Medicare Requirements For Nocturnal Oxygen

The relationship between Medicare and nocturnal oxygen usage has been a tenuous one.

Nocturnal oxygen, or oxygen that is used during the night, is a basic requirement in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as well as other lung conditions. About 15 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with COPD, with an estimated 12 to 15 million more undiagnosed. The United States spends more than $29 billion yearly in medical costs for this condition. COPD is the fourth leading cause of death among adults in the United States and ranks third in Medicare recipient hospital admissions. Hypoxemia, a low level of oxygen in the blood, can be life-threatening. Historically, Medicare has not fully supported nocturnal oxygen. With rising costs of this therapy, it has been scrutinized by legislators and critics, and Medicare has focused budget cuts on long-term oxygen therapy for over 20 years.

Nocturnal Oxygen

In the early 1980s, the Nocturnal Oxygen Therapy Trial, or NOTT, determined the importance of low-flow oxygen therapy in the treatment of severe hypoxemia. Even now, this study is frequently referenced and provides the basis for prescribing nocturnal oxygen therapy for patients with COPD and other lung conditions. Its use has led to less frequent and shorter hospital stays.

Medicare Guidelines

Medicare introduced guidelines for long-term oxygen therapy partially as a result of the NOTT trial. Patients with a PaO2 level of 56 to 59 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) who also have dependent edema, pulmonary hypertension or a hematocrit higher than 56 percent, are eligible for Medicare coverage. PaO2 refers to the amount of oxygen in the arterial blood. At 60 percent PaO2, patients need special approval to receive coverage.

Future Considerations

Because of rising expenditures, Medicare continues to scrutinize nocturnal oxygen therapy. With an aging population and increasing numbers of patients using nocturnal oxygen, rising costs will demand more attention from the government. Nocturnal oxygen has historically been targeted as an area for budget cuts, and as Medicare continues its attempt to reduce spending, it is expected that nocturnal oxygen will become even more scrutinized. It is becoming more important than ever for the government to recognize the true cost/benefit of long-term nocturnal oxygen therapy.

What Are The Different Types Of Advertising

What Are the Different Types of Advertising?

Getting the word out to prospective customers about a new product, event or service is essential if your business is going to be successful. There are several types of advertising to accommodate this objective as well as fit your company's budget.

Word of Mouth

When customers are happy with something, they'll tell their friends, family and neighbors. Word of mouth PR is the cheapest form of advertising, but relies on the assumption that the person doing the talking is trustworthy.

Newspapers

Newspaper advertising takes the form of classified service ads, display ads, inserts (usually flyers), press releases and advertorials, which are feature stories/business profiles done as a courtesy (but not an endorsement) for the paper's advertisers.

Magazine Ads

Magazine ads are much more expensive and glamorous than newspaper slots, especially if the ad appears on the inside of the front and back covers. The more prestigious the magazine, the more likely the ads are designed by PR firms.

Public Service Announcements

PSAs (also referred to as "talking heads") are simplistic radio and TV spots of 15, 30 and 60 seconds that promote nonprofit organizations. There is no charge for the air time.

Commercials

Commercials are 30 to 60 seconds in length, are formatted as problem/solution scenarios and are both expensive to produce and to air--depending on the time slot in which they run (for example, the Super Bowl).

Internet

Websites, blogs, podcasts, banners, pop-ups, email and chat rooms are all cyber platforms that allow promotional content to be available 24/7.

Direct Mail

Sales letters, postcards, brochures and press kits are hard copy marketing tools that--in addition to their reproduction costs--require postage and the purchase of mailing lists.

Recovery From Gall Bladder Surgery

Surgery table

The technical term for removing a gall bladder is a cholecystectomy. There are several reasons a gall bladder may need to be removed. The gall bladder may be inflamed, there may be damage from some gall stones, or the bile ducts may have become clogged. Once you have the surgery to remove your gall bladder, you will need to begin the process of recovery.

Keep an Eye Out

Once the surgery is complete you may be able to go home the same day. When you do, you will need to keep an eye out for a few things. Take your temperature. If you begin to have a fever over 100 degrees F, you will need to call your doctor. Keep an eye on your incision. If it begins to bleed or seep pus, you will also need to contact your doctor. You should also be concerned if the incision begins to feel warm to the touch. Finally, you can expect to feel pain after the surgery, but if it continues to get worse there could be a problem.

Medications

There are a few medications that your doctor may order directly after the surgery. They will most likely be given to you while you are still asleep through your IV. You may receive a dose of antibiotics which are commonly given after any type of surgery to prevent infection. You may also be given medication to prevent nausea and vomiting, which commonly occurs in patients who go through a gall bladder operation. Finally, your doctor will prescribe you some pain medication to use at home on an as needed basis.

Recovery Time

Recovery time can be different for each person, but should be complete within six to eight weeks. The first few days you may be sore and still need to take some pain medication. During that time you should stay away from driving or operating any machines. After those few days are up you can begin to go back to your daily routine. This does not include any heavy lifting or strenuous exercises. After six to eight weeks you can once again exercise and lift objects without any worry. You should have seen the doctor for a check up by this time and he will let you know what you are capable of doing.

Support Group Ideas

A support group is composed of people united to help other people. Support groups are often formed to aid people who are suffering from specific illnesses, such as cancer, or challenges, such as those faced by people who care for the mentally ill or physically handicapped. Creating a support group can be an excellent way to network with other people who may truly understand the situation you face. Once you have started a support group, you can make sure it functions effectively with the implementation of certain policies and procedures.

Type of Support Group

Choose the specific kind of group you want to establish. There are many different kinds of support groups. Some groups focus on patients who may be undergoing current treatment for an acute illness such as leukemia. Other groups focus on providing support for those who are confronting a terminal illness that is presently incurable or a chronic illness such as diabetes. Groups may also focus on providing support for those caring for people who face such illnesses. A support group should welcome those with the specific condition they want to discuss. People attending the group should be with others who share their condition as closely as possible.

Meeting Space

Find a physical space to meet. Ideally, a support group should meet in person. Some hospitals and other care facilities provide specific areas or rooms where support group members can meet. If you are not affiliated with such a facility, there are many other places you can meet. Some communities offer space in a town hall or a library. Other groups may want to retain a sense of anonymity, so they choose to meet at a member's house.

Support Online

You may also create an online support group space. Provide a place for members to meet when not attending physical meetings. Cyberspace can be an ideal place for people to interact with each other in a stress-free setting that is open 24 hours a day and seven days a week. A bulletin board can easily be set up with a private forum, for free or for a small monthly fee. Allow support group members access to the forum. Ask someone to assume responsibility for working with other members to make the forum a safe haven online.

Resources

Provide resources. Members who face chronic illness have many serious concerns. Members of the group may face increased financial stress as a result of their illness, as well as problems that interfere with their ability to carry out essential tasks. Provide members with resources to help them solve their problems. Create handouts that show support group members apply for Medicaid, housing aid or food stamps.

Have Fun

Make it fun. Plan day trips for members of the group. In the spring, members can meet in a rose garden. Consider setting up a trip to the beach during the summer and a trip to admire leaves or pick apples during the fall.

What Do If Your Employer Denies A Request For Family Leave

There are many reasons why you may need to take an extended leave of absence from work. In the past, your employer could decide whether or not to hold a job for you while you took a leave. Now, the U.S. federal Family Leave and Medical Act (FMLA) entitles certain employees to such a leave of absence. If your employer denies your leave despite FMLA regulations, you do have recourse.

FMLA Rules

The U.S. Federal Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows an eligible employee to take up to 26 weeks of unpaid leave from his job under certain circumstances. If you are eligible for FMLA, your employer is required to hold an equivalent position for you, but not necessarily the exact position you previously held.

Eligibility

If your employer denies your request for FMLA leave, check to make sure you qualify for it. In order to qualify for FMLA leave, you must have been at your job for at least 12 months and worked at least 1,250 hours in that time. Also, your employer must have at least 50 employees within a 75 mile radius of the workplace, or the employer is not required to grant FMLA leave. Qualifying reasons for FMLA leave of absence for up to 12 weeks are: if you have a serious illness and cannot work; if your parent, spouse, or child has a serious illness that requires you to provide care; when you become a parent via the birth or adoption of a child; and when you must take time off due to certain hardships created by a family member's service in the National Guard or Reserves. You may take up to 26 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a sick or injured returning member of the military to whom you are the next of kin. You must give 30 days notice prior to the leave whenever possible, even if you are not sure of the exact dates you will need to take FMLA leave. If it is not possible to give 30 days notice, such as for a sudden illness, notice must be given to your employer as soon as possible. This generally means the day of a qualifying event or the next day. Appeal any denial of your FMLA request with your employer's Human Resources department, pointing out the qualifications that you meet.

How Leave May Be Taken

If you have paid vacation or personal time available through your employer, your employer is allowed to require that you take it while on FMLA leave. If your employer does not require you to take it, you may still choose to do so. Even if you take paid leave while on FMLA, the total time of FMLA leave you are allowed will not be extended. You may take FMLA leave all at once, or you may split the time up in certain cases, such as for periodic treatment of an ongoing medical condition. FMLA leave taken during pregnancy will count towards the 12 weeks that are allowed after the child is born.

If Leave is Still Denied

If you meet all the requirements to qualify for FMLA leave but your employer denies your request for leave or does not hold a position for you, contact the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor at 1-866-487-9243 to report an FMLA violation. You may also be entitled to file a civil suit against your employer for the violation.

Stomach Balloon Weight Loss

For those who wish to undergo a weight-loss procedure, the stomach balloon is a non-surgical, alternative method of bariatric surgery. Quick and painless, the procedure may be done in a physician's office without anesthesia, and you can return home to relax while you stomach grows accustomed to the balloon minimizing the stomach's capacity.

Procedure

To have any type of weight-loss surgery or procedure done, it must be approved by a physician. Typically, those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 to 40 or are 100 pounds or more overweight are considered to be a candidate for a weight-loss procedure.

Once you have discussed options with your physician, you may decide on the stomach balloon, also referred to as the gastric balloon. In the doctor's office, a thin silicone balloon (deflated) is inserted into the stomach through the throat using an endoscopic tube. It is then filled with either air or a saline solution to fill the capacity of the stomach, the volume depending on the doctor's suggestions.

The balloon increases feelings of fullness while eating, prompting you to take in less calories. The maximum amount of time the balloon is left in the stomach is six months. To remove, the balloon is deflated and brought out by an endoscope.

After the Procedure

Once you go home to relax after the procedure, you will begin to notice you get full faster after drinking or eating. For a few days after the insertion of the balloon, you may feel bloating, nausea or cramping, which may subside after a few days.

Immediately after the balloon procedure, drink only water for a few hours, and then drink nothing but soup or juice for three days. After the third day, start eating semi-solid food and then finally begin to eat a normal diet. A dietician will be able to help you choose foods with the most nutrition and guide you through the first few days of the balloon procedure.

Limit activity for the first week while your stomach gets used to the balloon. After the week, resume your normal activities.

Risk

As with any type of weight-loss procedure, there may be risks involved. The stomach balloon is one of the safest procedures; however, contact your physician immediately if you experience abdominal pain, stomach bleeding or if you suspect the balloon may be ruptured. If the balloon is ruptured, you may feel hungrier than normal, since the stomach is no longer full.

The Best Nutritional Foods

With so many foods that are void of nutritional value these days, an understanding of the best nutritional foods is essential for good health. In this way, you can plan your meals and snacks to provide you with the most nutritional punch possible, instead of consuming empty calories that do nothing but promote obesity and poor health.

Overview of Proper Nutrition

One place to begin if you'd like an overview of proper nutrition is the USDA site for dietary guidelines. This information is updated every five years and provides the minimum recommendations for people to eat. Included are the recommended servings of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products, meats and beans and oils. Amounts recommended depend on whether a person is an adult or a child, or if a woman is pregnant or breast feeding.

The basic food pyramid recommends that people eat a minimum of three servings of whole grains, a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, and an assortment of lean protein sources. Unfortunately, this is only a guide and does not go as in-depth as some may need in a list of best nutritional foods.

What Are the Best Nutritional Foods?

If you are searching for the best nutritional foods, there is a long list of foods that can be included. One site, The World's Healthiest Foods, lists 129 foods that are considered a base for healthy eating. Memorizing such a list would be difficult, to say the least. Remembering some basic guidelines is much easier.

In a nutshell, the best nutritional foods are whole foods that have not been processed or have undergone very minimal processing. Rice, for example, is much healthier when it's natural brown rice as opposed to processed white rice. Processing removes many important nutrients, including much of the B vitamins, iron and dietary fiber. Brown rice may take a bit longer to cook, but the added nutrients are well worth it. The flavor of brown rice also is wonderful and it adds a nice texture to your meals.

Fruits and vegetables should be eaten in quantity. Aim for several servings with each meal. It's a good idea to look for fresh, organic produce to reduce the chances of taking in chemicals, which are believed to contribute to numerous health issues, including cancer. Ideally, the more color, the better when selecting produce. Dark green vegetables provide many vitamins such as vitamins A and C, iron, calcium and more. Red, blue and purple berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. The more color you include in your diet, in the form of natural foods as opposed to artificial colors, the healthier you will be.

Protein sources also are important for building muscle tissue. Some people prefer to get their protein from non-animal sources, such as beans or tofu. Those who enjoy eating meat should choose from lean cuts that are broiled, boiled or baked. Avoid meats that are deep fried in oils, as this adds unhealthy fats to your diet, which can contribute to heart problems.

Super Foods

You likely see much media hype about so-called super foods. These foods may include exotic fruits such as acai berries. Other nutrient-rich super foods include more easier found foods such as blueberries, spinach or green tea. Before you buy into hype, keep in mind that you can have a very healthy diet without spending crazy amounts of money on exotic, unusual foods. You don't need a special source for most of what you need to be healthy. You usually can find high-quality fruits, vegetables and other foods at your local grocery store, natural foods store or farmers market--without spending a small fortune.

Some people worry that these healthy foods are more costly than processed packaged foods. While this may be true, you also should consider your health in the total cost. Processed foods that are high in fat, salt, sugar and calories may be inexpensive, but they contribute to countless health problems. Many people today do not have health insurance, and the cost of medical care is not cheap. If you think you cannot afford as much fresh food as you'd like, try growing your own. You'll not only save money, but you'll get exercise as well. Together these things will contribute to improved health. In the long run, your monetary and health savings will be priceless.

Risks Associated With Face Lift Surgery

Face lift surgery is a procedure that repairs visible signs of aging on the face and neck. Wrinkles and sagging skin naturally occur as people age. However, heredity, an unhealthy diet, smoking and obesity accelerates these skin problems. This procedure also repairs folds and fat deposits that appear on the neck and creases around the nose and mouth. You look younger after certified plastic surgeons prepare skin, fat and muscles. Like any surgical procedure, various risks are associated with face lift surgery.

Procedure

A face lift takes between three to five hours to complete, depending on the complexity on the procedure. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons website describes face lift surgery. An anesthesiologist administers intravenous sedation and/or general anesthesia. A surgeon decides on the best kind of sedation. The surgeon then makes an incision along the hair line at the temples and continues cutting around the ears to the lower scalp. The surgeon redistributes fat on the face, jowls and neck and repositions underlying tissue and muscle on the face. A surgeon pulls the skin upward and trims the excess skin. Sutures or skin adhesives close the incisions. The hairline incision decreases scar visibility once the incision heals. A face lift may include nose reshaping, forehead lifts and neck lifts.

Anesthesia and Medication Reactions

You can have an adverse reaction to anesthesia and medications given after face lift surgery. According to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, reactions include nausea and vomiting, allergies to medications, sore throats, nerve damage, lung infections, strokes, heart attacks and death. Doctors provide medications before surgery to prevent nausea and vomiting, and surgeons monitor patients before, during and after surgery as precautionary measures for serious complications. Speak to your surgeon about changing medications, but don't stop taking current medications.

Healing

Many risks associated with face lift surgery occur during the healing process. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons website says these risks include unfavorable scarring, bleeding, infections, skin and hair loss, fluid accumulation, discoloration, swelling and skin sensitivity. Avoid these risks by following your doctor's instruction on cleaning wounds and changing bandages. Doctors use a tube to reduce fluid buildup on the face. Discoloration and swelling decrease in a few weeks or months.

Nerve Damage

You may experience nerve damage after face lift surgery. This damage includes facial nerve weakness or numbness or changes in skin sensation on the face. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says nerve damage is usually temporary. See your surgeon if you don't feel sensation in your face.

Unsatisfactory Results

You may not be happy with your face lift and have a second procedure to get the desired result. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website, dissatisfaction includes facial asymmetry, unsatisfactory scar location and visible deformities.

Where Did The Barber Pole Originate

A barber's pole is the oldest distinguishable mark of any profession or craft. The helix of red, white and blue stripes is a most recognized symbol in many corners of the world. This line of business can be traced back to approximately 3500 BC when razor blades were found dating back to the Bronze Age. A short quote referring to this craft, "take thee a barber's razor," can also be found in the Bible.

Barbers and Surgeons

During the Middle Ages, barbers were multifaceted individuals. They cut hair and trimmed beards, pulled teeth and performed surgery (blood letting), which was one of their principal duties. A barber/surgeon was considered to be a respected and protected individual.

In London in 1745, a bill was passed to separate barbers and surgeons, which marked the decline of barbers as practitioners of medicine. This was brought about through a rise in the availability of medicine, developments in surgical processes and individuals complaining they were not feeling better after their respective procedures. By the end of the 18th century, most barbers had stopped performing surgery.

Blood Letting

Withdrawing large quantities of blood from a patient was believed to be prevention against many illnesses and diseases. Many of the same tools were used in both barbering and surgery, such as razor-sharp knives, scissors and other cutting implements. An individual functioning as both a barber and surgeon was a long-established conventional practice.

Surgical Procedures

To perform surgical or blood letting procedures, it was necessary for a patient to grasp a staff so the veins on his/her arm would stand out sharply. A basin was used to hold leaches and catch blood, and a large supply of linen bandages was required. Two spiral bandages were used during surgery, one was twisted around the arm before the bleeding began; the other was used to bind the arm afterward. When the procedure was over, the blood-strained washed bandages were placed on an outside pole to dry. Twirled by the wind, they would form a red and white spiral pattern.

Symbolic

All parts of a barber pole have symbolic meanings. The pole represented the staff that a patient gripped during the surgical procedure to encourage blood flow. The red color represented blood, the blue characterized the individual's veins, and the white signified the bandages used. The earliest poles also had a leach basin on top, which was eventually converted into a ball.

Signage

Originally, the pole with both bandages wrapped around it together was hung at the door as a sign or advertisement. Many years ago, people used symbols to denote their respective professions because the majority of individuals were illiterate. Later, instead of hanging out the original pole, an imitation was painted and given a permanent place outside the shop.

Large Hernia Mesh Recovery Time

Large Hernia Mesh Recovery Time

The recovery time from hernia surgery may vary depending on several factors. Some of these factors are what type of hernia is repaired and what size mesh is used during the repair.

Identification

A hernia is a hole in the muscle wall of the abdomen. A hernia can be present at birth, or may be the result of an injury. Pressure from inside the abdomen pushes the organs through the hole and creates a bulge.

Surgical Repair

A hernia will usually require surgery to repair the hole in the abdomen. Most surgeons use a tension-free technique, using mesh to reinforce the repair. The mesh heals with the tissues in the abdomen, incorporating the mesh into the wall of the abdomen.

Recovery Time

The recovery time for large mesh tension-free hernia repairs is relatively short. Most patients are allowed to drive about two or three days after surgery, and may return to a sedentary job in about two or three days. Patients that have very active jobs, may wait two to three weeks before returning to work.

Exercise

Patients may return to light exercise such as walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike within two or three days following surgery. Moderate exercise such as aerobics and light free weights may be started five to seven days after surgery. Active exercise such as soccer or hockey, may be permitted about two to three weeks following surgery.

Considerations

The tension free surgical repair of a hernia using large mesh, generally has a shorter recovery time than the traditional hernia repair. Recovery time is based on the age and activity level of the patient, as well as the type of hernia that is being repaired.

The Purpose Of Magnets In Slimming Belts

Magnets are powerful tools.

Magnetic slimming belts make the promise of weight loss and come in an array of "as seen on TV" products. These slimming belts claim to use the power of magnets to help you shed pounds.

The Claim

Sites that sell magnetic slimming belts say that they harness the power of magnetic resonance vibrations. The magnets power the vibrations and are supposed to tone the abdomen and burn calories with ease. Some also claim that bio-magnetism has the power to rejuvenate the metabolism and aid weight loss.

The Science

According to a study conducted by the Department of Community Health at the University of Oregon, magnets as a weight loss tool aren't all that they're cracked up to be. Though slight changes in metabolism were found to occur, the changes were not enough to be significant or to suggest that magnets can assist in weight loss. The study concluded that bio-magnetism is not an effective weight loss plan.

The Bottom Line

There is no scientific evidence that the magnets in a magnetic slimming belt will promote weight loss at all. The stated purpose of the magnets is to produce vibrations resulting in weight loss, but their real purpose may be to provide a placebo effect.

Organ Donation Criteria

As of February 22, 2010, approximately 105,784 people are on a waiting list to receive a donated organ, according to OrganDonor.gov, which provides "U.S. government information on organ and tissue donation and transplantation." From January through November 2009 there were 26,081 organ transplants performed.

Absolute Exclusions

While all people should consider becoming an organ donor, there are a few automatic exclusions that will prevent someone from becoming a donor, according to OrganDonor.gov. Donors cannot be HIV positive, have cancer at the time of donation or have any kind of infection that affects organs or tissues.

Age Requirements

There are no age limits for being an organ donor. According to OrganDonor.gov, "newborns and senior citizens have been organ donors." However, if you are a minor (under age 18), you must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian in order to be an organ donor. The common age range for living organ donation is 18 to 60.

Types

Organs and tissue (i.e. stem cells, bone marrow and blood) may be donated from a living person. A living person is also permitted to donate one kidney, as well as a portion of his liver and lungs. Solid organs and tissues may also be donated after declared brain or cardiac death. A living person may also will his entire body to be donated to a university or research institution for educational and scientific purposes.

Organ Condition

The condition of a potential donor's organs is crucial to his donation status. OrganDonor.gov states that a young person may not be able to donate a portion of his liver because of past alcohol abuse, whereas an elderly person who has lived an alcohol-free life could donate a portion of his liver. Each donor's organs are thoroughly examined by a physician in order to be approved for donation.

Expert Insight

According to OrganDonor.gov, a living donor should be thoroughly counseled on her decision to undergo elective surgery that could have a major impact on her body and life. There have been no formal studies conducted to survey living donors several years after their surgeries. All donors should carefully weigh the risks and make an educated decision after consulting their physicians.

Pr Interview Tips

It's important to leave a lasting impression on your interviewer.

Making a positive and lasting impression during the interview is a key component to landing your ideal Public Relations job. Approach the interview with enthusiasm and confidence and arm yourself with research about the company and the position to ensure a successful meeting that will help you get the gig.

Before You Go

Before you even set foot in the interview, devote time to learning as much as possible about the company to which you are applying and the person with whom you will be interviewing. Browse the Internet and the company's website to find out more about their business, how they treat clients and general expectations from employees. A quick online search may also help you find out more about your interviewer's career history and accomplishments. A well-researched candidate shows prospective employers that he is serious about the position and is willing to put forth the effort to get the job done.

Practice Your Answers

After you have an understanding of the company where you are applying, go over some commonly asked interview questions and prepare general answers. Many businesses use the same questions like, "Why should we hire you?" and, "Why do you want to work here?" Preparing ahead of time will make the question and answer process go much smoother, since you will already have a game plan in mind. Remember to only prepare general answers; rigid answers that sound rehearsed will leave an employer wondering how truthful your responses really are.

Gather Your Portfolio

While not every Public Relations company will ask to see a portfolio, it's a good idea to put one together to show prospective employees. The Public Relations Society of America recommends gathering personally created materials that outline the basic responsibilities of a PR worker, like articles or press releases. Putting your best work into a portfolio provides an excellent resource to showcase your talents and capabilities.

In the Interview

There are several key elements that all companies value when seeking new employees. Interviewers highly appreciate candidates with positive attitudes, solid communication skills, honesty and sincerity, punctuality and confidence. When meeting your interviewer, greet them with a firm handshake and smile and be sure to maintain eye contact. Dress professionally and keep your appearance neat and clean. Take questions seriously and provide thoughtful, yet concise answers. Be honest and forthright with your responses and let the interviewer get a sense of who you really are. Use the research you conducted to ask questions of the interviewer to express your interest in learning more about the company and how you can be a successful part of it.

Following Up

After the interview is finished, follow up with a simple thank you note or phone call. Let the potential employer know how much you appreciated them taking the time to meet with you and re-iterate your interest in the position. Be polite in your follow-up and keep it brief and on-topic.

Pros & Cons Of Stainless Steel Rings

Sure, stainless steel is responsible for Manhattan's height, durable surgical instruments and adding an expensive touch to any kitchen, but another way the metal is used is to make watches and jewelry--especially rings. The silver color and brilliant tarnish-free luster are the major attractions to substitute the inexpensive metal for platinum or sterling silver. The following are the pros and cons to owning a stainless steel ring. Does this Spark an idea?

Pro: Inexpensive Yet Platinum-Looking

Of course, the biggest pro to stainless steel is its expense--or lack there of. Resembling platinum, a stainless steel ring costs significantly less than a ring of any precious metal. Achieving the in-demand look of platinum can often set you back financially, so why not get the bright silvery tone without the hefty price tag?

Con: Think Stain "Less" not Stain "Free"

Don't be fooled--yes, stainless steel will not stain or rust as easily as regular steel, but it isn't guaranteed to stay stain-free for life. Regular cleaning will prevent your stainless steel ring from losing its luster.

Pro: Easy to Maintain

Cleaning your stainless steel ring requires no special agent or tools--just warm water, a cloth, some dish detergent and little bit of elbow grease. If your ring has endured a little more love, whitening toothpaste is a great way to remove that extra dirt and grime. (Just choose one that does not contain silica). Once you've cleaned your ring with your chosen method, polish it lightly with a dry cloth to remove any water spots.

Con: Watch Out for Nickel

There a lot of people sensitive to nickel, and stainless steel can often contain that metal. Always check if your ring is nickel-free; that information should be displayed on the ring card, or ask the sales assistant from whom you are purchasing the ring.

Pro: Ready to Withstand Wear and Tear

Rings have to endure all the activities you put your hands through all day long ,which is why it can be beneficial for it to made from extremely sturdy stainless steel. (The metal is used to build skyscrapers, remember?)

Con: It's Just Not a Precious Metal

No matter how you look at it, stainless steel will never have the same cache as, say, sterling silver, gold or platinum. Precious metals are popular in rings thanks to their limited supply and subsequent status. When gifting a ring, say an engagement ring, anniversary ring or even wedding ring--stainless steel simply does not say the same thing as one of these precious metals.

Semester Hours Vs Quarter Hours

In higher education in the United States, academic terms are divided into either quarters or semesters, with quarter hours typically being weighted with less credit than semester hours. There are advantages and disadvantages to each academic system. There are also complicating factors, such as when a student needs to transfer hours from one academic system to the other.

Quarter Hours

Quarter hours are computed on a quarterly academic system. Under the quarter system, the academic year is divided into three quarters: fall, winter and spring, generally 10 weeks each. Most academic programs do not consider summer as part of the regular academic year, although courses are frequently offered during the summer. Quarter systems are often scheduled so that the academic term ends before major holidays such as Christmas and Hanukkah or Easter and Passover.

Advantages of Quarter Hours

Quarter hours allow for a greater variety of courses to be offered within an academic program. Many students are more willing to venture outside their majors within a quarter system because each class bears less weight against their overall academic records. In scheduling classes under a quarter system, it is easier for students to enroll in upper-level courses as undergraduates in a quarter system than in a semester system. Additionally, for less enjoyable classes, the duration of the term is shorter than for semester hours.

Semester Hours

Semester hours are computed on a semester academic system, with two academic terms per year: generally fall and either winter or spring, generally 15 weeks each. As with the quarter system, the summer is not considered a standard part of the academic year under a semester system. When classes are scheduled during the summer, the term is much shorter than the standard semester. Semester systems are frequently scheduled so that classes begin in late August or early September, and the end of the school year occurs in late May, often before Memorial Day.

Advantages of Semester Hours

Semester hours allow for more in-depth study of a subject as a result of the longer terms. Students may also be able to devote more out-of-class hours to a particular subject with a semester hour system. Additionally, students may feel less pressured with an academic calendar based on semester hours because classes may be scheduled for fewer days per week than with quarter hours. By ending classes in May, semester hour systems allow students to get a jump on the summer job market.

Transferring Between Quarter and Semester Hours

There can be complications for a student who transfers from a school with one academic system to a school using another academic system or students who apply for graduate programs that use different systems from the undergraduate program. However, most academic institutions have standardized conversion charts they use in computing academic hours when considering a student's transcript. Conversion works along many of the same principles involved as when converting the credits from a foreign transcript to an American university system.

Ivf Financial Help

Many couples struggle with paying IVF bills.

Many couples are financially unprepared for the high cost of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments for infertility. Because many couples don't have insurance covering IVF, they have explored other financial help options for infertility treatment bills.

Background

In vitro fertilization treatments typically cost around $12,000 per treatment cycle. A treatment cycle includes the monitored ovarian stimulation of the patient's ovaries to produce eggs, surgical collection of eggs, laboratory procedures for fertilization and embryo culture and an embryo transfer procedure to return the embryos to the uterus of the intended mother. The costs for a single treatment cycle is usually broken down into thirds with one-third going to the IVF laboratory, another third to the physician and a third to pay for ovarian stimulation drugs. Most patients do not have complete insurance coverage for IVF, although 15 states have some level of mandated coverage. Individual state mandates vary widely and may limit or prohibit coverage to some groups; for instance, gay couples or single women. Because of limited insurance coverage and high expenses incurred from IVF, patients need other non-traditional methods to finance IVF treatments.

Types

The most common type of financial help is partial insurance coverage. For instance, even in states without insurance mandates to cover IVF, employers may elect to provide some generous insurance coverage to attract employees. Even if the patient does not have infertility coverage per se, they may have a drug benefit that does not specifically exclude fertility drugs which can be used to pay for ovarian stimulation drugs.

The International Council on Infertility Information Dissemination Inc. (INCIID), an infertility support group, offers an IVF scholarship program for patients who can demonstrate both medical and financial need. Specific assisted reproductive technology (ART) programs have agreed to partner with INCIID to provide donated IVF services.

The Internal Revenue Service will allow you to deduct your medical expenses on your tax return if these expenses exceed 7.5% of your annual adjusted gross income. The specific eligibility requirements and limitations of these deductions are described in full in IRS Publication 502.

Controversial Financing

Some fertility programs offer "shared risk programs" in which patients pay a higher up-front fee for IVF but are guaranteed a pregnancy in three tries or they get 70% to 100% of their original up-front payment back. Eligibility requirements to enter these programs are often based on the expected ease of achieving a pregnancy, generating criticism that some shared risk programs cherry pick only good-prognosis patients. The Integramed Fertility Network of IVF providers' Attain IVF Program and Shady Grove Fertility's Shared Risk 100% Refund Plan for IVF and Donor Egg are two examples of shared risk programs.

Government Coverage Debates

With health care reform, the question of fertility treatment coverage has created debate among patients, the public, insurers and medical providers. Because fertility is not a life-threatening condition, fertility treatments are defined by some insurance providers as "optional" treatments similar to cosmetic surgeries.

Not covering IVF may seem to offer cost-savings but actually increases costs by driving up the multiple birth rate that drives up premature births which increase the use of expensive neonatal intensive care units (NICU). In their July 2003 study published in the journal Fertility & Sterility, Dr. Meredith A. Reynolds and her colleagues at the Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization determined that the occurrence of high-risk multiple births was lower in states that mandate IVF insurance coverage. Patients without insurance coverage for IVF felt more financial pressure to transfer multiple embryos per attempt to increase their chances of pregnancy, even though this practice also increased their risk of twins, triplets and higher order multiples. Having insurance coverage allowed patients to feel they could transfer fewer embryos because they could afford more than one IVF procedure to become pregnant.

In countries with generous government health plans such as the United Kingdom and Canada, low-cost or free IVF is available but often includes long waits or other patient eligibility requirements used to limit patient enrollment and maximize the effectiveness of IVF. For example, maximum age cutoffs are used to exclude older women from covered IVF treatments. Because obesity is known to reduce the success rate with IVF, one controversial proposal in the U.K. is to impose certain maximum allowable weight criteria in order to be eligible for IVF services.

Financial Planning

The patient should expect to receive a written estimate in advance detailing what the proposed medical treatments will cost. Each procedure the lab or the physician performs has a Current Procedural Technology (CPT) code list attached to it and should be provided with the written estimate from the provider. The insurance company can reference these codes and inform the patient in advance which of them are covered and how much will be the patient's responsibility. Most fertility programs work with their patient's insurance company in advance to determine which part of the treatments may be covered. Some fertility providers may offer discounts for self-pay patients if they pay cash.

Kidney Failure Treatment Transplant And Dialysis

Kidneys clean the blood of excess fluid, minerals and wastes. But when they fail, harmful wastes build up, the body may retain excess fluid and not produce enough red blood cells. Kidney failure requires extensive treatment as the body begins to suffer an inability to properly dispose of toxins.

Significance

Chronic or end stage kidney disease, also known as renal failure, requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Considerations

A physician typically orders dialysis when 85 to 90 percent of kidney function disappears.

Identification

Hemodialysis pumps blood through a machine to remove waste before returning it to the circulatory system. Peritoneal dialysis utilizes a catheter to cleanse blood inside the body.

Transplants

Transplanted kidneys may be obtained from deceased donors or a living family member. "People who have transplants must take drugs to keep their body from rejecting the new kidney for the rest of their lives," according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Success Rate

The Mayo Clinic reports that 95 percent of kidneys received from living donors are still functioning after 1 year compared to a 92 percent success rate for those received from deceased donors.

Signs & Symptoms Of A Need For Hip Replacement

Hip-replacement surgery is becoming an increasingly common procedure. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, nearly 193,000 hip-replacement surgeries are done in the United States annually. A variety of conditions indicate whether you might be a candidate for hip-replacement surgery.

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip-replacement surgery is a procedure in which all or some portion of a damaged hip is removed and replaced with a man-made hip or prosthesis. The intent of the surgery is to reduce pain and increase mobility for the patient.

Osteoarthritis: A Common Cause

People often seek hip-replacement surgery when they suffer from osteoarthritis. This chronic condition involves a deterioration of cartilage. This can be very painful because cartilage cushions and protects the ends of the bones. When cartilage breaks down the bones begin to rub together.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteonecrosis

Two more conditions that can lead to a need for hip-replacement surgery are rheumatoid arthritis and osteonecrosis. Rheumatoid arthritis involves the inflammation of a joint lining. When the lining becomes inflamed, it swells and may destroy surrounding bone and cartilage. Osteonecrosis is a disease that causes the blood supply to an area of bone to decrease or be lost. This loss of blood can cause the bone to break down and collapse.

Physical Signs and Symptoms

Certain signs indicate the possible need for a hip replacement. In addition to the arthritic conditions above, traumatic stress or an injury to the hip area, pain, stiffness and limited mobility are warning symptoms. Although all are indicators hip-replacement surgery may be necessary, they are not conclusive. The need for surgery depends on the degree of pain and stiffness experienced by the patient. Doctors often recommend hip-replacement surgery when daily activities, such as dressing and walking, become too difficult.

Signs Perceived by Physician

In addition to monitoring a patient's physical symptoms, a physician has other ways to determine if hip replacement is necessary. A physical exam and a patient history help the doctor determine where strain is being put on the hip. X-rays are taken to determine how much the bones and cartilage have deteriorated. Finally, blood tests are done to see if the hipbone or joints are infected.

Risks Of Triple Bypass Surgery

Like any other type of surgery, there are certain risks involved with triple bypass surgery. These range from risks that are likely to happen with any type of surgery to risks that are unique to heart bypass surgery itself. Risks are greater in older persons than in younger persons, and women are more likely to have complications than men are. The risks will vary according to the patient's past medical conditions.

General Risks

Some risks are expected with any type of surgery. These risks include, but are not limited to breathing problems, infection, pneumonia, blood loss and blood clots. These problems are less likely to occur if you follow your doctor's orders following your surgery. Breathing problems and pneumonia can be avoided by doing simple breathing exercises, many of which will be taught to you by a respiratory therapist before you leave the hospital. Your doctor will probably prescribe blood thinners and a TED hose for you to wear after surgery to help prevent blood clots. Infection can be prevented by making sure to change dressings frequently according to your doctor's orders.

Heart Attack or Stroke

Triple bypass surgery involves grafting an artery or a vein from another part of your body to three of your coronary arteries to bypass blockages caused by arteriosclerosis. During the time in which the blocked coronary arteries are being manipulated, there is a risk that a blood clot can break off and travel through the heart or through the bloodstream to the brain. Blood clots that go into the heart often trigger a heart attack. Blood clots that travel to the brain can cause a stroke.

Sternal Wound Infection

During triple bypass surgery, the sternum is cut open in order to reach the heart. Because this wound is very large, there is greater risk of wound infection. In addition, because this wound is close to the heart and lungs, any type of infection has the potential to affect the heart. Strict adherence to your doctor's orders about dressing changes, compliance with taking your medications, and cleanliness during dressing changes should be of utmost importance.

Post-pericardotomy Syndrome

Post-pericardotomy syndrome is a complication that occurs in about 15 percent of patients who have had some form of open-heart surgery. It can appear days or even weeks after surgery. Some sort of virus often triggers it. Its symptoms include a low-grade fever, tiredness, shortness of breath, chest pain or muscle pain. Symptoms often last for several weeks. Treatment includes rest and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.

Abnormal Heart rate

The heart generates electrical signals to trigger the contractions that push blood through the heart and out into the body. Often after open-heart surgery these signals can become disorganized and cause the heart to beat more slowly, very rapidly or irregularly. These abnormal heartbeats often do not last long and cause little or no symptoms. This condition is very common and usually resolves on its own.

What Is The Onestitch Facelift

The one-stitch face-lift is supposedly a more subtle and less invasive procedure than traditional face-lifts. Sometimes referred to as a "lunchtime procedure," the one-stitch face-lift is done under local anesthesia and has a shorter recovery time.

History

Plastic surgeon Dr. Renato Calabria, from Beverly Hills, Calif., developed the one-stitch face-lift as an alternative to mini-face-lifts. He reportedly got the idea after seeing an actress use tape to pull up the skin around her eyes.

Procedure

The patient is placed under local anesthesia and small incisions are made along the hairline. Sutures are then threaded and anchored, effectively pulling up the skin without the need to cut it. The procedure is completed within minutes, and the patient can supposedly return to work the next day because swelling and bruising are minimal. Totally recovery time is around four days. The procedure costs between $5,000 and $7,000.

Results

The one-stitch face-lift is said to make the patient look up to five years younger and have a natural appearance. According to Dr. Calabria, it softens the nasal labia fold and tightens the jawline. While not meant as a replacement for an endoscopic, vertical face-lift, it can refresh a patient's look and can be used in combination with Botox and fillers.

Typical Patients

According to Dr. Calabria, patients who opt for this type of face-lift are usually in their 30s. Actresses who want some facial rejuvenation without the downtime are also known to get the one-stitch face-lifts. They typically have the surgery done before major events such as movie premieres or award shows.

Expert Insight

A forum poll of several plastic surgeons reveals that the type of face-lift is not as important as the plastic surgeon. These doctors caution would-be patients to thoroughly vet their potential surgeon. The doctors suggest calling up former patients and talking with the surgeon to ensure that he or she is on the same page. It is fine to consult multiple doctors to find the right one for the procedure.

Recovery From Shoulder Impingement Surgery

Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common source of shoulder pain in adults caused by pressure on the rotary cuff, a tendon linking muscles in the shoulder blade. It usually affects athletes or middle-aged persons and can be caused by repetitive lifting or motions which require overhead lifting of the arm during sports, such as tennis or baseball. Initial treatment usually involves non-surgical procedures, but if these fail to relieve pain, shoulder impingement surgery is often advised. Your shoulder impingement recovery time after surgery will depend upon the severity of your condition and the type of surgery involved.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical treatment of a shoulder impingement seeks to relieve the pain in the shoulder by creating more space for the rotary cuff to allow the humeral head to move more freely when lifting the arm overhead. Subacromial decompression or anterior acromioplasty are the most common surgical treatments performed on a shoulder impingement.

Decompression enlarges the space between the head of the humerus and the acromion (acromioplasty), while removal of the subacromial bursa--a lubricating sack which often becomes inflamed and causes pain--is called a bursectomy. When both procedures are required the surgery is call a subacromial decompression. Arthroscopic surgery (surgery through several small puncture wounds with the use of a fiberoptic scope and small surgical tools) is less invasive than open-wound surgery and usually has a shorter recovery period.

Post-Operative Recovery

After surgery, you may be tired or disoriented from the anesthesia, with some patients experiencing nausea or other side effects. Your doctor may fit your shoulder with a pain pump or prescribe a pain medication to help ease the pain. Most surgeries will have you return home the same day, where you can use ice packs on the shoulder to help reduce swelling and eliminate discomfort. Your arm will be fixed with a sling to allow early healing to the site, usually worn for several days after surgery.

Discomfort from shoulder impingement surgery usually leaves within six weeks to three months, although for more severe cases it may last up to a year. Physical therapy is usually begun the first or second week after surgery.

Rehabilitation

A rehabilitation program may be implemented depending upon the severity of the surgery and the individual patient's needs. Generally, a reduction of activity is recommended with an avoidance of any overhead movement until the more painful symptoms subside. Exercises for range of motion and shoulder and arm strengthening are part of the physical therapy, which may take from two months to a year for complete pain relief. Physical therapy may entail stretching exercises, weighted pendulum stretches, relaxation techniques, muscle strengthening workouts, outward rotation exercises and scapular squeezes.

Meridia Faq

Meridia is a medication prescribed to aid obese individuals in losing excess weight. Meridia alone will not cause weight loss, but it can help make dieting easier. Individuals taking meridia should be monitored often to ensure that no adverse side effects occur and to make sure that the dosing is sufficient.

How Does Meridia Work?

Meridia works by controlling brain chemicals that trigger cravings or hunger sensations.

How Should You Use Meridia?

Meridia should be taken each morning. Meridia should be used in combination with a low calorie diet and exercise.

What are the Side Effects of Meridia?

Side effects may include: headache, joint pain, sinus inflammation, sore throat, stomachache, nausea, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, coughing, indigestion, nervousness, weakness and insomnia.

What is the Dosage for Meridia?

Meridia is available in either 5 mg, 10 mg or 15 mg pills. Generally, patients begin with the 10 mg dose. The dosage may be increased to 15 mg if the patient does not lose at least 4 pounds during the first 4 weeks of treatment. The 5 mg dose may be used when bothersome side effects are experienced when taken the 10 mg dose.

Warnings

Meridia may cause blood pressure to rise; thus, blood pressure may need to be closely monitored. Meridia should not be used by anyone with heart disease or anyone who has had a stroke.

Reebok Fitwatch Instructions

Keeping time of your laps or the amount of time you have spent working out is important if you keep fit by running or jogging. The Reebok company makes a line of Fitwatches that will not only keep time like a normal watch, but also keep track of your lap time or total time while running. This watch is controlled by using the dials and buttons located on either side of the watch's face.

Instructions

1. Pull out on "Dial 1" ---- the top dial on the right hand side of the watch face ---- until you can't pull out anymore. Turn this dial either direction to move the minute hand of the watch. As you move the minute hand, the hour hand also will move. Set the minute and hour and push the dial back in all the way to set the time.

2. Pull out on "Dial 1" again into the middle position. Turn this dial to change the date on the watch. As you turn the dial, the date will begin to change. When the date is correct, push the dial all the way in again to lock it in place. The date will automatically change every 24 hours.

3. Turn "Dial 2" ---- or the lowest dial on the right side of the watch ---- to set an alarm on the watch. The hour and minute hands will change as you set the time. When the time is set, pull out on "Dial 2" to the middle position to set the alarm. You will hear the watch beep, and the hands will move back to the current time.

4. Pull "Dial 1" out into the middle position, and press the "B" button on the left side of the watch to move the hour hand on the timer. Pull the dial all the way out, and press the "B" button to change the minute hand on the timer. Press the "A" button on the right side of the watch to change the timer's second hand.

5. Push "Dial 1" all the way back in. Press the "A" button to start and stop the timer. Press the "B" button to reset the timer

Information On Humana Military

Humana Military Healthcare is a regional health provider for U.S. military members.

Humana Military Healthcare Services is a third-party administrator of Tricare, the U.S. military's health care program, that offers health insurance benefits to more than 2.6 million active, reserve and retired military members and their families. As of 2011, Humana Military operates more than 80 service centers and 53 military treatment centers in 10 southeastern states and Puerto Rico and has more than 1,500 employees.

History

Humana Military Healthcare Services was founded in 1993 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Humana, Inc. and is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. Humana Military formed its partnership with Tricare in 1995 and has been offering high-quality accessible health care to the military sector in several states, including Texas, Alabama, Florida and South Carolina. Nearly one-third of Humana Military's employees are Tricare beneficiaries, including the company's chief executive officer and senior regional executive director.

Growth

When Humana Military and the Department of Defense formed their partnership in 1995, Humana was given responsibility for Tricare's Regions 3 (Southeast) and 4 (Gulf South). In 2001, Humana Military was given Regions 2 (Mid-Atlantic) and 5 (Heartland), nearly doubling its previous coverage. At that point, the company was providing health care services to more than 42 percent of the nation's Tricare members. The DOD also designated Humana Military as the sole administrator of Tricare's Continued Health Care Benefits Program (CHCBP) during 2001. In 2003, Humana Medical was named Tricare's partner for the newly formed South Region, which is the area it currently services.

Partners

As of 2011, Humana Military Healthcare Services has partnered with ValueOptions and PGBA LLC in its health care services. ValueOptions, one of the nation's largest behavioral health providers, provides all of Humana Military's mental health and substance abuse services. PGBA is one of the largest subsidiaries of BlueCross/BlueShield of South Carolina and performs all of Humana Military's claims processing for Tricare's South Region.

Mission and Training

Striving to follow its mission of providing military personnel with high-quality health care, Humana Military requires its employees and associates to undergo regular training and education. Humana Military believes that integrity and ethical behavior should go hand in hand and that its employees and associates should work together as a cohesive unit to achieve those goals. Educational and training programs, including Web-based procurement integrity and ethics and compliance training, are required of the company's employees on an annual basis. Printed material stressing the importance of the company's mission and refresher information are distributed on a monthly and quarterly basis.

Quality Assurance

Humana Military employs several quality assurance programs to ensure the integrity and quality of its services. Several internal audits, including operation and compliance reviews and vulnerability assessment, are used to self-police the company's operations. External audits are also conducted by outside entities, including the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission and independent accountants, to further ensure the quality of Humana Military's functions.

Liquid Diet For Bariatric Surgery

As a result of bariatric surgery, the size of patients' stomach pouches is drastically reduced and parts of their small intestines are bypassed. This means that the way patients digest is very different, so the way they eat needs to be very different. During the first few months after surgery, patients eat a liquid diet to allow their digestive tracts to heal and to get used to their new bodies.

Liquids

During the first few days of recovery, you will probably need to drink liquids that you can see through. These liquids contain mostly water. Examples include clear broths, diet juices and skim milk. You'll want these liquids to be at room temperature because liquids that are too hot or too cold will be a shock to your currently-damaged digestive system. Drinking these water-based liquids at room temperature allows your stomach, small intestine and any other surgery sites to heal most efficiently.

Doctors generally recommend getting at least 64 ounces of fluids per day during this early stage of recovery. This will help you to feel full.

Purees

After the first few days, you will still be on a liquid diet for about four weeks, but you will be allowed to puree any food. The food you choose to puree will have to be blended until completely smooth, with no chunks or pieces, which could harm your healing digestive tract. To puree a food, blend it with some sort of liquid, like water, broth, skim milk or low-calorie gravy. This will help you to get the food smooth.

When you move to pureed foods, your doctor will probably recommend that you get plenty of protein, which helps your body to heal faster. Get protein from your food by blending lean meats or low-fat dairy. Most patients are also advised not to "eat" their pureed foods and drink pure liquids at the same time. This could cause too much expansion in your small stomach pouch, which could damage it while you're healing. Generally, you should wait 20 or 30 minutes between drinking and eating to ensure that this doesn't happen.

Vitamins and Supplements

After bariatric surgery, your doctor will probably recommend you take certain vitamins or supplements because your new digestive tract may not be able to absorb all of the nutrients from your food. Depending on the type of bariatric surgery you've had, you may have to continue to take vitamins and supplements for the rest of your life.

While on a liquid diet, you'll simply puree your vitamins or supplements into your food. If you need to take capsules, you can break them open and empty the powder into your puree or liquid.

Treatment Of Hip Dysplasia In Dogs

Treatment options for hip dysplasia in dogs

Hip dysplasia is an abnormal formation of the hip joint. It occurs in many mammals, although it is very common in dogs. According to the Baker Institute of Animal Health, hip dysplasia occurs in more than 50 percent of larger breed dogs. The deformation cannot be detected at birth, but can usually be recognized in the first year through X-rays.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hip dysplasia can be seen as early as four months of age. The dog might appear unsteady on its feet, place a greater proportion of weight on its front legs, or move its hind legs together when he runs in a hopping motion. As the condition worsens, the dog will have increased pain and stiffness in his hip joints, as hip dysplasia causes arthritic inflammation in the hip joints. It is important to note that dysplasia is an irreversible condition, but the discomfort can be managed. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, up to 76 percent of dogs with severe hip dysplasia are able to live a quality, functioning life with management.

Lifestyle Treatments

The goal of lifestyle treatments is to change everyday activities in order to prevent inflammation and irritation of the hip joints. Keeping the dog's weight down is key. If the dog is overweight, more stress will be applied to the joints during normal activities. Another important lifestyle change is exercise. All activities should be performed in a controlled method so as to allow the dog the maximum amount of desired activity while preventing agitation of the joint. The dog should also be kept in a warm environment whenever possible. During bouts of pain, your dog can benefit from the added warmth of a heating pad.

Medication Treatments

There are two main drug treatments for hip dysplasia. The first option is to give the dog a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain reliever. These work by lessening the inflammatory response and are typically administered an hour before exercise, or in response to existing discomfort. The second option is to administer disease-modifying osteoarthritis agents. These can be injected directly into the joint, vein or muscle, or they can be given orally. When given orally, these medications take up to one month to reach therapeutic levels. Direct injections, however, are faster-acting.

Surgical Treatments

If hip dysplasia is discovered early, in dogs less than 10 months and before arthritis develops, a surgical procedure known as a triple pelvic osteotomy can be performed. This surgery has a good success rate and recovery time is generally six weeks.

In dogs older than 10 months or that already have significant arthritic symptoms, a total hip replacement is the preferred surgery. Recovery time is typically four to six weeks and the surgery has a very high success rate, but is costly. A more cost-effective surgical treatment option for dogs older than 10 months is femoral head and neck excision. This procedure removes the femoral head and neck and replaces it with a false joint. This false joint is less stable and has a decreased range of motion.

History

Hip dysplasia in dogs was first discovered in 1937. It was first believed to be a rare disease, but is now documented as the most common orthopedic condition in dogs.

Laparoscopic Weight Loss Surgery

Laparoscopic weight loss surgery is an alternative to traditional bariatric surgery where a large incision is made in the abdomen. The laparoscopic approach involves creating smaller incisions and using instruments and camera equipment to band the stomach.

Significance

The significance of laparoscopic weight loss surgery in relation to traditional bariatric surgery is that it reduces post-operative complications and recovery time. Recovery time is approximately one week as opposed to six weeks for the open procedure.

Types

Laparoscopic weight loss surgery or Lap-Band surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where the Lap-Band is positioned around the stomach via a laparoscope, making the stomach smaller.

Function

The function of laparoscopic weight loss surgery is to fashion a smaller stomach by banding it so it has a smaller capacity for food, allowing for rapid weight loss.

Warnings

Laparoscopic weight loss surgery is not without risk. The band can slip and erode into the stomach. Complications include vomiting, difficulty swallowing, bloating, constipation, gastritis and ulceration.

Time Frame

Laparoscopic weight loss surgery requires the patient to undergo approximately five to six band adjustments in the first year, followed by three to four yearly after that.

Kaiser Stage 3 Foods

Gastric bypass operations need to go hand-in-hand with lifestyle changes.

California-based Kaiser Permanente is a not-for-profit integrated health care organization. Because 50 percent of the companies profits made by the umbrella organization are fed back into smaller, profit-making, companies affiliated with Kaiser Permanente, the company often comes under scrutiny. Nevertheless, the not-for-profit has 8.3 million health plan members and is the largest organization of its kind in the U.S. Part of Kaiser Permanente's weight management program provides gastric bypasses. Along with gastric bypasses, the not-for-profit also provides information on the long-term dietary changes necessary to maintain weight-loss following the operation which includes strict food rules and food stages.

Moving on from Stage One and Two

Stick to the liquid and blended foods allowed after the operation during Stage One and Stage Two. This should be followed for the first couple of weeks. Soft foods are introduced into the diet during the next stage, Stage Three.

Starting Stage Three

Begin eating soft solid foods like eggs, deli meats, soft vegetables, fish and cheese. You will probably feel full after approximately 3/4 cup to one cup of food due to your new, smaller stomach capacity. Because of this narrowing of the stomach, you might not be able to tolerate chewy meats and dry breads at this stage. Some patients find that they cannot tolerate solids at all for several weeks after the operation.

Particularly Important Dietary Inclusions

Concentrate on consuming enough protein and water to meet your daily requirements. Protein and water are especially important after the surgery as they help with healing and maintaining health. Sip water every 10 minutes for the first two weeks after the operation and then continue to drink water regularly throughout the day. If you cannot tolerate the Stage Three diet two weeks after surgery, continue drinking protein supplements until you are able to do so.

Foods to Include and Foods to Avoid

Research the best foods to include in your diet that are high in protein, but low in fat and calories. Avoid alcoholic beverages and high calorie drinks. Some patients react badly to high sugar foods, experiencing cramps, weakness and sweating. Since high sugar foods are not good to include in your long-term diet, begin avoiding them at this stage to start new habits. Other patients experience lactose intolerance after the surgery and have to avoid all dairy products. While this can prove problematic, to maintain weight loss, milk, cheese and other dairy products should only be consumed at a minimum anyway.

Important Dietary Supplements

Take a daily multivitamins that includes calcium, sublingual Vitamin B12 and iron (for menstruating women) after the operation. Vitamin absorption is diminished due to the altered anatomy of the stomach and intestines so most gastric bypass patients will need to take these supplements for life.

Laser Surgery To Quit Smoking

A plethora of products and treatments exist on the market to aid people in the battle to quit smoking. Laser treatment is one approach to cease nicotine addiction.

Function

Although it's frequently called laser surgery, the procedure is technically nonsurgical, since it is noninvasive. Referred to as cold therapy or low level laser therapy, this treatment uses low intensity lasers emitted from a lamp-like device. The lasers target specific "pressure points" on the body to stimulate energy at those points.

History

Laser therapy to quit smoking is based on the same basic principle of acupuncture, reflexology, and shiatsu: applying pressure to specific "accupoints" of the body stimulate changes, and trigger a shift in the body's inner energy. In this case, laser beams are used instead of needles. Enthusiasts claim lasers are more effective.

Effects

The laser beams aimed at the accupoints first function to relax the body. Then, they attempt to stimulate the release of endorphins, to simulate the effects of nicotine without the actual presence of nicotine. This ultimately aims to curb the need for nicotine.

Effectiveness

Like hypnosis, the effectiveness of laser therapy for quitting smoking is subjective. Results vary. Providers, such as Therlase and Healing Laser Clinics, Inc. in Orlando, Florida claim success rates of over 80 percent. According to the American Cancer Society, there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness, nor any evidence to contest it. The effectiveness of habit-breaking methods vary between different individuals, though some in the media have referred to laser treatment as a "breakthrough" for quitting smoking. Success cannot be guaranteed, especially since the habit of smoking extends beyond just a physical addiction.

Considerations

Laser treatment for quitting smoking is painless, has no side effects, and no downtime. The session length is 30 minutes, and most providers, such as the aforementioned, as well as facts given on StopSmokingLaserFacts.com, suggest that only one session is required. Rather than a gradual decrease in nicotine intake, laser treatment aims to cease nicotine addiction immediately.

Cost

On average, one laser treatment session to quit smoking costs $400, according to the Stop Smoking Laser FAQ on LaserCare.us.

Tips On Passing The Nclex

Pass the NCLEX to prepare for work as a nurse.

The NCLEX exam is a standardized test that measures an individual's preparedness to work within the field of nursing. In most states, a passing score on this exam is required to receive a valid nursing license. Because this test is, for many nursing candidates, the last step towards achieving nursing credentials, taking it can be highly stressful. This computer administered exam is quite different from others with which candidates are likely familiar. Careful preparation and consideration is often necessary for success.

Arrive Prepared

Just getting started on test day can be an intimidating procedure. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing cautions test takers to arrive on time. It is recommended that candidates arrive at least 30 minutes prior to test time. Those who arrive late may not be given the opportunity to take the test. Test takers must bring their Authorization to Test (ATT) and a form of ID. Additionally, candidates must complete biometric testing including a palm vein scan, fingerprinting and photographing.

Check Each Answer

While you may be required to answer up to 265 questions on the NCLEX, the number of questions that you actually answer will vary based upon your responses. If you demonstrate your competency after answering the first round of questions, you may be given a passing score without answering the remaining questions. Additionally, if your score on the first round of questions is excessively low, you may not be given the opportunity to answer additional questions. To ensure that you pass the test as quickly as possible, and don't risk a failure based upon your initial responses, you should check each question carefully.

Avoid Becoming Frustrated

The questions that you receive on the NCLEX depend upon your responses to previous questions. The program that administers the test is specially designed to increase the difficulty of questions if you are performing well on the assessment. This means that you will likely be given challenging questions throughout the examination. Do not let the question difficulty frustrate you, but instead remember that you are being given questions that are specifically intended to challenge you.

Do Not Rush

Test takers have a maximum of six hours to complete the NCLEX exam. Because there is such a large amount of time available to you, you should not feel the need to rush. Take your time, as rushing can lead to hasty mistakes and careless errors.

Side Effects Of Gallbladder Surgery

Side Effects of Gallbladder Surgery

The gallbladder, also known as the cholecyst, is an organ in the human body that is not vital for survival. The gallbladder's main function is to store bile for the body as well as helping with digestion. The gallbladder stores about 50 mL of bile that has been produced in the liver. Once the bile reaches the gallbladder, it becomes more concentrated than it was inside the liver. Many individuals experience problems with their gallbladder and a doctor may elect to have it removed. This procedure is known as gallbladder surgery. An individual can live a perfectly normal life without having a gallbladder.

Significance

The gallbladder is located on the left side of the abdomen, just to the left of the stomach. The gallbladder is connected by the cystic duct to the hepatic duct. These two ducts create the pancreatic duct. The gallbladder contains an epithelial lining with pouches inside. These pouches are called Aschoff's recesses. Ailments and diseases that affect the bladder include strawberry gallbladder, cholecystitis, cancer, polyps, and gallstones. All of these diseases may lead to gallbladder surgery.

Identification

If you are experiencing pain in your stomach, your primary care doctor can order an ultrasound to determine if the pain is being caused by your gallbladder. Gallstones are one of the most common gallbladder ailments. If there is a risk of serious complications along with your gallbladder pain, your primary care doctor may refer you to a surgeon. You should follow your doctor's recommendations precisely, especially if he or she recommends surgery.

Considerations

Gallbladder surgery is usually done by using a keyhole technique, also known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients undergoing laprascopic cholecystectomy are usually released the same day, but if there are any complications, it may take up to eight days in the hospital to recover from gallbladder surgery. Gallbladder surgery is a generally safe procedure, but as with any surgical procedure, there is always a risk of complications.

Side Effects

Immediately following gallbladder surgery, side effects may include pain in the shoulders and in the abdomen. The strange feeling in the shoulders is as a result of the gas used to inflate the abdomen during surgery. The abdominal pain may be as a result of this gas as well, but is probably due to the surgery. Other normal side effects include nausea or vomiting as a result of the medications administered after surgery.

Warning

Gallbladder surgery may result in potentially serious side effects. If you are experiencing pain in your legs, vomiting blood or having severe diarrhea, see a doctor immediately as you may be experiencing damage to your internal organs, blood clots, or other serious complications. Go to the doctor or emergency room immediately if you are unable to keep food down or experiencing severe, abnormal pain in your abdomen.

Topics For A Business Law Term Paper

Countless topics in business law.

Students find themselves in a panic when they hear the words term paper. The most difficult part to a term paper is finding a topic to write on that will fill the required page count. Fortunately, business law is filled with countless topics to write about, from contract law to intellectual property law. Business entails the formation of a company, insurance regulations, commerce and employee relations. Once you narrow your topic down to a certain subheading under business, you will find that there is plenty of information to keep your paper flowing.

Contract Law

One area of business law that can be broken down into further categories is contract law. You can write on the effects of a breach of contract in business and some of the defenses one might have to breaching a contract such as an adhesion contract, misrepresentation, fraud and duress. One famous case you could include in your paper is Sondra Locke v. Warner Brothers, a case where Locke sued Warner Brothers for breach of contract and failure to act in good faith. Another case you could include is the case brought against ABC and the Extreme Makeover Home Edition television show where five orphans claimed ABC had them sign an unconscionable contract allowing their host family to evict them from the home that was built by Extreme Makeover.

Tort Law

Another area of business law that can involve many subcategories is tort law. The area of tort law can include slips and falls at work, accidents involving work vehicles, nuisances such as businesses emitting pollution or noise, and manufacturers failing to provide a duty of care to consumers. Some famous cases involving tort law in the business realm are: Grimshaw v. Ford Motor Company, where Grimshaw sued Ford under product liability because the Ford Pinto was prone to catching on fire when hit from the rear due to its design; and the case made famous by the movie Erin Brockovich, Aguayo v. PG&E, where residents of a town were exposed to toxins in the air, water and soil.

Intellectual Property Law

Another one of the numerous areas under business law is intellectual property law. This area of the law was virtually non-existent just a couple of decades ago. You could write a paper on trademark infringement, copyright laws and trade secrets. There have been a great deal of cases in the news over the past several years. There was a criminal prosecution involving a former Coca Cola employee who along with two others tried to sell the secret formula of Coke to PepsiCo. There were also the numerous lawsuits that erupted against Napster in 2000 by many artists for "stealing" songs and allowing computer users to download music without paying the artists or producers.

The Best Diets For Women With Pcos

Plant-based foods help to ease the symptoms of PCOS.

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal disorder that affects between 5 and 8 percent of women in the United States, according to Dr. Geoffrey Redmond, MD, at the Hormone Help Center. The myriad symptoms of PCOS include acne, oily skin, increased growth of facial and body hair, loss of scalp hair, irregular periods, infertility, insulin resistance, weight gain and depression. Women with PCOS should follow current dietary recommendations, says registered dietitian Martha McKittrick, RD, CDE, on the OBGYN website. Untreated PCOS may lead to increased risk of endometrial cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

Low Glycemic Carbohydrates

When eating food the pancreas releases insulin, which enables conversion of sugar for energy or for fat storage. Many women with PCOS experience insulin resistance, says McKittrick, and this can trigger unpleasant symptoms, such as sugar cravings and weight gain. Since high intakes of carbohydrates may cause elevated insulin levels, McKittrick suggests "starting with a diet that is 40 percent carbohydrates and work[ing] your way downward if need be." Reduced cravings, increased energy levels and regular periods are some indicators of successful management of insulin levels. McKittrick recommends eating low glycemic carbohydrates, such as whole wheat bread, whole grain pasta, beans, fruits and vegetables.

Plant-Based Foods

Angela Grassi at the PCOS Nutrition Center explains that women with PCOS have "a higher rate of cardiovascular risk factors," such as elevated levels of LDL cholesterol and low levels of HDL cholesterol. Grassi suggests that a diet for PCOS should consist mainly of plant-based foods since they contain vitamins, minerals and fiber that help to reduce blood lipid levels, blood pressure and insulin. Plant-based foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. They contain fewer calories than animal produce and require lengthier amounts of chewing, which adds fullness to meals and prevents weight gain, says Grassi.

Heart-Healthy Fats

Grassi recommends that women with PCOS follow a diet that is "limited in animal products, many of which contain saturated fats and cholesterol that are known to clog arteries (butter, margarine, cream, red meat and mayonnaise)." A diet for PCOS should consist of heart-healthy fats that help to lower cholesterol levels .These include monounsaturated fats, from foods such as olive oil, canola oil and nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids from almonds, walnuts, egg yolk, flaxseed and oily fish, such as salmon and mackerel.

Dietary Supplements

On The Natural Health Website for Women, Dr. Marilyn Glenville recommends that women with PCOS take a multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure sufficient intake of all essential nutrients. She particularly recommends chromium as a supplement to assist the formation of glucose tolerance factor, which reduces feelings of hunger and helps control food cravings. She also recommends vitamin B for effective thyroid function, which is necessary for weight control. Zinc is another important supplement that she suggests for women with PCOS because zinc deficiency may cause loss of taste and smell and create a need for stronger tasting foods, such as high-calorie fatty, sugary and salty foods. In addition, Glenville recommends magnesium supplements for insulin efficiency and supplements of coenzyme 10 to help control blood sugar levels.

The Best Foods To Eat To Lose Belly Fat

Foods to Fight Belly Fat

Losing weight and belly fat can be difficult. Finding natural ways to lose weight can be even more difficult; especially with commercials advertising pills and fasts that claim to help people lose extra weight with no effort. There has been research done on the best foods to eat to lose belly fat. Fortunately, people can lose belly fat easily and naturally by following a simple strategy for weight loss.

Get Enough Water

Water is vital for weight loss because it hydrates your internal organs and body systems. The endocrine system, for example, regulates metabolism. When the endocrine glands are hydrated, they work properly, causing your metabolism to speed up, which makes weight loss is easier. Drink at least 64 oz. of water per day to ensure that your metabolism is working at maximum capacity. Although juice, soda and milk contain a percentage of water, only consume pure water to count as your required fluid intake. Avoid sodas completely because they typically contain sugars, empty calories or artificial sugars that do not hydrate the body and can hinder weight loss.

Eat Right

The American diet is saturated with unhealthy foods that are high in sugar, salt and fats, which adds to the increase in obesity. If you are serious about losing the weight and belly fat, replace processed and packaged foods with fresh foods like fruit, vegetables and lean meats and whole grains, like oats. These foods give you more energy and keep your body nourished. They also help your body burn off any excess fat and calories. Do your grocery shopping along the perimeter of the store, which typically contains produce and meats, and avoid the sections that offer packaged foods.

Get Physically Fit

Losing weight is easier when physical fitness and exercise are involved. When your body moves, calories are burned. A regular exercise plan, such as working out 30 minutes per day, helps your body to burn off any excess calories and fat. Participate in an exercise program that will get your heart rate up and build lean muscle mass, such as running, walking, swimming or biking. If you select an exercise you enjoy, you will be more likely to stick with it. Begin by working out three times per week, and gradually increase your frequency to every day. Listen to your body. If you feel that you should slow down, or that you can safely push yourself further in your exercise, then do so.

What Color To Wear For A Test

Colors are believed to have the ability to influence our emotions, our actions and the way we deal with people, things and ideas. Because every color has its own individual meaning and can create different feelings and emotions, the color you choose to wear when you have to take a test depends on what you personally need. Picking blue, green or yellow or a combination of all three will give you the effect you need to succeed in the test-taking situation.

Blue

Blue reminds us of the sky and the ocean and when asked, most people pick blue as their favorite color. In addition, blue brings out the feelings of trustworthiness, dependability and commitment when worn or seen. In a test-taking situation, wearing something blue can bring out the feeling of restfulness and therefore cause your body to produce chemicals that calm you down. This is important and useful if you feel nervous in test situations or if you are nervous about doing well. Wearing something blue can also aid intuition that can help you to pick the correct multiple choice answer.

Green

After blue, people pick green most often as their favorite color. Green is often used as part of interior design because human eyes are so used to seeing it around them as the color of trees, grass and other things in nature.

Because green is a mix of blue and yellow, it shares many of the meanings of both blue and yellow. Like the color blue, wearing something green for a test has a soothing effect and can create the feeling of relaxation both mentally and physically. This can alleviate your nervousness and help you to concentrate better. In addition, wearing green helps to minimize anxiety and increases your ability to attain self-control and harmony.

Yellow

Yellow is the color of happiness, optimism and enlightenment. Wearing something yellow for a test-taking situation does not only make you feel happier, more optimistic and filled with positive energy, but also makes your fellow test-takers experience these positive feelings.

In addition to stimulating you mentally, the color yellow also stimulates your nervous system. Wearing something yellow can therefore help you to stay alert. The color yellow also activates your memory, so wear something yellow when you are studying to help you better remember the material, then continue to wear yellow during the test to have an easier time remembering what you've studied.

In addition, wearing yellow can help you to think creatively, which will be helpful if your test will require some out-of-the-box thinking from you.

Risks Of Longterm Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy was commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms in women until a multiyear study by the Women's Health Initiative, which began in 2002, unearthed some concerns. The risks of using long-term hormonal replacement therapy include breast cancer, pancreatitis, gallstones, blood clots and stroke.

With the onset of menopause, the ovaries start to reduce their production of estrogen and progesterone. This decline in hormones halts menstruation and a woman's ability to have a child. It can cause problems such as hot flashes, mood swings, sexual dysfunction, depression and osteoporosis. For many years, doctors used hormone replacement therapy to supplement the declining levels of estrogen.

Clinical Trials

The Women's Health Initiative conducted a clinical trial starting in 2002 that found hormone therapy often posed more health risks than benefits for women. Concerned about these risks, doctors became less likely to prescribe long-term hormone replacement therapy. In addition, about two-thirds of women on hormone therapy discontinued its use, sometimes without consulting their doctors.

Effects

Estrogen, which is commonly used in hormone replacement therapy, has many benefits. It is still one of the most effective treatments for relief of typical menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal issues, including dryness, itching and burning.

According to the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study, estrogen can reduce the risk of heart disease if taken during the earliest postmenopausal years.

Risks

One risk associated with long-term hormone replacement therapy is an increased incidence of breast cancer. Once the use of estrogen is discontinued, however, the risk diminishes. The risk of breast cancer with typical hormone replacement therapy that combines estrogen with synthetic progesterone is very low, 20 cases more than the expected 1,250 per 10,000 women during a five-year period.

Women who have high triglyceride levels are at an increased risk for pancreatitis if they take oral estrogen with or without progesterone. All women have an increased risk of gallstones if they take hormone replacement therapy.

Blood Clots and Stroke

Estrogen doubles the risk of blood clots and strokes in women and increases the risk of a pulmonary embolism. This risk is highest during the first year of use, especially in women with a history of blood clots. There is also a risk of stroke for women taking estrogen, especially those who smoke and are older than 60.

The Women's Health Initiative substantiated these concerns and determined that women who took a combination of estrogen and progesterone had an increased risk of developing some of these serious conditions.

Estrogen alone

Women who take only Premarin, which is estrogen, experience no increased risk of breast cancer, according to the Women's Health Initiative. However, in one year's time, scientists found that 10,000 women who took estrogen might have 12 more incidents of stroke and six more incidents of blood clots in the legs than women who took a placebo. They also found an increase in mammogram abnormalities.

minimize the risk

Talk with your doctor about ways to reduce the risks involved with long-term hormone replacement therapy. The Women's Health Initiative suggests several ways to do this:

Take it before age 60. The risk that hormone therapy will increase heart problems is not significant. Estrogen may protect the heart if taken during the early menopausal years.

Use the lowest dose for the shortest period of time to reduce symptoms. Likewise, don't stop therapy if you have very debilitating symptoms of menopause.