Nursing is one of the medical fields that requires continuing education for licensure.
Continuing professional education is also known as continuing professional development or simply continuing education. Some professionals must participate in continual development to keep their occupational licenses active.
Function
Continuing professional education keeps individuals current on trends, technology and practice requirements for their occupations. These opportunities also provide professionals with the essential knowledge they must know about existing or changing laws and regulations related to their field.
Types
Government legislation and state licensing boards determine the amount of continuing professional education required for each profession. Boards also approve the types or forms these educational requirements can be obtained in. This can include seminars, traditional classroom courses, distance education programs or workshops. Opportunities are available through colleges, universities and professional associations.
Significance
Continuing professional education is important because it provides validation of an individual's knowledge and skills. Professionals--such as those working in the medical, legal and financial fields--need to continually be updated on new standards in addition to being refreshed on the knowledge they may have obtained several years earlier. Continuing education ensures to patients, clients and licensing agencies that professionals are qualified to handle the responsibilities that affect people's lives. For example, the North Dakota appraisal regulations state that the purpose of continuing education is to not only maintain knowledge but also to increase a professional's skill level.
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There are two types of fat in the body. Visceral fat is the deep fat that surrounds your organs. It can cause health problems if it gets out of control. Subcutaneous fat appears underneath the layers of your skin. Although it is not as dangerous as visceral fat, it can still make you self conscious when it builds up on your body. To get rid of it, you can take several steps involving exercise and caloric adjustments.
Instructions
1. Eat high quality foods. Foods that are high in fat, sugar and sodium should be left off of your plate and out of your body. This includes fatty meats, refined white flour products, candy, deep-fried foods and fast food. Instead eat nutrient-dense foods like chicken breasts, lean beef, fish, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans.
2. Drink fewer calories. When you drink calories, your brain does not receive the same message from your stomach that it does with whole foods. That means you do not feel full but you still get the calories. This can increase your subcutaneous fat. Eliminate caloric drinks including soda, processed fruit drinks, sweetened teas, milk shakes, beer and flavored coffee drinks with whipped cream.
3. Graze like a horse. Horses eat every few hours throughout the day and they are in great shape. Follow their example and have a small, balanced meal every two to three hours all day long. This will keep your metabolism revving, and also can keep you feeling satisfied and prevent you from overeating. A lean steak with steamed cauliflower and a baked potato is an example of a good evening meal.
4. Create a caloric deficit. To lose subcutaneous fat, you must consume fewer calories than you expend. To lose a pound, you need to burn 3,500 calories. Reduce your daily intake by 500 calories to lose a pound a week. To lose 2 pounds a week, reduce your daily intake by 1,000 calories. Just be sure not to go lower than 1,200 calories daily if you are female and 1,800 calories daily if you are male.
5. Do aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise, also known as "cardio," is an efficient fat burner. Perform cardio for 45 to 60 minutes, 4 to 5 times a week. Running, elliptical training, swimming, biking, rowing and stair climbing are all forms of cardio.
6. Build muscle to further increase your metabolism. Muscle does not outweigh fat, but it is metabolically active, so if you build it you can burn subcutaneous fat. Do exercises that target all your major muscle groups. These are your chest, shoulders, back, triceps, biceps and legs. Chest presses, uprights rows, back rows, triceps extensions, biceps curls and lunges are all good exercises to choose. Aim for 10 to 15 repetitions and 3 to 4 sets. Do your weight training two to three times a week.
7. Fit more activity into your day. When you go to lunch at work, do a 10-minute power walk. When you go to the mall, park at the far end of the parking lot and walk around the whole perimeter before you go inside. When you have a meeting on the 13th floor of a building, take the stairs.
Doctors use diagnostic tests to help diagnose medical problems. The symptoms a patient is experiencing will determine which type of test a physician will order. A doctor or technician or will usually read these tests after they have been administered in a clinic or hospital and occasionally doctors' offices. There are many types of diagnostic tests physicians use as tools to pinpoint an illness or condition.
Neurological
A doctor may order a diagnostic test to determine a suspected neurological problem. These include carotid Doppler, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain or spine, electromyography (EMG) and spinal taps. A carotid Doppler test is a type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to create images.
MRI tests create detailed images of soft body tissues and show contrasting images. EMG analyzes nerve and muscle electrical activity by a physician inserting needles into the muscles. A spinal tap diagnoses meningitis infections and other conditions by removing a sample of fluid from the space near the spinal cord.
Bones, Joints and Muscles
A doctor may order diagnostic tests on a patient's bones, joints and muscles to check for diseases and other conditions. These tests include bone-density test for osteoporosis, bone scans, X-rays and computed topography (CT) scans. A bone density test uses special X-rays to determine strength and thickness of bones.
In a bone scan, a radioactive "tracer" accumulates in places in the bones that need repair. An X-ray creates an image by projecting radiation into the affected section of the body. This will show bone fractures or deformities. CT scans take pictures throughout the body with a special X-ray machine.
Heart and Circulation
Some heart diagnostic tests are cardiac catheterization, echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (EKG) and electrophysiological study (EPS). Cardiac catheterization takes images of the blood vessels in the heart to show narrowing or other problems.
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart that shows heart size and any other heart abnormalities. An EKG measures the natural electrical currents that coordinate the heart's pumping. An EPS determines which part of the heart causes a change in rhythm in patients that have an abnormal heart rhythm.
Lungs
Breathing problems or chest pain may urge a doctor to order diagnostic tests on the lungs. A few lung tests are bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy, oxygen-saturation tests and pulmonary-function tests. A bronchoscope is a long, thin instrument with a small camera and biopsy instrument that is placed through the mouth into the lungs.
Mediastinoscopy is surgery in which doctors access the chest cavity with a small incision. Physicians can remove lymph nodes to examine them for lung disease. An oxygen-saturation test is done with a small clip on the finger and measures if red blood cells carry the adequate oxygen level when they pass through the lungs. Pulmonary-function testing involves breathing through a tube connected to a machine to determine how efficiently air passes in and out of the lungs.
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The most common cause of breast pain is cyclical mastalgia, or breast pain brought about by menstrual pain. Cyclical mastalgia occurs when a heightened level of estrogen causes the breast to become fibrocystic and sensitive. Over-the-counter medications, such as Midol, may ease breast pain, however, self-medicating through herbal remedies is a far healthier alternative. The vast majority of breast pain is not harmful to your health. However, if the pain is recurring you should always consult your doctor to confirm that you are indeed suffering from cyclical mastalgia and nothing more.
Chamomile
Chamomile has long been used for its natural healing properties. Chamomile is most commonly used to calm menstrual cramps, upset stomach, backaches, breast pain and insomnia. Chamomile helps relieve breast pain because it is a natural sedative that dramatically decreases the sensation of pain throughout the body. Chamomile is most often consumed in the forms of tea and capsules. However, it can also be topically applied by using chamomile essential oil. To ease your breast pain, consume 1 cup of chamomile tea every four to eight hours, until the pain fully subsides.
Chasteberry
The Chasteberry tree is native to the Mediterranean region. Chasteberry has been said to have been used by Mediterranean monks to minimize sexual desire. Chasteberry has been used to ease breast pain, PMS, menopause, uterine fibroids and may possibly increase fertility. Chasteberry helps relive breast pain because it balances female hormones. When female hormones are perfectly balanced, PMS is less likely to cause breast tenderness, swelling and fibrocystic tissue related to the menstrual cycle. Chasteberry can be consumed in the forms of tea, capsules and can be topically applied in the form of chaste tree essential oil. Consume one to two Chasteberry teas per day in order to eliminate breast pain. If you find that the teas are not fully eliminating breast pain, massage Chaste tree oil onto the breasts.
Ginkgo
Ginkgo trees are most commonly found in China, Japan and Korea. They are said to provide numerous health benefits, including strengthening and restoring memory and easing breast pain. Gingko eases breast pain by dilating blood vessels, which in turn, increase blood circulation and prevent swelling. Ginkgo can be consumed in the forms of tea and capsules and can be applied to the skin using essential oils. To ease breast pain, gently massage ginkgo essential oil onto the breasts and drink 1 to 2 cups of ginkgo tea per day. Alternatively, you can swap the tea for ginkgo supplement capsules.
Tags: breast pain, breast pain, been used, breast pain, consumed forms, consumed forms capsules
Health related jobs are still in BIG demand. It is one career area where there is a lot of currant hiring and it pays good. In my State of Hawaii Certified Nurses Aide (CNA) is a good start if you are looking for health care jobs. The pay is about double minimum wage plus full health and other benefits. There are also ways to take the needed course of training for free.
Instructions
1. Search for different facilities and nursing home or home care in your area. There are some facilities that offer a free CNA course or training to their employees and other interested members in the community. They want to make sure that all their staff are performing the correct procedures in taking care of residents and to avoid malpractices and other issues.
2. After identifying the facilities, call each with an inquiry.
3. If you do not find any facilities offering nursing aide training or certifications in your phone calls, VISIT the Human Resources office of the facility of your choice and talk to the staff and inquire for any possibilities of work in that facility, like housekeeping, maintenance, care assistant and other health related jobs that may not required State Approved training. Take note: do not expect to be hired right away but it is the best step of showing your interest to work in their facility. You will probably be asked to submit your resume, so prepare it and bring it with you.
4. Accept any job for a start. Working as a care assistant will give you more experience in taking care of the resident's needs except for feeding and transferring and actual touch. It will give you a chance to know each resident well and will give you more confidence when you start working as a CNA.
Tags: will give, care assistant, Certified Nurses, Certified Nurses Aide, course training, give more, Nurses Aide
Becoming a military working-dog trainer takes years of preparation.
Military working-dog trainers are professional soldiers with years of experience handling the highly trained canine athletes the military uses as soldiers, sentries, scouts and protection. Chosen from the upper echelons of handlers, trainers are carefully selected and groomed to do their job.
Instructions
1. Join the United States Army. All trainers are pulled from a pool of top K-9 handlers.
2. Request to be given the military police Military Occupational Specialty code. All handlers begin as military police.
3. Prove yourself as a ready and able military policeman. Your level of physical fitness must be stellar. Distinguish yourself in the classroom and on the field by working hard and earning top points and scores.
4. Volunteer to be a working-dog handler. You must attend training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas and handle a dog for at least three years. The more experience you have as a handler, the better chances you have at being selected as a trainer.
5. Request to be added to kennel staff as a trainer. You must have been a distinguished handler and must have recommendations from your commanding officer, veterinarian and instructors.
Radiation therapy is a common and popular form of treating many serious conditions like cancer that involve unwanted tissues or growths that need to be killed off. However, the radiation process itself can include some side effects on other healthy tissues, and many patients and doctors are beginning to utilize various herbs for their chemo-protective effects on cells. Many herbs have profound antioxidant and cell-protecting properties that have been proven to be valuable in reducing the side effects prevalent in radiation therapy.
Function
It is believed that radiation can interact with oxygen in the body's cells and cause the breakdown of DNA that eventually leads to premature cell death. In fact, this is exactly what radiation therapy is designed to do to unwanted cells such as cancer. Many herbs have potent antioxidant properties that can prevent this damage to healthy cells in the human body and thereby prevent some of the unwanted damage that can result from radiation therapy.
Asparagus racemosus
Asparagus racemosus, also known as Shatavari in Ayurvedic medicine, has a long history of use as a tonic herb that is believed to greatly enhance the body's resistance to disease and damage. In a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in August 2000, Indian researchers tested Asparagus racemosus's ability to protect the livers of rats from oxidative damage when they were subjected to radiation designed to affect liver function. They found that Shatavari was able to stop the destruction of both liver proteins and naturally occurring antioxidants in the rats' livers.
Ganoderm Lucidum
Ganoderma lucidum, also known as the reishi mushroom, has been used in Chinese medicine as a supreme longevity tonic and has been shown to posses high antioxidant activity. In a study published in the journal Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology in July 2008, researchers tested a reishi extract's protective effect on rats that were given lethal amounts of radiation exposure. They found that the reishi extract was able to increase survival time in the rats up to 60 percent, compared to a pharmaceutical radioprotective drug.
Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng is an herb with a legendary reputation in Asia as an energizing tonic herb that is beneficial for the whole body. In a study published in the journal In Vivo in September-October of 1993, Korean researchers found that a ginseng extract may be able to protect cells and DNA from damage due to gamma radiation as well as help repair and regenerate damaged cells.
Potential
Many herbs and natural substances have been found to have high antioxidant levels that can effectively protect your cells from damage due to premature oxidation. The potential for many of these plant medicines to be effective in protecting the body from radiation-based damage and becoming allies for radiation patients is very high.
Tags: Asparagus racemosus, found that, Many herbs, radiation therapy, study published, also known
Learn the advantages and disadvantages of breast implants.
Breast implants are either saline or silicone implants designed to make your breasts look larger. They are a cosmetic surgery option that some women decide to undertake. Before deciding to have breast implants, it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of this elective procedure.
Appearance
For some women, the biggest advantage of breast implants is that they will improve their appearance. Women who have small breasts or sagging breasts may feel that breast implants will restore or improve their natural curves. This can provide a boost in self-esteem and the opportunity to wear clothes that they otherwise might not be comfortable in.
Cost
Cost is one disadvantage of breast implants. According to InfoPlasticSurgery.com, the average cost of saline implants is between $5,000 and $6,500 as of April 2010. The average cost of silicone implants is between $6,000 and $8,000. Because the procedure is elective, it is not covered by insurance, and you will have to pay these costs out-of-pocket.
Unnatural Appearance
With breast implants, there is a risk that you won't be satisfied with the results. Breast implants can look unnatural in terms of body proportions. If the procedure is not done correctly, your breasts may be different sizes or have other imperfections that leave you feeling dissatisfied with the surgery.
Loss of Sensation
With breast implants, you may lose sensation or feeling in your nipples, which can decrease sexual pleasure. Implants can also make it difficult or impossible to breast-feed a child, so most plastic surgeons suggest that you avoid breast implants until you are past child-bearing years.
Health Risks
There are several health risks associated with breast implants. The surgery itself is risky as you have to undergo anesthesia. According to the FDA, you also have a risk of infection or rupture of the implants, which may lead to infection, fever and the need for subsequent surgeries.
Tags: breast implants, breast implants, average cost, breast implants, implants between, improve their, silicone implants
Find a radiologic school that can provide you the training and education that you need.
If you are interested in schools offering a major in radiologic technology, you have many choices. Two- and four-year programs are available in colleges, trade schools, medical centers and universities across the country. These schools offer training and education in diagnostic x-ray equipment management, operation and safety as well as preparation for national certification testing needed to work in the field of radiologic technology.
St. John Hospital and Medical Center School of Radiologic Technology
Located in Detroit, the St. John Hospital and Medical Center School of Radiologic Technology offers students a two-year certification program. Once completed, students will have an opportunity to sit for the national certification exam. Through coursework, students learn principles of anatomy, digital imaging and display, medical ethics and customer relations, principles of radiation and radiology, including protection and procedures, and techniques for patient care. Students will also serve a rotation in the hospital’s radiology department.
School of Radiologic Technology
St. John Hospital and Medical Center
Detroit, MI 48236
313-343-4544
www.stjohnprovidence.org
Lanier Technical College
Lanier Technical College, located in Oakwood, Georgia, and serving counties in the state including North Fulton and Jackson counties, offers students an associate of applied science degree in radiologic technology. Courses provide students with the academic, professional and technical information they need to succeed in the field, and will allow them to take the national certification test. Students will learn techniques for radiologic imaging and will also gain an understanding of the professional procedures and protocols expected in a radiology department.
Lanier Technical College
2990 Landrum Education Drive
Oakwood, Georgia 30566
770-531-6300
www.laniertech.edu
Columbia St. Mary's School of Radiologic Technology
Located in Milwaukee, the Columbia St. Mary’s School of Radiologic Technology has a long history of providing students with the education and training they need for success. This 24-month program offers students instruction in radiographic procedures, anatomy, radiologic physics, pathology and radiation biology. Students will also need to complete clinical work. Upon graduation, students will be eligible to sit for the national certification exam. The Columbia St. Mary’s School of Radiologic Technology is also affiliated with several local colleges including Carroll University, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marian University.
Columbia College of Nursing
2121 East Newport Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53211
414-961-3530
www.ccon.edu
Tags: School Radiologic, School Radiologic Technology, national certification, Hospital Medical, Hospital Medical Center, John Hospital, John Hospital Medical
As technological advances continue to expand with regard to the design and production of automobiles, most auto repair shops demand that auto mechanics have either an associate-level degree in automotive service technology or an advanced certificate in automotive technology from an accredited vocational school. Many community and technical colleges offer automotive technology degree programs, particularly those that focus on career-based degree programs.
Time Frame
Associate-level degree programs in automotive technology typically require the completion of between 60 and 70 credit hours in both general education and specialized automotive technology and repair courses. For full-time students learning on campus, this generally takes two years to complete. In contrast, certificate programs in automotive technology from accredited vocational and career schools only require the completion of automotive courses and generally take one full year to complete.
Features
Associate degree programs in automotive technology require that students complete general education courses in the English composition, social sciences, physical sciences, foreign language and humanities electives. Both associate-level programs and accredited certificate programs require that students complete a full range of automotive repair and technology courses in a number of specialized areas, including transmission principles, brake systems, steering and suspension, automotive electrical systems, engine systems, engine repair, powertrain electronics and hybrid vehicle construction.
Considerations
The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) is an independent, nonprofit organization that grants accreditation to qualified, professional automotive education programs. When choosing a community college or technical school from which to learn automotive technology, students should first consider those schools that have attained an NATEF-accredited status.
Warning
Students should avoid automotive degree programs lacking accreditation from a board recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Such programs are often devalued by employers and may offer substandard educational and training opportunities. Additionally, students should avoid online programs originating from outside the United States, as such programs are likely to be attached to a diploma mill or illegitimate school.
Benefits
Students who earn an accredited associate degree or certificate in automotive technology are qualified to work as entry-level mechanics in repair shops throughout the country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, auto mechanic jobs prospects look good for those who have attained a post-secondary automotive technology degree or certificate.
A digital multimeter combines a voltmeter, an ammeter and an ohmmeter in a single device.
An ampere is a measure of electrical current in a circuit. Two things control the amount of amperes in a circuit: volts and resistance. The equation for calculating amperage is E/R=A, where E is the voltage supplied to a circuit and R is the resistance in the circuit. The flow of water through a pipe is analogous, i.e., voltage is the force that pushes water and resistance is the size of the pipe. When more force is applied, more water flows. The larger the pipe, the less resistance it has, and the more water that will flow. A simple circuit that varies the voltage and resistance demonstrates increase the amperes in a circuit.
Instructions
1. Connect a variable DC power supply to an electronic breadboard.
2. Build a simple circuit connecting a 2000-ohm resistor in series with a red LED, a digital multimeter and the variable power supply. The red LED will act as a test lamp to show that current is flowing.
3. Turn the multimeter selector knob to a milliamperes setting. Turn the power supply on and adjust to 12 volts output. Observe the multimeter current reading. It will read very close to 6 milliamps. It will not be exactly 6 milliamps because the hookup wire and LED add some resistance to the circuit.
4. Increase the voltage output from the power supply to 24 volts. Observe the change in the multimeter current reading. It will read close to 12 milliamps. An increase in the voltage results in an increase in the amperes.
5. Turn off the voltage supply. Replace the 2000-ohm resistor with a 1000-ohm resistor. Turn on the voltage supply and adjust the voltage output to 24 volts. Observe the multimeter current reading. It will read 24 milliamps. A decrease in the resistance results in an increase in the amperes. Therefore, by increasing the voltage in a circuit or by decreasing the resistance in a circuit, the amperes in a circuit will be increased.
Tags: power supply, amperes circuit, current reading, current reading will, multimeter current, multimeter current reading, reading will
According to Doctor Monica Morrow from the Northwestern University Medical School, most women who complain of breast pain suffer from benign breast disorders. While most breast pain is not a sign of breast cancer, this concern cannot be easily overruled.
Statistics
The only type of breast cancer that causes pain is called inflammatory breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, this accounts for only 1 to 3 percent of all breast cancer cases or about one in 1,000 women.
Breast Cancer
If breast pain exists, check for solid breast masses, dimpling of the breast skin or nipple discharge. These symptoms may point to breast cancer and should be assessed.
Breast Pain
Before the cause of breast pain is known it is referred to as mastalgia. According to the Mayo Clinic, 70 percent of all women experience mastalgia at some point in their lives.
Conditions
Breast cysts, infection and hormonal changes related to menstruation, pregnancy and menopause are the most common causes of breast pain. Often hormonal pain will diminish over time while cysts and infection should be checked by a doctor.
Tests
A mammogram, ultrasound, discharge culture, biopsy or MRI may be used to diagnose possible causes of breast pain.
Tags: breast cancer, breast pain, Breast Cancer, Breast Pain, Breast Pain Sign, causes breast
The state of Arizona, along with all other states, strictly regulates group homes. Legislation provides safeguards for vulnerable populations who reside in group homes, and the Arizona Department of Health Services oversees compliance with the regulations.
Licensing
For purposes of licensing, a group home is so considered if more than six developmentally disabled people live there. In Arizona, group homes must be licensed with the name, address and length of time clearly stated on the license.
Requirements
All Arizona group homes must comply with the following: documented emergency procedures and scheduled evacuation drills, fire safety drills, a safe environment including water and electricity and healthy living conditions for residents.
Complaints
Arizona has a legal obligation to investigate complaints against group homes within 30 days. The state may also deny the application for a license if the group home does not meet all the requirements needed to qualify.
License Renewal
License renewals must be submitted at least 60 days before the expiration of the license.
Tags: group homes, Arizona group, Arizona group homes, group home, group homes must, homes must
Anything that affects the nipple is considered a disorder, and disorders can range from mere nuisances to serious conditions. If you have scaly skin or a bloody discharge from the nipple, get help immediately. Nipples are designed to be sensitive, but when that sensitivity leads to pain, you should see a doctor.
Anatomy
Nipples provide for the delivery of milk to an infant, and the outlets for lactating ducts are arranged around the tip. The area around the nipple is called the areola and is darker ringed.
Common Disorders
Breast nipple disorders include nipple swelling, breast lump, inflammation, nipple parasthesia, inversion and random nipple pain. Nipple pain can be caused by not wearing a well-fitting bra while jogging, rough sexual activity or a type of skin inflammation, such as candidasis, eczema, contact dermatitis or breastfeeding.
More Serious Conditions
Paget's disease, which falls into the category of breast cancer, has symptoms that include itching, and sore or cracked nipples. If this disease is progressing, symptoms include increased burning and sensitivity. Zuska's disease symptoms are breast pain, or lumps, areolar pain and nipple discharge.
Mastitits is defined as a breast infection. Infection happens as the ducts draining into the nipple fill with secretions and then cause inflammation. This condition causes major discomfort, fever and sometimes creates an abscess. It is imperative to continue to drain these ducts. Using hot compresses can provide some comfort as well as raw cabbage leaves to draw out the toxin. Many times an antibiotic is required.
Inverted Nipples
Inverted nipples are considered a common occurrence. It is possible that during pregnancy inverted nipples do turn out. It has been suggested that rolling or pulling nipples daily can be helpful along with wearing nipple shields.
Nipple Discharge
If there is a milky discharge that is coming from both nipples and is not related to breastfeeding, it is referred to as galactorrhea. When the hormone prolactin increases, it produces milk. Many factors, including the use of tranquilizers and marijuana, the absence of menstrual periods or even high doses of estrogen, can cause this discharge.
Tags: Breast Nipple, Breast Nipple Disorders, Nipple Disorders
Breast milk is the preferred nutrition for babies by most medical professionals. However, for mom, especially in the beginning, breastfeeding may not come as naturally as she assumed that it would. Breastfeeding can cause sore breasts and nipples, but there are treatments that can help.
Continue Breastfeeding
When breasts are sore, continue to breastfeed or pump on a regular schedule. According to La Leche League International (LLLI), sore breasts after breastfeeding are most often due to plugged ducts or a breast infection. While a breast infection will likely require medical treatment, it is advisable for all mothers to continue breastfeeding to get relief. It is not dangerous to the baby to breastfeed even when an infection is present.
Change the way you hold your baby while breastfeeding. LLLI states that moms who use different style holds while breastfeeding will be able to drain the breast more effectively than those who stick with one particular hold. Moms should alternate between the cradle hold, football hold and breastfeeding while lying down.
Treatments
Apply heat in several different ways to the breast. This will provide relief as well as help to unclog a plugged duct. Heat can be applied with a low setting on a heating pad, by taking a hot bath or shower or by leaning over a bowl of warm water and placing the breasts directly into the water. Breastfeeding while the breasts are warm can help the milk to flow better. Massaging the affected breasts during these heat application sessions can also help with plugged ducts according to LLLI.
Rest well while breastfeeding. This is an enormous physical task on the body. It is important to rest well, eat well and hydrate continuously during the time you are breastfeeding. Being relaxed during breastfeeding sessions can also help to alleviate any pain or soreness that is associated with the task.
If the nipple or the surrounding area is sore or cracked, apply a thin layer of breast milk to the area after feeding. Allow the film to air dry for an all natural solution to these painful symptoms of breastfeeding.
Seek Help
Seek help from medical professionals if you believe you may have an infection. A breast infection, such as mastitis, is often treated with antibiotics that will need to be prescribed by a physician.
Schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant. This trained professional can check to ensure the baby is correctly latching onto the breast. If the latch is incorrect, this can cause pain to the nipple and surrounding area. Correction of the latch technique can make breastfeeding a more enjoyable and effective process for both mom and baby.
Tags: breast infection, while breastfeeding, also help, medical professionals, nipple surrounding
Mass spectrometry can determine the properties of atoms and molecules.
Mass spectrometers are instruments that measure the masses and relative concentrations of atoms and molecules, making use of the basic magnetic force on a moving charged particle. Mass spectrometers employ dynamic, magnetic or electric fields in conjunction with two or more mass analyzers for tandem mass spectrometry. They can be specialized, combining the features of different analyzers for specific types of mass analysis.
FT-ICR Mass Spectrometer
FT-ICR (Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance) mass spectrometers are useful, high-precision analyzers. Fourier transform mass spectrometry (FTMS) detects the image current produced by ions cyclotroning in the presence of a magnetic field. The ions are injected into a static electric/magnetic ion trap, where they form part of a circuit. Detectors in the system measure the electrical signal of ions that pass near them, producing a periodic signal. The frequency of the signal can be used determine the ion's mass/charge ratio. The FTMS is highly sensitive and boasts higher precision and resolution than other methods.
Sector Field Analyzer
Sector field mass analyzers use either an electric or magnetic field to affect charged particles. These analyzers alter the trajectories of charged particles according to their mass and charge, and they deflect lighter, more charged and faster-moving ions in the process. Sector analyzers scan a narrow range of mass/charge ratios to catalog the ions present.
Time-of-flight Analyzer
Time-of-flight (TOF) analyzers use an electric field to accelerate ions and then measure the time it takes for them to reach a detector. If all particles have the same charge, their speed will vary only according to their masses, and the lighter ions will reach the detector first. Their mass can then be measured by their time of flight.
Quadrupole Analyzers and Ion Traps
Quadrupole analyzers selectively stabilize or destabilize the paths of ions using oscillating electrical fields. By passing ions through a radio frequency quadrupole field, single mass/charge ratios can be measured. The frequency with which mass/charge ratios are measured can be increased through changes made to the potentials on magnetic lenses. In the related quadrupole ion trap, the same physical principals are employed, but the ions are trapped and ejected sequentially. A linear quadrupole ion trap narrows the quadrupole field, from a full three dimensions down to two, and then makes use of the same methods to trap and eject ions.
Tags: mass charge, charge ratios, mass charge ratios, according their, atoms molecules, charge ratios measured, charged particles
Chances are a woman you know will be diagnosed with breast cancer. There are 2.5 million women diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States alone. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer found in women. Of women born today, one in eight will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime (SEER incidence and NCHS mortality statistics, 2007 estimate). Pink Ribbon Day and National Breast Care Awareness Month help support breast cancer research to fight this deadly disease.
Pink Ribbon Day and National Breast Care Awareness Month
Pink Ribbon Day is the fourth Monday in October every year. Pink Ribbon Day originated in Australia but has become popular all over the world. October is also National Breast Care Awareness Month. The cause raises national awareness of the need for early detection through mammograms and the need for research funds to find a cure. Since its inception in 1984, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) has raised over $55 million for breast cancer awareness and research. NBCAM is the official organization for National Breast Care Awareness Month. The year 2009 marks the 25th anniversary of NBCAM.
History of the Pink Ribbon
The pink ribbon has become a universal symbol in the fight against breast cancer. Few people know the history behind the pink ribbon. A woman named Charlotte Haley first began using ribbons to raise breast cancer awareness in the early 1990s after her daughter, sister and grandmother were all diagnosed with the disease. The original color was peach. Evelyn Lauder of the Estee Lauder Corp., with the help of Alexandra Penney of Self magazine, established the current color of pink in 1991. Many proceeds from sales of pink ribbon items are dedicated to breast cancer treatment and research.
Why Funds Are Needed
The fundraising efforts of Pink Ribbon Day and National Breast CareAwareness Month are used to fund breast cancer research. Funds are also needed for support groups for breast cancer victims, survivors and their families during their diagnosis and treatment. Helping women pay for mammograms is a vital part of fundraising efforts. Early detection and treatment is seen as the best method for fighting breast cancer.
Other Organizations Involved in the Cause
There are many other organizations involved in the fight against breast cancer. In 1992, the Avon Foundation began the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade. It now has programs in more than 50 countries. In the United States, the annual Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is held in cities across the nation. Susan G. Komen's sister, Nancy G. Brinker, in memory of her sister and her heroic battle with breast cancer, established the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. This foundation has invested over $1 billion dollars in breast cancer research and treatment since its inception in 1982.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways you can become involved in the fight against breast cancer. Volunteer organizations need your time and money to help find a cure for breast cancer. The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer National Team Program provides an opportunity for corporations to become involved. Corporations recruit teams of volunteers and organize fundraising events.
The Making Memories foundation supports Brides Against Breast Cancer; taking donated wedding gowns and using the funds to fulfill breast cancer patients' dreams and wishes. They accept corporate sponsorships and private donations. They also sponsor other fundraising projects including the Pink Envelope Project and Diamonds for Dreams.
Tags: Awareness Month, breast cancer, National Breast, Breast Care, Breast Care Awareness
Breast cancer is a disease that affects many women. With the increased awareness of breast cancer, there has also been a surge of products promoting this awareness. These breast cancer awareness items are often highly popular, coming from top designers and coming in the girliest color: pink. Once discontinued, breast cancer awareness items are hard to find. The following steps describe the best way to find discontinued breast cancer awareness items.
Instructions
1. Check eBay. This online marketplace is a great place to find discontinued items. The search feature allows for searching all items by keyword. Use the advanced search to search in particular categories, such as clothing, collectibles or jewelry. If nothing comes up in the search results, try searching for the entire item description rather than just its title.
2. Talk to someone who has the item you're seeking. If someone has it, ask where they got it. Then it's easy to visit the store where it was bought and inquire if they have any more. Most retail stores are happy to share additional information to assist customers trying to locate items that they no longer carry. They can also provide you the brand and company that manufactures the item.
3. Query the sponsoring company. Some common product sponsors include Ford, Avon and New Balance, and there are hundreds of others. Simply contact the company and ask about their merchandise. They can check and see if there are any current sellers who carry the product.
4. Ask the experts. Ask around at a breast cancer event or ask a breast cancer charity for help. These women will help as much as possible to find products that promote breast cancer awareness and sponsor their charities. Survivors and current patients, who also frequent breast cancer events, also have a good idea of where to find these items.
5. Look on the sales rack at the retail stores. If all else fails, you can always try this. It's not likely to turn up a highly sought-after item, but it does happen. Take a few minutes to browse the racks and see if the salespeople on the floor have noticed anything similar to the product you want.
Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer awareness, cancer awareness, cancer awareness items, awareness items, breast cancer, discontinued breast
Radiology technologists, also called radiologic technologists or radiographers, take radiographic images of patients for diagnostic purposes. These technologists take x-rays and fluoroscopies, while some specialize in computed tomography (CT), mammography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Those who work with additional types of imaging other than x-rays usually make higher salaries and have better employment opportunities.
Initial Pay
Average starting salary for radiology technologists, according to the PayScale salary survey website, is between $17 and $21 per hour, or about $35,000 to $43,700 per year. With 5 to 9 years of experience, a radiology technologist can expect to make between $18.50 to $24.50 on average, or between $38,500 and $51,000 annually.
General Range
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows average salary in 2008 for all radiology technologists at about $25.60 per hour or $53,200 annually. The bottom 10 percent of radiology technologists were earning below $35,100, and the top 10 percent over $75,000. The middle 50 percent of earnings fell between about $43,000 and $63,000 annually.
Facilities
Most radiology technologists work for general medical and surgical hospitals, earning just about the average salary for all radiology technologists at $54,000 annually. Higher pay can be found at specialty hospitals and at colleges, universities and professional schools, which pay about $57,000 on average. Radiology technologists working in scientific research and development earn an average of about $64,000 per year. In contrast, outpatient care centers and physician offices pay a bit less than average, between $50,000 and $51,300 annually.
Specialties and Education
Specializing makes a difference. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) 2007 Wage and Salary Survey shows the average yearly salary for a mammographer was about $56,600, while nuclear medicine technologists were making about $69,000. Radiology technologists with bachelor's degrees earned nearly $3.40 more per hour than those with 2-year associate degrees.
Location
Certain regions also pay significantly higher than others. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows radiology technologists in the San Jose and Oakland, California metropolitan areas earning between $71,000 and $77,000 on average in 2008. Radiology technologists in Bangor, Maine and in Boston, Massachussets were making an average salary between $70,000 and $72,000. High-paying states included Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada and New Jersey, where radiology technologists could earn between $62,000 and $67,000 on average.
Tags: radiology technologists, average salary, between average, about average, about year, average between, average between annually
Thermography---also known as thermal imaging---is a method often used in science and business to view a range of the electromagnetic spectrum that is not visible to the human eye. Thermography makes use of infrared radiation that is emitted by objects. Since infrared radiation varies with temperature, thermography is a useful imaging technique to pick-out objects with variable temperatures.
Large Area
Thermography equipment allows for a large area to be assessed. Since thermography equipment can be used over a large area, it serves some practical uses-firefighters use thermo-imaging equipment that allows them to see through smoke, which otherwise impairs normal eyesight. This is a tremendous safety innovation that thermography provides.
Real Time
Current thermography technology allows for recording in real-time rather than just snapshots. This technology allows thermo-imaging to be more useful in a variety of circumstances. Even automakers are including live thermo-imaging technology in luxury cars. Vehicles-such as certain models of Cadillacs-use thermo-imaging equipment to help drivers on the road, as well as with parking.
Detecting Defects
Infrared detection is very important for pipes and shafts that are built into buildings, skyscrapers, and homes. For high-end projects, many construction companies use thermographic cameras that detect leaks in pipes to ensure they are repaired prior to finishing the project.
Inaccurate Measurements
If temperatures are very close in range, infrared imaging can lead to misreading information taken in from the camera; objects can become indistinguishable. The current technology in thermography only allows for imaging to be applied to surface temperatures.
Price
The downside to thermography is the price tag that is associated with thermo-imaging equipment. This equipment is rarely used by anybody other than large companies, public services, or educational institutions due to the price that it costs to purchase equipment.
Allied health is a blanket term that identifies various occupations in the health profession (as many as 100 job titles) from dental hygienists to athletic trainers, anesthesiologist assistants, medical sonographers, cardiovascular technologists and many, many more. All of these positions are allied health occupations. The United States alone has approximately two million individuals employed as allied health professionals.
Significance
Allied health employment is a very broad concept. There are so many different types of jobs that are part of allied health. The salaries can range from approximately $26,000 a year to more than $150,000 a year. All allied health employment opportunities entail a different set of skills and different expectations, whether you are interested in becoming a physical therapist or dietitian.
Potential
For anyone considering employment in allied health, the allied health industry is in demand because people will always need healthcare and individuals willing to work in healthcare. Healthcare is such a vital part of everybody's lives, and working in allied health, people can help to make a big difference in the world, whether they are helping someone with the healing process post-injury or taking an X-ray to study somebody's bones.
Benefits
There are a lot of benefits to allied health employment. Jobs in the field of allied health are very rewarding and can offer a lot of growth opportunities for individuals as they work alongside skilled professionals such as doctors. Also, allied health employment tends to be very stable and oftentimes high paying.
Considerations
If you are considering becoming an allied health professional, it is definitely a smart idea to prepare by exploring all of your employment options in the allied health world. Another great way to get prepared and make decisions about what career route is appropriate for you is by reading a book available through the American Medical Association called "Health Professions Career and Education Directory," which describes allied health employment in great detail.
Theories/Speculation
The Internet has a lot of resources that can help out individuals looking for jobs in the allied health field. Some excellent websites to check include Allied Health Careers, Allied Health Group, American Medical Association Health Care Careers and several others.
Tags: allied health, health employment, allied health, allied health employment, allied health employment, American Medical
As defined by the Digital Signage Association, digital signage is the use of screens or electronic displays---whether LED, LCD, projection or plasma screens---to deliver advertisements, entertainment such as TV shows or movies, or information. Digital signage's development and history are intricately linked with that of the technologies that have made it what it is today---from closed-circuit television and VCRs to high-speed Internet access.
Origins
Digital signage debuted in the 1970s in electronics stores selling televisions and VCRs. It came into being on the back of the popularity of in-store closed circuit television networks based on VCRs. These stores used this new technology to play back recorded advertisements and announcements on TVs for their customers.
Corporate Adoption
Thanks to the availability of affordable home VCRs, corporate clients began to adopt these early forms of digital signage. They connected VCRs to television sets in order to play back content that they themselves recorded---ranging from corporate announcements to entertainment such as TV shows. As companies began to recognize the potential of the TV-VCR combination, it began to gain acceptance with many different industries.
TV Technology
Further advancements in television technology helped hasten the development of digital signage. The advent of satellite TV and more advanced TV technology enabled these signs to display live instead of just pre-recorded content. The creation of projection screens and video walls in the 1980s enabled companies to broadcast their messages to ever-larger audiences. Large digital billboards began to show up along major roads in large cities around the world.
Scala Corporation
Founded in 1987, Scala Corporation started out with the aim of providing cable TV solutions based on the Amiga platform. In the mid-1990s, Scala's leadership began to recognize the portents of the technological advancements that were happening. They foresaw the need to adapt the company's trademark software to specifically address the demands of corporations and retailers that needed out-of-home networks. By doing so, Scala crafted a breakthrough---a cutting-edge dedicated multimedia platform for digital signage. Today the company's InfoChannel product line is used in over 60 countries worldwide and has applications in dynamic digital media networks used by government, education, retail, entertainment, and other industries.
Future Prospects
The advent of modern technology is once again taking digital signage to new levels. Extremely rapid streaming media via the Internet is becoming practically ubiquitous. Ever more sophisticated digital displays are becoming available for low prices. Increasingly inexpensive storage and processing capabilities are also emerging as well. Lastly, the spread of graphics expertise and the sophistication of today's programs have enabled the creation of a new generation of content that is more dazzling and eye-catching than its predecessors. The inception of all these is beginning to allow companies utilizing digital signage to offer a wider and more compelling range of content than ever before.
Tags: digital signage, began recognize, content that, Digital signage, entertainment such, entertainment such shows, play back
In Michigan, low-income families can receive assistance with health insurance for themselves and their children if they do not have outside insurance. Depending on the family's income level, parents may have to pay a small co-pay or an enrollment fee. Children in Michigan who are in these programs are entitled to basic and specialized health care services, as well as some dental services. These insurances do not cover charges incurred before enrollment.
MIChild
MIChild is a discount health insurance program for low-income children under the age of 19. Parents pay a flat fee of $10 per month regardless of how many qualifying children they have or what special needs those children may have.
MIChild entitles children to basic health care and to hospital stays of up to 120 days. Children who have pre-existing conditions are eligible for this program. To qualify, the family's gross income must be between 150 and 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
Healthy Kids
Healthy Kids is a Medicaid-based program in which low-income pregnant mothers and their children get free health care. This program is free of charge to the family, except for small co-pays for people over the age of 21. Unemployed parents may qualify for this program. If a family qualifies for both Healthy Kids and MIChild, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will enroll the family in Healthy Kids.
Eligibility and Limitations
All children must live in the state of Michigan and have Social Security numbers to enroll in MIChild or Healthy Kids. In addition, parents must be able to prove that their income that does not exceed the income limits for the program they are applying for.
Families must not be on any other health insurance plan at the time of application. If a family had the opportunity to enroll in an employer-sponsored plan and did not do so, the family must wait six months after the employee enrollment period ends to apply for MIChild or Healthy Kids.
Apply
Download an application from the Department of Health and Human Services' website, fill out and e-mail an application online or request one by phone. You can also call DHHS to find out which MIChild health plans are available in your area, as you must write in your choice of plan at the top of the application.
Fill out the application completely. Provide information about each adult member of the household's income, as well as information about each child living in the house. Sign and date the application and attach any supporting documents such as doctor's notes regarding pregnancy or proof of applying for children's Social Security numbers.
Mail the application back to MIChild. You should get a response in the mail within 10 days of receipt. If you submit your application online, you will receive a notification immediately as to whether your family appears to be eligible.
Changes Due to the Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act of 2010 makes several changes to health care for children in Michigan. The MIChild and Healthy Kids programs are not affected; however, private insurers cannot deny your child coverage due to pre-existing conditions. Starting in 2014, your family will qualify for Medicaid-based health care such as Healthy Kids if your income is 133 percent or less of the federal poverty guidelines.
Tags: Healthy Kids, health care, MIChild Healthy, MIChild Healthy Kids, about each
Discipline in an alternative school may be top-down or collaborative.
Alternative schools serve high school students who may be pregnant, homeless, working or expelled from their regular school because of poor or disruptive behavior. Since alternative schools often serve as a last chance for troubled youth, having a clear code of discipline is imperative. Some alternative schools have an especially strict, top-down code. Others flatten the school hierarchy and treat students as nearly equal partners.
Zero Tolerance
Many students attend an alternative school because they caused problems at their regular school. Therefore, some alternative schools institute a no-nonsense discipline policy that every student receives in writing on or before the first day of school. This type of discipline policy is known as zero-tolerance because it leaves no room for interpretation or favoritism. A zero-tolerance discipline matrix lists the required punishments for each type of misbehavior. The student knows ahead of time how he will be punished for an infraction and the punishments escalate with each infraction.
Military Style
Although students may not be ready for West Point, they can benefit from a military-style code of discipline. Project ChalleNGe is an alternative institution that is sponsored by the National Guard and has branches in several states. The program aims to give high-school dropouts a second chance to finish school and develop self-discipline. The students, all of whom volunteer for the program, wear military-style fatigues, engage in daily physical fitness and face punishments for misbehavior.
Low Hierarchy
Some alternative schools take a different route. Since many alternative-school students have difficulties with authority, some schools remove most of the obvious trappings of authority to create a less-threatening atmosphere. Students and staff all are on a first-name basis. The staff eats lunch with the students and communicates with them as mentors instead of disciplinarians. The setup encourages voluntary compliance from the students, working from the premise that it's hard to be a rebel when there's not much to rebel against.
Personal Responsibility
At a low-hierarchy school, teachers and administrators try to avoid meting out punishment. Students are encouraged to self-regulate, meaning that they are free to leave the room and sit in a designated cool-off area if they think they might lose their temper. If a student does create a disturbance in class, the teacher, student and guidance counselor sit together to discuss the problem and brainstorm ideas on preventing recurrences. Sometimes the student will write a letter of apology, learning to take responsibility for his actions.
Tags: alternative school, alternative schools, alternative schools, code discipline, discipline policy
Women who develop breast cancer after menopause have many options for treatment, including surgical techniques, radiation and drug therapies. Postmenopausal women may have more options than younger women due to the risk of infertility or cancer recurrence in younger women. Treatments for breast cancer in postmenopausal women depend on the stage of the cancer, overall health and age.
Lumpectomy
Lumpectomy is surgical removal of a cancerous tumor in the breast, and may be preceded or followed by other treatments.
Partial Mastectomy
Partial mastectomy is surgical removal of the cancerous tumor, some surrounding healthy tissue and tissue outside of the breast in the chest area.
Mastectomy
Mastectomy is surgical removal of an entire breast, and may include the removal of nearby lymph nodes and chest muscles.
Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive surgery may be performed after lumpectomy or mastectomy to rebuild a natural-looking breast, and may use existing body fat or artificial materials.
Radiation
Radiation treatments may be performed after surgery, but according to the Mayo Clinic, older women benefit less from radiation than younger women (see Resources).
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs that kill fast-growing cells anywhere in the body, including both cancerous and healthy cells.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy is the use of synthetic hormones that block the function of estrogen, slow the growth of breast cancer and kill tumor cells.
Tags: surgical removal, younger women, breast cancer, cancerous tumor, performed after, removal cancerous
According to statistics released by the American Cancer Association, kidney, or renal, cancer accounts for three percent of all adult cancers in the United States. Each year, there are thirty two thousand new cases diagnosed, and twelve thousand deaths. While there are treatment options available, it depends on the type and number of kidney tumors, and the stage the disease is in.
Significance
Kidney tumors are a malignant growth in the kidney that usually occurs over a period of a time. The average growth rate for a kidney tumor is a half inch per year, and they can become quite large if they are not detected. Each tumor has its own characteristics and it is important to know what tumor the patient has so that the proper treatment can be administered.
Types
Kidney tumors are commonly referred to as Renal Cell Carcinoma or RCC. While this is a type of cancer itself, there are subtypes of RCC as well. RCC is the most common type of kidney cancer, as nine out of ten people are diagnosed with it. Clear Cell RCC is the most common form of RCC and eight out of ten people are diagnosed with this type. The second most common is Papillary RCC, and it affects ten to fifteen percent of those who are diagnosed with cancer of the kidney. Five percent of all RCC's are diagnosed as Chromophobe RCC, which is a more rare type. There are other types of cancerous kidney tumors as well, one of which is known as Wilms Tumor. This type accounts for five percent of those who are diagnosed and is almost always discovered in children while rare for adults.
Identification
RCC is usually identified as a single tumor which is sometimes found in more than one spot of the kidney. Occasionally it will affect the second kidney as well. The cancer cells of Clear Cell RCC are pale or clear, while Papillary RCC will form projections in some of the tumor that look like fingers and are called pappillae. The cells of the tumor associated with Chromophobe RCC will be pale, similar to the cells of Clear Cell RCC, but are larger. Wilms Tumors are generally located in only one of the child's kidneys, but can affect both. A child is usually diagnosed by the age of three.
Symptoms
There are many symptoms associated with kidney tumors, and while many of the following can indicate a severe medical problem, they are also indicative of less severe conditions. They include a mass or a lump in the abdomen, urine in the blood, which may not be noticed, a constant feeling of being weak or tired, swelling of the legs or ankles due to the kidney's inability to excrete urine and waste product, and fever, which indicates an infection.
Stages
Once diagnosed with a kidney tumor, the doctor will then determine which stage the cancer is in. This will help him decide what route to take with treatment and enable him to give a more accurate prognosis. Kidney tumors are generally categorized into one of four stages. The higher the stage, the more advanced the cancer. In stage one, the tumor is less than one inch, has remained within the kidney, and has not reached the lymph nodes. In stage two, the tumor is larger than one inch, has remained in the kidney, and has not reached the lymph nodes. In stage three, the tumor can be of any size, has entered the lymph nodes and andrenal glands, as well as the renal vein. Stage four is a mixed group of stages and can include tumors of all sizes that have left the kidney and entered not only the lymph nodes, but also neighboring organs and distant organs as well.
Treatment
Treatment will vary according to each person and their personal situation. If a person is healthy enough and can undergo a surgery safely, the doctor will take that route first. However, it also depends on the stage of the cancer. If a person is diagnosed in the more advanced stages, the doctor may advise the family that comfort care would be the best option rather than put the patient through rigorous treatment that will be for nought in the end. Aside from surgery, some of the most common forms of cancer treatment include chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells, radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors, and hormone therapy to help prevent cancer cell growth. In most cases, two or more of these methods wil be used in combination to provide the patient with the best possible prognosis.
Prognosis
Each patient is different, as is their diagnosis, their treatment plan, and the way their body will respond to the treatment plan. Therefore, it can be difficult for a doctor to be completely accurate when telling a patient how long they may have to live once they have been diagnosed with kidney cancer. Sadly, many RCC's are not diagnosed until they are in the advanced stages, making it nearly impossible for the patient to survive longer than two or three months. However, when the cancer is detected in the early stage and has not yet spread, the five year survival rate is eighty-five percent. In some cases, it is even curable. In cases where the cancer has spread to the renal vein, the five year survival rate drops to between thirty-five and sixty percent. And if the cancer has spread to a distant site, the survival rate drops to ten percent.
Tags: diagnosed with, lymph nodes, most common, cancer cells, Clear Cell, survival rate, Types Kidney
Removing cholesterol spots from your face may require medical help.
While most cholesterol spots form as a result of high blood cholesterol levels, they can sometimes arise on your skin when you have good levels of cholesterol too. The bad news is that there's no easy way to remove them from your face; the good news is that it is possible if you're willing to discuss it with your doctor. While cholesterol spots are essentially harmless, they appear as pale bumps on your face, most often around your eyelids. If they make you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, it may be worth the effort to remove them.
Instructions
1. Massage the areas where the cholesterol spots appear. Use the tips of your fingers and rub gently in circular motions, as the delicate skin around your eyes can be easily damaged.
2. Repeat the massage each morning and evening for 3 months. If you can't see an improvement, you may need to see a doctor.
3. Contact a qualified plastic surgeon or dermatologist and ask if he or she can remove the cholesterol spots from your face. Schedule a consultation.
4. Attend the appointment and have the spots removed. Your doctor will make a small incision and remove the lump, often resulting in no more than a tiny scar.
Tags: your face, cholesterol spots, from your, from your face, around your, cholesterol spots, cholesterol spots from
If you're starting up your own business, everyone recommends that you develop a solid business plan. In fact, lenders generally won't consider a request for a loan until they've looked over your business plan.
But since most businesses keep their plans secret, it's hard to find out what a *real* business plan looks like. Harder still is finding a source of free business plans from real businesses.
Here are some places where you can find no-cost sample business plans from the real-world.
Instructions
1. Check the Business Plan Archive listed in Resources. This business-school-based site is a terrific (if somewhat awkward) source of plans from real businesses, both successes and failures. Their collection includes real-word business plans, as well as actual business presentations (Powerpoints, and the like) that start-ups used to make their sales pitch.
Access to the site is limited to approved users, so follow their registration steps carefully to gain access to a treasure trove of business plans.
2. Check other internet sites for free business plans (also listed in Resources).
Bplans.com offers 100 free sample business plans, from Aircraft Equipment Maker to Yoga Center.
A site called eclips, at Cornell University, offers excellent short videos from entrepreneurs on a host of topics. Search the site for 'business plans', and you'll find videos like "Alison Gerlach Shares Thoughts On Strong Business Plans". These are very valuable presentations.
3. Check your library. One of the best resources for real-world business plans is the 13-volume (and counting) Business Plans Handbook from Cengage-Gale. Your library may have a print version or, better yet, access to an online subscription.
Each volume in this collection includes about 25 real business plans representing an incredible diversity of online and offline commerce.
4. Check other business resources. The Small Business Administration, in particular, has a good deal of advice and help on starting-up a business, including materials on creating a solid business plan.
SBA also links to the SCORE business mentoring program, where experienced (usually retired) business professionals offer free advice on creating your own business plan.
Tags: business plan, business plans, plans from, business plans, business plans from, your business, business plans
Health insurance is underwritten based on a person's morbidity risk. Morbidity risk is the risk of a person becoming sick. A person's morbidity risk includes several factors and determines how the health insurance policy is issued.
Personal Factors
A person's age is a significant factor, as people are more likely to fall ill as they become older. In addition, a person's health history is considered, as this tells the insurance underwriter if a person has certain conditions that will increase their risk of becoming ill. Similarly, because some diseases are inherited, an insurance underwriter looks at a person's family history.
Lifestyle Factors
A person's occupation and hobbies are a concern if these two factors present greater than average rate of accidents or health risks. Driving history provides information about a person's driving habits, which indicate whether a person has a greater chance of getting into a motor vehicle accident. Finally, substance abuse is considered because people who abuse various substances have a greater chance of getting sick.
Financial Factors
Finances are considered as a means to determine how much health insurance a person should have. Often an insurance company specifies that a person should carry a maximum amount of health insurance that is based on their income.
OSHA construction toolbox topics include personal protective equipment and ladder safety.
Continuing safety training as part of an effective safety program reduces accidents and injuries and makes safety awareness a top priority. The construction industry presents many opportunities for a wide range of avoidable accidents and injuries that cost employer and employees money and productivity. Weekly or monthly worker training, called toolbox talks or toolbox training, presents safety information in a brief format to construction employees on a variety of topics encountered in construction work. OSHA standards and regulations regarding construction work present many toolbox topics for training.
Personal Protective Equipment
OSHA requires employers to provide personal protective equipment for employees to work safely, and employees are required to wear necessary personal protective equipment. Personal protective equipment in construction work includes ear plugs when operating or working around loud equipment, safety glasses and respiratory protection when working around operations that produce particles or potentially airborne material and hard hats in heavy construction areas. OSHA has specific requirements for hearing protection, fall protection, machine guarding and many other safety hazards in construction that are prevented with the use of protective items and gear. Employees should be trained on the requirements for personal protective equipment, obtain equipment and use it.
Housekeeping
OSHA has a housekeeping requirement in its construction general safety and health provisions. OSHA advocates keeping construction work areas clear of scrap, debris, unused equipment, electrical cords and trip hazards and requires construction rubble and debris to be removed regularly. Employees should be trained in housekeeping requirements and hazards.
Signs, Signals and Barricades
Signs, signals and barricades are necessary in work areas that are loud and busy with many people engaged in different work activities. OSHA requires visible signs and symbols to be in place when work is being performed, including danger signs, caution signs, exit signs, directional signs, traffic signs and accident prevention tags and signs. OSHA has specific requirements for different kinds of signs. Danger signs for immediate hazards must be red with black borders, caution signs must be yellow and exit signs must have red lettering. Employees should be trained in OSHA's signage requirements, what signs mean and what situations require signs.
Scaffolds and Aerial Lifts
OSHA's requirements regarding scaffolds and aerial lifts are designed to prevent falls, prevent dropping items from heights, provide regular inspection and security of scaffolding equipment and ensure safe access to work at heights. Some requirements of scaffolding include weight bearing capacity of scaffolding and ropes, training for those assembling and dismantling scaffolding, inspection of scaffolding for stability and wear and tear, appropriate scaffold supports and environmental conditions of scaffolding such as ice, snow and rain. OSHA requires employers to train employees on proper use of scaffolding and handling of materials on it, who is authorized to put scaffolding equipment together and the nature of scaffold hazards.
Ladders and Stairways
OSHA's requirements for ladders and stairways include frequent inspections, removal from use if broken or defective, proper use, clearance of debris and fall hazards. OSHA requires training on ladders and stairways so employees recognize and avoid hazards.
Tags: construction work, OSHA requires, protective equipment, Employees should, Employees should trained
Successful corporate health fairs can encourage employees to adopt healthier practices and can help protect one of the company's most valuable assets--employees. Sponsor events that will encourage exercise, stress reduction, healthful eating and preventative medicine. The best corporate health fair ideas encourage employee changes beyond the fair and help instill a corporatewide health mentality.
Group Goal
Launch a company fitness goal at your corporate health fair. Consider weight loss, smoking cessation or other measurable health objective. Sign up employees to participate in groups to help provide support and healthful competition. Not only will your employees benefit from improved health, your company will benefit from more energized employees and increased camaraderie. Consider having a corporate goal and a visible goal progression chart that allows all employees cheer on participants.
Stress
Stress can decrease employee performance and lead to employee absenteeism. Sponsor a health fair that focuses on stress reduction. Feature natural sleep aids, stress reduction techniques and fun activities. Give away stress balls customized with your company logo. Consider creating permanent physical reminders such as water features or posters with stress reduction ideas in your company that helps extend the benefit of your corporate health fair. Use the fair to help launch employee recognition programs that offer spa gift certificates, vibrating chairs or tranquility CDs as rewards.
Flu
Sponsor a flu prevention fair. Many employees lead busy lives and might not schedule the time to get a yearly flu shot, so bring the shots to them. Provide inexpensive or free flu shots to keep your employees healthy during flu season. Include information about basic virus protection methods such as frequent hand washing. Employees will appreciate the service and your company will benefit from reduced flu-related absences.
Community Activities
Provide information and sign-up opportunities for health-related community activities at your corporate health fair. Options include sports leagues, health-focused community service organizations, running clubs and fitness centers. Offer discounted memberships to a local fitness club as an employee benefit and sponsor a corporate sports team such as softball, and organize walking groups for lunch and breaks. When employees exercise together, they are more likely to stick to a fitness routine and might develop valuable work contacts outside their departments that can increase corporate teamwork.
Healthful Food
Encourage healthful eating habits among your employees. Have a chef give demonstrations of healthful recipes. Provide information on healthful food options at restaurants and fast-food establishments frequented by employees. Consider offering lunch and dinner-to-go catering services for your employees that offer quick and healthful food options for busy employees. Healthful food gives your employees the energy they need to help your company grow.
Tags: your company, your employees, corporate health, corporate health fair, health fair, stress reduction, benefit from
Digital signage network software enables you to manage all of your digital signs from a central area. You can electronically display information about your business to potential customers. Digital signage network software works on electronics such as plasma or LCD flat-screen televisions.
Features
Digital signage network software comes with templates so you can create different screen layouts. You can incorporate different types of media files, such as RSS feeds, videos, images and sounds, into your presentations. The software supports various media formats, including .bmp, .png, .avi and .jpeg.
Applications
Fast-food restaurants use digital signage software to show their menus. Corporations use this software to advertise their products or services. Sports stadiums use digital signage software to display scores in real time.
Software Programs
Digital Signage includes a Sequencer tool that enables you to manually arrange the order of your playlist within your timelines. Digital Signage starts at $195, as of October 2010. Connectedsign comes with an Advertising Sales Management feature that enables you to keep track of billing and advertisements. Connectedsign starts at $2,500, as of October 2010. Four Winds Interactive Digital Signage software comes with a Screen Saver feature, which displays a digital sign each time the computer is in a Screen Saver mode.
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A number of programs exist that can provide start-up grants for aspiring entrepreneurs in Florida. Be prepared to make a good case for why the business can be successful, and to compete with other entrepreneurs who are looking for similar capital. Successfully receiving one of these grants can help a business receive the head start it needs to grow into a viable venture.
apply for small business grants in Florida
Several entities and organizations provide grants to small businesses in Florida, or provide those businesses with assistance that can help businesses receive grants. Business owners should prepare themselves before applying for business grants, and work with local resource centers to make sure preparation is thorough enough to help the company qualify for financial assistance.
Start by making sure to write a business plan for the company. This is a document that explains what the name of the company is, what services the business will perform or goods it will sell, and the company's plan for bringing in customers and making money. Business plans are crucial to applying for grants, or any other type of small-business funding, because they demonstrate why a company is worthy of receiving a grant, and they help entrepreneurs articulate why their businesses are worth the investment.
The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network provides free training for people who want to start small businesses, and can help provide free assistance for writing business plans. To find the closest location, visit http://floridasbdc.org/Home/Location.asp.
Secondly, work with the local SBDC office or local chamber of commerce to provide contacts for organizations that can help provide start-up grants. Working with these organizations can be helpful because the employees can match businesses with grant programs that meet a business' specific needs (for instance, if the company is in a specialized industry), or connect the company with grants that apply to businesses in a specific region (such as Jacksonville's Small Emerging Business program). This can save a small-business owner time because it will keep him or her from applying for grant programs that do not meet his company's needs.
Lastly, make certain to follow grant applications very closely and fill them out thoroughly. Because competition is often tight for grant programs, it is easy to disqualify businesses based on incomplete information or because they didn't follow directions. Work with the SBDC to make sure grant applications are completed correctly, and have friends or family members proofread the application for clarity and correct spelling.
Guidelines and requirements for each organization's grant program can differ, so it's recommended that people contact each grant-giving group for more information on apply and qualify for grants.
Florida grant organizations
This is a sample list of Florida organizations that offer small business grants. Work with a local chamber of commerce or the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network for a more extensive list of grant opportunities.
Workforce Florida Inc.
http://www.workforceflorida.com/employers/qrt.htm
1580 Waldo Palmer Lane, Suite 1
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: (850) 921-1119
This organization has a Quick Training Reponse program that gives grants to new and existing small businesses that will create high-quality jobs. The grants are to be used specifically for job-training.
The City of Jacksonville has a Small Emerging Business program that provides a grant scholarship program, as well as assistance with access to capital and mentorship opportunities.
Palm Beach County provides grants to companies that have potential to create new jobs in the area. The program's criteria is available on the website.
A note of caution about federal small-business start-up grants
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) does not give grants to start businesses. According to the SBA's frequently asked question site (http://www.sba.gov/mostrequesteditems/CON_FAQ2.html):
"While SBA does offer some grant programs, these are generally designed to expand and enhance organizations that provide small business management, technical, or financial assistance. These grants generally support non-profit organizations, intermediary lending institutions, and state and local governments."
For more information about federal grants, visit http://www.sba.gov/services/financialassistance/grants/index.html.
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