Xray Technician Programs In New York

X-ray technicians are also known as radiology techs.

X-ray technicians, often called radiology technicians, operate equipment that helps doctors diagnose patient problems. X-ray technician programs usually are found at private and community colleges in New York and are generally referred to as radiologic technology programs. The median annual wage for radiologic technicians is $52,210, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2010.

N.Y. City College of Technology

N.Y. City College of Technology is the largest public college of technology in the state. Located in Brooklyn, NYCCT offers a fully accredited radiologic technology and medical imaging program that leads to an associate's degree in radiography. The 65-credit program usually takes about two years to complete, not including prerequisite classes. Classes include radiographic procedures, image production and evaluation, radiographic procedures, patient care and management, cross-sectional anatomy and radiographic physics. Graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination for national certification and New York State licensure.

NY City College of Technology

300 Jay St.

Brooklyn, NY 11201-1909

718-260-5000

cuny.edu/

Nassau Community College

Nassau Community College is in Garden City, New York, just east of New York City. NCC offers a fully accredited radiologic technology program that lasts six semesters. Graduates earn an associate's degree in radiography and are qualified to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination for national certification and New York State licensure. The program requires 75 credits to graduate. Classes include radiologic technology, anatomy and physiology, introduction to allied health sciences, general psychology and radiologic technology clinic. It usually takes about two years to complete the program.

Nassau Community College

1 Education Drive

Garden City, NY 11530-6793

516 572-7501

ncc.edu/

Hudson Valley Community College

Hudson Valley Community College is in Troy, New York, just north of Albany. HVCC's radiologic technology program is fully accredited and leads to an associate's degree in radiography. The 78-credit program can be completed in two years with a full-time schedule. Classes include radiographic exposure physics, radiographic positioning, clinical education, radiological health, advanced radiographic procedures and radiographic seminar. Graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination to become a licensed radiographer.

Hudson Valley Community College

80 Vandenburgh Ave.

Troy, NY 12180

518-629-4822

hvcc.edu‎/

Tags: Community College, radiologic technology, American Registry, American Registry Radiologic, ARRT examination, associate degree, associate degree radiography

Find Medical Transcribing Work At Home

Finding a work-at-home position is not hard, you just have to understand search for what you want. The medical transcribing field does allow workers to process transcription from home. When you begin your search you should know where your skill level stands in the industry. Most remote workers have in-house work experience, which means that they have held a position in a medical setting doing transcription. If you do not have in-house experience, be sure to only look at the qualifications required by each position for which you apply.

Instructions

1. Use the major job boards to find remote medical transcription positions. Use terms such as "remote," "telecommute," "freelance" and "independent contractor" in your search.

2. Find work-at-home databases. These sites compile a list of telecommuting positions, and most of them have a transcription section. Some websites will ask you to pay for these listings; if you search long enough, you can find free sites such as HomeWorkersNet.com.

3. Use the advance search feature in search engines to narrow your search. Using special characters in the advanced search link or options link will narrow your search to that exact search title. Try using "remote + medical transcription" in the search field.

4. Search forums for leads on remote medical transcribing positions. Just like networking for a position in a local company, you should network online to find positions that are not posted on job boards. Forums are a great place to exchange information and find leads for job openings.

Tags: your search, remote medical, have in-house, medical transcribing, medical transcription, narrow your, narrow your search

The History Of Yeoman Farmers

From the 1066 Norman Conquest until the Black Death in the 1340s, English agricultural workers' status was fixed into three classes. A few free Norman tenants paid rent and military service for their farms. "Bondsmen" were serfs (slaves) to the "Lord" (landlord) of their manors. About half the population were Anglo-Saxon "villeins," tied by birth to manorial properties. Villeins' civil rights gradually advanced and the yeoman farmer status arose among them.

The Plague

Half the population of England died during the Black Death, leaving about 3 million survivors. Labor shortages drove wages higher despite laws intended to control them. Often, the price of labor was freedom. Declining population made real estate available for freemen to purchase with the rising wages. By 1381, the suddenly middle class believed that the time for social change had arrived. The third of three per capita taxes to fund foreign wars prompted the Peasant Revolt, an insurrection among newly prosperous yeoman farmers.

Sumptuary Laws

A generation of yeoman prosperity prompted legislation to control "outrageous and excessive apparel of many people contrary to their estate and degree." In 1363, personal property that yeomen and their families could own was restricted. The value of their clothing was limited. No silver, gold or jeweled ornaments were allowed. They were forbidden to wear ribbon, embroidered clothing, silk clothing, and any garment of imported cloth. Sumptuary laws were phased out in the 1500s.

Formal Status

The medieval yeoman farmer was a freeholder of land that generated a minimum 40 shillings ($2,000) annual income. His property entitled him to serve on juries and vote for "knights of the shire" (county representatives in Parliament). Yeomen qualified for any function that required a "good and lawful man" (probus et legalis homo), such as testifying in court. Medieval clarity about yeomen's status became unnecessary over the centuries, so that during a treason trial in 1795, Justice Chamberlain commented, "Upon the best English authorities, yeoman is a title of courtesy."

Copyhold

The Crown assigned land to lords as tenants, but agricultural work was done by villeins legally tied to the land. By the 1500s, labor obligations to the landlord changed to rental payments as a subtenant of the landlord. Rental agreements were recorded on manor rolls. Subtenants held copies of the agreements. Copyholders could sell their copyhold or bequeath it to their heirs. Prosperous copyholders could purchase land and become a freehold yeoman. Many "freeholders" were in fact multigeneration copyholders.

Security

The security of yeomen copyholders is illustrated by a 1543 joint lawsuit brought by the tenants of Abbots Ripton against John St. John, a cousin of Henry VIII. When Henry seized the property of the Catholic Church, he took possession of a church manor at Ripton. He forced that manor onto his cousin, in exchange for a highly profitable manor and large annual payments. To avoid financial ruin, St. John tried to force his subtenants from their copyholds and "enclose" the manor for wool production. The court ordered him to restore their properties and grant them fair rents.

Tags: Black Death, yeoman farmer

What Are Hot Spots On Pet Scan

A positron emission tomography, or PET, scan is an imaging technique utilized by radiologists to capture a three-dimensional image of the body's major organs, including the heart and brain, according to the Mayo Clinic. They are particularly useful in detecting cancerous masses.

Identification

"Hot spots" is a term used to describe areas of bright spots that appear on a PET scan when cancerous cells are present.

Significance

Only malignancies will cause hot spots to appear on a PET scan. The hot spots will show if cancer has spread throughout the body or returned after a remission.

Time Frame

According to RadiologyInfo.com, a PET scan test can take about two hours and involves an intravenous injection of a small dose of radioactive material.

Did You Know?

The brightness of a hot spot can determine the amount of metabolic activity inside the organs, and is measured by using a standardized uptake value (SUV).

Famous Ties

In the spring of 2007, in a story carried by Fox News, Elizabeth Edwards announced that a few new hot spots had been detected on a PET scan, indicating that her breast cancer had spread to her bones.

Tags: appear scan, cancer spread

Detailed Xray Job Description

X-ray techs are also known as radiological technologists or radiographers. Their main responsibility is providing doctors with valuable diagnostic information to help diagnose the patient.

Basis

X-ray techs take x-rays of different parts of the human body for diagnostic purposes. They work with patients on a daily basis, explaining the procedure and how it works.

Procedure

The tech first places a lead apron on the patient to protect against radiation exposure, then positions the patient in front of the camera. The tech also protects himself by wearing an apron along with gloves and other shielding, making sure safety is number one during this process.

Work Environment

X-ray technicians have a variety of places where they can choose to work. These include: hospitals, physicians' offices, specialty practices, diagnostic imaging centers, outpatient centers and laboratories. On occasion, techs will travel to patients homes with an equipped van.

Education

X-ray techs can have varying levels of education; however; basic training can be accomplished in approximately two years by earning an associate's degree in allied science. After completion of one of these programs, the graduate technologist must take a board exam through The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists to become licensed.

Outlook

In coming years, all careers in health care should see an increase in opportunities, including x-ray technicians. With additional training in other imaging such as CT or MRI, techs can increase their potential earnings.

Salary

A new x-ray technician starting out with less than two years experience can expect to earn approximately $36,918 on a national level. Currently, the median technician's salary is $58,065.

Tags: X-ray techs

Postmenopause Diet

If you have been used to junk food and prone to gaining weight until you reached menopause, this is the right time to alter your lifestyle. Balanced nutrition, along with a regular fitness regimen, helps in maintaining health and keeping away diseases such as cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis, the risk of which increases after menopause.

Fruits and Vegetables

Opt for vitamin- and fiber-rich fresh foods like fruits and vegetables instead of processed food. After menopause, you run a higher risk of suffering from heart disease and some cancers. It is important to eat green vegetables and fruits that help lower that risk. Fresh fruits and veggies are sources of vitamins E, B complex and C that, respectively, help in relieving hot flashes, bringing down sugar levels and stress, and keeping wrinkles at bay. Low-sugar fruits such as apples, berries and peaches help regulate blood sugar levels, slow down the aging process and promote collagen which supports bones, muscles and tissues.

Meats and Fish

Since you are at an elevated risk for putting on weight after menopause, low-fat foods are in order. Choose lean cuts of meat and white meat. Enjoy fish, especially the oily varieties like mackerel and salmon. These fish are sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep bad (LDL) cholesterol low, promote good (HDL) cholesterol, and help regulate post-menopausal conditions including mood swings, depression and osteoporosis.

Nuts and Dairy

Almonds, Brazil nuts, pistachios and other nuts, and sunflower and pumpkin seeds are important sources of good cholesterol and cholesterol-lowering agents. Enjoying them in moderation is a healthy habit for post-menopausal women. Since bones become weaker with menopause, you may need extra calcium. Include low-fat or nonfat milk or other calcium-rich dairy products in your daily diet.

Grains and Cereals

Keeping your weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol level down are important priorities of the post-menopausal diet. Switching to foods made completely with whole grains will support all of these goals. The minerals in whole grains help fight menopause-related symptoms like bone weakness and fatigue and the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

General Measures

Broil or bake instead of frying in order to avoid adding extra fats to your diet. Avoid junk food and any beverages (carbonated beverages, alcohol) that add empty calories. Drink lots of water to keep your system clean and aid easy bowel movements. Have smaller helpings of calorie-rich foods, and larger helpings of fresh foods. If you need to lose weight, follow a healthy eating plan. Skipping meals or following fad diets that promise quick weight loss may create havoc with your blood sugar level and put your body through unnecessary stress.

Tags: blood sugar, fresh foods, good cholesterol, heart disease, help regulate

State License Requirements For Medical Technologists

States may require licensure for medical technologists to practice in the state.

Medical technologists perform duties in a medical lab or hospital, which help doctors identify illnesses, conditions and injuries. The median salary for a medical technologist was $57,283 as of November, 2009, according to Salary.com. Medical technologists may specialize in a particular field such as histology or clinical chemistry technology.

Application

Candidates seeking licensure in medical technology must apply to the state board of health or state board of medical technology. Candidates must submit educational transcripts and in some cases submit to a background check. The results of certification examinations may be required for state licensure.

Education

Requirements for licensure vary by state, but medical technologists typically require a bachelor's degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bachelor's degree program may be in medical technology or in a medical science. The coursework should include biology, statistics, chemistry, math and courses in medical technology.

State Examinations

States requiring medical technologists be licensed require the candidate to pass a state board examination administered by the state while other states require medical technologists be certified by a national certification organization. For example, Florida requires medical technologists to be certified by the American Medical Technologists, the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, the American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics or the American Board of Medical Laboratory Immunology.

Certifications

Certification with a national organization may meet state requirements for licensure and aid the medical technologist to advance in the field. The American Medical Technologists certification requires candidates have a bachelor's degree in medical technology or in a biological science. Candidates may apply for certification prior to graduation as well. The applicant must complete a program in medical technology if the bachelor's degree is not in a medical technology program. In addition, the applicant must have a minimum of one year lab experience to qualify for certification. The American Medical Technologists administers a certification examination to qualified candidates.

Tags: medical technology, bachelor degree, medical technologists, American Medical, American Medical Technologists

Jobs For Automobile Diploma Holders

Automobile diploma earners may focus on repair, detailing or high performance vehicles.

For someone with interests and passion for cars, a career in the automotive industry may be the way to go. Careers in the industry provide opportunities to work in large corporations like BMW, Honda or Harley-Davidson, or become an entrepreneur by opening a shop. Although some positions may not require a formal education, more jobs are available for those who earn a diploma, certificate or associate degree. Diplomas and certificates are typically completed in a year, while associate degrees may take two years. Associate degrees incorporate general coursework such as English and mathematics, while diplomas tend to focus specifically on the occupation.

Auto Body Repair Technician Diploma

An auto body repair technician is trained not only to repair the interior of vehicles, but also refinish, reconstruct and paint cars. Diplomas in auto body repair provide a foundation for these skills in addition to coursework on customer service, or customer relations. Other courses include fiberglass and plastic fillers, frame repair, collision repair and basic auto maintenance. Curriculums incorporate classroom learning with hands-on training.

Careers for auto body repair technician diploma recipients are found within paint and body shops, dealerships, private garages and large commercial fleets. Some graduates start their own business in auto body repair. With the growing population of the United States comes more drivers on the road. More drivers on the road results in a higher possibility of auto accidents. With that, comes a greater need for auto repair techs.

Auto Detailer Diploma

Auto detailers are trained to clean and maintain the interior and exterior of vehicles, using equipment and products designed to enhance looks. Some detailers specialize in working on antique automobiles. Auto detailer diploma programs also provide hands-on training in addition to coursework, instructing students work with engine and trim detailing, plastics, chemicals, cleaners, vinyl and leather surfaces, wood and metal.

Jobs in the auto detailing industry are found in private garages, new and used car dealerships, paint and body repair shops, car rental agencies and company fleets. Like auto repair technicians, some graduates also choose to start their own businesses. Job opportunities are best for detailers with a formal education, however, a diploma or certificate is not necessary. Individuals pursuing a career in management may need a bachelor's degree with training in business, auto mechanics and auto detailing.

High Performance Engine Technology Diploma

High performance engine technicians repair and maintain race cars and other high-powered vehicles. Diplomas that train students in this occupation are typically offered at vocational or trade schools offering auto mechanics or auto repair programs. Students complete coursework in electrical and electronics, turbochargers, engine balancing, high performance engine welding and auto machining. Hands-on experiences train students to troubleshoot engines, modify suspension systems and cylinder heads, build custom engines and conduct high performance engine maintenance.

Career opportunities for recipients of the high performance engine technology diploma include positions as an engine technician or high performance engine machinist in specialty auto repair shops. Graduates may also become part of a professional race car team or work on other vehicles such as motorboats or motorcycles.

Tags: auto repair, body repair, auto body, auto body repair, high performance engine

Recovery Time After Lumpectomy

Lumpectomies are performed for two reasons: to remove a lump for biopsy or to remove a lump that has already been diagnosed as malignant through another procedure (like a needle biopsy). The reason for the lumpectomy, the total amount of tissue removed and the involvement of lymph nodes all play a role in recovery time.

Procedure

A lumpectomy for diagnosis involves removing part or all of a lump. The surgeon may also decide to remove surrounding tissue. The mass and tissue are sent to a pathologist, who will determine if it is malignant (cancerous). If a lumpectomy is done because you have already been diagnosed with cancer, the surgeon will likely remove more surrounding tissue and possibly lymph nodes in the area to make sure the cancer has not spread.

Immediate Post-Operative

General anesthesia is typically used so you are fully asleep during a lumpectomy. An overnight stay is not necessary unless there are additional health problems. If lymph nodes or a large amount of tissue are removed, a drain will be put in the chest to remove excess fluid. You will remain in the recovery room until the drain is set, bandages are checked and you are awake enough to go home. Pain medication will be given if necessary.

Initial Recovery

For the first few days after a lumpectomy, you will be sore. The amount of pain (and how long it lasts) depends on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Restrictions on activities will also be in correlation with the surgical procedure, but even diagnostic lumpectomy will leave you unable to drive or do heavy lifting for at least a few days. If lymph nodes were removed, this could extend to weeks.

Long-term

For a breast cancer patient, lumpectomy recovery time isn't over, as the surgery is usually followed by a course of radiation and possibly chemotherapy. When a lumpectomy is done for diagnosis of breast cancer, results take about a week. If the results come back benign (like a fibroadenoma or fibrocystic breast disease), no further treatment is necessary. If the mass comes back as malignant, you will meet with an oncologist to discuss further surgery and/or treatment.

Complications

Complications from lumpectomy are possible, but not common, and can extend recovery time. There is a possibility of allergic reaction with any anesthesia. Infection can best be avoided by keeping the area clean. Fluid buildup may occur, as well as lymphedema, a swelling of the arm. Any unusual symptoms--especially if accompanied by fever, redness or inflammation--should be reported to a health care professional immediately.

Tags: lymph nodes, already been, already been diagnosed, amount tissue, amount tissue removed, been diagnosed, breast cancer

Dental Radiography Principles & Techniques

Dental radiography can be performed using various techniques.

Dental radiography involves producing X-ray images of teeth and oral structures to detect disease, according to "Dental Radiography: Principles and Techniques." Dental assistants--who can complete one-year diploma or two-year associate degree programs--must be certified to take X-rays in some states. Dental hygienists, who can complete associate degree or four-year bachelor's degree programs in this field, must be licensed in all states to practice dental hygiene and take dental radiographs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These professionals must master various techniques to be successful in this field.

Methods

Dental radiography can be performed using either traditional film or digital devices. When working with traditional film, intraoral dental X-ray machines are used for those films placed inside the mouth, while extraoral machines are used for films placed outside the mouth. Dental radiographers can use a film holder to hold an intraoral film inside the mouth. They also can use a beam alignment device to help position the intraoral X-ray machine's cone, also called the position-indicating device, in relation to the tooth and film.

When using traditional film, X-rays interact with a layer on the film called the film emulsion, which contains silver halide crystals that absorb the radiation. The crystals produce a latent image of a tooth and its surrounding structures, which becomes a visible image once the film is chemically processed. On the other hand, digital radiography involves the use of an intraoral sensor instead of a film to capture an image of a tooth. Once X-rays hit the sensor, the electronic charge produced on the sensor is converted into digital form, and the image then is visible on a computer. When performing digital radiography, dental radiographers can still use a traditional intraoral dental X-ray machine.

Film Types

Three types of intraoral film exist--periapical, bite-wing and occlusal. The periapical film is used to view an entire tooth--including the tooth's root and crown--as well as the bone that supports the tooth. Meanwhile, the bite-wing film is used to view the crowns of both the upper and lower teeth on one film. This type of film is especially important for detecting cavities or other conditions between teeth. An occlusal film is used to examine large areas of the upper or lower jaw.

A panoramic film, which is a type of extraoral film, provides a wide view of the upper and lower jaws on one film. A cephalometric film, another type of extraoral film, is used to examine the bony and soft tissues of the face.

Techniques

Dental radiographers can expose films to X-rays using two techniques--the paralleling technique and the bisecting technique. The paralleling technique involves placing an intraoral film in the mouth parallel to the long axis of the tooth--the imaginary line that divides a tooth into two equal halves lengthwise. The central ray of an X-ray beam then is directed perpendicular to the film and long axis of the tooth.

On the other hand, the bisecting technique involves placing a film along the tongue-side surface of a tooth and visualizing the angle formed by the plane of the film and long axis of the tooth. The dental radiographer then must visualize the line that divides this angle in half. She then must direct the central ray of an X-ray beam perpendicular to this line to successfully capture the image of the tooth.

Tags: film used, image tooth, intraoral film, long axis, traditional film, upper lower

Vocational Schools That Have Medical Billing

Medical billers have specialized skills for the offices they work in

Medical billing is a highly specialized clerical field requiring specific training. For this reason, courses in medical billing are popular at trade schools throughout the country. If you are seeking entry-level employment in the field you have a number of options to become properly trained. No matter where you live in the United States, there is likely a vocational school that has medical billing near you.

Blackstone Career Institute

Blackstone Career Institute, based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, offers online training in medical billing and coding. Education is broken into 18 units that begin with basic career success skills and end with finding a job in your field. In the interim, students focus on anatomy, medical office practices, and real life applications of medical coding. Your tuition at Blackstone covers everything you need, including textbooks, study guides, exams, and other materials. Students are allowed up to two years to complete the program, working at their own pace. If necessary, a six-month extension can be granted.

Blackstone Career Institute

1011 Brookside Road, Suite 300

P.O. Box 3717

Allentown, PA 18106-3717

800-826-9228

blackstone.edu

Sanford-Brown

Sanford-Brown provides career training in medical billing and coding at over 25 campuses throughout the United States. Depending on the campus selected, students can pursue a diploma, certificate, or Associate of Applied Science degree. Sanford-Brown educates students on the specific codes related to diagnoses and medical procedures they denote. Some campuses offer externships where students can gain experience working in the field before graduation.

Sanford-Brown

1140 Hammond Drive

Suite A-1150

Atlanta, GA 30328

888-740-1333

sanfordbrown.edu

California State University

California State University offers a certificate program in medical coding and billing at its East Bay campuses in Concord and Oakland. Students will learn fill out industry-standard insurance forms as well as develop problem solving-skills for insurance industry issues. The material is covered in a 10-week course that covers the fundamentals, preparing students for entry-level jobs in the field of medical coding and billing. Upon completion of the course, and with experience in the field, graduates will be able to take a professional certification test from the American Academy of Professional Coders, among other professional organizations.

California State University, East Bay

Continuing Education

25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, WA 804

Hayward, CA 94542

800-730-2784

ce.csueastbay.edu

Penn Foster Career School

The Penn Foster Career School provides online training in the field of medical coding and billing. Training at Penn Foster includes career ethics, medical terminology, methods of reimbursement, physiology, anatomy, information management, and office procedures. The cost of tuition also includes access to Penn Foster Career Services, which helps graduates find jobs in their field. Career services offers assistance with the job search, interviewing tips, and cover letter drafting. Penn Foster has graduated over 13 million students and is nationally accredited.

Penn Foster Career School

P.O. Box 1900

Scranton, PA 18501

570-961-4033

pennfoster.edu

Tags: Penn Foster, Foster Career, medical coding, Penn Foster Career, Blackstone Career, Blackstone Career Institute

Starting Salary For A Cardiac Sonographer

Cardiac sonographers provide doctors with electronic images of the heart.

Cardiac sonographers, also referred to as echocardiographers, use ultrasound equipment to provide physicians with images of the heart called echocardiograms. Physicians use these images to examine the heart chambers, vessels and valves. The majority of cardiac sonographers work in hospitals.

Requirements

Cardiac sonographers typically earn a two-year associate's degree and become certified by completing a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Professionals (CAAHEP).

Yearly Salary

The median yearly salary for a cardiac sonographer with less than one year experience is $30,837. This figure reflects data taken from surveys conducted by PayScale in July 2010.

Hourly Rate

The same survey data states that in the U.S., the median hourly rate starts at $22.79 per hour. Sonographers who work overtime can increase this rate to $33.25 per hour.

Salary by Location

There is a wide salary range depending on the location of the job. For example, a sonography job in California might pay a starting median hourly rate of $28.81 and in Michigan, the rate is $19.30 per hour.

Salary by Employer

According to PayScale, non-profit organizations are one of the lower paying employers for cardiac sonographers with median hourly rates starting at $18.31. When employed by a hospital, the rate is $22.83 per hour.

Tags: median hourly, rate hour, Cardiac sonographers, hour Salary, hourly rate, images heart, median hourly rate

Breast Exercise Techniques

Texascollaborative.org, Lift Hand Weights

It's a wonder that any woman of "a certain age" has decent breasts because there are so many forces working against her. Time, age, gravity all take their toll. Breast tissues break down and begin to sag. Weight loss can result in less than perky breasts.

Massage

Goherbalremedies.com (see References 1) advises that a woman should regularly massage her breasts. Massage helps drain out toxic wastes and improves blood flow and circulation to the breasts. It is believed that massage strengthens the pectoral muscles and ligaments and helps recoup lost elasticity in the breasts.

Yoga

According to Yogawiz.com (see References 2), all inverted yoga postures (your legs are higher than your head and heart) help firm up sagging breasts. Yoga exercises, in general, will strengthen your chest muscles, which will help hoist up the breasts that have been run through the wringer (pregnancy, breast feeding). Seriously consider enrolling in a yoga class or buy a yoga video and exercise along with it. The benefits are numerous, including what it will do for your breasts.

Lift Weights

Lift free weights. Buy 3- or 5-pound weights and lift them while you're watching TV. No "equipment" is needed other than your weights, which are inexpensive and will pay off in spades. Do bicep curls, tricep maneuvers, lift the weights over your head and lower them to the back. This will strengthen your chest muscles and benefit your breasts. Do push-ups. Any exercise that you can do that involves the pecs and the area around the breasts will firm up your bosom.

Yoga Specifics: Bhujangasana

The cobra pose, or bhujangasana, in yoga is particularly beneficial to your breasts, according to Yogajournal.com (see References 3). Lying on your stomach, place your hands, palm side down, onto the floor, next to your shoulders. Inhale and slowly lift your upper torso up and off of the ground as you straighten your arms, which assists you in raising your chest. Your pelvis, legs and feet stay on the ground. Look forward and then look upward, stretching your neck. Hold this posture for 15 seconds or as long as it's comfortable for you.

Pawanamukatasana

Another yoga posture that will help firm your breasts is Pawanamukatasana, which means wind liberation. Lying on your back, legs outstretched, bend your right leg at the knee and bring it to your chest. You can use your hands to assist your leg. Press your thigh into your chest. Hold this position for 15 seconds or so. Now attempt to touch the end of your nose to your knee, which will require lifting your head up and off of the floor. Hold, release, put your head back on the ground and return your leg to the original position. Remember to breathe deeply, inhaling and exhaling through your nose, when you do yoga exercises. (See Resources.)

Eat More Wisely

If you exercise your fork a little more wisely, your breasts will maintain their size and shape and may even begin to look better, according to Goherbalremedies.com (see References 3), which notes that women who regularly eat or take ginseng, soy, dandelion roots, fennel seeds and saw palmetto have uplifted and enlarged breasts.

Tags: your breasts, your chest, your head, breasts Massage, breasts will

Qualities & Skills Employers Look For

Having a successful career can be both emotionally and financially satisfying. Most people look for a job at some point in their lives. Employers search for many qualities when hunting for new staff members. Such qualities can include a completed educational background, reliability, a cheerful attitude, the willingness to learn new material and demonstration of initiative.

Your Education

One of the first qualifications any employer seeks in an employee is an education appropriate to the job in question. The kind of education depends on the job in question. Most employers will ask for at least a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma from potential and current employees. Other employers may want a college degree or even a master's degree.

Not all employers require a high school diploma. For certain jobs they may ask for demonstration of professional certification instead. Jobs often requiring certifications include hairdressers, professional chefs and licensed professional nurses.

Reliability

Another quality highly in demand is reliability. Employers want to be assured that their employees will show up on time and stay for the duration of the shift, even if that shift is ten hours long.

Reliability can also mean employees who do their jobs consistently. If the job is create a certain product, the employer needs people who will produce the same quality from batch to batch. An editor prefers writers who can consistently meet deadlines month after month.

A Positive Attitude

Another important quality employers scout out is a positive attitude. Employers appreciate people who come to work or an interview with a positive, cheery manner. A positive attitude suggests that the employee will make a pleasant addition to the office or workplace. A positive attitude is a great way to convey to supervisors that you are a problem solver as well likely to be level headed when problems arise.

Willingness to Learn New Skills

Even if you've already earned your primary education, managers like employees who are open to acquiring additional learning. Learning new ideas and skills is an essential quality in today's fast moving world. Employees who routinely push to hone their skills are an asset to any employer.

Initiative

Someone who demonstrates initiative is someone who demonstrates commitment to not only getting the job done, but getting it done quickly and efficiently. An employee who fixes the copy machine without being asked is an in any organization. An an employee who not only fixes the Xerox machine but does so in a way that saves the company money is an employee who will be hired and promoted.

Tags: employee will, getting done, high school, high school diploma, positive attitude, school diploma

Gamma Radiation Health Effects

Science has known about the existence of gamma radiation for over 100 years. Gamma radiation poses all of the same health risks that other high energy radiation, like X-rays, cause. Negative health effects from gamma radiation include damage to genetic material that can eventually lead to cancer and mutations at even the lowest doses. However, gamma rays do have a beneficial use for medical equipment irradiation.

Gamma radiation can cause illness.

Identification

French physicist Henri Becquerel is credited with discovering gamma rays in 1896. Shortly before Becquerel discovered gamma radiation, William Roentgen had discovered X-rays. Becquerel theorized that uranium gave off invisible light like an X-ray. Gamma rays have thousands of times the energy of visible light and contain no mass or charge.

DNA Damage and Cancer

Even low doses of gamma radiation, such as those experienced by professionals who use X-ray machines in the medical field, can damage DNA and cause genetic mutations, according to a study on the government's PubMed database. The study showed that amounts as low as 5 centi-Grays (a standard measurement for the amount of energy one kilogram of matter absorbs) can damage a person's genetic material. Damaged DNA often leads to cancer and chromosome mutations.

Radiation Sickness

Gamma rays are usually the main culprit when people suffer from radiation sickness, reports the Merck Online Medical Manual. Technically known as "acute radiation syndrome," radiation sickness symptoms develop in two to 31 days of exposure to gamma radiation. Typical effects from ARS include nausea, vomiting and general fatigue due to the body's weakened immune system.

Positive Health Effect

Although gamma absorbed through the skin can cause several health risks, the medical field often uses gamma radiation to kill bacteria and sterilize equipment, according to medical supplier Steritech. The DNA-damaging effect of gamma radiation destroys germs, which have much less DNA than animals and humans. Gamma irradiation is a "cold process" that does not increase the temperature of an object.

Prevention/Solution

The Environmental Protection Agency claims that one can reduce exposure to gamma radiation through a few preventative steps. Always wear protective clothing around radiation. Anything emitting gamma radiation should bear a symbol that can review. Gamma radiation occurs naturally in some isotopes of potassium, but the most controllable way to avoid gamma rays is to limit medical X-rays. Ask a doctor if taking an X-ray for a procedure such as a mammogram is really necessary.

Tags: gamma radiation, gamma radiation, effects from, exposure gamma, exposure gamma radiation, Gamma radiation, gamma rays

Dental Assistant Xray Programs In Maine

Gain a solid education in dental radiology

There are only a few programs for dental assisting in Maine that focus on dental radiology; therefore, knowing which program is right for you is a matter of careful consideration. Most radiology courses are accompanied with a full range of dental assisting courses to round out the dental assisting education. Whether you are looking for a full degree in dental hygiene or a professional certificate, one of Maine's programs should work for your professional goals.

University of Maine at Augusta

The University of Maine at Augusta offers an accredited certificate program that focuses on dental assisting with competencies in dental radiology, microbiology, oral pathology, and nutrition. The 42-hour program is designed to prepare dental assistants for a career as a dental assistant or dental radiology assistant. In addition there is a 300-hour clinical rotation in the final spring semester. For application materials contact the University of Maine at Augusta.

46 University Drive

Augusta, ME 04330-9410

877-862-1234

uma.edu

University of New England

The University of New England offers a Dental Assistant Radiology Exam Course. This course is designed to assist dental assistants with a desire to specialize in dental radiology and properly prepare for the dental radiology licensing exam. The course is offered in a weekend format and typically lasts from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for two consecutive days. For enrollment information, contact the University of New England.

University of New England

Attn: Office of Continuing Professional Education

716 Stevens Avenue

Portland, ME 04103

207-221-4343

une.edu

Dental Careers Institute

The Dental Careers Institute offers certificate programs in dental hygiene and dental assisting with a focus on dental radiology. The program offers clinical experience and hands-on education for dental assisting and radiology techniques. Contact the Dental Careers Institute in Portland Maine for further information on program requirements and admissions.

Dental Careers Institute

25 Long Creek Drive Suite 5

South Portland, ME 04106

202-773-5417

dentalcareersllc.com

Concord's Community College

Concord's Community College has both a dental hygiene assistant degree and a professional certificate. Both programs offer courses on X-Ray technology and radiology assisting. The full degree program is a 78-hour curriculum accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, and the certificate program is also accredited by the same accrediting body and requires 40--44 hours for completion. Contact Concord's Community College for further application information.

NHTI Concord's Community College

31 College Drive

Concord, NH 03301

603-271-7134

nhti.edu

Tags: dental radiology, dental assisting, Careers Institute, Community College, Concord Community, Concord Community College, Dental Careers

Definition Of Urgent Care

Urgent care is defined by the Urgent Care Association of America and in the health industry field as "medically necessary services that are required for an illness or injury that would not result in further disability or death if not treated immediately, but require professional attention and have the potential to develop such a threat if treatment is delayed longer than 24 hours." What, exactly does that mean? Understanding the terminology and wording of urgent care will help individuals understand the difference between regular medical care and attention and emergency care services.

Definition

Basically, what the medical and health industry definition of urgent care means is that an injured or sick person who may suffer from irreversible complications or even death if his injury or illness is not treated in a timely manner is care required immediately or classified as "urgent." So any injury or illness that has the potential to become something more serious, or even deadly, is considered a basis for receiving urgent care.

Urgent Care Providers

Any primary care manager, family doctor, emergency services personnel, hospitals, emergency rooms, nurse practitioners or physician's assistants can provide and perform urgent care on any individual. In many town and cities across the U.S., urgent care centers provide non-emergency care for individuals to seek diagnosis and treatment for conditions such as sprains, illness and steadily rising temperatures.

Urgent Care Services

According to the Urgent Care Association of America, urgent care services often serve as a direct link between the public and emergency or hospital services in the community. In many scenarios, people seek out urgent care services for flu, lacerations, stitches, animal bites and so forth. Urgent care centers are just a step below an emergency room as far as services and capabilities go. Non-emergency care is the best way to define what urgent care facilities can do. However, for scenarios that cannot be handled in most urgent care centers, such as uncontrollable bleeding, treatment for heart attacks and strokes and other dire injuries or illnesses that will require in-depth care, traditional emergency department services are suggested.

Benefits

Wait times for doctor's appointments and even emergency room visits can be long---and expensive. Urgent care services are an option for those who can benefit from shorter wait times and cheaper medical costs. In most cases, urgent care facilities are open nights and weekends, don't require medical insurance (be prepared to pay a deposit for services) and offer immediate treatment. Remember that non-emergency care received in a traditional hospital emergency room may be cost prohibitive.

Choosing a Level of Care

Individuals should determine whether an illness or injury is an emergency before deciding between emergency room or urgent care facilities. An easy way to remember is to quickly assess the situation. If the patient requires advanced medical equipment and technology, surgery or care for uncontrollable bleeding, difficulty breathing or suspected heart attack, take him or her to emergency room. For minor wound care, sprains and mild asthma and allergic reactions, and similar illnesses or injuries, take the patient to urgent care.

Tags: emergency room, urgent care, care centers, care facilities, care services

Definition Of Stem Density

Stem density refers to the number of individual plants in a specified area; the area is usually standardized to square meters. Stem density can be used as an index of abundance, biomass and system productivity within a certain habitat.

Abundance

Often, ecologists desire a metric for plant abundance that can be comparable between habitats and ecosystems. The total number of plants per unit area allows for this comparison, so long as the same area is used in all locations.

Biomass

Many researchers have developed equations to determine the mass of a plant based on its height. Utilizing these equations in conjunction with stem density allows for estimations of above-ground biomass and subsequent comparisons between habitats.

Productivity

Ecosystem productivity is often described in grams of carbon per squared-meter per year. Researchers can use stem density to estimate how much plant biomass has been produced over a measured amount of time and, therefore, estimate how productive one system is relative to others.

Importance

Using stem density to determine abundance, biomass and productivity are key to ecology. One of the driving forces behind ecology is to understand the interactions between the living (e.g. plants) and the non-living (e.g. nutrients, sunlight) components within and between ecosystems.

Caution

Stem density can be determined by counting the stems of all plants within an area or by counting the number of stems of an individual species. Stem density cannot tell an ecologist everything about an ecosystem. Other metrics such as species richness, the number of different species within an area, should also be used to complement stem density.

Tags: abundance biomass, between habitats, stem density, Stem density, within area

Twoyear It Degrees

Graduates with an associate IT degree can find entry-level employment opportunities.

Information technology (IT) focuses on the management of technology within a variety of computer-related areas, including computer software and hardware, information systems, programming languages and databases. Students are able to pursue two-year associate-degree programs that combine general educational requirements and core IT courses. The programs are available at community colleges and vocational schools.

Prerequisites

A two-year associate degree program requires students pursuing education and training in information technology to have a high school diploma or general education diploma (GED). While it may not be required, it may be beneficial for students to have experience with computer systems technology, computer applications and computer software and hardware. Prospective students also have to submit high school transcripts, complete an application and pay any application fees for the program.

General Education Requirements

An associate degree in information technology requires students to complete specific general education requirements to prepare them for core courses and provide them with a well-rounded education. This is an opportunity for students to complete courses in English, mathematics, science, humanities and communications. Additional introductory computer-related courses include business computer skills, introduction to IT and systems, database structures and database designs.

Core Curriculum

The core curriculum in a two-year associate degree program in IT covers topics in computing fundamentals, operating systems, information security, network application services, programming languages and systems analysis and design. These courses teach students about the fundamentals of computer architecture, emerging technologies, network operating systems, security threats and defense, file servers and management systems. Many programs also require students to complete an internship in a professional setting and environment.

Careers

Graduates with an associate degree in IT have an opportunity to pursue entry-level careers as computer technicians, network administrators, computer security specialists and Web developers. These professions integrate, monitor, repair and troubleshoot computer and network systems in professional environments. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment in this field is expected to grow 30 percent from 2008-2018 because of the increased need of businesses to communicate, protect databases and conduct business around the world.

Tags: associate degree, students complete, associate degree program, computer software, computer software hardware, core courses

Longterm Effects Of Breast Cancer

Many symptoms of breast cancer end when cancer treatments end, but some people have both physical and psychological side effects for a long time. Others begin to experience delayed side effects long after treatment has ended. No two experiences are exactly the same, but many are similar. There are reasons the symptoms occur and there are treatments for many long-term side effects of breast cancer.

Breasts

Treated breasts can look and feel different. Radiation can cause blood vessels under the skin to dilate, leading to red blotches. The scar can be sore and sensitive, and the breast can swell. The breast may become harder and smaller, and the skin can become itchy, red or darker. Pain can be treated with medication and by wearing a support bra. Some women consider surgery to make the breasts look the same.

Lungs

Radiotherapy can cause cells lining the lungs to become inflamed, hard and thick. Difficulty breathing, chest pain, and a dry cough can develop. Antibiotics for infection, steroids for inflammation, or inhalers to open airways can help.

Fatigue

It's very common for women to feel tired for years after treatment, especially younger women. Health conditions that develop because of treatment can be responsible for fatigue, or health conditions unrelated to the cancer could cause tiredness. Women who feel tired all the time should be checked for heart disease, sleep apnea and problems with the thyroid. If the treatments or cancer are responsible, having a positive attitude, practicing relaxation techniques, exercising, and following an energy-increasing diet can help.

Painful Joints and Muscles

Numbness, aching muscles, and painful joints can occur as a side effect of hormone therapy, chemotherapy or surgery. The arm on the side the breast was operated on can swell. Radiotherapy can damage nerves going into the arm. Depression can cause joints and muscles to be painful. The shoulder can become difficult to use. Relaying all side effects to the doctor is very important. Medication can be prescribed along with massage therapy, acupuncture, physical therapy and accupressure.

Sexuality

Women experience a variety of sexual problems, including decreased sexual interest, dryness, painful intercourse and fear of rejection. These can be side effects of treatment, but it can also be worry over the change in body image. Women who experience excessive sweating or hot flashes may have begun menopause early as a side effect of hormone therapy or chemotherapy.

Tags: side effects, after treatment, breast cancer, breasts look, effect hormone

Sonogram Tech Schools In Texas

Sonogram techs work in physician's offices or hospitals.

Sonograms ares image produced by an ultrasound machine, and the people working in the field of sonography are called sonographers. Sonographers use high-frequency sound waves to produce images for medical diagnostic purposes. Employment requires specialized training, found in some schools in Texas, in specialties like vascular, obstetric, abdominal and echocardiographic sonography.

Lamar Institute of Technology

This school located in Beaumont offers an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography and a specialized degree in diagnostic cardiac sonography. In addition, advanced certificate programs are available both in medical and cardiac sonography. After completing the two-year program students in the medical sonography class will be eligible to take the exam to be certified in abdomen and obstetrics/gynecology. Cardiac graduates take exams to be certified in echocardiology, or taking images of the heart. The advanced certificate programs are for graduates of the two-year program seeking further knowledge and training.

El Paso Community College

El Paso Community College offers a general two-year associate degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. It is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Midland College

Located in Midland, this school offers the two-year associate degree program in general sonogram training. Students are urged to complete as many nonsonography courses as possible prior to entry into the program. The school is accredited by CAAHEP, and enrollment remains limited.

Del Mar College

Del Mar in Corpus Christi offers a general program and an echocardiography program. Graduates of each program receive an associate degree in applied science. The school also offers specialties in abdomen, heart and vascular and obstetrics/gynecology.

Tags: associate degree, medical sonography, advanced certificate, advanced certificate programs, associate degree program

New Jersey Health Insurance Plan

The New Jersey health insurance plan, titled NJ Protect, is designed to provide health insurance coverage for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Before the inception of the NJ Protect plan, people with pre-existing medical conditions were unable to qualify for health insurance or faced extremely high insurance premiums. Under the federally subsidized NJ Protect plan, premiums are significantly lower and coverage is typically superior.

Qualifications

Qualification criteria to purchase health insurance through NJ Protect include: all applicants must reside in New Jersey; must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully in the country; must not have had creditable insurance coverage for at least six months; and a pre-existing condition must present. Proof of each of the criteria must be presented when applying for the NJ Protect coverage. In addition, applicants must not qualify for Medicare or any other group health insurance plan.

Creditable Coverage

Typically, health insurance plans offered by a private employer, public entity or even those purchased on an individual basis qualify for creditable coverage. Also included in the creditable coverage spectrum is coverage provided by Medicare, a state-run children's health insurance policy, such as NJ FamilyCare, and Medicaid. Programs such as vision or dental coverage are not considered creditable coverage for this purpose.

Pre-Existing Conditions

The NJ Protect insurance plan defines a pre-existing medical condition as a chronic conditional present prior to the beginning of the coverage period. The condition may or may not be treated or causing symptoms at the time of application and includes illnesses in remission. Chronic describes a condition that is expected to last long-term, while a short-term condition is referred to as acute. While New Jersey laws prohibit commercial health insurance providers from denying coverage based on a pre-existing condition, it does allow for a plan to exclude treatment of a pre-existing condition for a set period of time.

Covered Treatment

The NJ Protect insurance program is a comprehensive insurance policy that is the same as those available on the consumer market for purchase. The NJ Protect policies cover office visits, hospital care, emergency room visits, medical equipment, surgical treatment, prosthetics, treatment for mental illness and drug dependency, maternity care, organ transplants and primarily all other medical treatments and expenses. Most preventative services, such as blood screenings, mammograms, prostate exams and vaccinations, require no out-of-pocket expense.

Cost of Coverage

Monthly insurance premiums for NJ Protect is based on the coverage provided and age of the subscriber (see Resources). The federal funding for the program enables NJ Protect to extend coverage to individuals who may not otherwise find health insurance at a lower price. The coverage and prices offered by NJ Protect rival the best insurance plans.

Tags: health insurance, creditable coverage, insurance plan, pre-existing condition, applicants must

What Is The Annual Income Of A Physical Therapist

Physical therapists develop treatment plans for patients with movement disabilities.

Physical therapists are important members of the health care community. These professionals treat individuals from newborns to the elderly who have movement limiting conditions, injuries or illnesses, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Physical therapists are highly educated professionals, many of whom hold at least a master's degree. They are typically well-compensated.

Salary

The median annual salary for all physical therapists in the United States as of May 2008 was about $72,790, according to the BLS. Salary levels of physical therapists can range significantly depending up on the type of facility in which the therapist works. Therapists employed by home health care services had the highest average wage at more than $77,000 while those working in offices of health care practitioners earned an average of less than $72,000 per year, according to the BLS.

Time Frame

Years of experience can play a significant role in determining the annual income of a physical therapist, according to PayScale.com. Physical therapists just starting out may expect to earn between about $50,000 and $61,000 during their first year in practice. Those with more than five years' experience may expect to earn a minimum of about $59,000 per year. Physical therapists with more than 10 years on the job may earn up to $78,000 per year.

Types

Physical therapists who worked for private foundations and trusts had the lowest salary potential, with incomes ranging from approximately $42,000 to $68,000, according to PayScale.com. Those working for governmental agencies at the local, state or federal level could expect to earn between $58,000 and $78,000 per year. Physical therapists who chose self-employment averaged earning between approximately $55,000 and $85,000 per year.

Geography

Location plays a role in determining the average income level of physical therapists, according to PayScale.com. Physical therapists practicing in California averaged earning up to about $77,000 per year, while those practicing in New York state may average a little as $52,000 per year.

Benefits

Salary only accounts for about 72 percent of a physical therapist's total annual compensation, according to Salary.com. Physical therapists can typically expect their employers to contribute between 10 and 12 percent of their compensation toward government and private retirement programs. Additional compensation comes in the form of paid time off, employer contributions toward health insurance premiums and disability insurance.

Tags: Physical therapists, according PayScale, expect earn, health care, more than, Physical therapists

Apply Makeup With A Monofocal Lens

Keep your monofocal lens clean and clear.

When you have cataracts, your ophthalmologist may recommend cataract surgery in which a monofocal lens is surgically implanted in the eye. This surgery, which is invasive, is an outpatient eye operation. To get the most effective results, and to avoid bacteria buildup or infection in the eye, heed your doctor's advice when it comes to wearing makeup afterwards. The eye that was operated on will be sensitive following the surgery, and, as such, it's critical to consult with your ophthalmologist before putting on any makeup.

Instructions

1. Apply eyelid primer to your eyelid using a clean dual-tip makeup applicator. Eyelid primer is effective for reducing the amount of moisture buildup that can develop on the eyelids when you wear eyeshadow. Prevent sweat and moist makeup from dripping into your monofocal lens by prepping the eye with eyelid primer first.

2. Throw the applicator away after you use it for the eyelid primer. Avoid the risk of infection by using all new and clean products with your makeup.

3. Dip one side of your eyeshadow brush into a palette of eyeshadow. Dust off the bulk of the eyeshadow so you have a thin coat on the brush. Close your eye and brush the eyeshadow onto the lid, being careful to not get the makeup too close to the waterline.

4. Avoid wearing eyeliner or mascara when you have a monofocal lens, unless your doctor gives you specific permission to do so. Eyeliner and mascara come into close contact with your waterline, which can transmit the makeup into the eye to cause infection. It may also cause the monofocal lens to look blurry if it's stained with makeup.

5. Apply your other makeup, such as blush and lipstick, regularly.

Tags: monofocal lens, with your, eyelid primer, surgery which, using clean, your doctor, your monofocal

Breast Cancer Pink Ribbon Gifts

The pink ribbon has become an iconic symbol of the fight against breast cancer.

The pink ribbon has been morphed into more than just a ribbon. Pink ribbons are worn by those who encourage and support breast cancer research, as well as those who have survived breast cancer or have lost someone to the disease. You can now purchase different gifts to support those with breast cancer, and the proceeds will also help fund research.

Clothing

There are many different styles of clothing that can be purchased with the pink ribbon symbol on it. At the Shop Komen website, you can choose from a variety of T-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, pajamas and outerwear. Besides having the pink ribbon symbol on the clothing, there are other breast cancer/ShopKomen slogans, such as "Impact. Make One," "Ignite Change," "Celebrate Survivor," "Imagine," "I Am the Cure," and the traditional "Susan G. Komen for the Cure." The Pink Ribbon website also has several different styles of hats, T-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies, all displaying the website's Pink Ribbon logo.

Accessories

If you're looking for something a little different, consider the different accessories that the websites have to offer. The Pink Ribbon website offers a variety of pins, calendars, banners, greeting cards, journals, clocks and posters. All of these items have the Pink Ribbon logo on them. Shop Komen offers pink ribbon jewelry, watches, scarves, earbuds, iPod speakers, backpacks and totes, as well as a collar and leash for your dog.

Home Goods

If you're looking for a useful and practical pink ribbon gift, think about pink ribbon home goods. The Pink Ribbon website offers aprons and mugs with its Pink Ribbon logo on them. Shop Komen offers many different kinds of home goods to choose from. There are 15 different mugs and water bottles, aprons, candy dishes, oven mitts, coasters, candles, frames and bookmarks that can be purchased.

Tags: pink ribbon, Pink Ribbon, breast cancer, Pink Ribbon logo, Pink Ribbon website, Ribbon logo, Ribbon website

Stay Healthy For Women Over 40

As we age, we need to really pay more attention to our health. Diet and activity play a part in determining the level of risk for certain diseases. Genetics and family history are also contributing factors that predispose us to higher risks of getting certain medical conditions which we cannot control. However, there are other factors that can contribute to disease that can be controlled by the choices we make in our lives. Staying healthy for women over age 40 is attainable if we take steps to reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke, stay mentally and physically active and watch our diets.

Here I will offer some tips for staying healthy if you are a woman over the age of 40.

Instructions

1. Have your blood pressure checked; it is one of the first signs for your doctor to detect a health problem. Women with normal blood pressure should have it tested every year. You could buy a home electronic blood pressure monitor so you can keep a record of your blood pressure. There are many types of monitors available, which vary in price and are readily available at drug stores. High blood pressure and hypertension are common in women over 40, especially women who are obese, and can cause many secondary medical complications. Controlling high blood pressure is a critical factor in preventing strokes.

2. Get an Ankle Brachial Index Test to look for potential Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). This is a condition that can impair circulation to the legs. The test is recommended for women over 40 with risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol levels or who have a family history of cardiovascular disease.

3. Have a bone density test to help diagnose osteoporosis. It is recommended for women over the age of 60 and for younger females in their postmenopausal stage with one or more risk factors for osteoporosis. Consult your own medical doctor if you feel that you have risk factors for osteoporosis. Women are four times more likely than men to develop osteoporosis. Loss of estrogen at menopause makes women vulnerable to this condition.

4. Have a cholesterol profile done to measure the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. It may also include lab readings of C-reactive protein, which is a new measure for heart risk. Women without heart disease should get tested every 5 years. Coronary heart disease is a particular concern for women, so eating healthy, reducing cholestrol intake by watching your diet, exercising regularly and reducing stress can lower the risks of getting these serious medical diseases.

5. Have regular mammogram screenings if you are over 40. This is an X-ray of the breast tissue and should be done once a year along with a clinical breast exam. Other techniques such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are also used to screen the breasts for potential cancer should your doctor find it necessary.

6. Get a yearly Pap test in order for your doctor to examine cells for signs of cervical cancer and precancerous conditions. A female should have her first Pap test within three years of starting sexual activity or by age 21.

7. Get a TSH Test to screen for hypothyroidism or low levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood. Thyroid hormones affect your body weight, temperature, energy, appetite and metabolism. About 10 percent of women suffer from an underactive thyroid.

Tags: blood pressure, risk factors, women over, your blood, your doctor, factors osteoporosis, factors that

Get A High School Diploma

Graduating high school is a necessity for many colleges as well.

Getting a high school diploma is almost a necessity for anyone that is looking to go far in the professional world or go on to college. Many places of employment will not even look at candidates that did not finish high school or do not have a high school diploma. However, it is possible for you to get a high school diploma without much effort just by following a few key guidelines for success.

Instructions

Traditional Way

1. Sign up at a high school or have your parent sign you up at a high school once you have meet the requirements for entry into that school. Most high schools require students to have progressed through elementary school and middle school before admittance. Some exception might be made if you appeal to the administration and pass an admittance exam issued by the school.

2. Meet the requirements for all four years of the school. You will have to pass all freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior classes. For most schools, this will take all four years, but some allow for early graduation with the consent of the school administration.

3. Submit your graduation application during the middle of your Senior year. This will allow the counselor at the school to audit your education there and determine if you are qualified to graduate. If they deem your qualified, then you will be given a diploma at a graduation ceremony.

Online

4. Locate an online academic facility that is accredited by the state. Getting an online high school diploma is still not mainstream, but becoming more and more popular with older individuals wanting to finish school or students that do not adapt well to a class-room environment. Online schools can be found by checking the National High School Accreditation archives, which can be accessed online.

5. Register for the online school. This is usually done by the school administering you an entrance test or requesting your transcript from your previous education. This will allow them to determine if you are qualified to study at their school.

6. Complete the coursework that is assigned to you by the online teachers. This coursework is based on the requirements of that school for graduation. If you have any questions about the coursework, make sure that you contact the teachers of the course immediately so that you can finish the work on time.

7. Submit your intent to graduate after you have completed all of the required work for graduation. If you have met all of the requirements, you will be approved and will receive your diploma.

Tags: high school, school diploma, high school, high school diploma, determine qualified

Radiology Technologist Jobs In Ohio

Radiology tecnologists in Ohio can obtain work through the U.S. Veterans Affairs.

Ohio radiology technologists, or technicians, operate diagnostic imaging equipment such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammograms and computed tomography to produce X-rays of the body. The availability of technologist jobs in Ohio can expect to grow along with the rest of the country by about 22 percent through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Technologists have opportunities for jobs at hospitals and medical universities in cities such as Dayton and Cincinnati.

Veterans Affairs

In medium-size urban areas, such as the Dayton metro area, technologists can earn between $43,700 and $62,800, according to 2010 job postings by USA Jobs for the Dayton VA Medical Center.

Technologists give CAT scans to patients and provide technical support by using various imaging equipment under the supervision of a physician. In addition to the radiology department, radiology technologists work in the pulmonary lab and operating suites. Equipment is fixed or mobile.

Technicians must have extensive knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy of the human body and three-dimensional reconstruction scans. Technicians working for the VA must be U.S. citizens and certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT). Candidates for jobs must complete a 24-month radiologic technology-training course.

Part-Time Work

Technologists' jobs at university medical centers, such as the East Hospital at Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus, offer hourly wages salaries for part-time employment between $18.72 and $27.66 as of 2010, according to Indeed.com job postings.

Technicians at the university perform radiographic and fluoroscopic procedures on patients as well as patient education. Part-time technologists answer to the senior radiology technologist or the radiology department manager. Part of the job requires administering contrast material to patients for fluoroscopic procedures. Basic skills in nursing care are necessary.

The technologist documents his procedures with the patients, often reports findings to the patient or family and documents inventory. National certification is necessary for the job.

Evening Work

Imaging work often occurs during the evening at most Ohio medical centers. Imaging technologists must work evenings and rotate shifts to work holidays and weekends. Qualifying requirements for some jobs might go beyond standard accreditation by the ARRT and also require CPR certification as well.

Technologists working evening shifts earn a slight bump in pay that matches or exceeds the median annual full-time average of $52,210 as of 2008, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Mammography Technologist

Mammography technologists often work as a team with radiologists, but also perform the same duties such as operating the radiograph. Additional duties for the mammography technologist are handling patient specimens. He collaborates with the radiologist in securing patients' pathology results and keeps a log of the results matched with the patients.

Mammography technologists also track patients by conducting follow-up testing every six months. The primary duty at such facilities as the Bethesda North Hospital in Cincinnati is to perform mammography examinations. Technologists in this area of expertise must have at least three years experience in radiography.

Tags: according Bureau, according Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, fluoroscopic procedures

When Should A Man Have A Prostrate Exam

Some men are often very uncomfortable with the thought of a prostate exam. While the physical exam can be unpleasant, there is a benefit to screening for prostate cancer. If it is detected early enough, it improves your chances for survival as you and your doctor can decide on the most appropriate treatment for your particular condition. Exactly when you should start having prostate exams and how often you should have them can depend upon several factors.

Who Should Have One and When

The American Cancer Society has some very specific recommendations on when a man should consider having a prostate exam. Symptoms of prostate trouble, such as blocked urine flow or sexual impotence, do not necessarily have to be present in for a prostate exam to be ordered. The ACS recommends a yearly exam for those who are over 50, generally healthy, and who have at least an additional 10 year life expectancy. For men who are a medium risk level, the possibility of a prostate exam should be discussed at age 45. Medium level risk may include those who have had a father, brother or son diagnosed with prostate cancer before 65 years of age, or those who are of African American descent. (According to PSA Rising: Prostate Cancer Survivor news, African American men are at greater risk for prostate cancer, and researchers are looking for a genetic link.) Those with a high risk of prostate cancer are men who have had several immediate relatives who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at a young age. These men should undergo a yearly prostate exam starting at age 40.

What a Prostate Exam Includes

A prostate screening exam includes two basic tests: a physical exam of the prostate, also known as a digital rectal exam (DRE) and a prostate specific antigen test (PSA) blood test. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that during a DRE, the physician will lubricate the rectum, and then insert a gloved finger, also lubricated, into the rectum to feel the prostate. What he will be feeling for are lumps and the size of the prostate. The PSA blood test checks the levels of a substance called prostate specific antigen in the blood. PSA is elevated in men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, or in other conditions that relate to the prostate.

Discussing any potential risk factors and symptoms with your doctor will help you determine when you should begin undergoing prostate exams.

Tags: prostate cancer, prostate exam, diagnosed with, diagnosed with prostate, with prostate, with prostate cancer

Breast Cancer Fundraiser Ideas

Fund-raisers provide a hands-on way to support the breast cancer awareness cause. Every donation makes a difference, making both small- and large-scale events worthwhile. A partnership with businesses in the community can increase the fund-raiser's success, providing exposure for both the businesses and the cause.

Pink Party

Organize a pink party as a breast cancer fund-raiser. The pink ribbon theme for the breast cancer awareness movement provides a inspiration for party planning. Base the invitations, decorations and decor around the pink ribbon theme. Partner with a local party venue, caterer and entertainment providers. They may consider lowering their prices because the event is for charity. Ticket prices will be determined by expanses. Consider adding a silent auction for additional fundraising potential, with donations from local businesses as the items up for auction.

Flower Bulb Sales

A flower bulb sale offers a less-involved option for breast cancer fund-raising. Consider a partnership with a local plant nursery for this event. The nursery may consider donating the bulbs or offering them at a reduced price in return for free advertising during the sale. Consider focusing on flowers that produce pink blooms, in keeping with the pink ribbon theme. Wrap the bulbs in decorative packaging that fits the breast cancer theme, such as pink ribbon. Choose a high-profile location for the flower bulb sale and spread the word in the weeks leading up to the sale.

Cake Competition

Call on local cake decorators to assist with a cake competition fund-raiser. Ask each decorator to design and decorate a cake with the breast cancer awareness theme, leaving the specifics of the design up to each. Set up the cakes at a local mall or other high-traffic location. Place a donation box in front of each cake. Shoppers donate money for breast cancer awareness, placing their donations in the box next to their favorite cake. The cake raising the most money wins. Consider selling or auctioning the cakes after the competition to raise additional funds for breast cancer awareness.

Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer awareness, cancer awareness, pink ribbon, breast cancer, pink ribbon theme, ribbon theme

Learn Conversational Sign Language

American Sign Language (ASL), the fourth most commonly used language in the United States, is a complex visual-spatial language that is used by the deaf community in the United States and English-speaking parts of Canada. It is the native language of many deaf people, as well as some hearing children born into deaf families.

Instructions

1. Learn sign language through a course taught by a deaf person, if possible. This is by far the best method for learning, and your local yellow pages can help you find a school and/or classes in your area.

2. Investigate colleges, community colleges and continuing education courses in your area that might offer sign language classes. Classes typically last one semester.

3. Recognize how sign language courses might differ. Courses may teach either American Sign Language or Signed System/Signed English, teachers may vary in level of competency, and courses are either for professional preparation (courses for credit) or general conversational preparation (non-credit courses). Cost varies depending on your area.

4. Determine your goals and investigate the needs of the deaf community with whom you want to communicate. If you want to converse with a wide variety of deaf people, or if you're planning to work in a profession or job involving deaf people, opt for American Sign Language.

5. Keep in mind that Signed English is useful for people whose primary language is English and who will be using English supported by Signed English. People who lose their hearing later in life, hard-of-hearing people, and elderly persons who want to learn sign language as a supplementary means of communication would be inclined to choose and use Signed English.

6. Consider sign language software or videos. There are also sign language books, but learning sign language via books is like trying to learn a foreign language by reading a dictionary.

7. Learn on your own if you must, using this basic sequence: learn the four parts of a sign (hand shape, signing area, hand movement, palm position), learn the manual alphabet, learn numbers and numbering patterns, learn the common hand shapes, and then learn simple words.

Tags: sign language, Signed English, American Sign, American Sign Language, deaf people, your area, deaf community

Preparatory Schools In Seattle Washington

Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest.

Preparatory schools can provide students who are planning to attend college with the structure and quality education they need to succeed in college. These types of private schools often have smaller class sizes and more opportunities than a traditional public school can offer. Seattle is home to several preparatory schools.

Seattle Preparatory School

Seattle Preparatory School is a private Catholic school that has a commitment to diversity, academic excellence and leadership. High school students follow a four-year curriculum with classes in English, science, mathematics, International languages, health and artistic development. Classes begin every day at 7:40 a.m. and dismiss at 2:40 p.m. School athletics include football, basketball, tennis, soccer, volleyball, softball, track and cross country. Student clubs are available, including dance, choir, newspaper, yearbook and drama. Tuition, as of the 2011 school year, is $13,950 plus a $500 registration fee. Supplies and books must be purchased as well, at an average cost of $200 to $500 per year for each student. Tuition assistance may be available, based on parent's income.

University Prep

University Prep is an independent coeducational college preparatory school for students grades six to 12. School years are divided into two semesters and students are expected to take at least five classes per semester. Classes include English, fine arts, language training, math and global programs; school begins Monday through Friday starting at 8:00 a.m. and dismisses at 2:50 p.m. Athletics include basketball, volleyball, softball and baseball. Tuition is $25,410 for upper school and $24,130 for middle school, as of 2011. An additional incidental fee of $825 has to be paid per student as well. Other fees include books, lunch and lab fees.

Eastside Preparatory School

Eastside Preparatory School was created in 2002 for students in grades five to 12. Classes include history, physical education, science, foreign language and fine and performing arts. Student athletics include tennis, basketball, track and field and cross country. Clubs are available for students, such as book club, cheer, yearbook, Lego and robotics, math and chess. Two performing arts performances are put on each school year and an all school talent show takes place once throughout the year. Tuition fees start at $23,600 per students in 2011 and there is financial aid available to some students.

Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences

Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences is an accredited private urban prep school for students in grades six through 12. Students are taught subjects such as foreign language, math, history and English with a 9-to-1 student to teacher ratio. An arts department teaches dance, vocals, theater and instrumental music. Athletics that are offered include bowling, golf, volleyball, basketball and soccer. School trips are taken occasionally to help teach students outdoor skills. Past trips have taken students to Wyoming, Alaska, Himalayas and the North Cascades. As of the 2011 school year, tuition costs were $23,802 for middle school students and $24,990 for high school students. Activity and book fees are additional.

Tags: school students, Preparatory School, school year, students grades, 2011 school