Wednesday, December 28, 2011

4 Reasons Why Accredited CPR Certification Is Necessary

When a person has stopped breathing it means that the heart has stopped pumping blood and thereby the supply of oxygen and blood to the entire body has stopped. This occurs when a person has a respiratory or a cardiac arrest. The only way to help save his or her life is to make use of the cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR as it is known in short.

Any person who knows how to perform a CPR and has attended a CPR training session can undertake it as it is more important in such a situation to save a life. This is due to the fact that the person collapsing should be helped to revive breathing and heart beat so that they can survive till emergency medical service arrives. CPR is the only way to ensure revival of the patient till medical help arrives else it may be fatal or may even end causing severe damage.

While there are a lot of courses available that anyone can enroll in to get informed about the CPR process, there are only some courses that offer a genuine accredited course. There are also some organizations that offer CPR training for free. But if you are serious about learning the correct CPR technique and use it for your personal growth then there is no denial that an accredited certification is the best bet. The reasons for this are elaborated here:

• CPR certified persons from accredited organizations are in great demand these days. The paramedical services is growing at a very fast pace and it is expected that there is a need for over one million paramedics in the next couple of years. This is reason enough why any person should take up an accredited certified CPR course.

• The real advantage of getting a genuine certification in CPR lies in saving a precious life. It gives immense pleasure and satisfaction to the certified CPR specialist when they have successfully revived a dying patient.

• Even on the personal front CPR certification can be of a great help as family members, friends or neighbors do not have to reach out to medical help in an emergency situation. The certified person will be well equipped to handle a medical crisis quite easily.

• There are many other fields such as a fitness instructor, personal trainer or even a nanny that has great career advantage when there is CPR certification. Some of these career options do make it mandatory for the applicant to be CPR certified to be eligible for the job.

One has to bear in mind while choosing a CPR certification program that employers do not accept all CPR programs as valid certification. Thus if you plan to take up CPR training for gaining an advantage for your career, then ensure to go in for only accredited certification course in CPR. Also you may choose to pursue a basic CPR training or adult or child specific CPR training according to profession you are planning to take up.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Ten Surprising Health Benefits Of Limes

Limes are a bright green fruit in the citrus category. They are often grown in tropical environments and, on a historical note, helped sailors treat scurvy, which is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin-C. Limes are a small sour fruit that measure an estimated three to five centimeters in diameter. Moreover, limes have 10 surprising health benefits such as:

Cancer

Research has shown that the ingredient citrus limonoids, which is an element in citrus fruits such as limes, can fight cancers that attack the skin, lungs, stomach and mouth.

Nutrients

Lime consumers ingest vitamins such as B6, folic acid, flavonoids and potassium. Additionally, limes are rich in vitamin C and will enhance the flavor of other fruits like apples, oranges and pears.

Cholera

The high acid levels found in lime juice effectively prevent the growth of cholera in food. In some cases, researchers have found that lime juice will kill the bacteria. Therefore, the addition of lime juice in the foods consumed in areas at risk for cholera can stop the deadly intestinal disease from killing residents.

Mosquito Repellent

Limes contain five sesquiterpene hydrocarbon ingredients along with two sesquiterpene alcohols, which is distasteful to mosquitos. However, the smell of limes is pleasant to humans, so repelling the blood sucking little bugs with lime extract is preferred to spraying clothing with a smelly chemical.

Cholesterol

Citrus fruits, such as limes, have proven to be effective at lowering cholesterol when eaten. Research studies verify that liver cells release Apo B, which is a common composite found in the blood, when cholesterol levels are high. However, Apo B levels are lower in patients who increase their intake of limes.

Skin

Limes can benefit the skin in a variety of ways. For example, when eaten or applied directly to the skin, the risk of infection is lower. Also, skin will maintain a healthier appearance. Furthermore, unpleasant body odor will improve as a result of the antioxidants and vitamins found in limes.

Constipation

Limes contain a vast number of acids and can be used to cleanse the excretory system. The method is similar to the use of citrus in cleaning grimy areas of a home such as the floor. Additionally, the roughage provided by limes is helpful in relieving constipation.

Digestion

The smell of limes will cause the mouth to water, which assists the digestive system. After a lime is eaten, the natural citric acids of the fruit will help break down food compounds. Additionally, the digestive system is stimulated by the Flavonoids found in limes.

Eyes

With the large amount of vitamin-C in limes, they often prevent macular degeneration and aging. Furthermore, the Flavonoids in limes are helpful when eyes must fight infections.

Weight-loss

Overweight people can achieve weight-loss when drinking two glasses of warm water mixed with lime juice each day. The citric acid in limes will help burn fat while the revitalizing flavor will encourage daily consistency.

The natural ingredients in limes provide numerous health benefits such as the prevention of deadly diseases along with an improved appearance and a sound digestive system.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

The Key to Good Health - Supplements and Vitamins

Are you feeling tired? Not your normal self? Is each day harder or easier? If life is getting tougher, you may need some supplements and vitamins to perk you up.

What Are Supplements Utilized For?

Supplements have a number of uses that include health, dietary and body building. Supplements may lend a hand to prevent disease, aid in body building and can also help weight loss. Some popular supplements have:

1. Fish Oil is recommended by doctors to help lower cholesterol and to keep these cholesterol levels to within a normal range. Fish Oil contains omega-3 fatty acids for good health.

2. Green Tea is the most popular supplement and the most popular Asian Drink. Green Tea is used to prevent certain forms of cancer, modify and moderate cholesterol levels, and to immobilize viruses such as HIV, hepatitis and herpes. As a popular antioxidant, Green Tea is highly recommended for these conditions.

3. Vitamin C was once utilized to prevent and decrease the impact of colds. Today, Vitamin C is expended for skin care and to take toxins from the body.

4. Herbal Supplements are widely used to cure infections, reduce fever and illness, and to heal bodily wounds. Herbal Supplements possibly could soothe the pain from an injury and disease. They might also soothe constipation and other digestion problems.

5. Bee Pollen is utilised for appetite control and to help with losing weight. You only need about 35 grams daily for weight loss.

Are Supplements Watched?

Supplements are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products have not been tested or verified, that it works. For any supplement recommendation, check with your doctor on which supplements to use.

What Are Vitamins?

Vitamins are needed for your health. They can keep your body fit and active. Vitamins are separated into two classes:

1. Fat Soluble Vitamins can be stored in the body. They include Vitamins A, D and E. They contain carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.

2. Water Soluble Vitamins can not be stored in the body. They contain vitamins B6 and B12, foliate, riboflavin, thiamin and niacin. They contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur.

What Possibly Could Vitamins Do For You?

Vitamins have a number of of uses, they include:

1. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) - prevents and treats migraine headaches, cataracts, rheumatoid arthritis and numerous skin conditions.

2. Biotin (Vitamin H, Vitamin B7) - metabolizes fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

3. Vitamin D is made when the sun's rays get to the skin. Vitamin D curbs the calcium levels in the blood stream.

4. Vitamin K may trim internal bleeding and blood clots.

5. C0Q10 is a vitamin supplement expended to sustain the heart healthy. This supplement can reduce hypertension, congestive heart failure and angina.

Where Can I Find The Vitamins?

You possibly could discover vitamins in fruits, vegetables, fish, poultry, and meat. By eating a healthy diet, you could consume most of the vitamins that you need. Look for whole wheat and enriched grain products for your diet.

What Happens When You Don't Procure Your Vitamins?

Vitamin deficiencies can include depression, heart problems and muscle weakness. Vitamins can help relieve the problems. Try consuming a healthy diet everyday.

You Can Feel Good, Too!

Vitamins and supplements possibly could enrich your health and well being. A good fitness program can help you to feel healthy and strong.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

2 Components of Bloodborne Pathogen Training

Entities like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued various guidelines to protect employees from several fields against bloodborne pathogens, and also encourage adequate training to minimize risks of infections.
An ideal training module must be divided into two sections, where the mental part must deal with understanding bloodborne pathogens on various parameters, and the physical part which will deal with handling such situations in the real world.
Some of the things that should be covered in both the components are listed below.
1. Mental Components
• Awareness: Awareness is extremely vital in any kind of bloodborne training. Here you will learn the many dangers of coming in contact with infected blood and body fluids, including the different dangerous diseases that can be caused due to them. Also you will know how to identify a potentially hazardous situation so that you can approach it with caution.
• Learning Standards: Besides general awareness you can learn a lot from the many studies and publications of OSHA and also learn about its specific standards for bloodborne pathogens which cover a comprehensive list of situations for a more thorough understanding of the risks involved and how to deal with them. In addition you will also learn to identify different labels, signs, symbols and color codes to identify hazardous materials, containers and even areas so that you can take the necessary precautions in such vicinities.
• Occupational Exposure and Plans: Occupational exposure will tell you the possible risks involved while carrying out certain kinds of jobs, and also the importance of understanding and following the exposure control plans formulated by your employer.
2. Physical Components
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Here you will learn the importance of different kinds of personal gear like gloves, face masks, goggles and gowns to prevent contact with blood and fluids. Using one or all the items of the gear will depend on the particular situation, but you must gain complete understanding of which equipment is required when, and also how to wear the items properly. On your end, you must find out if such gear is available at your place of work.
• Vaccination: Bloodborne pathogens are known to cause certain diseases that do not have a complete cure; Hepatitis B is one such example. It is in your interest that you take such a vaccination as directed so that you are sufficiently protected when working with blood or people who might be infected with this ailment. In fact, OSHA guidelines require all employers to offer such vaccinations to their employees.
• Post Exposure: Training will also prepare you for instances when exposure to bloodborne pathogens does take place. You will be taught the sequence of measures to be taken which include informing your seniors, focusing on prompt medical treatment and regular follow-ups in addition to abiding by any specific provisions of law.
The above components substantially cover the many risks posed by bloodborne pathogens and also provide you with necessary practical knowledge for better handling of any situation at your workplace.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

4 Benefits of a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certification

During an accident or sudden illness, a person can go into shock or be severely injured which can impede breathing and circulation. At such crucial times when advanced medical assistance still has to reach the scene, an emergency course of action like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can come to the rescue, which can not only stabilize and save the person's life but also prevent permanent damage to the body organs and tissues due to lack of oxygen. CPR is a procedure whose need can arise almost anywhere, when least expected, and as such should be learned by everyone.

The following 4 points will bring out the many benefits of CPR certification.

• On the Job: If you are looking to build a career in the health care field then you must know that most of the jobs will require you have completed some kind of CPR certification course. A working knowledge of CPR is required not only because it is mandatory but also due to the fact that in this field you might need to administer CPR to revive the person quite often. Examples of the jobs where such certification is a must include nurses, doctors, paramedics and laboratory personnel. In certain health care setups even the secretaries, maintenance, human resource and other non-medical staff who generally will not need to administer CPR may be required to have a valid certification, albeit a more basic one.

But outside the health care industry there are other fields like firefighters, law enforcement, flight attendants, day care staff, school teachers, lifeguards at beaches and pools, fitness trainers, sports coach, babysitters and personnel working in prisons, where administering CPR may be required. Having a valid certification will then prove to be a valuable marketable skill which can boost your job prospects.

• Confidence: Any CPR certification program will teach you the procedure in a very systematic and structured manner combining theory and practical methods so that you gain an understanding of various emergency situations and know how to act. Such learning will give you the required knowledge and confidence to evaluate the emergency situation calmly and then proceed quickly without any hesitation, as time can become very crucial in certain life-threatening situations.

• Workplace Safety: A CPR certification can be an asset at your workplace whether it is your office or a site. In case of an emergency you will be able to provide CPR and keep your co-worker stable till a medical team takes over.

• Asset to the Family: When it comes to your family knowing CPR is desirable as it is helpful not only at home but also when you are travelling or vacationing with your family members.

Now every one of you do not require to taken advanced CPR certification courses, and must choose them according to your specific need. A basic course will be sufficient in ordinary circumstances but a more advanced and area-specific certification may be required for specific jobs. Also you have the option of an in-class course or the one that combines online and practical modules to give you more flexibility.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

3 Ways of Contracting Bloodborne Pathogens

Bloodborne pathogens are disease carrying microorganisms that can transfer from one body to another through contact with infected blood. Bloodborne pathogens can be transferred through various body fluids like saliva, semen etc and not just blood. However, these pathogens do not get transmitted through casual physical contact but through unprotected sexual contact, cuts and wounds, infected needles, etc.

The most common ways that you can get exposed and therefore infected by bloodborne pathogens are:

• The most common way of getting infected by these viruses are through a needle prick. While there are many safety standards that specify not to use needles multiple times and to sterilize them properly, some human lapses have been a cause for major safety concerns.
• The next biggest risk is when people who have a bruise or a cut on the skin come into direct exposure to these bloodborne pathogens. Any open wounds, abrasions, skin cuts have a high risk of exposure through infected and contaminated blood. The best thing to do is to cover up all open wounds with proper bandage and use anti septic lotion in order to minimize the risk.
• The third most common thing that is most dangerous is contracting these pathogens through eyes and the mucous membranes. These pathogens enter another person through the inner lining of the eyes, mouth and nasal passages. Normally they are transferred due to sneezing or during an accidental injury which causes blood to splash around.

It is necessary that you take all possible care to avoid any of the above mentioned conditions at all times. This way the transmission of bloodborne pathogens can be minimized to a large extent.

Despite these precautions if there is accidental contact of blood or bodily fluids from person to person then you need to act quickly and in a prudent manner. You should not ignore these initial signs of contact as it can turn out to be fatal. As mostly it takes an average of nine months for the symptoms of any virus to surface, initial precautions can avert a disastrous situation of virus transmission.

The area that has come into contact with blood must be cleaned and washed thoroughly with antiseptic soap and water multiple times. The same step needs to be followed even for the eyes, mouth and nose when contact is suspected. The first thing that needs to be done is to identify the kind of contact that has taken place.

The second thing that needs to be done is to test the contacted person's blood for presence of any of these bloodborne pathogens. Subsequent action should be taken in a timely manner on receiving reports of the affected person and provide proper counseling and medical treatment.

Finally one should follow oral and personal hygiene so that exposure to these pathogens can be minimized as much as possible. General precautions include keeping food and water closed apart from not touching others personal things. Finally one should follow proper standards of domestic and commercial waste disposal without any deviation.