing, x-ray techs perform a variety of clerical and other duties.
Preparation
An x-ray tech's duties begin before patients arrive in the testing area. Technicians spend time studying the patient's prescription for the x-ray to understand precisely what part of the body the physician requires images of and for what reason. After studying the prescription, x-ray techs review the patient's medical history by reading over a questionnaire, studying a paper medical record or accessing information in a computer system. Techs look for any medical conditions that may affect the testing, such as a current pregnancy or an allergy to latex that may require wearing different gloves.
Testing
After the preparation process, x-ray techs are ready to complete the duties that relate to the actual testing. Often, this begins by escorting the patient to the area where the test takes place. Techs introduces themselves and describe what will happen during the test, answering any questions for patients. After positioning the patient for the test, the technician goes into an adjoining room and gives the patient instructions using a microphone. The technician uses controls to take the image and repeats the process until all ordered images are complete. Once the patient leaves, the tech prepares the film for developing or uses a computer to print the images.
Clerical Tasks
X-ray techs update patient paper or computer-based records by describing what test was performed and when. In some facilities, techs also fill out paperwork used to submit requests for payment for completed x-rays to insurance companies. Depending on the facility, x-ray techs may also answer phone calls, make or change appointments for tests, and order necessary supplies for the department.
Equipment
Techs maintain the equipment used for x-rays, performing routine cleanings and adjustments necessary to keep the machinery running smoothly. When problems occur with the equipment, x-ray techs attempt to diagnose and correct the malfunction. If this is not possible, techs schedule service for the machinery.
Safety
Part of the duties of x-ray techs is promoting a safe environment for both the patients and themselves. To accomplish this, techs sterilize surfaces on the testing equipment and assure that gowns that patients wear are not reused until washed. Techs wash their hands frequently and may wear gloves when handling patients, as well. In addition, techs place specialized shields on the parts of the patients' bodies not being tested to avoid potentially dangerous exposure to radiation.
Privacy
Due to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), techs have a duty to protect patients' medical information. This means not releasing information about the test or the patient to people who do not have the patient's authorization and not discussing information about the patient with people not directly involved in the patient's care. Techs must also protect the actual records by keeping paper files in secure locations and ensuring that any computers that save medical records are not accessible to unauthorized persons.
Tags: x-ray techs, actual testing, information about, prescription x-ray, techs also, x-ray techs
Astrophotographers take pictures of constellations and other interstellar phenomena.
Anyone with a digital camera can pursue the hobby of astrophotography. Just place the camera on a tripod or stable surface and experiment with low shutter speeds to capture as much light as possible. Like many hobbies, a budding astrophotographer needs to decide how far he wants to get involved and how much money to spend as cameras come at many price points.
Webcams
A webcam can be a good starting point for astrophotography hobbyists.
Many beginners start with webcams, which can produce nice images of the moon and planets and are available for under $100. Webcams actually take a video and the "bad" images are filtered out to produce a clean image. For best results, hook a telescope up to the webcam. The Celestron NexImage is popular because it comes with a telescope adapter and software to process the videos. The Meade LPI is also popular due to its long shutter speed -- better for taking pictures of planets.
DSLRs
A DSLR can be used to take photos of comets.
Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras are useful for astrophotography because they are multipurpose -- use them for regular photography during the day, and fit them with telescopes or lenses to take photos at night. Their multiple uses may justify the cost, which at $500 to $3,000 can still be cheaper than dedicated astrophotography cameras. Canon EOS and Digital Rebel models are recommended for astrophotography, along with Nikon D40-D300 models.
High-End Planetary Cameras
High-end planetary cameras go beyond the limitations of simpler webcams. They use a Firewire connection instead of a USB port, so the videos in an AVI format are transmitted to the computer faster and with less "noise" and data compression. This type of camera can produce highly detailed images of planets and can be used to take scientific images. The Imaging Source 1024 by 768 High Resolution FireWire Color Telescope Camera can also interpolate colors on raw data.
Very Specialized Astrophotgraphy Cameras
Dedicated astrophotography cameras with charge-coupled device (CCD) chips powering the image sensor can shoot far into space. CCD cameras are highly light sensitive, and since they can heat up during the long exposures required for astrophotography, specialist cameras have a built-in cooling device. The Santa Barbara Instrument Group (SBIG) features a line of specialist cameras at prices ranging from $1,500 to $6,000 that can take pictures of comets, nebulae, star clusters and galaxies.
Tags: astrophotography cameras, specialist cameras, take photos, take pictures, used take
Some medical conditions result more from regular wear and tear than anything else; deteriorating disc disease is one such condition. It is most commonly caused by the regular wear and tear of discs in the spine, and there is little that can be done to prevent it. A doctor diagnoses the condition after a physical examination and an imaging test such as an MRI or a CT scan.
Identification
Deteriorating disc disease, more commonly known as degenerative disc disease, is a condition that is nearly impossible to prevent. It results from the natural process of aging, and it can cause painful back problems as we get older. As the human body ages, the discs between the bones in the spine lose their elasticity. They become less able to cushion the spinal cord from sudden impacts, and they also start to slip out from between the bones in the spine and become herniated discs. According to the medical experts at Caring Medical and Rehabilitation, every person is susceptible to degenerative disc disease. The severity of the condition varies from person to person.
Types
There are many different names for the various kinds of degenerative disc disease, and their names indicate where the condition is occurring. Cervical disc disease affects the discs in the upper part of the spine and the neck, thoracic disc disease refers to the discs in the middle of the back, and degenerative disc disease in the lower part of the spine is called lumbago because it affects the lumbar part of the spine.
Effects
The main symptom of degenerative disc disease is back pain. The pain originates, and is usually at its strongest, in the middle of the back. However, as discs start to slip out of place and put pressure on nerves, "referred pain" may result. Referred pain is pain that originates in one spot but is felt somewhere else. A good example of referred pain due to degenerative disc disease is sciatica. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body; it starts in the lower back and then branches down to each leg. Pressure put on the sciatic nerve in the lower back does not create pain in the lower back; instead, it creates pain in the buttocks and the leg. With degenerative disc disease, referred pain can occur anywhere in the arms or legs, and sciatica is only one example of a referred pain condition.
Potential
If degenerative disc disease is left untreated it can result in permanent loss of the use of an arm or leg. The initial pain associated with the condition is a burning and constant pain. Over time that pain will evolve into a tingling sensation and there will be less sensitivity in the affected limb. Eventually the limb will go numb and can no longer be used. The longer a disc is allowed to put pressure on a nerve, the more permanent the nerve damage becomes.
Prevention/Solution
Treatment of degenerative disc disease depends on where it is occurring, and how extensive it is. Physical therapy is normally used to help develop an exercise program that will strengthen the muscles around the disc, and help keep the disc in place. In some cases a doctor may prescribe pain medication to give temporary relief, and in extreme cases surgery may be used to relieve pressure from the nerve and prevent permanent damage.
BuTrans is an adhesive patch containing buprenorphine which is an analgesic pain killer. It is a strong pain killer, being related to morphine. It is used in the treatment of severe pain in patients with terminal conditions such as cancer. The patch may be worn for seven days at a time and is made to last through bathing, swimming and showering, but it should not be exposed to excessive heat. Since BuTrans contains such a powerful drug, the patch is to be worn exactly as the doctor orders and the patient should not wear more than two at a time or cut or divide the patch in any way. Side effects can range from mild to severe depending on the patient's tolerance to opiates.
Side Effects
Common side effects of BuTrans treatment are redness and itching at the patch application site, headache, dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion, dry mouth, fatigue, loss of appetite, confusion, depression, insomnia or trouble sleeping, anxiety, sensations of "pins and needles" along the nerves, fluid retention, rash, sweating, hot flashes, shortness of breath, difficult passing urine, trouble concentrating, vision problems or hallucinations. This is not a complete list of all side effects, so make sure you keep track of any other side effects you experience so you can discuss them with your doctor.
Drug Interactions
As with all medications, BuTrans is not compatible with every drug you may be taking. Interactions with some medications may result in lowered blood pressure, increased drowsiness and confussion, and shallow breathing. The drugs that are responsible for such side effects when mixed with BuTrans include alcohol, antipsychotics, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opioid painkillers, sedatives, sleeping medications and tricyclic antidepressants. Ketoconazole, an anti-fungual medicine, is responsible for increasing the level of BuTrans in the blood. BuTrans should also not be combined with or taken within a two week period following ingestion of MAOIs. Herbal medications may also cause similar side effects and you should be sure to provide your doctor a complete list of every drug you are taking.
Precautions
While BuTrans is used in patients exhibiting severe pain, it should not be used by people suffering from acute pain, people addicted to opiates, people detoxing from narcotics or opiate addictions, people with breathing problems or chronic shallow breathers, people with abnormal muscle weakness such as seen in myasthenia gravis, anyone with an addiction to alcohol and anyone that exhibits serious impairment from overuse of alcohol such as alcohol-induced psychosis, people who have taken MAOIs in the last 14 days or women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Cautioned Uses
BuTrans should be used cautiously in people exhibiting certain disorders as it may result in dangerous physical, mental or behavioral changes. BuTrans should be used with caution in people with decreased liver function, alcohol intoxication, a history of drug abuse, convulsive disorders should as epilepsy, people with head injuries, people with increased pressure in the brain (intracranial pressure), people with low levels of consciousness, people in shock or people with breathing problems such as asthma, slow breathing or shallow breathing.
Conclusion
As long as a patient complies with his doctor's instructions, does not overdose on BuTrans or use it incorrectly, treatment should go smoothly and BuTrans should provide continuous pain relief. Patients should also be careful of side effects they may exhibit and should be conscious of the way they dispose of their used BuTrans patches which may still contain opiate medications. They should be cut and wrapped in tin foil to ensure a child or adult cannot reapply the patch and experience possibly fatal effects. As long as the medication is used responsibly, patients can experience almost complete pain relief.
Tags: people with, side effects, BuTrans should, should used, breathing problems, BuTrans should used
A CPA must take continuing education courses to maintain high work standards.
State accounting boards and federal regulations require a certified public accountant (CPA) to take continuing education (CE) courses every year to maintain a high quality of work and learn new skills and trends in professional standards. An accounting specialist could meet CE requirements by teaching or authoring articles on accounting, tax, finance and audit topics. An audit expert also could comply with CE rules by attending professional conferences online or on-site.
Audit Courses
A certified public accountant meets CE requirements by attending professional seminars or taking courses on audit planning, field work techniques, internal control testing and "material deficiency" reporting. A material deficiency is a significant control problem that affects an important process, a mechanism, a department or a corporate activity. A CE program also could include recent developments in generally accepted auditing standards, regulatory updates or industry practices. For example, an public accountant working in the financial services industry could take courses on new Sarbanes-Oxley 404 certification requirements.
Financial Reporting Courses
An accountant also could meet professional education requirements by attending conferences and workshops covering financial accounting and reporting topics, industry developments and updates in generally accepted accounting principles. An accountant also could learn updated presentation rules for complete and fair--or accurate--financial statements. Complete financial reporting indicates four summaries: a balance sheet, a statement of profit and loss, a statement of cash flows and a statement of stockholders' equity. For example, a fund accountant might take courses dealing with new accounting treatments for stock options and fixed-income derivatives.
Business Concepts Courses
An accountant working for a public accounting firm, a business advisory entity or in private practice could take business courses to comply with CE guidelines. These courses could include business management, finance, microeconomics, global economic trends and statistics. An accountant also could take a professional accounting or finance exam or a university degree to meet education requirements. For example, an accountant could meet minimum CE hours for two or three years after graduating from a master's program.
Tax Courses
An accountant also could participate in tax seminars, conferences, industry events and internal training programs to comply with CE rules. Topics covered at such events could include federal, state or local tax legislation, estate planning, wealth management and international tax reporting. The Internal Revenue Service requires U.S.-based business entities to file periodic--quarterly or annual--income returns. For example, an accountant working for a wealth management firm might learn at a training session new international tax rules affecting asset transfers between the U.S. and Brazil.
Business Law Courses
An accountant can also meet CE requirements by attending training sessions covering business regulations, corporate contracts, fiduciary--that is, professional--duties of accountants or external auditors and securities laws.
Tags: also could, accountant also, accountant also could, Courses accountant, accountant working, comply with, could include
The word "benign" is seemingly most often used in regards to cancer diagnoses in today's society. However, it has a couple of other uses and meanings.
Etymology
"Benign" can trace its roots to Latin: "Benignus" consists of "bene" ("well") and "gignere" ("produce" or "to beget").
As an Adjective for Cancer
Ironically, the word "benign" is used in medical terminology and does not concern "producing" or "begetting." A benign tumor is one that does not grow, spread and attack tissue surrounding it, the opposite of what a malignant tumor does.
As an Adjective for Other Medical Issues
The word "benign" does not only apply to cancer. It can apply to any other situation that is not life-threatening.
As an Adjective of Disposition
"Benign" can also be used to describe someone who is of a kind and gentle nature. "Gracious" and "wholesome" can be considered synonyms in this instance.
As an Adjective of Action
In other rare instances, the word "benign" describes a good action by an individual, as in demonstrating kindness and generosity rather than merely just being in that mood.
Awareness ribbons are a great way to raise consciousness about an issue or cause. There are many different colors of awareness ribbons that represent a number of causes, from the pink Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon to the gold Children's Cancer Awareness ribbon. Whatever your cause, these ribbons are relatively easy and cheap to make. So choose your color, grab some ribbon and help raise awareness of a worthwhile cause.
Instructions
1. Cut a 9-inch piece of ribbon. For this example, we will use red which traditionally represents AIDS Awareness.
2. Fold the left side of the ribbon downward so that your ribbon makes a curved V-shape.
3. Take the right side of the ribbon and fold it downward across the left half. The ribbon should look like this.
4. Fold back the right half piece of ribbon and dab a drop of fabric glue onto the area of the left half of ribbon where the two pieces will cross. Press down and wait for glue to dry.
5. Display it any way you choose. You could pin it to your clothing or hang it up on display.
Tags: Awareness ribbon, Cancer Awareness, Cancer Awareness ribbon, half ribbon, left half, left half ribbon
Swabbing the throat to obtain a sample for testing
Laboratory tests can be divided into three main categories: screening, diagnostic and therapeutic. Screening tests are those that are performed to screen a patient, or a group of patients, for a particular disease. Physician office laboratories and emergency department staff usually perform these tests, although some are also performed at health fairs and in other outpatient settings. Diagnostic tests are usually more complex than screening tests, and they are performed at more advanced laboratories. Diagnostic tests are usually more accurate than screening tests. Therapeutic tests are performed in order to aid in the delivery of a treatment. They are also complex and more involved than screening tests, yet they are usually of similar complexity as diagnostic tests.
Screening for Influenza Infection
When a patient presents to a health care provider with flu-like symptoms (fever and cough and/or sore throat), the health care provider may want to test for influenza to rule it out as a diagnosis. A sample of the mucous membrane from the patient is taken with a swab. Once at the lab, the sample is processed with chemicals to extract and expose the flu virus, if it is present. The solution containing the virus is then tested using antibodies against the flu. Depending on the test, if the flu virus is present on the sample, the antibodies will attach to it and cause a change in color or turbidity of the solution (a positive result). If there is no virus present, then there will be no reaction (a negative result). Screening tests such as these can only detect the presence of the virus and whether it is type A or type B. However, they are good tests for giving the provider a clue as to whether a patient has influenza or another respiratory condition, and the results are usually available in about 15 minutes.
Diagnostic Testing for Influenza
In order to test for the particular strain of influenza, a more complex test is used. At most large laboratories, this is the real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test. The PCR test uses chemicals to open the virus and expose its RNA (genetic material). Once exposed, the RNA is analyzed for sequences that serve as a "fingerprint" of the virus, telling the laboratory staff the type of virus and the strain when that fingerprint is compared to known fingerprints. Occasionally, the PCR method will yield positive results for influenza but no strain information. When this happens, even more involved tests are done, such as growing the virus in a tissue culture and looking at it under the microscope. Viruses for which no known fingerprint is available are usually called "novel" because they have not been detected before. This was the case in April 2009 with the H1N1 ("swine") influenza virus.
Therapeutic Testing for Influenza
Therapeutic tests for influenza include additional PCR tests and tissue cultures to detect flu viruses that are resistant to antiviral medication. Resistance to antiviral medication in flu viruses comes from genetic mutations. These mutations are seen in the fingerprint of the virus and are compared to known mutations. These results help health care providers give the appropriate antiviral treatment to patients.
Special Considerations
In the case of a screening test, a negative result does not necessarily rule out the disease. There are times when these tests are unable to correctly detect the presence of a virus either because of the nature of the test or because of an error in the testing. Because they are performed at larger laboratories by more skilled personnel, diagnostic and therapeutic tests are less prone to error. However, the final say as to whether someone has the flu rests solely on the health care provider. It is the provider's responsibility to diagnose a patient and offer the best course of treatment.
The Future of Testing
Medical technology, like other technologies, is constantly evolving. The future of laboratory testing for influenza includes more accurate screening tests that are less susceptible to errors. Also on the horizon are portable PCR and viral culture tests that can be carried in a box to the scene of a mass infection, reducing the transport of potentially dangerous samples across populated centers. Technologies yet unknown to scientists may still be discovered.
Tags: health care, care provider, health care provider, screening tests, than screening, than screening tests, virus present
Bariatric medicine specializes in treating obese patients and the health conditions that are associated with obesity. Bariatric medicine will help you deal with all aspects of obesity, including causes, prevention and treatment. Obesity is defined as being 20 percent above your normal and healthy body weight. If you are obese, you are at risk for gout, high blood pressure, breathing disorders, heart disease, type II diabetes and cancer. Bariatric medicine has different programs that are designed to help you lose weight under a doctor's supervision. A doctor who specializes in bariatric medicine is a member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians and has received a special type of training in treating obese patients. Bariatric medicine has programs that range in styles from nutrition and exercise, lifestyle and behavioral changes, medications, appetite suppressants and surgery.
Diet and Exercise
Bariatric medicine involving diet and exercise that is supervised by a doctor is the safest way to lose weight and to maintain your weight loss. Doctors will advise you on what foods that should be eating and make sure that you are getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals. Bariatric medicine involves a diet that you can maintain, and it will be catered to your individual needs. A doctor will put you on a meal program that will restrict your caloric intake, help you lose weight and improve your health. Bariatric medicine promotes exercise because it will speed up your metabolism and burn calories. You will get a customized exercise plan that will go along with your diet and nutrition program. An exercise program will give your body lean muscle mass and reduce the size of your fat cells.
Other Treatments
Bariatric medicine involves a psychological approach that will help you understand the metal issues that come along with excessive eating. If you engage in emotional eating, bariatric medicine will address these issues and teach you new behaviors and coping methods instead of eating. There are anti-obesity drugs that a doctor will prescribe if diet and exercise isn't enough, and they are designed for short-term use only. As a last resort, bariatric medicine does consist of bariatric surgery, but you are only eligible for this procedure if you are 80 to 100 lbs. overweight. Bariatric surgery will allow you to lose a lot of weight quickly, but there are many complications that are involved, including vomiting, diarrhea, hernia and infection.
Tags: Bariatric medicine, lose weight, Bariatric medicine, that will, along with
X-ray technicians perform an important service in medicine. As baby boomers age, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the demand for these workers to increase by approximately 17 percent by 2018. As an X-ray technician, your job is to explain the examination procedure, remove any jewelry that prevents the production of high-quality pictures, measure the area you must X-ray, and set the controls of the machine accordingly. For a job that plays a key role in the diagnostic process, you must take specialized training. At a minimum you need a certificate, but more advanced degrees can result in better pay.
Certificates
A certificate in X-ray technology can earn you an entry level position as an X-ray technician. You don't even have to attend a university to acquire one. As the X-ray Technician website points out, you can also obtain a certificate from a medical center or hospital. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this process usually takes 21 to 24 months. A certificate will enable you to take the American Registry of Radiologists national certification test. According to the X-ray Technician website, Salary.com says that technicians with certificates make an average annual salary of $47,000.
Associate's Degrees
The best method to obtain an associate's degree in X-ray technology is through a college or university. According to the BLS website, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiotechnology accredited 397 institutions to grant this degree in 2009 alone. As the X-ray Technology article suggests, this will also increase your earning potential. Employers will pay $50,000 or more for a technician holding this degree.
Bachelor's Degrees
With a bachelor's degree, you can find work as a radiologist teacher or a supervisor. Your earning potential rises as well. The X-ray Tech Schools website quotes the Bureau of Labor Statistics as stating that you can earn up to $75,000 a year for this particular position if you hold a bachelor's degree in the field. Although there is no requirement in the field for a bachelor's degree, the College of Southern Idaho's Health Sciences and Human Services website says that the Standard Six of the Standards of an Accredited Educational Program in Radiologic Sciences recommends that all clinical education coordinators possess a bachelor's degree.
Master's Degrees
Earning a master's degree in this field can expand your earning potential yet further. As a radiology teacher at a university, you can earn $100,000 or more annually. The College of Southern Idaho website points out that Standard Six suggests that education program directors hold the minimum of a master's degree. According to the Education Portal website, radiologic administrators earned $88,650 to $96,660 as of 2008.
Tags: bachelor degree, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, earning potential, Labor Statistics, College Southern
X-ray radiography is a growing field in the medical industry.
X-ray technicians support the radiology department in hospitals, medical clinics and facilities by performing basic necessary imaging and additional required general support. They are known by several names including radiologist, radiographers, and x-ray technicians. The field is grow rapidly in the state of Texas. The state has become an ideal location to pursue this career due to their world renown medical facilities. Several colleges provide opportunities for those interested in entering this field of work.
Remington College
This private college presents a motivational atmosphere and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. It is widely regarded as an ideal school for working adults. Five of the school's 18 locations are in the state of Texas. Remington College offers undergraduate students an opportunity to earn a bachelor's or an associate's degree; or a certificate conferring competence in a variety of areas including assistant x-ray technician, accounting, management, and paralegal studies among other areas. Campus population averages between 500 to 600 students at most locations within the state. Class sizes are small and are limited to 25 students. Graduate degrees are not offered. The college coordinates with local employers to ensure class instruction, equipment, textbooks, labs, and additional resources remain current. Due to the location of nearby Houston Medical Center, students are able to obtain hands-on experience which opens doors for post graduation employment. One-on-one assistance is readily available and students are supported with a job interview preparation process, employment conduct instruction, and resume preparation and review process. Full time annual tuition averages $17,000.
Houston Community College
This growing, two-year public college with more then 35,000 students. the school offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in radiography to full-time students attending during the day. Prior to enrolling, students must complete prerequisites in human anatomy, mathematics, medical terminology, and English. Students will have the opportunity to develop a clear understanding of safely and properly use radiography equipment. Nearby medical facilities in the Houston area enable students to practicing their skills through clinical rotations.
Harris County Hospital School of Diagnostic Imaging
This facility is the sole hospital-based program in Texas accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. This is a full-time two-year program for students who have completed 15 hours of credit in anatomy, mathematics, oral and written communication, physiology, natural sciences and social and behavioral sciences. Students can receive additional hands-on training by working in the local hospital. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared for entry-level radiography positions.
University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Offered is a three-year Bachelor of Science degree for those interested in diagnostic imaging. During the final year of the program students are given the opportunity to specialize in magnetic resonance imaging, education and management or computer- tomography. Prior to graduation, students participate in rotations at local Houston medical facilities to obtain hands on experience.
Tags: medical facilities, anatomy mathematics, College This, program students, Remington College
California requires x-ray technicians to be properly trained.
X-ray machines have been used to view internal body structures since the late nineteenth century and the dangers of radiation exposure have been known for almost as long. California maintains standards for the licensing of x-ray technicians to ensure the accuracy and safety of x-ray examinations. Being aware of these requirements can help a student to better plan his educational and career path.
Required Coursework
X-ray technicians must graduate from a post secondary training institution approved by the state of California to be eligible for certification. The curriculum is required to include at least 50 hours of training in radiological safety and protection methods. A student must study 20 additional hours of technology for each specialty in which he seeks certification. Certification is available for dental radiography; the heart and lungs; the upper and lower extremities; the stomach, intestines and esophagus; the kidneys, urethra, bladder, and internal and external genitalia; knees, ankles, feet, tibia, and fibula; the tissues and bone of the skull and neck; and the ribcage, sternum, vertebrae, and pelvis. A separate certification is also available for x-ray technicians who operate bone densitometers for use in determining heel, wrist, or finger bone density. X-ray technicians, except those certified in dental radiography or bone densitometry, need an additional certification to operate digital x-ray equipment.
Required Testing
Upon completion of a program of study, the student must pass an examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to be registered as a certified x-ray technician. The test consists of a section on safety and patient care, that is pertinent to all applicants. Then, modules of 20 to 25 questions for the specific specialty of the test taker. The exams for the chest, extremities, skull, and torso-skeletal system can be combined for a single fee by notifying the ARRT in advance. Examinations can be attempted a maximum of three times before the applicant will be referred for additional study.
Continuing Education
Once an x-ray technician has become certified, he needs to remain current with his x-ray skills to keep his license. The ARRT and the state of California call for x-ray technicians to complete 24 hours of study every two years in the subjects of x-ray technology or safety. Classes are available through home study, online or at a traditional radiology school. A technician is required to submit proof of completion of these continuing education units in a timely fashion or his license will be suspended or revoked.
Tags: x-ray technicians, dental radiography, have been, state California, student must, x-ray technician
Proper medical care is essential during the recovery stage. Whether long-term or short-term care, choosing proper medical care can often help accelerate the healing process. The decision between an acute care physician clinic or a long-term care facility depends on the amount of medical attention needed and the expected recovery time.
Acute Care Physician Centers
The ABC News health care glossary describes acute care as short-term treatment for an immediate illnesses or disability. Examples of short-term treatment include treatment for accident injuries or trauma, and recovery from outpatient surgery.
Acute care physician clinics are mainly urgent care clinics and hospitals. They provide both medical and surgical services. Most acute care hospitals provide medial services to all individuals regardless of their ability to pay at the time of service. Emergency rooms are examples of emergency acute care centers.
Long-Term Care
Medical and non-medical care for people who have a chronic illness or disability is defined as long-term care, according to Medicare.gov. Long-term care is designed to assist people with day-to-day activates such as bathing, exercise, eating and dressing.
Long-term care is extensive and involved. If needed, long-term care is recommended after the initial acute treatment, and can be provided for in one's home, an assisted living facility, a day center or a nursing home. Long-term care recipients are those who have the greatest medical needs. Examples of people needing long-term care are those who have suffered severe accidents, stroke victims and the mentally impaired.
Planning Proper Care
The need for acute care often happens instantly, but long-term care takes careful planning. In some cases, acute care physicians will deem long-term medical care necessary. For example, a physician may require that a leg injury victim go though physical therapy to strengthen their walking ability. Short-term medial care is often directly administered by physicians or other trained medical professionals. Long-term care may be necessary for a number of years or the duration of the patient's life. The need for care depends on the severity of the illness. Due to the extensive needs of long-term care patients, the costs can be very high and will often require good insurance coverage.
Tags: acute care, care often, long-term care, medical care, care necessary
Scars may itch, but you want to avoid scratching them to avoid risk of inflammation or infection.
Anyone who has a deep scrape or similar wound that results in a scar has most likely experienced extreme itchiness and a tight feeling as it heals. Itching around the site of the scar is typically due to normal healing of the tissue, which depending on how deep the wound is, may take more time to heal on the inside layers of tissue than on the outside layer of your skin.
How Skin Wounds Heal
Almost everyone will get minor scrapes and wounds resulting in a sore during their lifetime.
Healing is a remarkable and complex process. The initial steps include immediate defenses to restrict the flow of blood to the wound, plates clumping together to essentially "plug" the flow, and then clotting. Your body will then fight off any threat of infection by destroying germs. Of course, you might provide your body with extra help by applying pressure to stop the flow of blood and the using an anti-bacterial medication. The next step is the healing process, which is when the scab and then scar will begin to form.
How Scar Tissue Forms
Total recovery from a wound takes longer than it may appear on the outside.
Scar tissue begins to form around two to four weeks after the initial injury occurs. Scarring forms as the skin essentially stretches under a wound and closes. Scar tissue is initially pretty thin and fragile, but will become stronger with time. It will fade eventually. While your wound may begin looking better after a few weeks, it will take considerably longer for the inside as well as the outer layer skin surface to heal completely.
Scar Healing Times
How long a scar takes to truly heal depends on the person, overall health and age, the type of injury itself and where it is located on the body. Medical intervention can also shorten the healing time. Typically, scars heal more quickly the younger you are, due to having better skin elasticity and better collagen production. The healthier you are, the shorter the healing time on average. Factors like whether you exercise, smoke, drink or have any illnesses or conditions can affect your body's overall ability to heal a wound. Many people will be able to see a scar from an injury for years.
Why Do Scars Itch?
New scars itch because of the tugging of the skin as it tightens to stretch on both sides to essentially create new skin and close the wounded area. Another factor that causes the itching and sometimes tingling sensation is that nerve endings around the scar are being stimulated as part of the healing process. The more elastic your skin is, the less itchy the site may be--but not always. The itching may be at its worst during the first few weeks to months as a fresh wound heals and a scar forms. The itching will lessen with time.
Minimize Itching
You should not scratch your scar, although it may be easier said than done. As tempting as it is to scratch an itchy scar area, do whatever you can to avoid doing so. Scratching a scar may break the fragile seal that has formed to cover the wound, and therefore increase the likelihood of an infection. Your fingernails have a host of germs that could easily penetrate into the wound site. Instead, look at anti-itching ointments that are readily available over-the-counter at a pharmacy. You may also want to wear clothing over the wound site to minimize opportunities for mindlessly scratching the itch. Consider covering the site with gauze or a bandage to prevent scratching the scar area.
Tags: flow blood, healing process, healing time, scar area, Scar tissue, with time, wound site
The lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. They store lymphatic fluid and lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Cancer of the lymph nodes is called lymphoma, and the most common type is Non-Hodgkins.
Risk Factors
Certain infections, including HIV, the Epstein-Barr virus and hepatitis C can increase the risk of developing lymphoma. Those over age 60 are also at increased risk, according to the American Cancer Society.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lymph node cancer include swelling in the nodes of the neck, armpits or groin area, weight loss, fever, night sweats, difficulty breathing, coughing, persistent weakness, fatigue and abdominal pain.
Causes
Lymphoma occurs when the lymphocytes mutate abnormally or when cancerous cells from other parts of the body spread to the nodes through the blood stream or through the lymphatic system.
Tests
Diagnosing lymphoma involves a physical exam of the lymph nodes, blood tests, CT scans or MRIs to determine location and a biopsy to test the tissue, according to Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
Treatment
Treatment options include surgery to remove the affected lymph nodes, chemotherapy, infusions of cancer-fighting antibodies called monoclonal antibodies, radiation therapy and stem cell transplant.
Promoting college programs for differently abled individuals is key in increasing enrollment.
Individuals with developmental disabilities are able to obtain the same level of education as any other individual. Finding programs that can accommodate their needs is usually one of the biggest obstacles they face. Colleges and postsecondary education facilities with programs designed for developmentally disabled students must promote their programs and services to the intended population.
Instructions
1. Determine the best method to relay the vision and goals for the program to the public. This may include advertising, direct marketing and public relations in order to promote the program throughout both the local and college communities.
2. Develop relationships with local agencies that assist individuals with developmental disabilities. The Arc and Department of Jobs and Family Services as well as the local school systems are places that can be of service. These relationships will help put you in contact with interested parties.
3. Promote the college's program through marketing outlets. Appearing on a local television news show and running ads in the local papers and college publications will reach a more broad audience. Providing print material that can be distributed in schools, medical offices and other agencies will also help with promotion. Promotion materials should include the programs features, goals, application information and contact information.
Tags: developmental disabilities, with developmental
Health and safety hazards pervade hospital environments, so hospital administrations develop precautionary procedures to preserve the wellness of patients and personnel. Actual procedures vary among institutions, but some concerns are common in the medical field.
Blood Borne Pathogens
According to OSHA, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, approximately 5.6 million health care workers are at risk of being exposed to blood borne pathogens. When a patient or employee is stuck with a contaminated needle, exposure can be lethal. Blood borne pathogen safety measures include immediate cleanup of blood and bodily fluid spills and the proper disposal of needles and sharps.
Walking Surfaces
Clean, dry walking surfaces that are free from debris minimize falls. Hospital personnel often need to get somewhere quickly, and any type of slipping hazard can cause an accident. Safety procedures typically call for the use of caution cones if leaks or spills occur and cannot be cleaned up immediately.
Personal Protective Equipment
Hospitals require employees to wear proper personal protective equipment. Closed-toe shoes with gripping soles allow hospital staff to move swiftly around the hospital safely. Gloves are supplied in all hospital rooms and main areas to properly protect workers who handle sharps and fluids or interact with patients that are contagious. Lead smocks shield employees for exposure during X-ray procedures.
Good self-care during chemotherapy (treatment with anti-cancer drugs) will help offset some of the side effects you may experience. Save your energy for healing by planning ahead for the basics, such as grocery shopping and getting to your appointments.
Instructions
1. Research as much as you can about your condition. The more you know, the less you will fear the unknown.
2. Have any needed dental work done before you begin treatment. Buy a new toothbrush, and plan to buy one after each monthly cycle of chemotherapy to prevent buildup of bacterial or chemical residue.
3. Consider cutting your hair shorter if your physician has confirmed that you will lose your hair. This will ease you into having less hair.
4. Shop for a wig before your treatment begins, if you plan to wear one, taking your time to find a color and length that goes well with your personality and physical characteristics.
5. Organize your nutritional needs ahead of time and have your refrigerator and pantry stocked with low-fat, low-sugar snacks, plus lots of green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit. If you don't already, plan to eat three meals a day during treatment.
6. Buy or borrow books and tapes ahead of time to take with you for the waiting room and treatment.
7. Remember to stock up on water and other fluids to take with you to each treatment so you avoid dehydration. Also, carry mints or sugar-free hard candy with you.
8. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to each appointment.
Tags: ahead time, Breast Cancer, Chemotherapy Breast, Chemotherapy Breast Cancer, Prepare Chemotherapy, Prepare Chemotherapy Breast, take with
Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed gadolinium safe for use, negative reactions have proved dangerous for some patients. The development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), a fatal disease, has been linked to gadolinium use. For this reason, the FDA began issuing warnings in 2006 to those in the health care field, calling for discretion when it comes to gadolinium use in MRI tests.
Identification
Gadolinium is a non-radioactive, watery substance that is injected into the vein. The gadolinium is attracted to abnormal tissue and acts as a contrast agent during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Effects
Because of its attraction to abnormal tissue, gadolinium has proven successful in locating tumors in the body. The gadolinium also makes it possible to determine tumor size.
Misconceptions
Despite the risks of using gadolinium during MRI scans, this type of scan is preferred over the CAT scan which uses iodine. Iodine sensitivity can cause allergic reactions that can range from mild to dangerously severe.
Warnings
Patients with severe kidney disorders do not eliminate the gadolinium contrast as efficiently as patients without kidney problems. Gadolinium stays in the body of kidney disorder patients for longer periods of time, increasing the likelihood of developing NSF, a disease responsible for thickened skin, destruction of connective tissue and organs, as well as broken bones that result from the diseased connective tissue.
Considerations
Less severe side effects can occur with the use of gadolinium. Nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure and mild headaches have been reported.
Expert Insight
Pregnant women and women who are nursing should not be exposed to gadolinium, due to risks to the fetus or newborn baby. Therefore, MRIs are only used for patients that are in dire straights, or when the benefit outweighs the risks.
Potential
Research has identified that dosage amounts of gadolinium may play a role in patient risk. The larger the dose, the bigger the risk.
Ductal breast cancer, also called ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, occurs when unhealthy cells abnormally multiply to form a growth within a milk duct in a woman's breast. While ductal breast cancer isn't normally considered a life-threatening condition, it does require treatment to keep the cancer from becoming invasive.
Mastectomy
Ductal breast cancer patients often undergo simple mastectomies, which remove the breast tissue, nipple, areola and skin. Mastectomies are typically used when the cancer affects large areas of the breast.
Lumpectomy
A lumpectomy procedure removes only the affected part of the breast. According to the Mayo Clinic, lumpectomies are very effective and typically eliminate the need for post-surgical breast reconstruction.
Radiation Therapy
Undergoing radiation therapy after a lumpectomy lowers the risk of the cancer recurring or becoming invasive. External beam radiation is most commonly used for ductal breast cancer treatment.
Tamoxifen Therapy
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, tamoxifen is a medication that blocks estrogen action and reduces a woman's risk of developing invasive cancer. Older woman frequently undergo tamoxifen therapy following a lumpectomy.
Considerations
Small tumors are easier to remove than large tumors. High-grade tumors are more likely to progress into invasive breast cancer than low-grade tumors.
Tags: breast cancer, becoming invasive, Cancer Treatment
Affordable health insurance options for children are available through state programs.
Finding affordable health insurance for kids is achievable. No child should be uninsured. Every major health insurance carrier offers individual insurance plans covering families and dependents. Depending on need, government Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage may be an affordable alternative. These plans offer comprehensive coverage for doctor visits, dental visits and prescriptions. The government provides online screening tools to determine if you may be eligible for public health insurance. Lastly, several nonprofit organizations, specializing in children's needs, may be able to help you find affordable insurance for your kids.
Instructions
1. Visit the websites of the major health insurance plan carriers in the United States including Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare and your state's Blue Cross plan. The health insurance carriers offer a wide variety of plans. Their websites provide details and the ability to compare their different plans, obtain a quote and apply for insurance online after answering a brief questionnaire.
2. Access a website such as gohealthinsurance.com where you can compare affordable health insurance options for you and your kids. These sites will give you instant quotes and display a comparison of costs and coverage between plans.
3. Go to the Insure Kids Now website and select your state to get a link to your state's CHIP programs. Click the link to go directly to the CHIP site and learn more information about the program's eligibility, requirements, fees and application process.
4. Use the online tools found on Benefits.gov and BenefitsCheckUp.org to determine eligibility for other public health care programs. These sites, maintained by the government, will provide links to programs in which you may qualify.
5. Contact a nonprofit organization like Families USA or the Children's Defense Fund to assist you in finding affordable health insurance for your kids. These organizations employ staff knowledgeable about the latest laws effecting children's health insurance. They will likely have connections and knowledge about different options that you may not have.
Tags: health insurance, your kids, your state, affordable health, affordable health insurance, health insurance, health insurance options
Nature supplies fairy castle and house building materials.
Fairy castles or fairy houses enhance flower, bush and herb gardens. Place fairy castles and houses under bushes and shrubs, in the midst of flowers or even hidden in the roots of a tree. Anywhere you go, fairy castles and fairy houses can grow. Simple to create, this is a garden project that children of all ages enjoy. Once complete, fairy castles bring years of joy as they weather and change with the seasons. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Castle Construction
1. Fairy houses fit nicely among the roots of an old tree.
Lay the foundation and walls of your castle or house by piling rocks or twigs on top of each other to form the shape of the building.
2. Line the floor of your structure with small moss-covered rocks to create the look of a rug.
3. Place sticks or reeds across the top of the walls to form the roof rafters.
4. Feathers make light roofing material.
Cover the rafters of your structure with bark, feathers or grasses to make a roof.
5. Place seashells or dried flowers around the edges of your structure as decoration. Small light objects like dried flowers balance easily on the roof or window edges. Place heavier decorative objects on solid surfaces.
6. Build a path by lining pine cones from the entrance of the structure out approximately 12 inches.
7. Sprinkle seeds inside the pine cone path for gravel.
Interior Decorating
8. Place small rocks inside your structure to serve as chairs and a table.
9. Turn acorn caps upside down on the rock table to make little bowls.
10. Tie tiny flowers like forget-me-nots with a bit of sting to form a bouquet. Place it inside the structure.
11. Hang dried leaves as window treatments. Attach them to the walls by weaving in the stem.
Tags: your structure, your structure with, castle house, castles fairy, castles fairy houses, dried flowers, fairy castles
Atherosclerosis is a very serious condition. It is caused by a build-up of fatty matter on the arterial walls. This fatty matter, also known as plaque, has a tendency to rupture and form blood clots. These blood clots can then lodge in arteries that go to the brain and heart. This can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Instructions
1. Get an angioplasty. This is a surgical process where a balloon is sent into a clogged or partially clogged artery to reduce the blockage.
2. Get a coronary artery bypass graft. This is another medical procedure where a vein or artery is taken from one part of the body and placed in an area where there is blockage. Blood is then bypassed around the blocked artery.
3. Eat more fiber. There are two types of fiber--soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and it helps block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. Some examples of soluble fiber are oatmeal, oat bran and beans.
4. Get some stanols and sterols. These are similar to fiber in the fact that they block the absorption of cholesterol. They can be found in fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, legumes, cereals and vegetable oils.
5. Quit smoking. It is already well known that smoking causes lung cancer. But it can also cause blood vessels to constrict and get damaged, which can exacerbate atherosclerosis.
6. Get some exercise. According to the National Heart Blood and Lung Institute, you should get a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most, if not all days of the week. This can also be broken up into shorter bouts of exercise that add up to 30 by the end of the day.
7. Avoid foods that are high in cholesterol. High cholesterol is a major reason for atherosclerosis. Some examples of foods to avoid would be deep fried foods, processed foods, refined foods and foods that are high in saturated fat.
Just as a business creates a plan for the next five to ten years, an organizer must write out a fundraising plan to keep the project on track. This plan should cover the entirety of the fundraising drive with week-by-week donation goals, organizational challenges and assignments to staff members. Once a fundraising plan is ready the organizer should print copies for staff, volunteers and past donors to review. The plan's weekly and overall goals should be published on donation slips, Web pages and posters associated with the organization. In order to maintain transparency to prospective donors, the fundraising plan should contain a report outlining where every dollar will be spent including administrative and staff costs.
Soliciting Help for Fundraising
Your fundraiser will not go very far if you do not have volunteers to knock on doors, stuff envelopes and take calls. Fundraisers can use websites like Idealist.org to recruit local volunteers who are interested in helping worthy causes. Volunteer recruitment should be targeted to universities, bookstores and community centers where motivated people spend their time. In exchange for their time and hard work, fundraising organizations should offer snacks, tax receipts for charitable work and raffles for their volunteers.
Advertising Fundraising Events
A well-organized fundraiser uses traditional and new media forms of advertisement to bring in donors to fundraising events. Whether it is a concert or a speech by a celebrity, fundraising events should appeal to new and existing donors. Organizations have to continue advertising using door-to-door methods, cold calling and posters around town to attract community members who are not tech-savvy. Every nonprofit, church and school has to create a fundraising website to act as a landing spot for donors nationwide. The ideal website would feature a payment tool, a meter showing how much money was donated, a form for potential volunteers and information about the cause. Fundraisers have to include sponsor logos, links to entertainer websites and videos of past events to create a visually appealing website.
Acquire Space, Supplies and Equipment for Fundraising
Every fundraising organization must have organizing spaces, phone banks and plenty of donor forms to facilitate a smooth campaign. The donor forms should include spaces for credit card information, premium selections and contact information from the donating party. Organizations should solicit corporate sponsors in their communities to pay for banquet hall rentals, phone lines and printing costs. These sponsors are provided recognition on donor forms, Web pages and publications to show their commitment to community service. Fundraisers should also ask for donated phones, office spaces and equipment to reduce dependency on sponsors.
Continuing Fundraising Efforts on an Annual Basis
Schools, nonprofits and other fundraising organizations often run annual campaigns to raise money. The ongoing need for funds means that a charitable organization should not shut down its fundraising machinery after a successful campaign. These organizations should think about joining the Association of Fundraising Professionals to network with other fundraisers and learn new techniques in picking up donations. Volunteer supervisors and recruiters should remain active year round to find friends, neighbors and newcomers who can help with the next campaign. Fundraising teams should emphasize to donors in quarterly or annual reports that donations are accepted at anytime to avoid a lull in funds prior to the next fundraiser.
Ohio is currently only using 1.8 percent of its total wind potential, according to the Buckeye Wind Project.
Wind power is a form of renewable energy that does not produce carbon dioxide emissions. Ohio, like other states in the country, is orchestrating strategic, targeted investments in wind energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Ohio wind power grants total millions of dollars a year, according the Ohio Department of Development. The Buckeye state's government and universities are working together to advance wind energy. Grants for Ohio wind energy projects are available to homeowners, small wind developers and large-scale project developers. Does this Spark an idea?
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: State Energy Program
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act strengthens Ohio's economy by strengthening its investments in advanced energy industries. Not-for-profit organizations, for-profit companies, educational institutions and state and local governments are eligible to apply for more than $96 million in grants. This grant program is a joint effort between the Ohio Department of Development and the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority, with input from additional agencies in the state.
U.S. Department of Treasury's Renewable Energy Grants
This federal grant program is available for several renewable energy sources, including wind, to commercial developers. Non-profits and local governments are not eligible to apply. Applications for this grant must be submitted before October 1, 2012. To be eligible for a Ohio wind power grant under this program, your small wind property must include wind turbines up to 100 kilowatts in capacity.
Ohio Tax Exemptions
Ohio's Renewable and Advanced Energy Project Property Tax Exemption works like a grant in that it exempts qualified energy projects in Ohio from property taxes. To qualify for the property tax exemption, a renewable energy facility must apply to the Ohio Department of Development, must be new and have capacity of less than 250 kilowatts. For a facility above 250 kilowatts, while there is no property tax, a payment in lieu of tax is required.
Ohio's Local Loan Program
Ohio enacted legislation in June 2010 that allows towns and counties to start revolving loan programs to finance renewable energy and energy efficiency projects that are permanently affixed to residential, commercial or other real property. Loan repayments and interest are fed back into the revolving loan fund, allowing the loan, in theory, to continue indefinitely. This loan program may only charge interest rates below the prevailing market rate.
Tags: renewable energy, Department Development, Ohio Department, Ohio Department Development, wind energy, American Recovery, American Recovery Reinvestment