What To Expect After Breast Reduction Surgery

It isn't commonly discussed, but many women face serious health issues on account of large breasts. These issues range from extreme self-consciousness to skin irritation and breast-related muscular pain. Women considering addressing the issue with surgery should consider the risks and benefits involved, and are justifiably concerned as to what to expect after the procedure.

surgical implements

Insurance Coverage

To ensure that you don't have any nasty financial surprises after your procedure, make sure to thoroughly investigate the extent of your insurance coverage. Insurance sometimes covers the entire procedure, depending on the woman's applicable health factors. The specific terms of your policy will be clear about this, but make the extra effort to obtain information in writing. Make sure to arrange for a letter of predetermination prior to your surgery date, if required.

Risks

Major complications from breast reduction surgery are very uncommon. Even so, every surgery comes with inherent risks. Your surgeon will make sure that you understand these potential risks before you are operated upon. General risks with surgery include bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. Risks specific to the surgery include asymmetricality of the breasts, such as slight differences in breast size and nipple height. If this occurs, it can be adjusted down the road. Some patients experience a change in breast sensitivity. Patient adherence to the instructions of the operating surgeon helps to lessen the risks.

Post-Operative Expectations

You'll be moving around out of bed the day after the procedure, though you'll need to avoid any strenuous bending and moderate lifting. It's best to sleep on the back to keep pressure from the post-operative tissues. Your doctor will remove surgical drains, if they were placed, within a couple of days of the procedure. You'll be given a special bra to wear for a few weeks until the tissues have stopped swelling. Stitches will be taken out over the course of about three weeks.

The Following Months

It will take some time after the surgery for your breasts to "settle in" to their new shape. The incision marks will be pink-to-red after the stitches are removed, and they will generally remain so for a few months, slowly fading to fleshtone. It will take a while for the nerves in the area to knit themselves back together, so you can expect sensation changes for a few months after the surgery. Sometimes it's permanent, but it's usually temporary.

Scarring

The scars left by breast reduction incisions will be permanent. In some patients, they're more visible than in others. You can expect them to fade in time, and many women see excellent results from scar-reduction creams. The scarring is easy to conceal with clothing, and even low-cut blouses may be worn without the scarring showing. For most patients, the massive confidence boost precipitated by a successful breast reduction surgery more than compensates for the scarring.

Childbearing Considerations

If you plan on having a child after having the procedure, keep in mind that childbirth (and, if you choose to, breast-feeding) will greatly affect the size and shape of your breast tissue. These changes are unpredictable and may change the way that the breasts appear to the point that another surgical adjustment may be desired afterward. The natural process of breast-feeding may be prevented as the tissues in the breast are surgically shifted, so discuss this with your doctor if you feel that your quality of life may be affected.

Tags: after procedure, after surgery, breast reduction, breast reduction surgery, make sure, many women, reduction surgery

What To Expect After A Prostate Biopsy

Prostate cancer screening should begin at age 50.

The American Urologic Association recommends that most men begin prostate cancer screening at age 50. Abnormalities in screening tests may warrant a biopsy. To relieve some of the anxiety associated with the procedure, it is important to know what to expect after a prostate biopsy.

Biopsy Procedure

The prostate gland is examined by an ultrasound probe inserted into the rectum. Then a spring-loaded, hand-held biopsy gun fires a hollow 18-gauge needle into the prostate gland, and 10 to 12 samples of prostate tissue are retrieved. The procedure generally takes 20-30 minutes.

What to Do after the Biopsy

Continue taking the antibiotic your doctor prescribed for the procedure. Drink a lot of fluids after a biopsy. This will dilute the urine, preventing the formation of blood clots in the bladder. Resume your prescription medications.

What to Avoid

Do not consume any alcohol for the first 24 hours following the procedure. In addition, do not do any heavy lifting, straining, or strenuous exercise for five days, and refrain from sexual activity until 24 hours after rectal and urinary bleeding have stopped.

Short-term Symptoms

Urine will likely be tinged with blood, and you may pass a few blood clots during urination or bowel movements. Bleeding should cease after a day or two. It is also normal to see blood in your ejaculate for several months after the biopsy.

Biopsy Results

Expect to wait up to a week for the biopsy results. A pathologist must examine the prostate tissue under a microscope to determine if cancer is present. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, a first biopsy detects only 75 percent of existing cancers, so a second biopsy may be recommended six weeks to three months later.

Warnings

Call your physician immediately if you experience fever or chills, inability to urinate, blood in the urine that lasts for more than five days, or significant rectal bleeding that lasts for more than three days.

Tags: after biopsy, biopsy Biopsy, blood clots, cancer screening, five days, lasts more, lasts more than

Teach Acting Class

Teaching an acting class can be a richly rewarding and entertaining experience. Keep in mind that you will be instructing students of all ages, with all sorts of aspirations. These aspiring thespians will look to you for guidance and the most important thing is to teach them the basics. The best acting teacher is one with experience, so you should be ready to give them a few examples of your own acting skill. Having a lesson plan that will allow students to methodically build up from the basics will optimize your effectiveness.

Instructions

1. Practice some acting parts you have performed or feel you can do well. You will instantly gain credibility and maintain the attention of your students if you can really nail a brief but memorable scene or two. Interact with your students onstage and resist the temptation to simply critique from a director's chair.

2. Provide instructive drills on stage direction, memorization techniques and auditioning. Include backstage theater instruction on the important behind-the-scenes roles, such as props and lighting. In his book, "The Great Acting Teachers and their Methods," acting coach Richard Brestoff says that understanding and appreciating all aspects of acting, including its history, helps create a better actor.

3. Make your class enjoyable. Encourage your students to connect with the inspiration that brought them there. Remember that even for aspiring actors, being onstage can be frightening. Practice acting out silly television commercials with the class as a way to break the ice and encourage participation.

4. Focus on bringing out the "voice" of your students. Practice breathing, singing and the importance of focus for finding their voice. Demonstrate techniques for optimizing their bodies, as effective body movement is critical for an actor in any genre.

5. Work on improvisation techniques. Tell students they can be anyone that they want and allow their imaginations to run wild in their impromptu performance.

Tags: your students, that will

How Does An Xray Machine Work

Components

The three major elements that make up an X-ray machine are the vacuum tube, the high-voltage power source and the operating console. The X-ray tube is essential to the machine and getting the correct results as it is the piece that ultimately produces X-rays. The high-voltage power supply uses a transformer to accurately alternate between the voltage of currents being sent to the emitter or to the anode. The emitter requires a small voltage supply to produce small currents, while the anode needs a large voltage supply to keep the speed of the electrons up. The energy of radiation that is produced is dependent on the high speed of the electrons. The operating console is the control unit, which works to manage the currents, voltage and timer. The current control has a display that allows adjustment of the tube current to vary radiation intensity. The voltage control also has a display, allowing adjustments in the anode to change the energy of radiation. The timer control determines the duration of the exposure; once the time stops, no more radiation is being produced.

Process

The X-ray tube contains either a filament or cathode emitter that expels accelerated electrons and leads them to a metal anode, where current is now flowing. The electrons that have been emitted toward the anode make up an electron beam. The beam hits a focal point in the anode, where a small percentage is converted into X-ray photons. The photons are discharged in all directions, and once the control unit is put to use, the adjusted currents and voltage result in a beam of X-rays that is projected onto a visible substance. An X-ray machine essentially acts as a camera, but without the visible light. Instead, it uses the X-rays that were produced to expose the film. X-rays use electromagnetic waves that can break through several layers due to the energy held inside of them. If the body is being X-rayed, the skin tissue will not absorb the waves coming from the X-ray but the dense parts of the body will, which is why bones, tendons and ligaments are able to be examined.

Uses

X-ray machines have two main uses, which are for medical and security purposes. In medicine, X-ray machines are most commonly used in dentistry and radiography. Radiography is used when fast, highly penetrating images are needed. An orthopantomogram is an X-ray of the jaw that shows all teeth at one time. A mammography gives an X-ray of breast tissue, and a tomography X-rays a specific section. Another medical use for X-ray machines include fluoroscopy, where real-time images are needed. For security purposes, X-ray machines are most often seen in airports and schools, where illegal objects can be searched for in a controlled manner.

Tags: X-ray machines, anode where, control unit, currents voltage, energy radiation, high-voltage power, images needed

What Is A Health Needs Assessment

Since health care is a finite resource, health care administrators and professionals often conduct thorough reviews and analyze resources on a regular basis to make sure that the beneficiaries of health care services are not being under served. Some organizations choose to use a systematic, step-by-step approach for conducting this type of analysis called a health needs assessment. This formal, structured review process allows health care professionals and leaders better understand the unmet needs of a population.

Function

According to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence from the UK's National Health Service, a health needs assessment (HNA) is a systematic method for reviewing the health needs and priorities for a particular segment of the population. The HNA can be conducted by an individual or groups working in a health care organization, for the government, or in the community to gain an understanding of the major and minor health concerns of certain groups.

Features

The health needs assessment is performed in a step-by-step manner and every step is documented for further review and analysis. The first step involves identifying the population that needs to be assessed and to define clear objectives for improving the selected population's health status. The second phase involves identification of health priorities. The third step involves assessment of the health priorities for action. The fourth step involves action planning to make appropriate changes. The final step involves conducting a project review and making sure that all project goals have been achieved.

Effects

According to Andrew Stevens, professor of public health and Stephen Gillam, director or primary care programs at the Department of Public Health and Epidemiology at the University of Birmingham, London, the results of the health needs assessment can be used to reallocate resources to those who have an unmet need. The reallocation of resources can help those who may be receiving ineffective health care services, those who are receiving inappropriate health care, and those who are not yet receiving any type of health care but have an unmet need.

Methods

According to John Wright, author of "Health Needs Assessment in Practice," several quantitative and qualitative research methods are used to conduct the comprehensive review for the health needs assessment. Methods include patient interviews, surveys, demographic profiling, review of mortality rates and charting of morbidity rates. A project team may be formed for the health needs assessment so that the responsibilities of data collection, management and analysis can be delegated to different team members. In some cases, representatives from certain agencies may be asked to join the team so that they can provide more data and objective information for the study.

Considerations

A health needs assessment is typically conducted by an organization that controls most of the health care resources for a particular part of the population. It is conducted often in the United Kingdom because the UK operates under a National Health Service (NHS) where all residents receive health care from the government. In the United States, each resident is responsible for finding his own healthcare provider. In this case, a health needs assessment may be conducted by individual health insurance companies for their clients and prospective customers.

Examples of other organizations that conduct a health needs assessment include the Orange County Health Needs Assessment (OCHNA), a non-profit organization that serves the residents of Orange County, California, and the National Alliance for Hispanic Health, which creates a Hispanic Health Needs Assessment to document and review the health needs of Hispanic communities around the United States.

Tags: health care, health needs, needs assessment, step involves, health needs assessment

Find Affordable Health Insurance

Healthcare costs in the United States have soared over the past several years and subsequently, thousands--if not millions--of Americans have fallen between the cracks. While the problem is indeed challenging for those of low-to-middle-level incomes, doing your research and knowing where to look will give you a leg up in the game.

Instructions

1. Research your choices before you buy. Basically, you will be looking into three options--associations, insurance companies and agents. For example, by going to www.eHealthinsurance.com, you will get a menu of options. Sam Gibbs, senior VP of sales, says that this online brokerage represents over 175 different carriers throughout the country. "What's unique about us is that within a given state or zip code level, every insurance plan that is available we put up on our website."

2. Know your income level. This is very important because it means ascertaining whether you qualify for public assistance or must purchase a plan through a company, such as Aetna, Blue Cross, Horizon, HIP, etc.

3. Get online and choose appropriately. According to Phil Lebherz, founder of the Uninsured Helpline, 43 million Americans are uninsured but about a third are eligible for "public assistance of some sort." Thus, if you are unsure whether you qualify for public assistance or must buy your own policy, going online will help. On the Uninsured Helpline website you will fill in basic criteria that will allow the portal to direct you to appropriate resources.

4. Follow up with a phone call. This is important when you have further questions, are unclear about whether a pre-existing condition will disqualify you or you simply have trouble with the idea of buying insurance online.

5. Reconsider all your options. Before you invest $500 or more of your hard-earned money, reconsider exactly what you are doing and what you and/or your family needs. While the commercialization of the insurance industry in America has its obvious drawbacks--cost, possible inappropriate direction of funds, the rush to push through drugs that may or may not be in Amercicans' best interest--there are also some upsides. The real plus is that the industry is not a monopoly and as a consumer, you hold the cards to shop around. If you are talking to Blue Cross or HIP (in New York), remember there are other options out there that may be a better fit.But don't take too long to figure it out. You want to be covered especially in the case of an accident or serious illness.

Tags: public assistance, assistance must, Blue Cross, public assistance must, qualify public

Can One Have Shingles Without A Rash

The two most characteristic symptoms of shingles are pain following a nerve along one side of the body and a rash that follows the path of that nerve. However, some people develop shingles without a rash; this is a condition known as zoster sine herpeticum (or herpete). Others may develop a rash that is overlooked because it is so small; this is a condition known as zoster cum herpete minimo.

Sine Herpete

Zoster sine herpete is an exceptionally rare condition, although, as noted in "Infections of the Nervous System," the difficulty of diagnosing shingles without a rash means that it is unknown precisely how often it occurs.

Cum Herpete Minimo

Some cases of zoster sine herpete may actually be zoster cum herpete minimo, as noted by R.A. Murray Scott in the British Medical Journal. In this condition, the shingles rash is minimal and may be overlooked by both patient and doctor.

Symptoms

People who do develop shingles with no rash still experience the characteristic pain on one side of their body that follows the path of the nerve in which the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) has been reactivated.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of shingles is complicated when no rash is present. Scheld, et al., note that diagnosis can be made through testing for antibodies to VZV as well as for VZV DNA via polymerase chain reaction testing.

Treatment

When it is confirmed that people thought to have zoster sine herpete are experiencing a shingles outbreak, standard treatment for shingles is administered. These include a course of antiviral drugs (acyclovir, valacyclovir or famciclovir) and corticosteroids to manage nerve damage, along with methodologies to relieve pain.

Tags: this condition, condition known, condition known zoster, develop shingles, follows path, herpete minimo

Make A Sports Flyer For Free

Promote health and sports through an event you announce on a custom flyer.

If you are planning a sports event for your community, school or workplace, then you may want to create a sports-themed flyer to promote your event to potential athletes and other participants. Customize a flyer using a template through Microsoft Word. Print the flyer on your home printer using computer paper you already have, or ask a local copy center to donate the printing costs and materials as a benefit to the community.

Instructions

1. Click your Start Menu. Select All Programs, Microsoft Office and Microsoft Office Word 2007. A new word processing document will pop up on your screen. Click the yellow Office Button -- located on the top left-hand side of your screen -- and then click New.

2. Locate the Flyers link, and double-click it. Then, double-click Event Flyers.

3. Scroll through the options, and look for sports-related flyers. For example, there is a basketball-themed flyer in the template library. Double-click your template of choice. It will download into your word document. Customize the text by erasing the filler text in the text boxes and replacing that text with your language to describe your sports event.

4. Add sports-related images to your flyer template. To do this, click "Insert," followed by the "Clip Art" button. In the search box, type the sport -- such as basketball, football and swimming. Press "Go." A list of images will return. Double-click the image, and it will appear on your flyer. Click the image so that it is highlighted and move it into your desired position on the flyer.

5. Click the text boxes on the flyers. The boxes contain filler text. Highlight the text, and delete it. Replace it with information about your sporting event. For example, if you are holding a basketball clinic at a community center, you might type the following message:

"Get better at your game at a FREE B-BALL CLINIC!

When: Saturday, May 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Dogwood Community Center

Who: You (and all your friends)

Why: Because you are better than you think. Because your game can be great!

You want to be clear, concise but also engaging. Make sure to include language that will appeal to your audience.

6. Print and distribute your flyers. Put your flyers up at schools, community centers and at sports stores. Talk to managers, youth ministers, and community leaders about encouraging their students and youth to participate in your event. Look into the fees for printing your ad in the local newspaper.

Tags: filler text, flyer Click, flyer template, into your, Microsoft Office

Become A Certified Ct Technologist

A CT scan generally takes between 10 and 30 minutes.

A CT scan --- also known as a CAT scan --- is a computerized (axial) tomography scan. It uses a combination of X-ray technology and computer programs to create images of the internal structures of the human body. Physicians and surgeons then use these images to assist diagnosis. A CT technologist --- also known as a radiologic technologist --- is the medical practitioner who performs computed tomography procedures. A CT scanner is a large ring-shaped machine in which the patient lies. An X-ray scanner inside the ring rotates around the patient, taking a series of images that a computer synthesizes. The images are more detailed than normal X-rays.

Instructions

1. Enroll in an accredited radiologic technology course so you can learn X-ray technology. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JCERT) accredits over 600 courses throughout the United States. These last either one, two or four years, leading to a certificate, an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree respectively. Most candidates attend a two-year course. A high school diploma or GED is required to access such programs.

2. Study hard in all subjects. These will include anatomy, pathology, physiology, patient care procedures, the physics of radiation and protect patients from its potential hazards, the theory and principles of X-ray imaging technology, medical ethics and radiobiology. Instruction is given in both classroom and practical clinical settings.

3. Attend a subsidiary course in computer tomography. Typically, such programs last one year and involve theoretical work and practical experience in a clinical setting under the supervision of a licensed CT scan practitioner. JCERT also provides details of CT scan programs.

4. Obtain a license from a state board to practice as a radiologic technologist. The precise requirements will vary between states but usually involve completing a recognized radiologic technology course and passing a written examination. Most licensing boards require a CT technologist to undertake career-long continued education to maintain licensure.

Tags: also known, radiologic technologist, radiologic technology course, such programs, technology course, X-ray technology

Salaries For Ct Scan Jobs

CT scans can help doctors pinpoint problems within the body.

The man or woman who takes your CT scan and helps review the results is properly known as a radiologic technologist. The average salaries earned by such technologists vary depending on factors like where he or she works or lives. If you're thinking of performing CT scans for a living, knowing the typical salaries earned by such technologists can help you make an educated decision.

National Averages

The radiologic technologist preps the CT scanning equipment and conducts the procedure, earning an annual average salary of $55,730, according to the 2010-2011 occupational handbook created by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.That works out to approximately $26.80 an hour. Their salaries can range widely. For example, a technologist in the 75th percentile brings in $65,590 a year while one in the 10th percentile only earns $36,510.

Averages by Biggest Employer

The greatest percentage of radiologic technologists work in surgical and general hospitals. There they earn $55,880 on average annually. Physicians' offices rank second when it comes to employment numbers and pay $54,000 on average. Diagnostic medical laboratories rank third, and the radiologic technologists there earn $58,240 a year on average.

Averages by Employer Pay

Radiologic technologists who conduct CT scans at scientific research service companies earn the highest annual average in the industry: $66,910. That's more than $10,000 higher than the national average for radiologic technologists. Universities and other professional schools rank second at $66,330, and office administrative service providers rank third at $61,580.

Geographic Salary Averages

California employs 16,350 radiologic technologists, making it the state with the highest employment for this job. There, the technologists earn $66,040 a year. Texas and Florida rank a respective second and third, and pay $53,610 and $51,590. If you're categorizing states by average salaries, Massachusetts comes first; there, technologists make $78,920 a year. Maryland ranks second at $68,940, closely followed by the golden state of California.

Tags: radiologic technologists, annual average, average salaries, earn year, earned such, earned such technologists, radiologic technologist

Schools For Medical Imaging

Medical imaging is an field that is in demand.

Entering the medical imaging field can lead to a rewarding, stable career helping others. Qualified individuals in the profession are in demand. Attending a certified school is a requirement, and there are a number of options, some of which are located in hospitals and some of which are part of colleges.

Johns Hopkins University School of Medical Imaging

Johns Hopkins University offers full-time certificate programs in a variety of medical imaging disciplines. The School of Medical Imaging emphasizes hands-on practical experience and theoretical training. Three core programs are offered: radiography, nuclear medicine technology and diagnostic medical sonography. Programs take between 14 and 18 months to compete. Advanced imaging programs in the fields of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and mammography are also offered. Students have access to a large radiology library, research facilities, computer labs and anatomical models.

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine & Johns Hopkins Health System

720 Rutland Avenue

Baltimore, MD 21205

410-528-8208.

radiologycareers.rad.jhmi.edu

St. Mary's School of Medical Imaging

St. Mary's Medical Center in West Virginia runs a school of medical imaging in partnership with Marshall University. Graduates of the school earn a bachelors of science degree in medical imaging. Students are introduced to key concepts in radiography and specialized imaging modalities. The degree takes four years to complete. Those who already have radiographer credentials may enter the professional part of the program, which starts for regular students in their final year. Applicants must be admitted to the College of Health Professions at Marshall before applying to St. Mary's.

St. Mary's Medical Center

2900 First Ave.

Huntington, WV 25702

304-526-1234

St-marys.org

Emory University

The medical imaging program at Emory University offers a bachelors of medical science degree in medical imaging, leading to potential careers as a radiologic technologist or radiographer. Students in the program are taught physiology, pathology, anatomy, radiation protection, image production and proper patient positioning. The program takes place over a 33-month period during eight consecutive semesters. For those already certified, a one-year fulltime program can lead to the degree. Students get hands-on experience during clinical rotations at places such as Emory Hospital, Crawford Long Hospital and Wesley Woods Geriatric Hospital.

Emory University

Medical Imaging Program

P. O. Box 25901

Atlanta, GA 30322

404-712-5005

radiology.emory.edu

Tags: Johns Hopkins, medical imaging, Emory University, Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins University, Medical Imaging, degree medical

Silk Screen Vs Pad Printing

Silkscreening is often used to create circuit boards.

Silkscreening and pad printing are both printing methods that reproduce a design onto different surfaces. While printers use silkscreens on flat surfaces such as clothes, paper and glass, pad printing transfers a design onto three-dimensional surfaces such as keychains and tools.

Silkscreen Transfer

Silkscreening works like a stencil. The artist presses pigment through a screen with a design on it. Pigment seeps onto areas that aren't covered by the design.

Pad Printing Transfer

Pad printing deposits a design onto a three-dimensional object using a silicone pad that lifts the ink off of a printing plate. It works much like a stamp.

DIY Capability

For home projects, silkscreening is much easier to do than pad printing. Silkscreening requires only a few simple tools and some, such as the frame for the screen, are easily made by hand. Pad printing, on the other hand, requires a variety of specialized mechanisms.

Industrial Use

Companies widely use both methods of printing. They use screen printing for shirt designs, window displays, and posters and pad printing for bar codes and labels.

Limitations

Silkscreening can transfer adhesives and circuit patterns as well as inks, paints and enamels whereas pad printing is used almost exclusively with ink. On the other hand, the flat nature of a silk screen means that it cannot print on a three-dimensional object.

Tags: design onto, design onto three-dimensional, onto three-dimensional, other hand, surfaces such, three-dimensional object

The Average Md Salary In The U S

MDs are among the highest-paid professionals in the U.S.

Medical doctors, sometimes referred to as MDs or physicians, are among the most highly educated and highly compensated professionals in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. MDs must typically complete four years of undergraduate work followed by four years of medical school and then complete residency programs of three to eight years depending upon their specialties. Income levels among MDs can vary widely based on their fields of special practice, geographic locations and levels of experience.

Wages

Medical doctors typically fall into two primary categories: general practitioners, sometimes referred to as family doctors, and specialists. MDs who specialize in a particular field of medicine require more extensive training and education than those who enter general practice. Specialists are typically more highly compensated than general practitioners. General practitioners earned a median annual income of $186,044 as of May 2008, compared to a specialist's median annual income of $339,738.

Salary by Location

The geographic location where a medical doctor practices can significantly affect her income. General practice MDs who worked in the states of Arkansas and Wisconsin earned a mean annual income of more than $200,000 per year while the mean annual income of those who worked in Hawaii, Missouri and Alaska was less than $155,000 per year as of May 2009, according to the BLS. MDs who worked in large cities tended to earn more than those who practiced in small towns or rural communities.

Salary by Specialty

Specialist MDs tend to earn more than general practitioner MDs, but there is a wide range of incomes among specialists as well. The Physician Compensation Survey conducted by the American Medical Group Association reports orthopedic surgeons who specialize in spinal surgery were among the most highly compensated of all MDs with a median income of $688,503. Gynecology oncologists earned a median income of $413,500 while dermatologists earned $375,176. Cardiologists earned a median income of more than $400,000 per year while the median income for anesthesiologists was $370,500.

Salary by Experience

As with most career fields, experience plays a significant role in determining an MD's income. MDs in their first year can expect to earn a median annual income of $116,326 as of March 2011, according to PayScale.com. Doctors with more than five years in practice earned a median annual income of $155,861. MDs with more than 20 years on the job averaged more than $174,000 per year.

Tags: more than, annual income, earned median, median annual, median annual income

Surgical Removal Of Moles

Surgical Removal of Moles

A mole is a type of lesion that begins as a flat, pigmented spot. Over time, it will elevate and form a dome shape while losing pigmentation. Most moles are non-cancerous and, therefore, evenly colored with a regular outline. Cancerous moles are often irregular in color and outline, states Toronto Dermatology. Both types of moles can be surgically removed; however, correct diagnosis should occur before surgical decisions are made. Does this Spark an idea?

Procedure

Surgical procedures to get rid of moles typically require only local anesthetic, although some patients may require light sedation if unable to relax. It usually takes less than an hour to remove moles and patients will feel only mild tingling and very little pain, if any, states San Francisco Plastic Surgery and Laser Center. There is minimal risk associated with surgical mole removal procedures.

Skin Cancer

Moles consist of cells called melanocytes that are distributed evenly throughout the skin. However, when they begin to grow in clusters, the visible moles occur. Melanoma and other forms of skin cancer often form on newly developed moles, but can form on pre-existing moles as well, states Craig Kraffert M.D., of Redding Dermatology. Suspicious moles typically always require surgical removal.

Shave Excision

The shave excision method is the most popular surgical method used for mole removal. It tends to produce the most cosmetically appealing results and is best for moles easily irritated by rubbing against clothing, states Kraffert. The procedure involves using a small scalpel blade to scrape and remove the raised mole tissue. The mole is shaved down until it is flush with the surrounding skin. Contour and color imperfections may occur in some cases.

Punch Biopsy

Smaller skin moles can benefit from a punch biopsy, which uses a small circular instrument to remove the entire mole. The area surrounding the mole is numbed before the sharp knife in the punch removes the mole, state experts at Derma Network. A punch biopsy is most useful for moles that are superficial, and it can be used on most body parts, except the face.

Elliptical Excision

This method requires more time and resources to perform than a shave excision. It also opens up more risk for infection and bleeding because an elliptical excision involves cutting the mole out. This method is typically used on moles that are flat or malignant, according to Kraffert. The wound is closed with stitches, and a linear surgical scar may be noticeable after the surgery.

Tags: mole removal, moles that, moles typically, Removal Moles, Surgical Removal Moles

What Tools Does A Doctor Use

During your physical exam your doctor makes use of several different doctor's tools such as a blood pressure monitor which is designed to measure your blood pressure; an ophthalmoscope which is used to examine the eyes; a thermometer which the doctor will use to measure your temperature; a stethoscope which a doctor uses to listen to the patient's heart, lungs and abdomen, and an otoscope which your doctor will use to examine the inside of your ears, nose and mouth.

In addition to these, there are many more doctor's tools that are used in different specialized areas of medicine, to diagnose and observe and monitor a variety of more complicated medical conditions.

Stethoscope

Out of all the instruments used by doctors today, the stethoscope is probably the most popular.

This doctor's tool is a major symbol of the medical profession. Its beginnings can be traced all the way back to Laennec, the French doctor, who was the inventor of a crude model in 1819. Many modifications have occurred since then. The original version consisted of a wooden box in which the doctor heard the sounds within the patient's chest cavity.

The modern version is composed of two earpieces that are connected by a piece of flexible tubing to a diaphragm. A doctor makes use of this tool when he wants to hear the low-volume sounds that are put out by the heart, intestine and the fetal heartbeat.

Otoscope

The physician looks into the eardrum to see if it is healthy or infected.

An otoscope is another commonly used tool in health exams. It has a cone-shaped attachment on the end called an ear speculum. It is used to examine a patient's ear canal. The doctor is able to peer into the ear canal in order to check whether the eardrum is red or has fluid behind it; this is indicative of an ear infection. A pneumatic otoscope delivers a small puff of air to a patient's eardrum to see if it vibrates. This vibration of the eardrum is completely normal. An otoscope examination can also detect a wax build-up in the ear canal or whether the eardrum is punctured or ruptured.

Blood Pressure Monitor

A doctor finds the systolic and diastolic blood pressure with the blood pressure monitor.

Measuring blood pressure calls for an instrument named sphygmomanometer which measures the blood pressure in the arteries. There are basically two types of these instruments. One kind is a mercury column and the other consists of a gauge accompanied with a dial face. The sphygmomanometer which is most commonly used today is the gauge which is attached to a rubber cuff. It is then wrapped around the patient's upper arm and is inflated in order to constrict the arteries. When the cuff is fully inflated with air, the doctor places a stethoscope over the brachial artery in the crook of the patient's arm. As the air in the cuff is slowly released, the first sound the doctor hears through the stethoscope is the systolic pressure. As the air continues to be released from the cuff, another point is reached when the doctor no longer hears any sound. This marks the diastolic blood pressure.

Thermometer

Several different types of thermometers are available for use today.

A thermometer is one of the most commonly used tools by doctors. It is a doctor's tool that measures the body temperature. They come in the following types:

Oral and rectal thermometers: A conventional oral or rectal thermometer consists of a sealed glass tube containing a liquid like mercury. Imprinted on the tube is a temperature scale. When the temperature rises or falls, the mercury will expand or contract, causing the mercury to move up or down the thermometer's tiny passageway. If the mercury moves up the scale, before it is used again, the thermometer will have to be "shaken down." In order to get an accurate reading, the patient must keep this instrument in contact with her body for approximately four minutes in order to obtain an accurate reading. The rectal thermometer is typically a little more accurate than an oral thermometer.

Digital thermometers: Today thermometers are available that have digital displays. It is much easier to read the temperature this way. A beeper signals when the thermometer has finished registering the temperature. These thermometers come with flexible tubes that resist breakage.

Ear thermometers: Eardrum thermometers are very precise and read infrared radiation that emanates from the eardrum tissue.

Basal thermometers: These thermometers measure minor changes in temperature in a woman's body to indicate to her whether ovulation, or when an egg has been released from a woman's ovary, has taken place. A woman's temperature may rise slightly when ovulation occurs and will not return to a normal temperature until the beginning ogf menstruation. Basal thermometers are quite sensitive and will monitor even the slightest temperature change.

Ophthalmoscope

A more precise ophthalmoscope may be found in an opthamologist's office.

One very important tool used by a doctor is an ophthalmoscope, which examines the interior portion of the eye including the retina, optic nerve and lens.

A common clinical ophthalmoscope, which can be found in your family physician's office, consists of a concave mirror along with a battery-powered light that is housed within the handle. The doctor peers through one monocular eyepiece into each eye of the patient. This tool has been developed with a rotating disc of lenses which permits the eye to be examined at different magnifications and depths. For a doctor to use this tool efficiently, a patient may have to have eye drops that will dilate the pupil as well as enlarge the opening into the eye's inner structures.

The ophthalmoscope has been an invaluable tool in many medical fields including cardiology, hematology, genetics, neurosurgery, family medicine, internal medicine, diabetes, medical genetics, rheumatology, neurology, pediatrics and geriatrics.

Tags: blood pressure, commonly used, ophthalmoscope which, which doctor, accurate reading

Technical Colleges In Kansas City

Kansas City students seeking a technical education have a bright future.

Ninety-seven percent of students finishing high school graduate with some credits in career and technical education, according to a fact sheet from the National Center for Education Statistics. Students in the Kansas City, Missouri, metropolitan area seeking to advance their post-high school technical career education can choose from a variety of local technical colleges.

Metropolitan Community College

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) offers the convenience of five campuses located throughout Kansas City, including the MCC Business and Technology Campus. The college provides hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities in technical areas, such as engineering technology, industrial electrical technology, electrical utility line technician, millwright and precision machining. MCC also offers the only Kansas City-area Occupational Safety and Health Administration training facility. This facility teaches the latest occupational and environmental health and safety standards in construction, general industry and health care. To help students earn their degrees, MCC maintains access to more than 22 million resource items through a network of library databases, including each of the school's campus libraries and 60 other academic libraries throughout Missouri.

Colorado Technical University Kansas City

Colorado Technical University (CTU) Kansas City is affiliated with the CTU campus in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The school's Kansas City location has educational programs in business, criminal justice and health care. Technical areas of study include engineering and computer science, health sciences, and information systems and technology. The school offers both undergraduate and advanced courses in which students can earn a diploma, associate's, bachelor's or master's degree.

Specific areas of instruction at the Kansas City campus include diplomas in medical assisting and practical nursing. Associate's degrees are available in applied sciences, such as criminal justice, radiological technology and surgical technology. A number of bachelor of science degrees are offered, including criminal justice, forensic or cybercrime investigation and health care management. An array of master's degree programs, in areas such as business administration, computer sciences and management are also offered. Doctoral programs are provided in computer sciences and management.

Heritage College Kansas City

Heritage College Kansas City is associated with Heritage College of Denver. The Kansas City location offers therapeutic massage and medical assistant programs. In addition, esthetician, health management and personal trainer courses are available. The college also provides pharmacy technician and X-ray technician programs. Heritage College has a network of more than 1,300 employers working with its Career Services Department to help students find employment. The school's job placement program assists with initial job placement and provides additional assistance throughout one's career.

Kansas City Kansas Community College Technical Education Center

The Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) Technical Education Center offers diplomas, certificates and associate of applied science degrees. In addition, the school provides business and industry training and continuing education programs. All programs use the latest equipment considered standard for the particular industry. KCKCC has numerous technical certificate programs such as auto technology, construction and electrical technology, major appliance technology and welding technology. Academic divisions include Allied Health and Nursing, Business, Humanities and Fine Arts, Mathematics, Science and Computer Technology, and Social Behavioral Sciences.

Tags: Kansas City, Community College, Heritage College, criminal justice, health care, areas such, City Kansas

What Skills Does A Photographer Need

Today's photographers need a wide variety of skills.

Photographers work in a number of different industries, so the skills they need can vary somewhat. This is also a field that is changing due to advancement in computer technology, so photographers can benefit from staying abreast of the latest technology. And there are some basic skills that all photographers need.

Eye for Color and Composition

Anyone can take a photograph, but it takes someone with talent and a sense of what makes a pleasing picture to be a photographer. This is both a learned skill and an innate sense; some of it can be learned, but it helps if the photographer has some natural talent in this area.

Darkroom Skills

While many photographers today use digital cameras, it is useful to have experience taking photos using film and developing that film. When developing film and making prints in the darkroom, the photographer has many options to improve or change the look of a photo that are not open to him with digital photography or when another develops the film.

Technology Skills

A photographer needs an understanding of cameras, both still and video, and a knowledge of various types of film and lenses. Because so much photography these days is digital, a photographer also needs computer skills, especially image editing and graphic arts skills.

Attention to Detail

A photographer may take many photos of a single subject with very little difference between them. She needs to be able to differentiate between them and pick the best one. She needs an eye for picking just the right flower to focus on out of the dozens in the field of view. There are many ways an attention to detail can serve a photographer.

Other Skills

There are many types of photographers, and each type needs some skills that suit that sub-category of the overall career of photography. A self-employed photographer running his own business needs business skills. A portrait photographer would benefit from people skills, allowing him to put people at ease so they photograph well. A news photographer should have some writing and reporting skills. A photographer that specializes in a specific industry such as fashion needs an eye for photographs that will work well for marketing purposes and should also have a knowledge of the industry in which he works.

Tags: benefit from, between them, photographers need, skills that, There many

What Skills Does An Ultrasound Technologist Need

Being an ultrasound technologist does not mean simply working in obstetrics and helping pregnant mothers take a first glimpse of their babies. The same technology can also be used effectively in diagnosing other types of conditions as well. If you would enjoy learning operate medical equipment and having plenty of one-on-one time with patients, you should learn more about becoming an ultrasound technologist.

Function

Understanding how ultrasound technology works is the first step in learning administer that technology to help patients and physicians. The technology is called sonography. Sound waves are used to literally bounce back an image that is picked up by the equipment and displayed on the screen. The picture bounces back because the sound waves stop traveling the moment they hit something solid, such as a fetus or a baby. In fact, this technology is similar to the sonar bats use to "see" where they are flying at night.

Education Requirements

Becoming an ultrasound technologist is going to require some formal training. The good news is you can receive that training in a relatively short time. Many colleges around the United States offer two-year programs that prepare you for this career. During the program you learn about use the equipment but must also complete courses in anatomy and biology so you will be able to accurately interpret what you see on the screen. Some colleges do offer four-year programs instead. Be sure you choose an accredited program. More than 160 ultrasound technology programs have been accredited by the federal government. Most people in this field do continue their education because the technology continues to advance.

Other Skills Required

While the proper training and education is important, an ultrasound technologist must also possess other skills as well. Verbal communication skills would be at the top of that list. Because you are going to be interacting directly with patients, you need to be able to explain the procedure and the results to them. You must also be able to ask them to reposition themselves so you can get a better image. Patience is also important because generating a clear image for the physician can be challenging and time-consuming. Both you and the patient can start to become annoyed, so it is important that you can remain calm. Having good eye-hand coordination is another essential ingredient for success in the field.

Physical Skills Required

An ultrasound technologist may spend a lot of time on his/her feet during the day. If you do not have the stamina to do this, you may prefer a different career. These professionals also need adequate muscle strength because they may be required to physically move and reposition patients who are unable to do this for themselves. Like many medical jobs, this one requires physical stamina. You may even be required to work long hours in certain medical facilities such as hospitals.

Types

As part of your training to become an ultrasound technologist, you may also be asked to consider what type of technologist you want to become. You can choose from at least four options depending on your personal interests. These options include obstetric, abdominal, breast and neuro-sonographers. These technologists take images of female reproductive organs, the organs inside the center of the body like the stomach and intestines, mammograms and the brain. Other careers also use ultrasound technology. For example, an echocardiographer uses sonar to view images of the heart.

Tags: must also, ultrasound technologist, ultrasound technologist, ultrasound technology, Skills Required, with patients

Cancel Medicare Part B

You can cancel Medicare Part B.

Medicare is the United States' health insurance program for people 65 and older. The purpose is to help with the cost of health care. Broken into different parts, Part B helps to pay for doctors' services, medical equipment and supplies, X-rays and laboratory tests, and outpatient hospital care, among other things that are not covered by hospital insurance.

By filling out a form and sitting through an interview, it is possible to cancel Medicare Part B.

Instructions

1. Call and schedule an interview with the Social Security office. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requires a personal interview whenever possible for those seeking to terminate their services.

2. Sign a request for termination, using form CMS-1763. This must be done either in person or on the phone. This is to ensure that the persons wishing to terminate Medicare Part B understand the consequences, such as possibly having to pay a surcharge in order to re-enroll at a later date.

3. Sign the letter a Social Security representative will send you after the interview that outlines the outcome of termination. You retain the right to withdraw your termination request until your coverage ends. Once this form is returned and the Social Security representative places it in your file, you have canceled Medicare Part B. Termination begins the end of the month following the month you filed your termination request.

Tags: Medicare Part, Social Security, your termination request, cancel Medicare Part, Security representative

Toxicology Phd Programs

There are doctoral programs in toxicology located in every region of the country.

The Society of Toxicology lists 68 academic programs in toxicology in the United States offering the Ph.D. These doctoral programs each have specific academic foci; the student seeking to pursue a particular area of study can locate the institutions most in line with his research interests. The Society divides the programs along geographic lines and offers an interactive map on its website with program locations.

Northeast

The society identifies 15 institutions in the northeast region with Ph.D. programs in toxicology. These institutions include Ivy League schools such as Brown and Dartmouth, along with large state universities such as SUNY Buffalo, University of Pittsburgh and the University of Maryland. Rutgers, for example -- located in northern New Jersey where many pharmaceutical companies are headquartered -- offers a strong research component in biochemical toxicology and carcinogenesis, cellular and molecular toxicology, neurotoxicology and environmental toxicology.

Mid-Atlantic

In the Mid-Atlantic region, the Society identifies nine institutions that offer the toxicology Ph.D. These include large, public universities such as the University of Kentucky and Duke University, as well as universities in Tennessee, North Carolina and Virginia. The Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine offers Ph.D. candidates a strong program in pesticide and free radical toxicology.

Southeast

There are four universities in the Southeast region, which includes Florida, Alabama and Georgia. Students interested in studying ecotoxicology and wildlife toxicology, or radioexology might choose the University of Georgia, while those who would like to study hepatic and renal toxicity or xenobiotic metabolism and bioavailability would likely investigate the University of Florida's interdisciplinary toxicology program.

South Central

Twelve academic programs encompass the South Central region, with some of the big Texas and Louisiana universities here. Texas A&M's strengths include cellular and molecular toxicology, while Louisiana State University is strong in nutritional toxicology, among other areas.

Southwest and Northwest

There are 11 academic Ph.D. programs to choose from in the Southwest region. These include universities in Arizona, Colorado, California, New Mexico and Utah. Colorado State offers an environmental toxicology program. In the Northwest region are Oregon State University and the University of Washington, which is strong in pulminary toxicology, among other areas.

North Central

Eleven large, research universities encompass the North Central region. These include Purdue, Michigan State, University of Michigan, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Iowa State and Indiana State, among others. Among other areas, the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, for example, is especially strong in chemoprotection and genetic toxicology; Purdue is strong in solvent toxicology and industrial toxicology.

Tags: academic programs, other areas, programs toxicology, State University, These include, cellular molecular

What Schools Offer A Medical Billing Course

Medical billing is a popular career choice these. It is touted as a career that offers plenty of opportunities. A medical biller fills out bills for the medical community. These medical communities include doctors, dentists, chiropractors and other health professional. Schools and colleges offers courses in medical billing that lead to diplomas and associate's degrees. Some courses are geared toward getting a job, while others help a person to start an at-home medical billing business.

Westwood College

Westwood College offers a Medical Insurance Coding and Billing program. The college is based in Denver, Colorado, but it has campuses in six states. These states are Texas, California, Illinois, Georgia and Virginia. Westwood focuses on programs that lead its students to success in the workforce.

Westwood College

7350 North Broadway

Denver, CO 80221

800-281-2978

westwood.edu

Brown Mackie College

Brown Mackie offers two programs: Medical Coding and Billing and Medical Coding and Billing for Healthcare. One advantage of Brown Mackie is that is has campuses in several states. The states are Ohio, Georgia, Kentucky, Indiana, Kansas, Texas, South Carolina, Florida, Arizona, Oklahoma and Idaho. One unique feature of Brown Mackie is that it offers one course per month. Because there are no standard fall or spring semesters, a person can start at Brown Mackie at the beginning of each month.

Brown Mackie College

One Herald Plaza

Miami, FL 33132

1-305-341-6600

brownmackie.edu

National College

National College offers a diploma in Medical Billing and Coding. There are several campuses mostly located in the southern United States. Courses are available in Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and Indiana. The program allows you to train as both as a medical coder and medical biller.

National College of Business and Technology

3545 Lamar Ave. Suite 1

Memphis, TN 38118

1-888-956-2732

ncbt.edu

Tags: Brown Mackie, Coding Billing, National College, Westwood College, Brown Mackie College, Brown Mackie that, College offers

What Salary Do Xray Or Ultrasound Techs Make

Physicians use images from X-rays and ultrasound to diagnose and check the effectiveness of treatments.

X-ray techs -- more commonly known as radiologic technicians -- and ultrasound techs -- professionally referred to as diagnostic medical sonographers -- are medical professionals involved with producing images of the internal structures of the human body to aid diagnosis of disease and injury. The former use radioisotopes, while the latter utilize ultrasonic pulses of sound. A comparison of salary levels for the two professions can be made using figures produced by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Average Salary

During its national employment survey of May 2009, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) put the average annual salary for a radiologic tech at $54,180, equivalent to $4,515 a month and $26.05 an hour. For a diagnostic medical sonographer, the yearly wage was $63,640, which translates into a monthly income of $5,303 and an hourly pay rate averaging $30.60. Both types of practitioner are likely to receive auxiliary benefits such as pension contributions and health insurance cover.

Salaries by Industry

The majority of both X-ray and ultrasound techs are employed within general medical and surgical hospitals. The BLS lists the average salaries within this sector of the health care industry as $54,770 and $63,770, respectively. For positions within the offices of physicians the rates are $50,860 for X-ray techs and $63,820 for their sonographic counterparts. Medical and diagnostic laboratories paid the former professionals an average of $57,250 and the latter $61,820.

Salaries by Location

The location in which each type of technician practices her vocation will also affect the pay she receives. The BLS found that for X-ray techs, Massachusetts and Nevada were the most lucrative states, with average salaries across all industry sectors of $68,530 and $66,420, respectively. In contrast, West Virginia was listed at $41,400. For sonographers, Massachusetts and Oregon topped the list of states, averaging $78,460 and $78,320, respectively, while Alabama was listed at $50,320. At the level of metropolitan districts, the BLS listed the San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara area of California as the best for X-ray techs -- $78,300 -- and the Santa Cruz, Watsonville area in the same state as the most lucrative for ultrasound techs -- $97,530.

Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts significant growth in employment opportunities for both types of technician in the immediate future. Between 2008 and 2018, it estimates that X-ray technicians will experience growth of 17 percent, while diagnostic medical sonographers should see an increase in demand of 18 percent. The expected growth across all occupations throughout the country is expected to be between 7 and 13 percent over the same period. An expanding, aging population requiring greater numbers of imaging processes will fuel this growth and salary levels should therefore remain competitive.

Tags: X-ray techs, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, diagnostic medical, Labor Statistics, ultrasound techs

Ultrasound Schools In Indiana

Ultrasound images allow medical professionals a painless view inside the patient's body.

Diagnostic medical sonographers are the professionals responsible for performing ultrasound imaging procedures. Ultrasounds are most commonly used during pregnancy, but this technology is also used to view abdominal organs, the brain and nervous system, the cardiovascular system and the breasts. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2010-11 Occupational Outlook Handbook, a license is not required to practice as a sonographer. However, completion of a two-year or four-year educational program in the field is desired by most employers. Several of these programs are available in the state of Indiana.

University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana offers a four-year sonography program that awards a Bachelor of Science degree in Radiologic Imaging Sciences. The program requires a year and a half of general education courses followed by two and a half years of education within the sonography program. The diagnostic medical sonography program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Once the program is completed, students are eligible to take the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography's registry examination. As of 2010, the University of Southern Indiana is accepting just 10 students into the sonography program each year.

College of Nursing and Health Professions

University of Southern Indiana

8600 University Blvd.

Evansville, IN 47712

812-465-1181

Health.usi.edu/acadprog/sonography/

Saint Anthony School of Echocardiography

The Associate of Applied Science degree program offered by the Saint Anthony School of Echocardiology is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. This program prepares students for the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonograaphy's examination. The program lasts between 20 and 24 months and classes are scheduled in eight-week blocks. Clinical rotations are an important part of this program as it is taught at the Saint Anthony Medical Center. Students begin with two to four hours of clinical rotation each week and increase to 16 to 24 hours a week by the end of the program. The last nine months of the program are spent in clinical rotation at sister facilities. Admission requirements include prior college or post-secondary education as well as previous health care experience or a related degree.

Saint Anthony Medical Center

1201 South Main St.

Crown Point, IN 46307

219-738-2100

StAnthonyMedicalCenter.com

Indiana University Northwest

The northwest campus of Indiana University, located in Gary, Indiana, offers a diagnostic medical sonography concentration for students majoring in Radiologic Sciences. This program awards a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science. General education requirements totaling 79 credit hours must be met for admission into the School of Nursing and Health Professions. Once these requirements have been met, the student must complete 43 credit hours of professional curriculum. These courses are laid out in two fall semesters, one spring semester and two summer sessions.

Indiana University Northwest

3400 Broadway

Gary, IN 46408

219-980-6589

IUN.edu/~ahealth

Tags: Indiana University, Saint Anthony, sonography program, Southern Indiana, University Southern, University Southern Indiana

Different Types Of Welding Tests

Your welding skills can also be evaluated during the welding process.

Welding tests not only examine the ability of the welder, but also the quality of the metal used and the strength of the welded joint. Some of these tests will physically destroy the welder's project in order to obtain this information, while other tests can determine the welder's skills and the metal's quality without harming the project.

X-ray Test

The x-ray test will uncover any internal imperfection within the weld such as cracks, slag and blowholes without harming your project. Place an x-ray tube on one side of the welded plate and an x-ray film equipped with special sensitive emulsion on the other side of the welded plate. When you develop the film, any defects or impression will be represented by dark spots on the film.

Hydrostatic Test

The hydrostatic test will not destroy your project as it verifies the quality of the welds on pressure vessels, tanks and other sealed containers. To perform this test, fill the sealed container with water then apply pressure to the container. The applied pressure must be greater than the working pressure of the sealed container. If the welds on the container can stand up to the pressure, you have created quality welds. You can also perform this test without applying pressure to find leaks in your welds.

Acid Etch Test

The acid etch test is performed on the cross section of a joint to determine the dependability of the weld. When you pour the acid on the metal, it reacts with the edges of any cracks in the base metal or the welding metal of your project, revealing the welding flaws. The acid also emphasizes where the base metal and weld mental intersect. Acid solutions used for the etch test include: hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, ammonium per sulfate and iodine and potassium iodide. This test will destroy your project.

Guided Bend Test

The most common performance and procedure welding test, the guided bend test determines the malleability and reliability of a welded joint by bending the joint to a specific bend radius. You can bend the joint by using a plunger test machine or wrap-around bend test jigs. This destructive test will find any liner fusion flaws in the weld. It also allows you to evaluate a welder's skills and methods.

Tags: test will, your project, base metal, bend test, destroy your

Bun & Creatinine Testing For Ct Contrast Procedures

BUN & Creatinine Testing for CT Contrast Procedures

Your doctor may prescribe a test called a Computed Tomography scan (CT scan) to find out how well your kidneys and liver are working. This test uses x-rays to look at your organs inside your body. Before you have a CT scan, your doctor may want to run tests to determine the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine in your system. These blood tests and the CT scan may help your doctor diagnose any kidney or liver problems.

Preapre for the Tests

Your doctor may ask you to refrain from eating high quantities of protein before your blood is drawn for the tests. According to the Mayo Clinic, your liver breaks proteins down and the waste material urea is formed. Your kidneys break the urea down further to be expelled from your body. The efficiency of this process is measured in a BUN-to-creatinine ratio test. If you consume high amounts of protein before your blood test, your results may not be accurate.

How the Tests are Done

A BUN and creatinine level test is done through a simple blood test. Blood is drawn from your vein and sent to a lab for evaluation. The blood test is normally done within one month of your scheduled CT scan. During a CT scan you may receive an injection of an iodine contrast solution or given an oral contrast solution to drink that is used to make your organs easier to see in the scan. While lying on a large table you will be passed through a large, donut-shaped scanner that sends x-rays into your body. The scan is then sent to a radiologist for evaluation and the results are sent to your doctor.

Risks and Precautions

According to the Mayo Clinic, risks for a CT scan are very small. Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the iodine contrast drug. If you have a pacemaker, insulin pump or other electronic implant device, you should tell your doctor before your CT scan because the scanner may interfere with its function. You should not have a CT scan if you are pregnant.

Tags: before your, blood test, your body, your doctor, According Mayo, According Mayo Clinic, before your blood

Limited Xray Tech Vs Radiographer

The field of radiology offers a number of medical career paths for those who enjoy working as part of a team and with patients. Two possibilities are X-ray technician and radiographer. There is some confusion in terminology, with X-ray technicians sometimes called radiographers and radiographers called radiology technicians.

Background

Radiology uses electromagnetic radiation, sound waves or radioactive substances to yield images of the body and its organs to assist physicians with diagnosis and treatment. An X-ray technician meets and positions the patient appropriately so that images can be taken, explains the process of capturing radiographic images, ensures that safety measures are in place and operates the imaging equipment. A radiographer performs more complex tasks such as operating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography or computed tomography (CT) equipment and frequently managing the office.

Education

Each state and institution has its own admission requirements. An accredited one-year X-ray technician training program usually requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent, prior courses in science, algebra and experience working with people. Future radiographers may elect associate or bachelor's degree programs. Admission requirements may be a high school diploma, additional science courses, and in some cases written tests in algebra and written and spoken English. Again, requirements vary. The important factor is that a program is certified.

Coursework

Courses for X-ray technicians are offered by hospitals, community colleges, vocational schools and colleges. Coursework will probably include anatomy and physiology, patient care and safety procedures, medical terminology, radiobiology and radiation protection. For a degree in radiography, a student will spend either two or fours years of study depending on the program. Coursework will include anatomy and physiology, ethics, algebra, critical reading and writing, patient care and a number of radiography courses. There will also be a clinical practicum and time in a lab.

On the Job

The X-ray technician greets the patient, discusses and explains the upcoming procedures and assures that radiation shields and other safety measures are in place before starting the imaging. After the procedures, the X-ray tech will assist the patient as needed. The radiographer removes the film and develops it, checks the quality of the images, enters information in a patient's record and adjusts equipment as necessary. Depending on experience level, a radiogapher may also prepare solutions of media for a patient to drink, prepare work schedules, and teach and supervise others. Radiographers with additional training perform more complicated tasks.

Potential

As an experienced X-ray technician, you can further your career by entering a radiography program. For radiographers with an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree may be the next step. There are also specialized areas in which radiographers can train, such as cardiovascular or interventional radiology, sonography or nuclear medicine. There is a healthy demand for experienced personnel in radiology as technology advances; job opportunities are expected to grow.

Tags: X-ray technician, anatomy physiology, bachelor degree, Coursework will, high school, high school diploma, include anatomy

Be An Mri Tech

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technicians come from different educational backgrounds. Many have cross-trained into the field from other imaging specialties, such as x-ray and ultrasound. Others have graduated from allied health programs or obtained a Bachelor's degree. With the growth of MRI as a career, educational programs have been developed, and the method for becoming an MRI technician has changed for those just entering into the medical field.

Instructions

1. Search for colleges in your area that offer an MRI program. Private and community colleges that offer health professions degrees are more likely to offer this curriculum. Meet with the adviser for the MRI program of you choice to discuss the program prerequisites.

2. You may have to complete either a radiography or sonography program before applying for an MRI program. Radiography is a two- or three-year program, and ultrasound is a two-year program.

3. Verify that the MRI program is accredited by the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT). A list of accredited programs can be found in the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist Examination Candidate Handbook.

4. Complete any prerequisites required by the college of your choice. This may include volunteer experience working with patients in a hospital. Core curriculum courses such as math, writing and psychology courses may also be required.

5. Submit your application and any additional information requested by the educational institution.

6. Apply for jobs two to three months before graduation. Many hospitals will to hire new graduates. Your school should have a career center or job counselor that can assist you with your job hunt. You might also take advantage of the various contacts you have amassed through internships and professors at your school to seek out jobs.

7. Complete the MRI program. You will most likely receive an Associate's degree, although certificate programs ranging from one to two years are offered. Didactic training includes classes in anatomy and physiology, MRI physics and patient care protocol. You will also complete at least 1,000 hours of clinical training. Clinical training is completed at a hospital under the supervision of a registered MRI technician.

8. Upon graduation, prepare to sit for the ARMRIT registry exam. Completion of this step may be required by your employer within one year of employment.

Tags: Magnetic Resonance, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Resonance Imaging, that offer

Facts About Heart Cancer

Cancer is a frightening topic, no matter what part of the body it affects. Some parts of the body are more susceptible to developing cancer than others. After a cancer diagnosis, thoughts of the physician and the patient immediately turn to the treatment options and the possibility of recurrence. Surgery to remove the affected tissues is sometimes an option, but in some cases that isn't possible. When the heart is involved, extreme care must be taken to treat the cancer in the least invasive way.

Incidence

Although tumors in the heart occur, the majority of them turn out to be noncancerous. The thought is more than a little scary, but the fact is heart cancer is very rare. The incidence of tumors of the heart is less than 0.1 percent, and only a very small fraction of those are malignant, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Types

When a malignant cancer of the heart is diagnosed, most often it is a type called sarcoma. This type of cancer attacks the soft tissues of the body. Sometimes cancers that originate in the chest or other areas of the body, such as lymphoma, can travel to the heart and begin to affect it, too. Other cancers that can affect the heart are sarcomas and melanomas.

Cardiac Fibrosis

Other conditions also can cause heart cancer. Marantic endocarditis affects the heart valves, and cardiac fibrosis causes the heart muscle to stiffen. When this happens, the heart must work harder, and the patient then becomes susceptible to a host of other maladies such as arrhythmia and heart failure.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs given during cancer treatment may aggravate the situation. Drugs such as anthracyclines, Cytoxan, 5-FU, Herceptin, taxanes and IL-2 are very hard on the heart. Using these drugs is likely to cause other types of heart problems for the patient.

Radiation

Radiation treatments also can have a direct effect on the heart. Complications such as congestive heart disease and heart murmurs may appear during treatment. The heart may be damaged by the radiation therapy directed toward it, and the risk of coronary disease can increase.

Tags: cancers that, heart cancer, tumors heart

Deal With Someone Who Is Sarcastic

Sarcasm is rarely attractive.

Being on the receiving end of sarcasm can be demeaning and it does not take long for sarcasm to grow old. A challenging aspect of sarcasm is determining whether the person means to be hurtful or just playful. If you are not prone to using sarcasm yourself, you could find yourself lost in the discussion. Whether it is meant as humor or for insult, dealing with the person who is sarcastic requires interpersonal strategy.

Instructions

1. Count to ten. This classic coping mechanism does two things. First, it gives you a chance to think about what just happened and consider a fitting and useful response. Second, it kills the buzz of the person being sarcastic. If you do not give them the reaction they are seeking, they lose the motivation to continue.

2. Understand the tone of the conversation. You may misdiagnose a humorous jab for mean slander. Pay attention to the facial expression of the person being sarcastic; if they are smiling and seem good natured, they are probably just being cheeky. If they look arrogant or are sneering, they are probably intending to hurt.

3. Act with civility, even in the face of insult. If someone nails you with sarcasm, collect yourself and resist the temptation to return fire. If the other person is truly intending to insult, the best way to respond is to be civil. Not only will it make it more difficult for the person to continue with sarcasm, it may cause them to apologize and treat you with respect.

4. Maintain your integrity. The worst thing you can do during a cheap attack is abandon your morals and say or do something you might regret. Remember the characteristics that define you as a person and act accordingly.

5. Respond to the person by paraphrasing what they just said. This is a powerful communication tool that forces the sarcastic person to reconsider what they said. By paraphrasing, you place the responsibility for the statement back to the speaker.

6. Take away the stage. The person using sarcasm is like an actor or comedian in the middle of an act. If the audience does not arrive, the show will not go on. If you have to deal with someone who is notoriously sarcastic, do it in a one-on-one format.

7. Treat the person with respect. Ironically, people who are sarcastic probably suffer from self-esteem issues. If you respond to their sarcasm by finding the morsel of truth in their statement and respecting their opinion, it changes the entire tone of the conversation.

Tags: being sarcastic, person being, person being sarcastic, they probably, tone conversation, using sarcasm

Health Insurance For Experimental Treatments

Insurance providers often consider new drug therapies as being experimental in nature.

Normally, health insurance plans will pay for most preventative medical care including screening for diseases. In most cases, insurance pays for the treatment of diseases, except when a health plan specifically excludes coverage for a pre-existing medical condition. Although insurance plans traditionally have not been willing to pay for experimental medical treatments, with advances in medical research, the tide is slowly changing.

Denying Treatment

Although clinical trials and experimental medical treatments have the potential to increase both the length and quality of a person's life, insurance companies often refuse to pay for untried and costly medical procedures. With new treatment therapies constantly evolving, insurers find themselves in the position of coming up with ways to cut rising health insurance costs. Consequently, experimental treatments are often among the first medical expenses an insurance provider denies.

Insurance Guidelines

Despite medical research making the availability of experimental treatments more common, few insurance companies will pay toward the treatments. For this reason, it is essential to read the details of your health plan. Insurance providers have different guidelines governing what they do and do not cover. Some plans may partially cover the cost of a treatment or drug that another health plan won't pay toward at all. In extraordinary circumstances, if you can prove to your insurance company that an experimental treatment or drug is effective in your particular case, the company may pay for it.

Essential Factors

When deciding if a treatment is experimental, an insurer considers certain factors. The company may take into account whether there is a lack of alternative treatments, if there is published research on the safety and effectiveness of the treatment and for how long the treatment would be prescribed. Other factors may include whether the treatment is FDA approved, evaluation of the research protocols used and if the treatment is being used as a last effort to save your life.

Texas-Aetna Settlement

One of the major provisions covered by the Texas-Aetna Settlement was expanded coverage for experimental treatments. The settlement resulted in further managed care reform by adding the state of Texas to a list of jurisdictions that require health insurers and managed care organizations to sometimes pay for experimental treatments. While similar lawsuits are opening this door to more patients, to qualify for coverage, a person's physician must certify that standard treatments have failed to be effective and are not expected to be successful in combating the disease. Even if there are no other conventional therapy treatments available, there must be scientific evidence that the experimental treatment has a reasonable chance to succeed. Medical journals and other peer-reviewed literature must suggest that the experimental treatment is more likely than standard medical treatments to benefit the patient.

Tags: experimental treatment, health plan, medical treatments, that experimental, that experimental treatment, experimental medical