Overcome Leg Cramps

A leg cramp is the result of a sudden and involuntary contraction of one or more of your leg muscles. Several things can cause a leg cramp, including inadequate blood supply, nerve compression, mineral depletion, and dehydration. While leg cramps can be very painful, they can generally be overcome at home without the help of a doctor.

Instructions

1. Identify the cause of the leg cramp. In some cases, overcoming a leg cramp will depend on the underlying cause. For example, if you are taking medication for high blood pressure and experiencing leg cramps, there is a good chance it is the result of mineral depletion. This is because many diuretic medications cause significant loss of potassium. Consequently, you would want to consider taking an alternative medication or a potassium supplement.

2. Begin a stretching routine. Stretching exercises can help you reduce your chances of getting leg cramps. One such stretching exercise is the toe raise. To do this, start by standing with your back to the wall and your feet one foot from the wall. Then place both palms against the wall and slowly raise the toes of both feet (putting all the weight on your heels). Hold this for roughly five seconds and then repeat 10 times. As always, consult a doctor before beginning a new stretching routine.

3. Change your diet. According to Dr. Robert McLean, a clinical assistant professor of medicine at Yale University School of Medicine, magnesium and potassium are necessary to ward of leg cramps. In addition to making sure you are getting enough magnesium and potassium, Dr. Lorraine Brilla, associate professor of exercise physiology at Western Washington University in Bellingham, notes that you can help prevent leg cramps by reducing the amount of alcohol, fat, sugary foods, and soft drinks you consume.

4. Apply a cold packet to the cramped muscle. According to the Mayo Clinic, you may be able to relax a cramped muscle by applying a cold pack (such as a bag of frozen vegetables) to the muscle. Later, if you are experiencing pain or tenderness, you can apply a heating pad to the muscle or take a hot bath.

5. See a doctor. In most cases, a leg cramp will simply go away. However, the Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a doctor if you experience severe and persistent cramping, or have night leg cramps after being exposed to a toxin, such as lead (see the Resources section of this article for the link).

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Infant Genetic Diseases

In the United States, before mother and her newborn baby leave the hospital, the baby has blood drawn by means of a procedure commonly called a "heel stick test." A small amount of blood is drawn by pricking the baby's heel, and the blood is used to test for a variety of hereditary endocrine, metabolic and blood disorders. Some tests are required in all U.S. states, while other tests vary state by state.

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

An enzyme called hepatic phenylalanine hydroxylase is required for the body to metabolize phenylalanine (Phe)---an amino acid present in nearly all foods---into another amino acid known as tyrosine. A build-up of Phe in the system can lead to brain damage, seizures and severe mental retardation. Treatment consists of a special formula for the baby. Later on, a low-protein diet requiring vitamin and mineral supplements is necessary, and this special diet must be followed for life. Early detection is critical; therefore, a PKU test is required for all infants born in the United States.

Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH)

Also called neonatal hypothyroidism, CH is a condition in which the thyroid gland of the newborn is deficient. Common causes of this disorder include abnormal or missing thyroid gland, failure of the pituitary gland to trigger the thyroid gland and impaired production of thyroid hormones. A partial or abnormally formed thyroid gland is the most commonly occurring defect, affecting one out of approximately 3,000 births. CH occurs twice as often in girls as in boys.

Galactosemia (GALT)

A hereditary enzyme disorder, galactosemia describes the body's inability to metabolize a simple sugar known as galactose. If galactose is not used, it builds up in the body. Severe damage to the central nervous system, liver, kidneys and eyes can result. Galactose is a component of lactose, which is the sugar found in milk. Human and animal milk cannot be tolerated by persons with this condition. Detection immediately after birth can prevent serious, irreversible problems in newborns such as cataracts, mental retardation and cirrhosis of the liver.

Hearing

Newborns are routinely screened for hearing problems before leaving the hospital. Impaired hearing, if left undetected, can lead to language acquisition, learning and behavioral difficulties as the child grows. The infant is given two tests: an otoacoustic emissions (OAE) test and an auditory brainstem response (ABR) test. These non-invasive tests are conducted using special earphones and electrodes; they are painless and require no response on the part of the infant. If the newborn is fussy, he may be given a very mild sedative in order to keep him relaxed, still and quiet while the tests are being performed.

Infant Testing for Other Genetic Disorders

In the United States, additional tests on newborns vary from state to state, and even from hospital to hospital. Certain tests may be performed on infants with specific ethnic backgrounds, such as sickle cell anemia tests for children of African descent and testing for Tay-Sachs disease in children of Eastern European Jewish descent. The March of Dimes recommends a minimum battery of 29 tests, including those previously mentioned. March of Dimes newborn screening recommendations also include tests for HIV, cystic fibrosis and thalassemia, among other disorders.

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Health Insurance Programs For Adults In California

The California Department of Health Care Services offers programs for the uninsured.

California employer-sponsored health insurance coverage declined by 9 percent between 1987 and 2008, according to a 2009 report produced by the California HealthCare Foundation. Nearly one-third of the 6.6 million uninsured Californians have an annual income above $50,000. Statewide unemployment has increased the number of uninsured, along with the rising number of self-employed workers. A number of California programs fill the health insurance void, ranging from state Medicaid programs to local, government-sponsored plans.

Department of Health Care Services

The Department of Health Care Services serves as a clearinghouse for public health insurance plans, manages specialized health care treatment programs and serves as the administrator for the state's Medicaid program. Department programs offer health care coverage for individuals with disabilities, low-income families and adult individuals. Department of Health Care Services programs can provide you with primary health care, dental coverage and long-term care plans.

Medi-Cal

The Department of Health Care Services administers the California Medical Assistance Program, the state's Medicaid program known as Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal provides health services for low-income residents, pregnant women, senior citizens and the disabled. Medi-Cal coverage offers benefits for persons enrolled in an SSI/SSD Social Security program, CalWORKs participants and participants of In-Home Supportive Services. Individuals 65 or older, blind or under 21 years of age can apply for Medi-Cal.

Medi-Cal can pay for clinic services, doctor's services, alcohol and drug treatment, inpatient and outpatient services and pharmacy services. The amount you pay for services depends on your income. While lower income participants might pay no costs, others require a monthly deductible for medical services. You can apply for Medi-Cal at any county social services office. Individuals receiving SSI/SSP benefits are automatically enrolled through the Social Security Administration and county social services agencies automatically enroll CalWORKs participants.

The California Partnership for Long-Term Care

The Department of Health Care Services' California Partnership for Long-Term Care program provides long-term care insurance programs in association with private insurance providers. While plans can cost the same as private long-term insurance programs, the California Partnership plans include a financial protection benefit, exempting participants from Medi-Cal financial prerequisites that requires participants to spend down all assets before coverage begins. This means you can keep a portion of your personal assets and still receive long-term health care benefits. The California Partnership for Long-Term Care program can pay costs incurred from residential care and nursing home health care.

Health Insurance Premium Payment Program

The Health Insurance Premium Payment Program -- or HIPP -- pays the premiums of private health insurance policies for individuals already enrolled in Medi-Cal. Enrollees who meet initial eligibility requirements are re-evaluated yearly to determine continued eligibility. You can apply for HIPP if you are already enrolled in Medi-Cal, have private health insurance or can obtain coverage through your employment, among other requirements.

Local Programs

Depending on where you live, local governments might offer health insurance programs. For example, the City of San Francisco offers a number of health care programs for uninsured residents, including the Healthy San Francisco and HealthyWorkers programs. Local programs can pay for vision, dental and medical care, for a cost as low as $3 per month.

Tags: Care Services, Department Health, Department Health Care, Health Care Services, health insurance, California Partnership

What Is The Salary Of A Radiology Tech

A radiology tech prepares and positions patients for x-rays and takes and develops patient x-rays. The salary of a radiology tech depends on several factors.

Starting salaries

According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the average beginning salary for a radiology tech is just under $37,000.

Experienced technician salaries

Senior-level and chief radiology technicians earn over $42,000, with directors earning an average salary of more than $64,000.

Degrees & certification

The level of education obtained can affect technician salaries. The average for a tech that has completed only high school and a certificate program is over $56,000, while technicians with bachelor's degrees earn $7,000 more on average.

Salary range

The salary range for radiology techs is $30,000 to $90,000, with 5% of techs earning less than or more than the range.

Increasing your salary

Furthering your education, earning advanced certification and years of experience are the keys to earning more money as a radiology technician.

Tags: radiology tech, more than, salary radiology tech, technician salaries

Become An Ultrasound Technician In Ontario

Ontario ultrasound technicians work in hospitals, clinics, research and sales.

Ultrasound technicians--also called ultrasound technologists or diagnostic medical sonographers--are valued and in-demand health professionals. They take real-time pictures of internal organs, soft tissue and developing fetuses using sound waves and assist physicians in interpreting the results. Employers look for ultrasound technicians who have excellent interpersonal communication skills, work experience, a degree or diploma from an accredited diagnostic sonography program and registration with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and/or the Canadian Association for Registered Diagnostic Ultrasound Professionals (CARDUP).

Instructions

1. Successfully complete an accredited program in diagnostic medical sonography. To apply to a postgraduate program you must be a health professional with a minimum three-year degree or diploma in your field, have a Bachelor of Science or a kinesiology degree, and have taken human anatomy and human physiology courses. To apply to a diploma-degree program, such as the one offered through the Mohawk-McMaster Institute of Applied Health Sciences, you must have completed your Ontario secondary school diploma with the following U-level courses: English, biology, chemistry, advanced functions and either physics or vectors. A grade 12 calculus course is also required.

2. Register with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). You must pass two exams to be registered. One is a general principles and instrumentation exam and the other is a speciality exam. The exams can be taken in any order. You can apply for the exams and pay the processing fee online. Exams are written in person in Toronto and Ottawa, as of 2010.

3. Register with the Canadian Association of Registered Diagnostic Ultrasound Professionals (CARDUP). You must pass two exams to register: the core sonographic skills exam and either a generalist sonographer exam or a specialist exam for those who want to work as cardiac or vascular sonographers. Exams are held at a number of schools offering accredited diagnostic medical ultrasound programs.

4. Complete other continuing education courses and certification as needed. Some employers look for ultrasound technicians who have an Integrated Prenatal Screening (IPS) certificate or experience with picture archiving and communications systems (PACS). Others are looking for ultrasound technologists who have specialized in vascular and cardiac sonography.

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Who Qualifies For Medicare Health Insurance

Medicare is a national health insurance program paid for through workers' payroll taxes and deducted premiums from individuals' Social Security checks. Applicants must meet specific requirements to be eligible for Medicare.

Benefits

Medicare benefits include hospitalization coverage through Part A, and coverage for doctor's visits, medical services and supplies through Part B. A recipient can choose to have coverage through a Medicare Advantage Plan, also known as Part C. Prescription coverage is through Part D.

Over Age 65

At age 65, an individual who worked at least 10 years and paid Medicare taxes, and his spouse are eligible for Medicare Part A at no cost. He must qualify for or be receiving Social Security benefits or railroad benefits, or have worked at a government job. He must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. A worker who did not pay Medicare taxes is eligible for Part A coverage but must pay for it. A recipient can choose to purchase Part B or C coverage, too.

Under Age 65

An individual under age 65 can receive benefits if he is disabled or receives a disability pension from the railroad retirement board. An individual with end stage renal disease is also eligible for benefits before age 65.

Cost

Eligible applicants receive Part A coverage at no cost. As of 2010, the cost for Part B is $110.50 per month.

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Role Of A Diabetic Nurse

Diabetic nurses educate patients and families on diabetes care and management.

Diabetic nurses, often referred to as diabetes nurse educators, fill a key role in the lives of patients with diabetes and their families or caregivers. Diabetic nurses provide diabetes education and support to people who have been diagnosed with diabetes or have been identified as pre-diabetic. Diabetic nurses work in hospitals, doctor's offices and community health clinics.

Significance

Nearly 24 million people in the United States live with diabetes each year. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearing House medical expenditures for people with diabetes was $85.7 billion in 1992. Diabetic nurses provide critical educational interventions to improved diabetes self-care in patients and reduce the impact of the illness on the individual's quality of life and reduce the medical costs associated with untreated diabetes.

Scope of Work

Diabetic nurses complete assessments of their patient's understanding of their diagnosis, symptoms and treatment as well as their ability to care for their own medical needs. Diabetic nurses provide individual and group education on topics including diet, exercise, symptoms, medication and lifestyle changes. Diabetic nurses may also facilitate diabetes support groups.

Requirements for Employment

The position of diabetic nurse is considered a professional specialty. Diabetic nurses are generally required to have at least two years nursing experience working with patients with diabetes as a registered nurse. Employers may prefer that the diabetic nurse educator have a M.S.N (Master of Science, Nursing) degree and be a Certified Diabetic Educator.

Benefits

In addition to providing expert treatment and services to patients, diabetic nurses have the opportunity to work in the community providing education and training to families, caregivers and other medical professionals. Because of their specialized training and skills, diabetic nurses earn between $58,000 and $71,000 per year.

Certification

Becoming a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) provides additional opportunities for employment and increased salary. Certification may be obtained through the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators (NCBDE). Certification requires a minimum of two years experience, documentation of diabetes education hours and passing a national exam.

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Food Sources Of Dietary Iodine

Sea kelp is a high-iodine food.

Iodine deficiency is uncommon in the United States, but pregnant women and adolescents are prone to the deficiency. Iodine is essential for thyroid health and function, and a chronic lack of dietary iodine may cause goiters or hypothyroidism. As with most dietary needs, overdoing your iodine intake can lead to health problems as well, so check with your doctor before making major dietary alterations.

Salt

Iodized salt is the primary method of dietary iodine intake in the United States. However, if you use non-iodized salt, such as kosher or sea salt, and don't eat out at places that use iodized salt, you may be missing this source of dietary iodine. Most people should not increase their salt intake, but switching to an iodized salt can increase your iodine intake, which may be sufficient for your body's needs.

Seafood

Seafood is a natural source for iodine, and a variety of seafood types can supplement your diet. Perch, haddock and cod are good sources, but the amount of iodine in seafood can be hard to measure accurately. If you eat seafood regularly but have been diagnosed with an iodine deficiency, try switching to sea vegetables, such as kelp or seaweed. The iodine content in these items varies less, and they also contain other highly nutritious elements.

Dairy

Milk, yogurt and cheese all contain dietary iodine, as well as other vitamins and minerals essential to a healthy body. Low fat varieties of these foods generally still contain similar iodine levels to the full cream types, so you can still reduce your fat intake while receiving your iodine supplementation.

Plants

Plants can be iodine-rich, but judging their content is difficult because the iodine in plants comes from growing in iodine-rich soil. Check the packaging on frozen or canned vegetables for iodine content. Wheat plants may not contain significant amounts of iodine naturally, but bread can be a sufficient source of dietary iodine due to dough conditioners and iodized salt added during the bread-making process.

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Advanced Bone Cancer Symptoms

So far in 2009, bone cancer has claimed 1,470 lives and there were 2,570 new cases in the United States. There are several different types of bone cancer, and each has different symptoms, the most common of which is pain. As the cancer progresses, the symptoms become worse. If you experience any of these, see your doctor. Having cancer does not mean you're going to die.

Raise awareness for bone cancer.

Osteosarcoma

The most common primary malignant bone cancer is osteosarcoma. The primary symptom is pain, which is usually worse at night. If the tumor is large, it may appear as if the area is swelled. When the bones are affected, they are not be as strong as normal and can fracture easily.

Ewing's Sarcoma

The most aggressive of the bone tumors is Ewing's sarcoma. The symptoms depend on where and how big the tumor is. You may feel pain or tenderness in the affected area along with some swelling; the pain is more intense when the tumor is near important nerves. The tumor can weaken the bones so much that they fracture easily or interfere with movement. Some people may experience tiredness, fever, weight loss, decreased appetite and anemia. Other symptoms include numbness or tingling in parts of the body. There may be redness or swelling around the tumor. Paralysis or incontinence may result if the tumor is near the spine.

Chondrosarcoma

The second most common type of bone cancer is chondrosarcoma. One symptom may be a large lump on the bone, with pressure surrounding the mass. Many people suffer from severe pain. Other symptoms are headaches and vision and hearing problems.

Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma has symptoms that depend on the location and size of the tumor. Sometimes, a bone fracture is the first symptom. Other symptoms may include fever, weight loss and low blood sugar. The swelled soft tissues are usually painless, but some people begin to limp and have difficulty using a part of their limbs. There may be pain if the tumor is pressing on nerves and muscles

Fibrosarcoma

Fibrosarcoma is a rare bone cancer, whose symptoms include bone swelling and pain or tenderness in the knee, arm or thigh area. Some people begin to limp or experience soft tissue swelling around the bones.

Chordoma

Chordoma is another rare bone cancer. Common symptoms when the tumor is at the base of the skull are headaches, double vision and pain in the neck and face. Some may have trouble in swallowing or changes in hearing. If the chordoma tumor goes undetected until a mass forms and is on the spine or sacrum, there are other symptoms, including changes in bowel or bladder functions, incontinence, impotence, numbness and weakness in the arms and legs.

Tags: bone cancer, bone cancer, most common, symptoms include, begin limp

Frostbite Prevention And Treatment

If, after prolonged exposure to freezing cold, the skin (especially on the hands, face and feet) appears white or grayish-yellow, has a waxy texture and feels cold and numb, or burns and itches, it is likely a sign of frostbite, a freezing of the epidermal layers and tissue. Severe frostbite can cause painful blistering and infection without immediate medical attention. Because treatment is long and sometimes painful, preventing frostbite is always advisable.

Prevention

You can usually prevent frostbite by following some sensible tips and preparing for cold exposure. Check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities and avoid hikes and camping trips in extremely cold weather if possible. If you are going to be outside in cold temperatures for extended periods, make sure to dress appropriately. Cover your hands, feet, nose and ears with protective winter apparel and bundle up in loose, layered clothing. Try to avoid getting gloves, socks, hats and scarves wet, as this increases your chance of frostbite. Go indoors periodically to allow your skin to warm up. Avoid drinking alcohol before going out into the cold. Alcohol warms your body and you may not realize that your skin is getting too cold. Smoking cigarettes can reduce blood flow to your extremities and increase your risk of frostbite.

Treatment

If frostbite seems to have developed, get out of the cold as soon as possible. Seek emergency medical attention to minimize the risk of serious complications. Do not rub the affected skin, as this can damage the tissues. Put frostbitten hands under the arms to gently warm them. Cover face, ears and nose with dry, gloved hands. Protect extremities from the cold if there is no chance the skin will be refrozen before getting medical help. If the skin is refrozen, avoid warming it, as changing temperatures rapidly can drastically increase damage to your skin and underlying tissues. Do not warm the skin with a heating pad, stove or fireplace. This can heat the skin unevenly, and you may not realize how hot the skin is getting if it is numb from frostbite. Do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes if possible.

The hospital will usually hold frostbite victims for observation because it is difficult for medical personnel to diagnose the severity of frostbite in the first few hours. Hospital staff will warm the affected skin in water for 15 to 30 minutes and lance blisters filled with clear or milky pus. You will wear a splint over the affected area, which will be bandaged and elevated. Emergency medical personnel usually give frostbitten patients ibuprofen to relieve swelling, antibiotics to prevent and treat infection and tetanus toxoid to prevent a tetanus infection. You may receive narcotic painkillers at the hospital for severe pain.

Whirlpool and physical therapy will help encourage circulation to frostbitten areas after the hospital staff has had a chance to assess the severity of skin damage. In severe cases where skin and underlying tissues are dead, amputation may be necessary.

Tags: your skin, affected skin, medical attention, medical personnel, skin getting, skin underlying, skin underlying tissues

Give An Effective Presentation Using Visual Aids

Being able to present information, data, and opinions in a clear and understandable way is a skill that any professional should have. Presentations can often be improved by incorporating visual aids to help guide the audience. Whether you are using posters, graphs, or slides, use common techniques with visual aids to enhance your presentation.

Instructions

1. Decide on a single medium for the visual aids in your presentation. Keep the medium consistent throughout the presentation so that you do not distract your audience.

2. Prepare and organize your visual aids before the presentation. Ensure that each poster, graph, or slide is in order and that any technical systems are fully functioning. Failure to do so may confuse the audience and disrupt your presentation.

3. Present only one message on each poster, graph, or slide to emphasize the point you are making. Do not include several ideas within the same poster, graph, or slide, as this will detract from the perceived importance of each point.

4. Spend approximately the same time discussing each poster, graph, or slide. Give the audience enough time to analyze the visual aids as you progress through your presentation.

5. Refer to the visual aids as you present your topics. Make a connection between what you are discussing and the content of the visual aids.

Tags: visual aids, graph slide, poster graph, poster graph slide, your presentation, each poster, each poster graph

Calculate Interest Rate Sensitivity

If you are thinking about purchasing a bond, there are issues to consider, including the current market circumstances and interest rate sensitivity. Interest rate sensitivity refers to how much a change in interest rates will affect the expected price and maturity of an investment. To calculate the sensitivity of the interest rate, you must measure the duration. For example, if a $100,000 bond that matures in ten years pays a 5 percent coupon rate annually, then each year has a duration of 8 percent. However, if that coupon rate increase to 6 percent, the current value of that bond will fall by 8 percent. To figure this, you need to calculate the discounted weighted average of the bond's cash flows.

Instructions

1. Access your spreadsheet software or grab a piece of blank paper and a pencil. Create six columns. Label each column with these headings: Year, Cash Flows, Interest, Factor, Discount Factor, and Year X Discount Factor.

2. Create 10 rows underneath the labels and write the numbers one through 10 underneath the "Year" column. You can adjust for the period of your own investment.

3. Multiply the par value of the bond by the coupon rate and write this value underneath the "Cash Flows" column from year 1 through 9. For example, a bond with a par value of $100,000 and a coupon rate of 5 percent would have $5,000 in the cash flow column from year one to nine.

4. Add the par value of the bond to the amount calculated in the previous step and write this under the cash flow column for year 10. For example, a bond at $100,000 would add $5,000. $105,000 would be written under the cash flow column for year 10.

5. Calculate the discount factor for each row of the factor column. Use a calculator to raise the number calculated in the previous step from the interest column by the power calculated by the number in the corresponding year column. For example, the first row would calculate 1.05^1 = 1.05. Do this for each row. The last row should read 1.05^10 = 1.63.

6. Divide the discount factor into the numbers found in the cash flow. For example, row 1 would read: $5,000/1.05 = $4,726. The final row should read: $105,000/1.63 = $64,417.

7. Multiply the year number by the corresponding number in the rows for the discount factor column. For example, the first number would be 1*$4,762, which would equal $4,762. The last number would be 10*$64,417, which would equal $644,170. These results should be written in the "Year X Discount Factor" column.

8. Add all numbers in the Year X Discount Factor column. The date for the previous example would add up to a total of $810,345. Divide that total by the face value of the bond. For example, $810,345 divided by $100,000 is 8.1. This gives you the duration of the bond and represents the sensitivity of the interest rate. It means that if the interest rate rises by just one percent, the value of the bond will fall by approximately 8 percent.

Tags: cash flow, coupon rate, value bond, cash flow column, Discount Factor

Advantages & Disadvantages Of Screen Printing

Screen printing is widely used to add images and text to t-shirts.

Screen printing is a versatile medium that can be used to create fine art or commercial reproductions. Of the four printmaking methods, screen printing is the only one which can personalize a wide variety of items, from textiles to ceramics.

History

Screen printing has only recently become a viable medium for reproductions, despite evidence of its existence as far back as 500 A.D., according to "Printmaking: History and Process." The process is thought to have begun in China and Japan during that period, where it was used to transfer decorative images to fabric. Screen printing would become popular in the United States in the 1960's when Andy Warhol used the method in his art.

Processes

In artistic screen printing, stencils are often made by hand and applied to screens for printing. A squeegee is pulled across the screen and ink enters the open areas to create an impression of the image on another surface. In commercial printing, a chemical emulsion is applied to a screen, and then artwork printed on vellum paper is attached to the emulsion. The screen is then placed under a powerful light, which "burns" the image from the vellum to the screen. The vellum is then removed, and the screen is sprayed with water, which reveals the open image area created in the emulsion while under the light.

Advantages

The screen printing process affords one the opportunity to print images and text on a variety of promotional items. Unlike other printmaking techniques, such as intaglio or relief, screen printing allows many prints to be created before a re-application of ink is necessary, which makes screen printing very useful commercially.

Disadvantages

Images for screen printing have to be simple in design and reduced to definite lines or shapes that will print well. While screen frames are durable, and can be reused many times, they can eventually become warped and uneven. Most hand-stencils are very fragile and break down faster than emulsion-based processes.

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Get Health Insurance To Cover Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care entails diagnosing and adjusting back problems by manually manipulating the bones in the spine to ease pain and restore mobility. Years ago, chiropractic care and other forms of alternative medicine were considered unorthodox and often weren't covered by health insurance providers. Today, as more and more insurance carriers are looking for ways to promote wellness and good health, the rules have changed.

Instructions

Get Health Insurance to Cover Chiropractic Care

1. Find out what is covered by your health insurance plan. Check to see if your chiropractic care team is listed among their approved providers for those services.

2. Determine if your insurance carrier is an HMO (Healthcare Management Organization) or PPO. HMOs will generally only cover practitioners who are on their approved list. PPOs tend to pay for any chiropractic service, usually up to 80 percent of fees charged by providers not on their preferred list, as well as a prearranged fee to the provider if they are preferred.

3. Get your chiropractor's office team to help you find alternatives to your health insurance if you can't get coverage for your visits. Many practitioners have special financing plans available.

4. Look for more information about insurance coverage and rights of the insured online at the Insurance.com Web site (see Resources below).

Tags: Chiropractic Care, chiropractic care, Cover Chiropractic, Cover Chiropractic Care, health insurance, Health Insurance, Health Insurance Cover

Who Can Be A Beneficiary Of An Hsa

The funds in your HSA may be taxable income to the beneficiary.

One of the benefits of a high-deductible health insurance plan is the health savings account, or HSA, that you can open to pay for qualified medical expenses. The balance in an HSA can roll over from year to year, and there isn't a cap on the amount you can accrue in an HSA. The IRS doesn't restrict who you name as the beneficiary of your HSA, but the tax consequences vary based on your relationship to the beneficiary.

Designating Your Spouse as the Beneficiary

When your spouse is the designated beneficiary of your HSA, the IRS treats the HSA as if your spouse was the original owner. That means that the funds in the HSA can be used by your spouse for qualified medical expenses without paying taxes on the withdrawals. Your spouse can also use these funds to pay any outstanding qualified medical expenses you may have without any income tax liability.

Nonspousal Beneficiary

If anyone other than your spouse is the designated beneficiary of your HSA --- including your estate --- the account is no longer treated as an HSA. As a result, "the fair market value of your HSA becomes taxable income to the beneficiary for the year in which you die," according to IRS Publication 969.

Reducing Taxable Income From an HSA

The only way that a nonspousal beneficiary can reduce the taxable income that results from inheriting an HSA is to pay qualified medical expenses incurred by the decedent. To reduce the taxable income, the beneficiary may not be the estate of the deceased, and the expenses must be paid within one year of the death of the original HSA owner. If the beneficiary is the decedent's estate, paying qualified medical expenses doesn't reduce the taxable income.

Keeping Beneficiaries Informed

If the nonspousal beneficiary of your HSA doesn't have an HSA, confirm that the executor of your estate is aware of the ability to reduce the taxable income of the HSA by paying your remaining qualified medical expenses.

Tags: medical expenses, qualified medical, qualified medical expenses, taxable income, beneficiary your

About Radiology Technician Degrees

About Radiology Technician Degrees

Radiology technology is one of the fastest growing fields in the healthcare industry due to increasing demands for its diagnostic capabilities. More and more qualified technicians are needed to meet these demands, and fortunately, there is a wide variety of degree programs to fit any technician candidate. Potential candidates can select from one-, two- or four-year degree programs in radiography and radiology technology, depending on their educational backgrounds and needs.

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree in radiology technology or radiography is the most prevalent degree for a radiology technician. Associate's programs teach students basic knowledge in X-ray machine operation and imaging, as well as patient interaction. These degrees can be found at community or vocational colleges.

Bachelor's Degree

Bachelor's degrees offer similar training to associate's programs, but they cover more details in anatomy and physiology, radiation biology and equipment servicing than associate's degrees. Most students consider a bachelor's degree in radiography if they are also considering medical school in their future.

Certification

One-year certification programs in radiology technology are available, but only for healthcare professionals with an associate's or bachelor's degree in another medical field, such as nursing or radiation therapy.

Advanced Certification

Experienced radiology technicians can obtain additional certification and training in advanced imaging technologies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) and computer tomography (CT) scans. Most of these certification programs take one to two years, including a working internship, for completion.

Graduate Degrees

Master's degrees are available for certified techs who want to become consultants or directors for radiology technology departments or education programs. These degrees also prepare students for advanced imaging techniques such as MRIs and CT scans, as well as nuclear medicine (see Resources).

Tags: radiology technology, About Radiology, About Radiology Technician, advanced imaging, bachelor degree

The Use Of Computers In Reading

Kids can read in pairs to practice taking turns and collaborative skills.

When you think of reading instruction, perhaps phonics books and worksheets, or simple rhyming books with clearly labeled images of familiar and new items come to mind. Throwing computers into the mix can seem intimidating, and you may wonder whether computer use in reading is as effective as traditional methods. As long as you use a variety of approaches and are proactive, you can harness the power of computers to actually improve reading instruction for your students.

How It's Done

The methods through which teachers use computers for reading instruction and practice vary. Teachers may use an interactive lesson during lecture time for a class exercise, or students may be given a set amount of time to work in a specific program or online site developed for interactive reading. Online reading, research and vocabulary may also be incorporated into other subjects, and students may be given independent reading time in addition to silent reading -- or sometimes in lieu of traditional silent reading, especially in special education classrooms.

Why It Can Work

Computers allow for an interaction from the student when learning reading. When used in direct reading instruction, programs offer opportunity for general practice or specific areas of study. A student gets immediate feedback or correction, and, depending on the program, there may be incentive for moving on to higher levels in the program or reading game. Students can also create documents and multimedia projects based on what they're learning and easily share them with other students. Online resources also mean students can supplement what they learn in reading class by reading about a certain subject online, watching videos or taking quizzes.

Some Obstacles

Computer-assisted learning can be less effective in any field when a teacher or learner has less confidence in the technology. This is seen largely in the technological gap between generations of users who grew up with computer and Internet at school and home and those who had little experience with it until recently. Schools also may have difficulty getting enough computers, and computer access may be limited, though students can always share computers while working.

Getting the Most Out of It

Mixing computers and reading works best when a teacher or parent is on hand to answer questions, make comments and interact with the student. Observing how your child navigates through the program can also familiarize you with her performance and give her insight to how she thinks and solves problems. Encourage working in pairs or small groups, since it incorporates social skills like cooperation and taking turns. Keep up with the latest and highest-rated software by educational institutions, organizations and respected teachers. Use the software yourself so you're aware of any glitches or challenging aspects you'll need to help with.

Tags: reading instruction, computers reading, silent reading, students given, taking turns

The Starting Salary For A Radiologist In Somerset County Pennsylvania

Radiologists are skilled in interpreting diagnostic images.

Radiologists are medical doctors who are trained in multiple types of diagnostic imaging equipment and methods. Their salaries are generally well over $300,000 per year. Their salaries can be much higher, depending on the level of experience, employer and location of a radiologist. Somerset County, Pennsylvania radiologists generally earn salaries comparable to radiologists in many other areas of the country.

Somerset County

Somerset County had a population of 77,742 as of 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The median household income in the county was $38,712 in 2009, and the percentage of the population that graduated from high school was 82.3 percent between 2005 and 2009. It sits about 57 miles to the southeast of Pittsburgh and about 136 miles west of Harrisburg.

National

The Bureau of Labor Statistics puts radiologists in the occupational category of "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other." The average annual salary for a radiologist in this category as of May 2010, according to the BLS, was $180,870. Radiologists tend to earn much more than this average; according to LocumTenens.com, as of 2010 the average annual salary of a radiologist in the United States was $398,571. The salary website CBSalary.com reported at time of publication that the annual salary of a radiologist in the United States averaged $342,103.

Pennsylvania

The average salary of a radiologist in Pennsylvania, according to SalaryRange.info as of time of publication, was $261,750 based on 12 salary records. The salary range was between $205,414 and $318,085. The BLS puts the average salary of the occupational category for Pennsylvania radiologists as of May 2010 at $178,610.

Somerset County

According to CBSalary.com as of time of publication, the salary of a radiologist in Somerset, Pennsylvania was $427,857. CBSalary listed the average salary for a radiologist as $326,048 in Boswell, Pennsylvania, another city in Somerset County. New Radiologists can expect to earn lower than these averages, probably up to around the 25th percentile mark, which was $303,350 in Somerset and $231,167 in Boswell.

Comparison

Radiologists in Johnstown, a city about 31 miles northeast of Somerset in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, had an average annual salary of $151,540 per year, according to the BLS. The average salary in Pittsburgh for physicians and surgeons in the same category as radiologists was $181,780 as of May 2010. Radiologists can expect to earn far more than these averages in Somerset County and in Pennsylvania as a whole.

MedSource Consultants posted a position on RadWorking.com at time of publication for an academic radiologist in the southwest region of Pennsylvania. The job posting did not specify the city. The beginning salary for the position was between $300,000 and $350,000 per year, and the higher end of the salary scale ranged from $400,000 to $450,000 annually. The same company posted another job for an academic Women's Imager with a salary range of between $350,000 and $400,000 for beginners and between $400,000 and $450,000 for more experienced radiologists.

Tags: Somerset County, salary radiologist, annual salary, average salary, County Pennsylvania

What Are The Treatments For Mild Stomach Pain

There are dozens of causes for mild stomach pain, and determining the root cause of the pain is essential in treating it. The list of possible causes for abdominal pain published by the National Institutes of Health is extensive and it ranges from common illnesses that are relatively easy to treat to conditions that require immediate medical attention and could be potentially life threatening. Below are some of the most common diagnoses associated with mild to moderate stomach pain.

Ulcers

Ulcers are lesions that form on the mucous membrane in the lining of the stomach and can cause mild to severe pain. Doctors use a two-pronged attack when fighting ulcers that includes antibiotic treatment in addition to reducing the acid to allow the ulcer to heal, according to the Mayo Clinic. A combination of antibiotics as well as the use of acid blockers, antacids or proton pump-inhibiting drugs to reduce acid in the stomach usually works well to relieve the pain and heal the ulcer.

Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, happens when the acidic contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus, causing what is commonly referred to as heartburn. This can lead to a burning sensation in the stomach, chest and throat. Treatment for this relatively common condition can involve changes in the diet, prescription medication and sometimes surgery.

Eating high acid-content foods, spicy foods and foods that cause you excessive gas should be avoided with a GERD diagnosis. Over-the-counter acid-blocking medications, along with this lifestyle change, will improve on 80 to 90 percent of cases, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Stomach Flu

Viral Gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, is a viral infection of the stomach and intestines that can lead to mild to severe stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Most people have experienced or know someone who has experienced the stomach flu, and the treatment for it is fairly standard.

Since viruses do not respond to antibiotics, most of the treatment is simply preventing dehydration and getting proper rest. Avoiding food and substances such as alcohol, caffeine, dairy and excessively fatty foods also helps in recovery. There are over-the-counter medicines that may provide relief from stomach flu symptoms, but be cautious when taking medications like ibuprofen or aspirin as they may worsen stomach pain in some people.

Other Possibilities

Other conditions that may lead to stomach pain, or what is perceived as stomach pain, are appendicitis, bowel obstruction, kidney stones, urinary tract infections and others. If you aren't comfortable with a self-diagnosis, see a physician. Your pain may worsen and indicate a more serious problem.

Tags: stomach pain, according Mayo, according Mayo Clinic, conditions that, Mayo Clinic, mild severe

What Is Dcis

DCIS is short for "ductal carcinoma in situ." This is a condition in which the cells that line the breast's milk ducts are cancerous, yet they are contained and have not spread to surrounding breast tissue. DCIS is often described as noninvasive, preinvasive, precancerous or intraductal cancer. Treatment of DCIS is advised. While not every female that has DCIS will develop breast cancer, if it is left untreated it can invade breast tissue. If DCIS does spread to breast tissue it is considered invasive breast cancer.

Grades

DCIS is classified into three grades: high, intermediate and low. The grade that is given is determined by how the cells appear when they are observed under a microscope. Medical professionals can look at the cells and give an estimate as to how fast the cells may develop into invasive cancer and how likely they are to respond to treatment/surgery. High grades of DCIS are more likely to develop into invasive cancers over low grades.

Causes

No one knows what causes DCIS. However, some women seem more prone to developing DCIS than others. Women who have never had children, who have children when they are older, and women who begin their menstrual cycles at a young age, who enter menopause at a late age and women who have a history of breast cancers in their families are at higher risk of developing DCIS. These risk factors are generally the same as those involved for invasive breast cancer.

Symptoms

Women who have DCIS will generally have no symptoms. DCIS is usually detected via a mammogram. However, there are a small number of women with DCIS that did exhibit symptoms such as nipple discharge and/or a lump in the breast. Some women with DCIS reported a rash on their nipples.

Detection

If a mammogram detects an abnormal area, a tissue sample will be taken of the area and examined under a microscope. This is called a biopsy. It is performed under local anesthetic using a special needle. If DCIS is discovered, treatment options will depend on the grade that is given to the abnormal area.

Treatment

DCIS is generally treated with surgery. During surgery the abnormal area along with a portion of the normal tissue around it is removed. This procedure is called a WLE or "wide local excision." If the DCIS is large and/or very high grade, the breast may be removed along with some of the lymph nodes in the armpit. Surgery options/procedures are explained prior to surgery so women know what they can expect. Women who have high-grade DCIS will often be given radiotherapy after surgery. This is to reduce the likelihood that the DCIS returns. Radiotherapy is generally given five days a week for three to six weeks.

Tags: abnormal area, breast cancer, breast tissue, DCIS will, Women have

Visual Symptoms Of Aids

Visual symptoms alone cannot diagnose HIV/AIDS.

Clear visual symptoms for diagnosing acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) do not exist. Instead, symptoms of other opportunistic infections--by organisms that would not normally cause infection in healthy humans--sometimes appear, and testing leads to the AIDS diagnosis. In late-stage AIDS, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the retrovirus that causes AIDS, may itself show unique visual symptoms.

Early Stages

AIDS can cause flu-like symptoms.

On initial infection with HIV, few or no symptoms may appear, but commonly, those infected report development of flu-like illnesses between two and four weeks after the known infection period. These symptoms are known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) and might include the visual symptoms of briefly swollen lymph nodes and rashes, as well as the non-visual symptoms of fever, headache and sore throat.

Late Stages

While many individuals infected with HIV remain symptom free for up to nine years (or significantly longer if the individual is receiving antiretroviral therapy, which can increase the time between HIV infection and the onset of AIDS), the virus multiplies, destroying immune cells. Eventually, the virus overtakes the immune system, resulting in infections or chronic symptoms. Visual symptoms of late-stage infection include continuously swollen lymph nodes and unexplained weight loss. Non-visual symptoms include unexplained diarrhea, persistent fever, coughing and trouble breathing.

Final Stage

Around the 10-year mark, or later if antiretroviral therapy is effective, more serious symptoms begin to appear, officially qualifying the infection for the AIDS diagnosis. The damage to the immune system by this time is severe, opening the door for multiple opportunistic infections. Symptoms of the visual symptoms might include unusual lesions or white spots in the mouth or on the tongue and weight loss. Non-visual symptoms are night sweats and shaking chills, fever above 100 degrees Fahrenheit over several days or weeks, breathing problems and dry cough, chronic diarrhea, distorted or blurred vision, and headache.

Symptoms of the HIV infection itself may also present--note that many are similar to the symptoms of the opportunistic infections--and include soaking night sweats and shaking chills, persistent fatigue, fever above 100 degrees F over three or more weeks, swollen lymph nodes over three months, chronic headaches and unrelieved diarrhea.

One result is wasting syndrome, the involuntary loss of body weight (10 percent or more) caused by the ongoing fever and diarrhea.

Symptoms in Children

Frequent ear infections may develop in children.

As infected children develop, common childhood illness may have severe consequences. These illnesses include ear infections (otitis media), pneumonia and tonsillitis. Other developmental symptoms may appear as lack of normal weight gain, abnormal growth patterns, difficulty walking, and arrested or delayed cognitive development.

Warning

Because many people infected with HIV have only mild symptoms for many years, symptoms alone are unreliable in determining either HIV infection or AIDS: Testing is required.

Tags: lymph nodes, swollen lymph, swollen lymph nodes, above degrees, AIDS diagnosis, antiretroviral therapy, fever above

Where Is The Modem Located In A Computer

A modulator-demodulator (modem) is a device that connects your computer to the Internet either through a dial-up connection, DSL or cable. The modem converts the digital signals that are exchanged between your computer and the Internet into frequencies that can be streamed over the carrier, which are either phone lines or cable. Where the modem is located in your system depends on what kind of modem you have.

Which Connection?

To locate the modem, find the modem's connection point. The connection will be either an RJ11 jack or a coaxial connector on the back of the computer tower or on a separate box sent to you from your Internet service provider.

RJ11

RJ11 is the type of connection that is used for phone lines. If you have a typical home phone service, an RJ11 connector looks like the connector on a phone cord and the jack would look like the typical phone wall jack. It is very similar in appearance to an RJ45 connector which is an ethernet cable connector, but the RJ11 connector is slightly smaller.

Coaxial

A coaxial connector is used for cable connections. Typically, a coaxial jack looks like a cylindrical post about 3/4 of an inch long with threads on the outside and a small hole in the center.

Internal Modem

A computer tower that has a modem inside it will have an RJ11 jack or a coaxial jack on the back of the tower. The modem might be a separate component inside the computer or it might be integrated onto the computer's motherboard. In either case, the jack will be visible on the back of the tower.

If you use broadband Internet access, you might not have an internal modem. Even if a modem is installed in the tower, you are likely not using it. Broadband access generally requires an external modem that can be provided by your Internet service provider.

External Modem

An external modem is a small box that has an RJ11 jack for DSL or a coaxial jack for cable on it and at least one ethernet jack. It will also have a power source that plugs into an outlet. It is common to find that modern modems are also routers, and so the term "modem" and "router" have almost begun to be interchangeable. It is not accurate to say that modems and routers are the same thing, but the small box supplied by your Internet service provider is likely a combination modem and router.

Tags: coaxial jack, Internet service, Internet service provider, jack coaxial, RJ11 jack, RJ11 jack coaxial

Pros & Cons Of Longterm Health Insurance

Long-term care insurance is typically purchased by individuals to protect their children and to not be a burden if they can no longer care for themselves. A policy can pay for care that is provided in an assisted living facility, a nursing home or in an individual's own home. This type of insurance policy can have many benefits and even some drawbacks depending on various factors. The biggest concern about purchasing a policy is the cost of providing care for an individual.

Purpose

The purpose of long-term care insurance is to provide protection if an individual becomes disabled or can no longer care for themselves. Many individuals who purchase long-term care insurance want to maintain their independence as they age and not become a burden to their children. Coverage for a long-term care policy will pay for various types of care that have not been specifically excluded on the policy.

Benefits

Long-term care policies have many benefits, which include using this type of policy as a financial safety net. This type of policy will pay for care that is needed without having to draw funds from savings or retirement funds to provide for care. Another benefit is there are no medical exams that are required, and policies are guaranteed renewable. This means that an insurance company will not cancel a policy as long as the premium is paid on time.

Coverage

Individuals that purchase a long-term care insurance policy are provided coverage when they can no longer perform at least two activities of daily living. Two of the most common daily activities of an individual include dressing and bathing. Long-term care policies will provide for care that is received in a licensed nursing home or assisted living facility from skilled or nonskilled nursing care and from home health agencies that are Medicare certified.

Limitations

Many long-term care policies have benefit limits that are capped at a maximum dollar amount. This can include an amount such as $100 per day for a period of up to 5 years. Long-term care policies also have a maximum benefit period that can consist of a single benefit period, such as 5 years. A policy may also have various "periods of disability" in which multiple nursing home stays can be covered within the maximum benefit period.

Exclusions

Long-term policies have exclusions that may apply that are similar to exclusions that are found on other types of policies. Typical policy exclusions for long-term care insurance include certain types of mental and nervous disorders. Coverage is also not provided for individuals who suffer from alcoholism and drug abuse. Another policy exclusion that can be found on a long-term care policy is providing for care when an injury is self-inflicted.

Tags: care insurance, care policies, care that, long-term care insurance, benefit period

Side Effects Of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is an increasingly common cosmetic surgery in which implants are placed in the breasts to make them larger. Hundreds of thousands of women have undergone the procedure for themselves, and it is a very safe procedure. However, as with any surgery there are risks and possible complications. It is important to go over all the possible side effects with your doctor before having the augmentation.

Implant Rupture

Breast implants can break, causing them to deflate. This can cause the breasts to look uneven. If an implant ruptures, you will likely need surgery to replace or remove it.

Cancer Detection

Breast implants can make it more difficult to detect breast cancer during a mammogram, because tumors might be hidden behind the implants. It is important that the person performing the mammogram knows you have implants so she can take extra care.

Breast Feeding

In most cases, woman who undergo breast augmentation are able to breast feed, but some mothers do have difficulty. If you plan to breast feed after breast augmentation, be sure to tell your surgeon, because it may affect the surgical technique.

Changes to Sensation

Some women who get breast implants have less sensation around the nipple and breast following surgery. In most cases, the loss of sensation is a temporary condition, but it can be permanent.

Surgical Side Effects

The surgery itself can cause side effects in many women. These include bruising and swelling around the breasts, pain around the incisions and constipation.

Infection

Infection is a possible complication of any surgical procedure. Be sure to inform your doctor if you experience fever or flu-like symptoms, redness or warmth and tenderness around the incisions.

Tags: around incisions, breast augmentation, breast feed, Breast implants, most cases

The Antiphishing Act

The United States Congress has never passed an anti-phishing act, though multiple pieces of legislation on the topic have been introduced. Phishing is the practice of sending emails to people with false claims in an attempt to persuade them to pass along their personal information, which can then be used to steal money from the victims. Despite a lack of legislation specific to phishing, fraud and using the Internet to steal someone's personal financial information are already illegal, according to a CNET News article.

Anti-Phishing Act of 2004 And 2005

U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy, a Democrat from Vermont, introduced an Anti-Phishing Act to Congress in 2004. When that legislation stalled in the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, he returned to introduce a similar bill in 2005. That bill also failed to escape the congressional committee process. The pieces of legislation set federal criminal penalties for people who send phishing emails or who build websites purporting to represent a legitimate business in an attempt to steal people's personal information. Penalties in the 2005 bill would be for a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Anti-Phishing Consumer Protection Act of 2008

Another phishing-related piece of federal legislation that was not ultimately passed was the Anti-Phishing Consumer Protection Act of 2008. This legislation, which was introduced by U.S. Sen. Olympia Snow (R-Maine), also did not make it out of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. As with the previous proposed federal legislation, this bill would make it a federal law to conduct a phishing project and includes penalties that include prison time and fines.

State Laws

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 23 states in the U.S. have passed laws that target phishing operations. Some of those state laws carry the name of "Anti-Phishing Act," such as the pieces of legislation passed in California in 2005 and in New York in 2006. The laws are geared, in one way or another, to stopping phishing and punishing those who employ phishing scams. Other states have broader pieces of legislation that encompass a number of related criminal practices, including phishing, that involve fraudulence, computers and identity theft.

International Complications

Phishing enforcement faces major obstacles and anti-phishing laws are difficult to enforce because of the nature of phishing, according to a paper published in Duke's Law and Technology Review. Among the chief problems are the difficulty in ever locating the person who has carried out any phishing exercises and the fact that many phishing projects are launched outside off American soil and enforcing U.S. laws for subjects working abroad is challenging, especially when they are so difficult to locate because of their technological savvy.

Tags: pieces legislation, Anti-Phishing Consumer, Anti-Phishing Consumer Protection, bill would, Commerce Science, Commerce Science Transportation, Committee Commerce

Continuing Education For Mammography

Mammography technologists need continuing education credits throughout their career.

The field of mammography is growing and changing. Digital mammography is replacing x-ray mammography is some areas. New and developing technologies for diagnosing diseases of the breast are becoming available. There are many course options for continuing education students of mammography. Conferences, online courses and home studies are all available for mammography continuing education credits.

Mammography

Mammography is the practice of performing mammograms. A mammogram is an x-ray or digital image taken of the breasts in an effort to screen for breast cancer. Screening mammograms screen for any cancerous cells, while diagnostic mammograms serve to probe and study any problems found in a screening mammogram. Both types of mammography require continuing education courses to keep technicians updated on the new technology and medical breakthroughs in the field.

Technologists

Mammography technologists are radiologic technologists who are trained and certified to conduct mammography on patients. Most radiologic technologists are required to earn continuing education credits throughout their careers in order to keep their certifications current.

Courses

Several organizations offer continuing education for mammography. The Advanced Health Education Center is accredited by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, and offers a wide variety of courses. The company travels to different cities and presents their courses in hotel conference rooms. Courses are usually one full day and registration is available online at www.aheconline.com. As of 2010, the cost of an eight-credit course averaged $149. Some of the center's courses address the changing landscape of mammography in the area of digital mammography and diagnosis of disease. Advanced Health Education Center also offers a comprehensive mammography fellowship course. This in-depth training provided 32 continuing education credits and takes place over a four-day period in Houston, Texas.

At Home Education

Online and home study continuing education courses for mammography are also available. For approximately the same price as an in-person continuing education course, a mammography technologist can opt to do a home study through Radiologic Education Services. The company offers several mammography continuing education courses and many provide 12 credits upon completion. Credits are issued based on the results of the at-home test. Online companies, like Radiological Services, offer basic continuing education for mammography courses online. Its courses are only 3.5 credits; however, they cost less than half of the in-person training. Testing is conducted online after the completion of the course. Registration can be done at www.fastcecredits.com.

Considerations

Continuing education for mammography is an important aspect of remaining a competent and certified mammography technologist. While continuing education courses usually have fees associated with them, an employer typically will absorb the cost of the course, and even necessary travel, as part of its commitment to an educated and trained staff.

Tags: continuing education, continuing education courses, continuing education credits, education courses, education credits

Ultrasound Technician Salaries In Texas

Sonographers can specialize in multiple areas and registering with a professional certifying body, such as the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), increases their employability. Ultrasound technicians' job prospects are excellent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, ultrasound technicians' salaries in Texas are, on average, 5 percent lower in job postings than postings in other areas of the country, according to Indeed.com. The mean national average for diagnostic medical sonographers, into which category ultrasound technicians fit, as of May 2009 was $63,640, and the mean hourly wage was $30.60.

Annual Salary

Ultrasound technicians in Texas make, on average, $54,000 as of December 2010, according to Indeed.com. Diagnostic medical sonographers work 40 hours a week usually, though some work overtime, and some may have to be on call. About 59 percent of diagnostic medical sonographers work in hospitals, and the rest work in doctors' offices, outpatient clinics and other medical facilities.

Metro Areas Annual Salaries

Ultrasound technologists in Dallas in the 25th percentile make $60,666 per year, and those in the 75th percentile make $72,448, according to Salary.com. Those in Houston in the 25th percentile make $61,284, and those in the 75th percentile make $73,185. Those in the 25th percentile in El Paso make $52,828 per year, and those in the 75th earn $63,087.

Metro Areas Hourly Wages

Diagnostic medical sonographers in Texas make, on average, $29.32 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' data from 2009. In San Antonio, the mean hourly wage is $29.33, and in El Paso it is $27.36. In Houston, the average hourly rate is $28.91, and in Lubbock, it is $28.95.

Continuing Education

Texas does not require ultrasound technicians to complete any continuing education courses as it does not license them. However, if you have the RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer) credential from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS), you must complete 30 continuing medical education credits every three years to maintain your credential. Having this credential can increase your salary potential.

Where to Work

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, general and surgical hospitals paid diagnostic medical sonographers an average annual salary of $63,770 as of 2009. In doctors' offices, it was $63,820, and in medical and diagnostic laboratories it was $61,820. The annual average salary in outpatient care centers was $64,560, and colleges, universities and professional schools paid diagnostic medical sonographers the highest average salary at $66,250 per year.

Tags: medical sonographers, percentile make, 25th percentile, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, diagnostic medical sonographers, Labor Statistics

What Are The Benefits Of Employee Assistance Programs

Employee assistance programs (EAPs) are beneficial to both the employee and employer. Offered as part of employer-sponsored benefits plan, EAPs are typically available to all employees and their dependents, not just employees who select medical coverage. The primary goal of an EAP is to provide assistance to employees with legal, financial, employment or mental health issues. Most programs begin with a telephone consultation, and often include references for further help with professionals in the community.

Benefits for Employees - Referrals

The EAP is a one-stop shop for the employee who has a problem or issue and does not know where or seek help. They can call their EAP program to receive a limited number of free sessions with a professional counselor or adviser, depending on their current problem. The EAP professional will assess the employee and determine if further mental health treatment is needed or the problem can be resolved through the EAP sessions.

Benefits for Employees - Information

Most EAPs have comprehensive websites that offer hundreds of articles on health, financial and legal topics. These sites are free to the employee, and contain a wealth of resources on timely subjects. Sites may also have a directory of counselors, lawyers and financial advisers that the employee can access. All articles are written by professionals and thoroughly researched and offer free help and assistance to employees.

Benefits for Employers - Increased Productivity

The primary benefit of the EAP program for employers is the increased productivity and fewer missed days of work from employees who seek EAP services. Issues in the workplace and personal problems---such as substance abuse, family illness and marital problems---may cause employees to miss work or perform poorly. With EAP intervention, the employee will be put on the path to handle these problems therefore increasing their productivity and performance and missing less work.

Benefits for Employers - Mandatory Referrals

EAPs often offer the employer a mandatory referral program. Mandatory referrals are initiated by the employer for employees who have a potentially serious issue affecting their work performance, such as substance abuse. This allows non-partial third-party involvement to assess the situation for the employer. The employee will face consequences such as termination of employment for not complying with the mandatory referral.

Benefits for Employers - CISD Services

When a major incident occurs at or near the workplace, such as an employee death on the premises or natural disaster, employees made need immediate counseling. Employers can access the EAP and request a team of mental health professionals to be available to meet with employee and provide grief counseling.

Tags: Benefits Employers, mental health, assistance employees, Benefits Employees, employee will

Radiography Programs Nearest To Cleveland

Radiographers performing MRIs do not use radiation during the procedure.

Those working in the field of radiography use medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assist with the diagnosis of internal illnesses or injuries. Radiographers practicing in Ohio must obtain radiologic licensure from the state's Department of Health. Like many other states, Ohio uses the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) registration as a licensure requirement for radiographers.

Cuyahoga Community College

Located about 30 minutes from Cleveland, Cuyahoga Community College's Western campus in Parma offers an associate in applied science in radiology. The school admits students to the full-time day program twice a year and selects students to participate in the evening and weekend program during the fall. All radiography students must complete 1,512 clinical hours at an approved hospital. Day students complete 36 hours of clinical experience during each week. The evening and weekend radiography students complete a large amount of their clinical hours on the weekends and take courses during weekday evenings. According to the college's website, approved clinical sites are in Cleveland, Parma, Middleburg Heights and Garfield Heights.

Cuyahoga Community College

700 Carnegie Ave.

Cleveland, OH 44115

800-954-8742

tri-c.edu

Lakeland Community College

Approximately 25 miles from Cleveland, Kirtland's Lakeland Community College provides students the opportunity to earn an associate degree in radiologic technology. Because the program accepts a limited number of students each year, the college's science and health division recommends that wait-listed students complete required coursework in English, communications, anatomy, psychology, personal computers and the humanities. Admitted students can fulfill their clinical requirements at several medical facilities including Ohio's University Hospitals Health System and the Lake Hospital System. Individuals already working as registered radiographers can earn a certificate in computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Lakeland Community College

7700 Clocktower Drive

Kirtland, OH 44094

800-589-8520

lakelandcc.edu

Lorain County Community College

Elyria's Lorain Community College is a little more than a 30-minute drive from Cleveland. The college offers a 21-month radiologic technology program. Unlike many other college allied health programs, Lorain does not use waiting lists to manage an overflow of applicants. The school instead uses a process of offering admission based on the completion of biology and math requirements and the date of application. Students not admitted through those methods have to apply for application renewal through the college's Connections Center, according to the program FAQ guide. Those offered admission into the program must have health care provider certification from the American Heart Association.

Lorain County Community College

1005 N. Abbe Road

Elyria, OH 44035

800-995-LCCC

lorainccc.edu

Sanford-Brown College

Sanford-Brown College offers an associate degree in radiography at the Middleburg Heights campus, which is an approximate 25-minute drive from Cleveland. The 20-month program prepares students for careers in radiography by providing a curriculum comprised of lectures, laboratory work and clinical experiences. Students take courses such as imaging analysis, radiobiology and radiologic testing, according to the college's program description.

Sanford-Brown College

17535 Rosbough Drive

Suite 100

Middleburg Heights, OH 44130

888-736-5333

sanfordbrown.edu

Tags: Community College, from Cleveland, Cuyahoga Community, Cuyahoga Community College, Lakeland Community, Lakeland Community College

What Happens In A Boy'S Full Physical Examination

Checking the ears is a common practice for a boy's physical exam.

Ideally, parents should schedule physical examinations for boys before any signs of sickness appear. Regular physical examinations are an important part of keeping children healthy. For young boys who do not like or who are not accustomed to doctor appointments, these visits can be a source of anxiety. Knowing what to expect from a physical exam can make the young boy in your life more open to attending his appointment. Educating yourself on procedures will also help you be able to answer any questions that your son may have.

Height and Weight

The first thing that your son will be asked to do is remove his shoes and step onto the scale. Someone will record his height and weight. This process may be done by the doctor, but many times it is conducted by a nurse, who records this data on your child's chart and presents it to the doctor when he arrives.

Vital Signs

The next set of data to be recorded will be your son's vital signs. Someone, likely a nurse, will measure blood pressure using a cuff that is attached to your son's upper arm, and will take his pulse. Some offices take pulse using a finger touch and monitoring method. Others use a monitor that attaches to the fingertip.

Eyes, Ears and Teeth

Your son's doctor will perform an assessment of his eyesight. Different charts may be used, according to the child's age and ability to read letters or shapes. The doctor will also use an otoscope to shine a light into your son's ear canal and examine the health of the ear, and will perform a basic observation of the teeth to check for abnormalities and decay. Do not use the eye and tooth exams that take place in a doctor's office in place of regular visits to an optician and dentist. These specialists focus specifically on their areas of expertise and will be able to provide more detailed and in-depth examinations.

Abdominal Exam

Your son will most likely undress and put on a paper gown for the remainder of the exam. The doctor will step out of the room and return when you both indicate that you are ready. For the abdominal exam, your pediatrician will examine the abdomen with your child laying with his head elevated and hands by his sides. This examination is painless and merely consists of several touches done with the hands.

Immunizations

If your child is due for regular immunization shots, his doctor will most likely perform these at the time of the examination. Different shots have different levels of pain and discomfort associated with them. Try to educate yourself about pending shots ahead of time; your pediatrician can also provide information and tips for your child while in the office.

Lab Tests

Your son may need to provide a urine and blood sample. Technicians will draw and analyze these fluids for the presence of conditions like anemia, kidney problems, tuberculosis, diabetes or high cholesterol. Some medical offices are equipped to take these samples on site, while others work with outside laboratories that they will refer you to for testing. These labs then send the results to your child's doctor.

Questions

Your son's doctor will ask you both questions about how the child is sleeping and other relevant inquiries that might allude to possible problems. You will also be provided with the opportunity to ask any questions of your own and to have your son address any concerns he has.

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Describe Prison Life

Prison life can be lonely for inmates.

As of February 2008, one in 100 adults were incarcerated in jail or prison, according to the Washington Post. Most Americans know that prison time drags on endlessly, but prison life has often been glamorized by hip hop artists like 50 Cent, DMX and T.I. who have made millions rapping about their time behind bars. Prisons typically classify inmates into at least three groups of maximum, medium and minimum security. Prisons determine these classifications based on the type of crime the offender committed, the inmate's criminal history and the offender's behavior while in custody.

Instructions

1. Intake prisoners. Prisoners are strip searched to ensure they are not smuggling contraband into the facility. Their personal possessions are confiscated and held until their release. The facility also reviews the inmate's personal, legal, social and medical history and conducts examinations. The prison provides orientation, and inmates can set up commissary accounts.

2. Classify inmates. Prisons determine classification through age, crime, length of sentence and criminal history. Classification adjustments are made every six to 12 months to move inmates up or down according to inmate behavior.

3. Restrict prisoners. Prisons restrict every aspect of an inmate's life, which includes food choices, the use of phones and computers, what to wear, contact with friends and family members and even when to eat and sleep. Color-coded uniforms such as orange for a charge of murder or green for aggravated assault identify inmates' crimes. In many facilities, inmates wear slippers to avoid suicide attempts by prisoners attempting to hang themselves using shoe laces. Some prisons allow conjugal visits and cable TV viewing.

4. Search cells and inmate mail. While a prison cannot specifically censor outgoing inmate mail, officials closely monitor incoming mail to avert the threat of escapes and to confiscate contraband.

5. Set up commissary accounts. Prisons closely monitor protocol for receiving and spending money; however, inmates may set up their own system for financial arrangements. Commissary items vary from facility to facility but usually include personal toiletries and snack items. Indigent prisoners receive minimal assistance; veterans, in certain cases, may continue to receive benefits. Some prisons pay inmates for working, and they can spend their money at the commissary. Legally, prisons do not have to pay inmates who work.

6. Stay healthy and rehabilitate. The stress of prison life causes individuals to react differently, both mentally and physically. The prison provides health care to inmates, outside services are not usually permitted. Most prisons offer substance abuse treatment; qualification standards vary. Some prisons order educational services. Chaplains give spiritual comfort and guidance.

7. Know your rights. In addition to legal rights regarding sentencing, prisoners may marry at some institutions. Furloughs may be granted in some cases, such as for a death in your immediate family or the birth of a child.

8. Discipline prisoners. Inmate subculture plays an important role in prison violence. Inmates will lose privileges like TV, visitation and recreation time. Additional prison disciplinary procedures include inmate segregation, changes in classification and additional time in custody.

9. Release prisoners, either at the end of their sentence or with community supervision known as parole. Parole boards review cases periodically to determine the inmate's appropriateness for release. Adjusting to life outside of prison offers particular challenges for those who have served a lengthy sentence. Prisons offer transition services from halfway housing after release to counseling and companies willing to hire convicted felons.

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