Fall Finals Complete

What an eventful experience this semester has been for me! I have indulged in learning for the maximum potential with struggles galore! I made the decision early on to take on as much as I could as I never say no if I like the idea. I eventually burnt out as you have read! Today I completed my last final in this semester. I would have to say this particular final means a lot to me as it was in Adult Nursing I which as many you have read previously, it was my hardest course of the term! I have to admit there were questions I am not too sure I answered correctly. I went into the final at 86.7% which in nursing is a high “C” in letter terms. I just hope that my mid-semester follies of illness and overwhelming do not reflect as not achieving a passing grade! My test anxiety was extremely high and yes, at about question number 83 I even suffered from my N-Dx of stress urgency! I am not sure if you who read this have any religious beliefs nor does it matter, but I do and I was saying a pray or two prior to finals. We were informed that our grades will be posted by Monday. I am going to patiently wait, not really, but I will try. The grades from BNI and Med Admin will also be posted by Monday. Ugh – I dislike it very much having to wait! I know I have knowledge in this brain of mine, I just hope it travelled out into assisting me to continue my journey to becoming a nurse!

I will be in a couple times a week to PTC over our winter break to continue my work with HCA. I will post the final decisions of my grade and transition status as soon as I know!

Keep Smiling!

One final grade in!

I passed my Psychsocial Nursing with a B – yeah!
I have to believe the other courses will follow along the same percentage – fingers crossed!

My first final is… AAhhh!

I cannot believe the semester is almost over! I have 3 days left!

My first final was this past Monday in Psychosocial nursing. I think the event went well? I have discovered a weird thing about myself this semester and I cannot believe I am actually going to share this… Prior to the start of my P/S final, Carleen instructed us to use the facility if we needed because we would not be allowed to leave w/o completing our test. Anyway, here is the deal. About one half ways through the semester, I started having issues with having to urinate every time we had a test and at the midpoint of taking it! Looking back on my test scores it is so reflected. The answers I most likely get wrong on a test exist at the end of the exam – yes, when I have been sitting there pondering thought “I gotta pee”! I have dealt with test anxiety over the years and have managed to relax in this sense, but serious, why now is stress/anxiety making me gotta go? I conversed with a fellow student before taking our final and we had a good laugh as I went to the facility before we started as instructed. Yeah, well, we laughed even more after the test as this action did not help me out! We (Gus and I) decided to term it “Stress Urgency”. I hope you find my diagnosis of interest and comical. I keep checking, but as of yet, no grade posted… I am looking forward to a passing grade!

My next final is Monday – actually, there are two finals; Basic Nursing I and Med Administration. My brain is jittery from the anxiety level that is increasing with in my cerebral hemisphere! We have had the wonderful opportunity this week for two days of review and many study guide worksheets to assist with studies (Thank you Dione and Krista).

I do wonder what our BNI final will be like as it is being presented to us in a new format… I actually think I am going to embrace this challenge! A scenario based final I think is a wonderful idea to test my “skill” knowledge. After all “nurses got skills”, right? Knowledge of the – who, what, where, why, and how is crucial in care for another. If you do not know what this is… Scenario based means basically, here is your client, this is what is going on, what you need to do, etc. with questions in relation to such. It reminds me of an essay format.

Medication Administration I think will be a little tough for me as I hate performing calculations when I am not provided formulas! The basic information of med admin I believe I am equipped with, but I will be studying in my world this weekend to no avail!

So once I complete these finals on Monday, I will have one more to go! I dread this final I have on Wednesday and I have to keep focused as to not psych myself out! 8:00 AM I will be initiating the start of my Adult Nursing I final! This is the course that has bitten me all semester. I would not have thought so, but the testing in this course has been difficult on me. I wish I knew all the information that has been instructed over this semester like the back of my hand. I do not of course – so intertwining within all 3 fore mention courses will occur in my studies.

Yes, I have basically share the rest of the semester events of intellectual insanity with you. Well, I guess all that is left will be notification on my transition to the next semester or not…? I have shared my good and bad with you thus far and I hope you have enjoyed this trip with me. I cannot express enough of my gratitude towards the Health Care Alliance for allowing me to share this experience with you. Becoming a nurse really does take time and determination. I truly believe “nursing” to be a calling because why would anyone go through a journey like mine if it was not meant to be the answer to the question?

 I look forward to sharing the rest of my year with you.

Keep smiling and have a great weekend! I’ll chat more later!

Time flies when you’re having…

Time flies when you’re having…

…I have been so lost in my intellectual journey that I really have not been able to focus my attention towards sharing my educational story with you. My business shall speak for itself in regards to getting through this year of education and still keeping my family life together. Being a person who cares about almost everything it seems – I tend to put a lot on my plate so to speak. I have talked of this thing (burning both ends of the candle) sparingly through out my writings on this blog. I kid you not when I state the stress adjacent to the turmoil of achieving success within the educational realm when you have a whole other life full of responsibilities is extreme in the meaning of extreme. The saddest part of all of this to me is not having you know the events that have happened. The funny part is I typically get paid through the work study program at my college to share these blogs with you. Today I sent an email out expressing apologies for slacking back the further into this semester I became. I now extend this apology to you my readers…

So let me take time of my own, at home, in the late hours of the night to tell you what occurred this semester beings that my First Final of it is Monday next week – I have a bit of catching up to do!

My clinical sessions:

A.)  I spent fives various days at the local elementary school doing hearing and vision screening. The children were very pleasant and the work was tiring – spent most of the time standing in the gym (sore feet). It was an experience to finds ways to communicate in effective ways with the youngsters. To see the difference in developmental skills/abilities in children of various ages as well as those of the same age shall forever be imprinted on my mind! The best adventure was learning the tricks of the trade when it came to testing the hearing of kindergartners – very fun and very cute!

B.)   Working in gerontology is a familiar task for me as I have been a NAR for 5 years and this is my area. The facility we were at was beautiful! The complex presented various levels of provided cares from TCU – transition care to Alzheimer’s – late stage. My group and I travelled through all aspect of these cares. I enjoyed being a nurse – student nurse that is. The assistance giving to clients in regards to ADL’s – familiar, but learning about medications and ways to administer then is an intriguing experience (for me).

B1.) My first client was NPO and received feeding and medication through a tube in the abdomen. Learning the process of this was really interesting and nerve racking as my instructor watch my every move. The communication with this client was a challenge for me at first due to a loss of verbal communication. I can say I discovered that even when life is so disheartening in my eyes, sunshine can be found. I spent four Fridays with this client and in the end I received a high five and a thoughtful smile when I said my good byes. On my last day with this client changes were made in the care plan. Hospice was initiated on this day. I have worked in hospice and understand the outcome of such care. When I think now or in the future about my first client, I shall never forget that he passed away 1 week and 3 days from the last moment I was with him. I can only reflect knowing that I brought comfort to his life while I was in it.

B2.) My second client existed on the Alzheimer’s unit of the facility. I have worked in a facility for the disease process, so I could relate to the special cares of this client. It is laughable to some extent as I reflect now… My client had severe behavioral issues with burst of aggressive behaviors both verbal and physical. The disease itself amazes me and what these individuals go through in its process is indefinable. The first session with this client was a challenge as I did not know the boundaries of outbursts, but I managed to say the least. It was not until I tried to perform oral cares that any aggressiveness came out – I was swung at and called a door knob. I think I was startled for a moment. I can smile now as I know when I left this unit my client had become calmer with me and my ways of communicating. Yes this client was also nonverbal, but I discovered singing songs was something she liked and I did it through out my cares for her. I want to believe that during this disease process that our clients can moments of “awaking” even if just for split seconds… I just believe that when I said my good byes – she was really listening.

B3.) The next client experience I would like to share with you has no real client experience in it. We transferred over to the transitional care unit and my client had appoints outside the facility both days and did not return prior to our shift end. The story I have for you was the first day… I was just assigned a client, picked up the chart and boom – the client was leaving and I had to get the meds ready… my instructor said “welcome to the real world”. I was as scared as I felt so lost, but with my instructor by my side I pulled meds and even NARCS – which were new for me. The system of charting/recording narcotics is different than just on the clients MAR. I also learned how to do special medical charting for the insurance – Medicaid.

Well, they you have it my clinical experience in a nut shell! I hope you enjoyed and if you have questions – please don’t hesitate to ask!

…when you’re having fun!

Keep smiling. I’ll chat later.

Weather changes can ad up to pain! (Part 2)

Do you ache all over when the weather changes? I want to share information with you in regards to pain with weather change…  Here comes the medical side of my life and those I love and with their permission I start to and invite you to share in the story of “Chronic Pain!”

Weather changes can bring about a lot of pain for individuals who suffer with Fibromyalgia. I am going to introduce you to my aunt, whom I love like a sister! Lisa is her name and she is just 5 years older than me. She has a hubby, a beautiful daughter and three of the cutest grandsons ever. Years back now Lisa suffered a broken back at the hands of a take down with one of her clients while working as a behavioral analyst. Lisa lived a couple of years not knowing her back was broken… she has spent the last 5 years going through many surgeries and has been diagnosed with degenerative disk disease and Fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a severely painful condition – yes it is chronic which has left my aunt, at times dibillitated. I have chosen to share with you data about this condition from the Mayo Clinic:   

Fibromyalgia — Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, treatment of this chronic condition characterized by widespread pain.

 

** Definition:

You hurt all over, and you frequently feel exhausted. Even after numerous tests, your doctor can’t find anything specifically wrong with you. If this sounds familiar, you may have fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points — places on your body where slight pressure causes pain.

Fibromyalgia occurs in about 2 percent of the population in the United States. Women are much more likely to develop the disorder than are men, and the risk of fibromyalgia increases with age. Fibromyalgia symptoms often begin after a physical or emotional trauma, but in many cases there appears to be no triggering event.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary, depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day.

 Widespread pain and tender points
The pain associated with fibromyalgia is described as a constant dull ache, typically arising from muscles. To be considered widespread, the pain must occur on both sides of your body and above and below your waist.

Fibromyalgia is characterized by additional pain when firm pressure is applied to specific areas of your body, called tender points. Tender point locations include:

• Back of the head
• Between shoulder blades
• Top of shoulders
• Front sides of neck
• Upper chest
• Outer elbows
• Upper hips
• Sides of hips
• Inner knees

Fatigue and sleep disturbances
People with fibromyalgia often awaken tired, even though they seem to get plenty of sleep. Experts believe that these people rarely reach the deep restorative stage of sleep. Sleep disorders that have been linked to fibromyalgia include restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea.

Co-existing conditions
Many people who have fibromyalgia also may have:

• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Depression
• Endometriosis
• Headaches
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Lupus
• Osteoarthritis
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Restless legs syndrome
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Causes

Doctors don’t know what causes fibromyalgia, but it most likely involves a variety of factors working together. These may include:

• Genetics. Because fibromyalgia tends to run in families, there may be certain genetic mutations that may make you more susceptible to developing the disorder.
• Infections. Some illnesses appear to trigger or aggravate fibromyalgia.
• Physical or emotional trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder has been linked to fibromyalgia.

Why does it hurt?
Current thinking centers around a theory called central sensitization. This theory states that people with fibromyalgia have a lower threshold for pain because of increased sensitivity in the brain to pain signals.

Researchers believe repeated nerve stimulation causes the brains of people with fibromyalgia to change. This change involves an abnormal increase in levels of certain chemicals in the brain that signal pain (neurotransmitters). In addition, the brain’s pain receptors seem to develop a sort of memory of the pain and become more sensitive, meaning they can overreact to pain signals.

Risk factors

Risk factors for fibromyalgia include:

• Your sex. Fibromyalgia occurs more often in women than in men.
• Age. Fibromyalgia tends to develop during early and middle adulthood. But it can also occur in children and older adults.
• Disturbed sleep patterns. It’s unclear whether sleeping difficulties are a cause or a result of fibromyalgia. But people with sleep disorders — such as nighttime muscle spasms in the legs, restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea — often have fibromyalgia.
• Family history. You may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia if a relative also has the condition.
• Rheumatic disease. If you have a rheumatic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia.

Complications

Fibromyalgia isn’t progressive and generally doesn’t lead to other conditions or diseases. It can, however, lead to pain, depression and lack of sleep. These problems can then interfere with your ability to function at home or on the job, or maintain close family or personal relationships. The frustration of dealing with an often-misunderstood condition also can be a complication of the condition.

Preparing for your appointment

Because many of the signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia are similar to various other disorders, you may see several doctors before receiving a diagnosis. Your family physician may refer you to a rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in the treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

What you can do
You may want to write a list that includes:

• Detailed descriptions of your symptoms
• Information about medical problems you’ve had in the past
• Information about the medical problems of your parents or siblings
• All the medications and dietary supplements you take
• Questions you want to ask the doctor

What to expect from your doctor
In addition to a physical exam, your doctor may check your neurological health by testing your:

• Reflexes
• Muscle strength
• Muscle tone
• Senses of touch and sight
• Coordination
• Balance

Tests and diagnosis

The American College of Rheumatology guidelines for making a fibromyalgia diagnosis require pain at 11 of the 18 tender points on the body.

Fibromyalgia tender points

The American College of Rheumatology has established two criteria for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia:

• Widespread pain lasting at least three months
• At least 11 positive tender points — out of a total possible of 18

Tender points
During your physical exam, your doctor may check specific places on your body for tenderness. The amount of pressure used during this exam is usually just enough to whiten the doctor’s fingernail bed. These 18 tender points are a hallmark for fibromyalgia.

Blood tests
While there is no lab test to confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, your doctor may want to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. Blood tests may include:

• Complete blood count
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
• Thyroid function tests

Treatments and drugs

In general, treatments for fibromyalgia include both medication and self-care. The emphasis is on minimizing symptoms and improving general health.

Medications
Medications can help reduce the pain of fibromyalgia and improve sleep. Common choices include:

• Analgesics. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may ease the pain and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia. However, its effectiveness varies. Tramadol (Ultram) is a prescription pain reliever that may be taken with or without acetaminophen. Your doctor may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve, others) — in conjunction with other medications. NSAIDs haven’t proved to be as effective in managing the pain in fibromyalgia when taken by themselves.
• Antidepressants. Your doctor may prescribe amitriptyline to help promote sleep. Fluoxetine (Prozac) in combination with amitriptyline is effective in some people. Duloxetine (Cymbalta) may help ease the pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. And milnacipran (Savella) was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms.
• Anti-seizure drugs. Medications designed to treat epilepsy are often useful in reducing certain types of pain. Gabapentin (Neurontin) is sometimes helpful in reducing fibromyalgia symptoms, while pregabalin (Lyrica) is the first drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat fibromyalgia.

Therapy

• Physical therapy. Specific exercises can help restore muscle balance and may reduce pain. Stretching techniques and the application of hot or cold also may help.
• Counseling. Cognitive behavioral therapy seeks to strengthen your belief in your abilities and teaches you methods for dealing with stressful situations. Therapy is provided through individual counseling, classes, and with tapes, CDs or DVDs, and may help you manage your fibromyalgia.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Self-care is critical in the management of fibromyalgia.

• Reduce stress. Develop a plan to avoid or limit overexertion and emotional stress. Allow yourself time each day to relax. That may mean learning how to say no without guilt. But try not to change your routine completely. People who quit work or drop all activity tend to do worse than those who remain active. Try stress management techniques, such as deep-breathing exercises or meditation.
• Get enough sleep. Because fatigue is one of the main characteristics of fibromyalgia, getting sufficient sleep is essential. In addition to allotting enough time for sleep, practice good sleep habits, such as going to bed and getting up at the same time each day and limiting daytime napping.
• Exercise regularly. At first, exercise may increase your pain. But doing it regularly often decreases symptoms. Appropriate exercises may include walking, swimming, biking and water aerobics. A physical therapist can help you develop a home exercise program. Stretching, good posture and relaxation exercises also are helpful.
• Pace yourself. Keep your activity on an even level. If you do too much on your good days, you may have more bad days.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy foods. Limit your caffeine intake. Do something that you find enjoyable and fulfilling every day.

Alternative medicine

Complementary and alternative therapies for pain and stress management aren’t new. Some, such as meditation and yoga, have been practiced for thousands of years. But their use has become more popular in recent years, especially with people who have chronic illnesses, such as fibromyalgia.

Several of these treatments do appear to safely relieve stress and reduce pain, and some are gaining acceptance in mainstream medicine. But many practices remain unproved because they haven’t been adequately studied. Some of the more common complementary and alternative treatments promoted for pain management include:

• Acupuncture. Acupuncture is a Chinese medical system based on restoring normal balance of life forces by inserting very fine needles through the skin to various depths. According to Western theories of acupuncture, the needles cause changes in blood flow and levels of neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord. Some studies indicate that acupuncture helps relieve fibromyalgia symptoms, while others show no benefit.
• Chiropractic care. This treatment is based on the philosophy that restricted movement in the spine may lead to pain and reduced function. Spinal adjustment (manipulation) is one form of therapy chiropractors use to treat restricted spinal mobility. The goal is to restore spinal movement and, as a result, improve function and decrease pain. Chiropractors manipulate the spine from different positions using varying degrees of force. Manipulation doesn’t need to be forceful to be effective. Chiropractors may also use massage and stretching to relax muscles that are shortened or in spasm. Because manipulation has risks, always go to properly trained and licensed practitioners.
• Massage therapy. This is one of the oldest methods of health care still in practice. It involves use of different manipulative techniques to move your body’s muscles and soft tissues. The therapy aims to improve blood circulation in the muscle, increasing the flow of nutrients and eliminating waste products. Massage can reduce your heart rate, relax your muscles, improve range of motion in your joints and increase production of your body’s natural painkillers. It often helps relieve stress and anxiety. Although massage is almost always safe, avoid it if you have open sores, acute inflammation or circulatory problems.

Coping and support

Besides dealing with the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia, you may also have to deal with the frustration of having a condition that’s often misunderstood. In addition to educating yourself about fibromyalgia, you may find it helpful to provide your family, friends and co-workers with information.

It’s also helpful to know that you’re not alone. Organizations such as the Arthritis Foundation and the American Chronic Pain Association provide educational classes and support groups. These groups can often provide a level of help and advice that you might not find anywhere else. They can also help put you in touch with others who have had similar experiences and can understand what you’re going through.

I know take a moment to invite you to share in my aunt’s story: http://lisa-iwillsurvive.blogspot.com/ 

Pain is no joke and suffering with it on a daily basis is very sad.

I hope this information find you well informed – If you or someone you know is suffering with this condition my thoughts are with you.

Keep smiling and I’ll chat later! 

Weather changes can ad up to pain! (Part 1)

Snow is starting to fall upon the ground… Shovel with care or your back beware!

Havard Medical School with some more great information: http://www.health.harvard.edu

5 steps to a pain-free back

Low back pain has many different causes, including the normal wear and tear that comes with aging. While you can’t turn back the hands of time or prevent every type of painful back disorder, in most cases there are things you can do to help keep your back healthy.

1. Stay fit

Weak back and abdominal muscles — due to deconditioning or age — cause or exacerbate many cases of low back pain. That’s why stretching and strengthening both your back and abdominal muscles is important not only for treating low back pain, but also for helping to prevent a recurrence of the problem.

Exercise strengthens and stretches the muscles that support the spine. A stretching and strengthening regimen should target the back, abdominal, and buttock muscles. Strong abdominal or flexor muscles, for example, help people maintain an upright posture, as do strong extensor muscles, which run the full length of the back and maintain alignment of the vertebrae.

Stretching is a valuable component of any treatment plan for a person plagued by back problems. Most experts believe that supple, well-stretched muscles are less prone to injury. Indeed, shorter, less flexible muscle and connective tissues restrict joint mobility, which increases the likelihood of sprains and strains.

Certain aerobic activities are safer for your back than others. For instance, bicycling (either stationary or regular), swimming, and walking lead the list of low-risk, high-benefit activities for most people’s backs. All are low- or minimal-impact exercises that strengthen muscles which support the back. None involve awkward or stressful actions that are detrimental to back muscles.

Sports and activities such as football, tennis, gymnastics, wrestling, weight lifting, rowing (crew), running, aerobic dance, and ballet involve a relatively high risk for back injury because of the extension, lifting, or impacts involved. Other unnatural motions that could induce pain include back arching (during gymnastics and diving), twisting (while hitting a golf ball, swinging at a baseball, or bowling), vertical jolting (while riding a horse), and stretching your legs strenuously (when hiking or when balancing a sailboat during a race).

2. Maintain a healthy weight

Although carrying too much weight per se has not been proven to be a primary cause of back pain disorders, being overweight or obese can slow your recovery. Those extra pounds also increase the risk that back pain will return.

The heavier you are, the greater the load your spine must carry. To make matters worse, if the bulk of your weight comes in the form of abdominal fat, rather than muscle, your center of gravity can shift forward — a condition that puts added pressure on your back. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can ease the burden on your spine. To see if you are at a healthy (normal) weight, calculate your body mass index (BMI), which takes both your height and weight into consideration. Not only will you help your back if you maintain a normal BMI (in the range of 19–25), but you’ll also lower your risk for many diseases, including heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

3. Kick the habit *Tara adds in – drink lots of H2O*

You’ve undoubtedly heard this message before: smoking harms your health. Not only does this habit raise your risk for lung cancer, heart disease, hypertension, and a plethora of other health problems, it also jeopardizes your back.

Research shows that smokers have more frequent episodes of back pain than nonsmokers, and the more people smoke, the higher the risk of such episodes, according to one study.

Scientists believe that the nicotine in cigarettes contributes to low back pain in two ways. First, nicotine hampers the flow of blood to the vertebrae and disks. This impairs their function and may trigger a bout of back pain. Second, smokers tend to lose bone faster than nonsmokers, putting them at greater risk for osteoporosis, another common cause of back pain.

4. Lighten your load *Tara adds in – this is good for your children too!*

Backpacks have become ubiquitous — at school, at work, at play. But an overstuffed backpack can be a harbinger of back pain.

Most orthopedic doctors have long recognized that backpacks increase the risk of certain types of back pain, especially in students. A survey by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that nearly 60% of the doctors responding had treated school-age patients complaining of back and shoulder pain caused by heavy backpacks. Hauling an overloaded backpack can also cause muscle fatigue and strain and encourage the wearer to bend forward unnaturally.

If you use a backpack, you can take steps to protect yourself. For starters, use both of the pack’s straps instead of slinging one strap over a shoulder. Try to carry only the essentials, and lighten your load whenever possible. Opt for backpacks that have different-sized compartments to help distribute weight evenly. And look for wide, padded straps and a padded back. When carrying a heavy load, put the heaviest items as close as possible to the center of the back, and use the hip strap for support. For very heavy loads, use a backpack with wheels. Above all, remember to bend from your knees when picking up your pack.

5. Develop back-healthy habits

Everyday activities, from vacuuming your house to sitting in front of the computer for hours, can take a toll on your back, particularly if you aren’t schooled in proper body mechanics. But you can take some of the pressure off your back by following these simple tips:

• While standing to perform ordinary tasks like ironing or folding laundry, keep one foot on a small step stool.
• Don’t remain sitting or standing in the same position for too long. Stretch, shift your position, or take a short walk when you can.
• When bending from the waist, always use your hands to support yourself.
• When sitting, keep your knees a bit higher than your hips and bend them at a 90-degree angle. Sit with your feet comfortably on the floor. If your feet don’t reach the floor, put a book or a small stool under them.
• Because vacuuming can take a toll on your back, tackle rooms in chunks, spending no more than five to 10 minutes at a time doing this task.
• Tara adds in – bend at the knees when you shovel and try to push it out of the way instead of twisting to throw – go slow and take breaks… stretch most important – leave the wet, heavy stuff alone!

Hope you all enjoy this information!

Keep Smiling and I’ll chat later!

“Go Alfresco” Comment’s – Response

Check out the Harvard Medical School Emails to healthbeat@mail.health.harvard.edu> For any specific health inquires.

I give myself very good advice, but I rarely ever listen…

I have not blogged in a long time and I apologize to those who click in and see nothing new, so here I go again…

            In times of turmoil and stress we all fall down, but it is the getting back up that really counts! I have been stressing a point in my writings for the past couple months on the importance of “Self-Care” and to no avail, I faulted in following my own advice. I started this year of college with much enthusiasm and energy, only to find it dwindles away over the past month.

            I had been struggling with fatigue, upset stomach, and irregular bowels, but I kept pressing on. Every day I would feel more and more like I couldn’t go another moment with all the stress and anxiety as my physical being was shutting down on me as well. I have not written in a while because the reality of my busy schedule and pursuit of achieving everything finally overwhelmed me!

            I heading down the road to the college last Monday and found myself getting light headed, feeling nauseated, thought “oh no”… I was about half the way to school when I managed to get over to the side of the road, fling the door open and proceed to lose everything/anything I had ingested in the last 24 hours. When my body finished the process, I sat there stunned and in a daze. It must have been about 30minutes before “me mustered up the gruff” to turn around and go home. I also put in a call to my instructor to let her know I would not be in class or be there to make up a test I had missed the previous week. Yes, this was going to be my second time missing my Monday classes! (I will explain this further as I write to you today). Now there I was heading home and feeling so weak, I at one point thought I would call my Jelly Bean (my significant other’s name) to come get me. I did not call him and made it home. I was actually by this point in somewhat of a fog. I don’t remember exactly getting home, but I did. I lay down in my daughter’s room as it was close to the bathroom and slept. I tried my best to drink some water, but it just came back up, time and time again. Around 8:30am I was awoken by Jelly Bean as he was taking our son in for his pre-op physical and wanted me to know they were leaving. The next moment I remember was around 1:00pm when I awoke to allow my body to expel what I don’t know because it was only dry heaves! I felt as though I could die! I was so weak and felt so bad that I decided to go to the doctor. I went and spent an hour or so there only to be told you have the Flu, go home rest and drink plenty of fluids – “Duh-I knew this, I mean, I am a nursing student!” The NP requested that if I was not feeling better on Tuesday afternoon to return to the clinic. Yes, I went there on Tuesday and spent 3 hours with them pushing fluids until I kept it inside of my ill self. They wanted to hospitalize me and I would not have it! I had clinical on Friday and I cannot miss/be late ever again! After achieving the ability to hold my fluids, I was allowed to go home and told to continue to rest and follow up with my primary doctor on Thursday…

Now here is where I must interject a second story into this one as there is relation to my finalized bout of becoming so ill! As I fore mentioned, the day I fell ill on my drive became the second absents in my Monday classes. I shall explain… the week prior I was dealing with my son’s issues and trying to get his surgery set-up. I have an extremely busy course schedule and loads of homework, so trying to fit a day to be down at the Children’s Hospital can be bothersome! My only available day is Tuesday, as they do not do surgery stuff on weekends. My son has Legg Calve Perthes which is a bone/vascular disease is his hip. He was diagnosed 2 ½ years ago and has had 2 surgical procedures since then. I was so frustrated and angry with his disease when we went to his check-up and Doctor E said he would be having an orthogram again with most likely intensive surgery to follow… My son’s ordeal is quite the story and one day I would like to share more information on it, but I will leave it short today. Well this dilemma of schedule was solved and to happen the following week (the week I fell ill). My son had to have the pre-op physical as I mentioned his Dad brought him too and it has to occur within 7 days of scheduled surgery – we got him in the Monday before…

            When I was ill on Monday pre-op called to verify he received his physical, etc. I then had to inform them I was ill and wanted to know if his Grandma could take him. Why? My Jelly Bean came home from work about 3:00pm and did not feel well… Needless to say we had to cancel his surgery! So Tuesday was open for my 3 hour adventure in at the clinic! I cannot remember a time in my life where I felt so ill! Tuesday eve and Wednesday are somewhat of a blur for me. Thursday rolled around and I felt much better which was good because my daughter had her root canal scheduled for 11:00am in Minneapolis. We made it to her appointment and all was well. We then headed to Cambridge for my appointment and to pick up groceries.

            As my doctor entered the room his asked how my schooling was moving along – yes, even my doc knows I am in school for nursing 🙂 We then proceeded to converse about my health; stress levels, nutrition, and exercise. I had to smile as I know it all, my boasting about “self-care”, I fall short when it comes to me AEB my visit to the clinic with an illness of gut wrenching pain! My doctor made a determination that I did not have the Flu, but a gastrointestinal infection – a virus. I felt as though I were begging my doctor to give me clearance to attend clinical on Friday – fact I know I begged!

            With my note and mask in hand I made it to clinical on Friday. Since all my ordeals last week I am feeling much better and now really trying to focus on me? I am proud to say that I fell down hard, but I am getting back up and that’s what counts. I have opened my eyes to the fact that I cannot handle all or be all! Now mind you when it comes to my schooling and making up for time lost – it is just me, but the rest in my life I need to let go and share the load with others. The last month of my life is a prime example of what can happen to one if you don’t pay attention to “you”. I want to share with you now a poem of sorts given to me by Jessica of the Health Care Alliance from presentation she attending at ARCC:

S…simplify and seek support

E…establish a place of sanctuary

L…let go and embrace a sense of hope

F…feel your feelings

C…challenge yourself and celebrate life

A…ask for help and acknowledge your reality

R…rest and relaxation

E…exercise and eat well  

*Source of above:

Thomas Ellis M. A., L.M.F.T.

Executive Director

Center for Grief, Loss and Transition

Please-I send out to you a request…take care of you! I am heading out as this is my first week back after being so ill and I do not want to over do it! Look for a good posting tomorrow as I have so much to share about my busy schedule and clinical experiences!

Keep smiling. I’ll chat later!

Go alfresco…

I was viewing one of my favorite sites for tidbits and I thought I’d share some advice with you as I myself have been struggling with stress, fatigue, and life’s what not’s for the past month. It made me smile today as I thought, “Oh besides sleep this sounds divine”! Winter and the cold months are right around the corner for us Minnesotan’s so why not take a moment to enjoy the fall…

From The Harvard Medical Center : www.health.harvard.edu

A prescription for better health: “Go alfresco”

Most of us spend the vast majority of our time inside. According to one government estimate, the average American spends 90% of his or her life indoors, and as we get older we become even more inclined not to venture out.  But is all this indoor time hurting our health?

The study results are ticking up: spending time outdoors seems to have discernible benefits for physical and mental health. Granted, some are merely by association and can be achieved by other means, perhaps while indoors, but often only with a good deal more trouble and expense. Here are five potential benefits of spending more time outdoors:

1. Your vitamin D levels will go up

Exposing your skin to sunshine — actually, ultraviolet B (UVB) rays — enables the body to make vitamin D, which is why it’s also known as the “sunshine vitamin.” Research suggests vitamin D may have protective effects against everything from osteoporosis to cancer to depression to heart attacks and stroke.

Of course, it has to be sunny out, and there are some snags. Where you live, the season, and the time of day affect how much UVB reaches your skin. The farther you live from the equator, the less UVB radiation you receive. Vitamin D production is affected by age (people ages 65 and over generate about a fourth as much as people in their 20s) and skin color (African Americans have, on average, about half the levels of vitamin D in their blood as white Americans).

Another problem: sunscreens are most effective at blocking UVB light, the part of the spectrum that causes sunburn, but UVB also happens to be the kind of light that kick-starts the generation of vitamin D in the skin.

The either-or of sunscreen and sunshine vitamin has stirred up a lot of controversy and debate between pro-sunscreen dermatologists and the vitamin D camp. But there is plenty of middle ground here: some limited sun exposure on short walks and the like, supplemented with vitamin D pills if necessary, and liberal use of sunscreen when you are out for extended periods, particularly during the middle of the day.

2. You’ll get more exercise (especially if you’re a child)

Being outside isn’t a guarantee of being active. Still, there’s no question that being outdoors is associated with activity and indoor living is associated with being sedentary, particularly for children. According to some surveys, American children spend an average of 6½ hours a day with electronic media (video games, television, and so on), time that is spent mainly indoors and sitting down. British researchers found that children are more than doubly active when they are outside.

Adults can go to the gym. Many prefer the controlled environment there. But if you make getting outside a goal, that should mean less time in front of the television and computer and more time walking, biking, gardening, cleaning up the yard, and doing other things that put the body in motion.

3. You’ll be happier (especially if your exercise is ‘green’)

Light tends to elevate people’s mood, and unless you live in a glass house or are using a light box to treat seasonal affective disorder, there’s usually more light available outside than in. Physical activity has been shown to relax and cheer people up, so if being outside replaces inactive pursuits with active ones, it might also mean more smiles and laughter.

Researchers at the University of Essex in England are advancing the notion that exercising in the presence of nature has added benefit, particularly for mental health. Their investigations into “green exercise,” as they are calling it, dovetail with research showing benefits from living in proximity to green, open spaces.

4. Your concentration will improve

A study published in 2008 found that children with ADHD scored higher on a test of concentration after a walk through a park than after a walk through a residential neighborhood or downtown area. Other ADHD studies have also suggested that outdoor exercise could have positive effects on the condition. Truth be told, this research has been done in children, so it’s a stretch to say it applies to adults, even those who have an ADHD diagnosis. But if you have trouble concentrating — as many do — you might see if some outdoor activity, the greener the better, helps.

5. You may heal faster

University of Pittsburgh researchers reported in 2005 that spinal surgery patients experienced less pain and stress and took fewer pain medications during their recoveries if they were exposed to natural light. An older study showed that the view out the window (trees vs. a brick wall) had an effect on patient recovery. Of course, windows and views are different than actually being outside, but we’re betting that adding a little fresh air to the equation couldn’t hurt and might help.

*End of Harvard Information*

Just a little more to say…

Go Alfresco! What does it mean? It is in the open air which is similar in meaning to – En plein air (French pronunciation: [ɑ̃ plɛˈnɛʁ]) is a French expression which means “in the open air”, and is particularly used to describe the act of painting outdoors (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/En_plein_air).  We need not paint, but we can feel like our studies are an art – “The art of nursing”! So maybe we should all grab a blanket and head to the park? (Hopefully not the Frisbee Park – right Sue? My fellow student was told she could not put a blanket on the ground or she could get a ticket at a park near one of our facilities as they play Frisbee Golf there.) So make sure… If you are feeling down with all your studies – get some fresh air, go for a walk, sit in a park, have a picnic, or read your textbooks in your yard while your kids play – just don’t get a ticket! We all need this – kids and family too, get them involved in your refreshing! The world can truly be your canvas with all its wonders!

Keep smiling! I’ll chat later!

Just when I think I got it…

 

My education and my family make me very tired these days and I wonder how will I keep up? I was on campus last Monday feeling 100%, but Tuesday struck with my son being ill and into Wednesday I had two children ill! I made it to my last session of hearing and vision on Tuesday, but I did not attend my classes on Wednesday. I am so tired was all I could think when I came into my class on Thursday – about 15 minutes late! I made it through this wondrous day of IV med admin and wound care sterility. The saddest part to my week came Friday when I awoke to no alarm and it was 10 minutes to 6:00 AM… I was to be at my clinical site at 5:45 AM! I frantically called my instructor and left a message – I cried all the way to my clinical site! You see we can only miss ONE day of clinical and by me being a hour late… I was going to lose this day! I was terrified as I thought for sure I would be let go! I did not have to leave – thankful am I! I managed through another day and I was so tired! I took Friday eve off from the books and slept it away! Now this was all good, but Saturday afternoon/eve we had a gathering at our home… I spent the morning running around cleaning my house, picking up groceries, dropping off my kids and then making a huge batch of chili! (Oh- I love to make it; I am the best chili maker ever!) We had a good time with friends that eve and I did get some studying in prior to the gathering, but I think I had more than my share of fun… Sunday was a lazy day with studies and sleep! I should have just cancelled my family/friend thing and got some sleep! Oh, just more for my hectic life to endure!  We had a big exam in ANI on the cardiac system and I left the room thinking – not good at all! I thought I was nervous about the test last week, I did OK by the way, but this one was extremely hard! It did not matter that I got up at 4:00 AM to study…  I feel so out of sorts – tired – tired, I want a vacation!  I now tell myself “it is over, all you got to do now is study like a mad woman for school” 🙂  What’s done/over? Well, my daughter finished up with tennis this past week so there will be less running for her, I am hoping we (my family) all had our bout with being ill, and there will be no more gatherings until Thanksgiving Day when I am making my “Brown Paper Bag Turkey”. I guess I should take it back, nothing is ever done 🙂  My son has a medical checkup tomorrow (my day off) for his Legg Calve Perthes disease and my daughter has a root canal schedule for the 28th of this month – yeah it never ends, but I am not going to be having any extra “fun” myself for the rest of the semester – unless of course – it is extra sleep because that would be extremely fun! So as I read this back to myself –  I keep telling myself, I will get this… I just can not “not” succeed!  I hope you read this and understand – it is OK to have bad days (weeks), and there is light at the end of the tunnel if you keep seeking it out!