Nursing Reference Center

Pediatric Nursing

2011-04-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

Pediatric nursing, as the term suggests, have to do with babies. So if you are one of those baby lovers out there, and if you aspire to be in the nursing career, perhaps pediatric nursing could become a directional route for you?

Although, we can easily and pretty clearly understand the role of someone specializing in pediatric nursing , let's take a closer look at the roles and responsibilities as per job specification. Firstly, pediatric nursing is all about caring for babies. Now the term babies can be misleading because the patient base that concerns pediatric nursing is not aged between 1-5 rather, when you are in to pediatric nursing, you will be responsible for looking after newborns who refuse to drink milk to adolescents who cannot stay in bed despite their broken legs.

Since the scope is wide in pediatric nursing, the person who opts in to a special training in pediatric nursing needs to be clear about what exactly she/he wants to do. At any given point, if you have questions that you need answered, your States board of nursing or the general hospitals office of nurses will be able to help you or guide you.

But before being able to master in pediatric nursing, you will need to enter college. Before entering college for nursing, you will need to prove your worth by taking up as many science courses as you'll need to gain better understanding and medicinal aspects of biological and physical sciences. So essentially, by the time you complete high school, you will know at least half of the basics for advanced topics that you will be taught in college.

Once you complete four years of nursing, you are then fit to request licensing as a registered nurse. With this in hand, you can start in an internship or a job. Once you get started on a job and once you get enough exposure to your field, you may want to opt in for a masters program to further your education and career. So this is exactly where that specialty of pediatric nursing will come in.

When you choose a university for your masters, ensure that the program is accredited, recognized and has been long standing. It is also worthy to check if clinical training will be included in the masters for pediatric nursing course of study. These programs will run for two years, usually. But the long wait will be well worth

Nurse Uniforms

2011-04-09T21:32:00.000-07:00

Can you recall how nurses from the good old days looked like? The first thing that will probably pop in to your mind will be the pure white uniforms that looked neat and prim, with hair held at back with a nursing cap on the top. How very iconic. So where have all these nurse uniforms disappeared? When was the last time you saw nurses in white nurse uniforms? If such questions haven't popped up in your mind, so far, read on to find out more about where have all nurse uniforms have gone.

The traditional nurse uniforms consisted of an apron, a cap and a dress. Those traditional nurse uniforms were accompanied by white shoes and white socks that crawled up half way through the knee. In essence, this attire was symbolic of hygiene and the purpose behind nurse uniforms was to allow easy identification.

So what happened to the tradition, easy identification and all that iconic symbolism of hygiene? Nowadays nurses will come in all color and shapes and weirdly enough with a uniform that looks as if they just walked in to the hospital in their pajamas. Whats the reason for this controversial change of nurse uniforms?

In order to answer that latter question, it is important that we take a look at the history of nurse uniforms. In the ancient times, it was nuns who took care of the sick. In commemoration of their great service to the needy, when nursing came out as a profession, a nuns traditional dress was used as the predecessor to designing the traditional, white nurse uniforms. The elevated social status for a nurse also came within the utilization of those nurse uniforms, in addition to the regard they get from caring for the sick and the needy.

During the nineteen eighty's, many countrys decided to redesign their nurse uniforms in order to provide better comfort and less restrain to nurses while they engaged in their job. So as a result, the pants and the top, as can be widely seen today were introduced.

As soon as the flowery, colored nurse uniforms came out in to the industry, many health sector institutions adopted to the change and welcomed it with open arms. Nurses loved it because it allowed them to be comfortable in clothing while they went on abut caring for patients. And with the introduction of latest nurse uniforms, nurses (especially females) hardly had to become conscious about looking good in a dress, so as to say. Therefore, they could focus more on the job at hand.

Learn More About HCG Diet Menu

2011-04-02T22:13:00.000-07:00

Currently, more and more people are searching for the best type of diet that can hopefully help them control their weight. Not too long ago, the HCG diet has been gaining media mileage since dieters on this prograim claim that it works. There are three phases within the HCG diet plan which requires consumption of very low calories ( 500 calories) on a daily basis. After subjecting the body to low calorie intake for three weeks, the person can adjust to eating moderately again. This makes people more curious on the contents of the popular hcg diet menu. The HCG diet menu emphasizes less fat, fewer carbohydrates, more fiber and protein from white meat. Carbohyrates like sugar and pasta are not advised to people following the diet. Check out the following sample HCG Diet Menu that can help you start a hcg diet plan:

Hcg diet menu for breakfast

* Deccaffeinated Coffee

* Yerba Mate tea

* Chamomile tea

* Glass of water

* Other herbal tea

In lieu of coffee or tea, some people go for just a cold glass of water. Yerba mate is known to stimulate weight loss. Nonetheless, stay away from caffeinated drinks especially in the latter part of the day so you can sleep well at night. In addtion to that, people must consume at least a pint of water a day to facilitate weight loss process.

HCG Diet Menu for Lunch or Dinner

Protein is a basic element of this diet. At all costs, try to get organic meat products as protein source when sticking to this diet plan. During lunch or dinner, a person can only eat 100 mg of protein in this diet. Eating eggs are prohibited in the HCG diet menu. Fish is a good option only if they are bass, flounder or sole.When cooking meat,oil must not be used at all. Grilling is one of the best oprtion for this diet.

Vegetables. Green,leafy or cruciferous vegetables are allowed in this diet. Cook vegetables by steaming them a little to make them half-cooked. Per meal time, up to only two kinds of vegetables can be used.

The HCG diet menu is pretty easy to follow as long as you have the right mindset. Effective weight management needs dedication and effort to succeed.

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Increase Your Awareness of HCG Diet Dangers

2011-04-02T22:12:00.000-07:00

Almost all people are concerned about their physical well-being and that includes weight issues. Aside from having a blemish free skin, people are mostly concerned about body fat. Being overweight does not only make people insecure but also creates health conditions.A sedentary lifestyle and excess overweight can cause hypertension and obesity for overweight people.Since these are important health concerns, may individuals have to lose excess pounds in the form of exercise or diet.

Unfortunately,there exists hundreds of diet in the market today but people should be aware that these have side-effects. Lately, HCG diet has gained much attention since it can address overweight issues. HCG diet dangers are disturbing because people can really get sick from following the diet. Simply considering the fact that one must subsist on a very low calorie consumption is a cause of concern.

HCG diet dangers include side effects such as:

* Headaches

* Blood clots

* Mood swings

* Depression

* Dizziness

It is not advisable for the body to go through a state of extreme hunger because this can make a person sick. HCG diet dangers are for real because the body's blood sugar drops at a very low rate that can trigger the headaches, mood swings, and dizziness. A highly restrictive diet can result to migraines and other headache. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is also a possible side-effect aside from the symptoms aforementioned. This is mostly caused by the mix of hormone injections that accompanies the diet program. OHSS is often indicated by symptoms like pelvic pain, swelling of extremities, stomach pain and even vomiting that can make life miserable.

However,individuals would go to extremes and risk their valuable health just to lose unwanted pounds fast. If there is one particular piece of information about HCG diet dangers that people should look into, it's the validity of claim. In fact, as early as 1975, FDA has already disproved the claims of the HCG injections in bringing down weight. However, some individuals continue promoting these dangerous injectables. People should look into other alternative options that can be healthier than risking their health to hcg diet dangers. If people are just diligent enough to search for sensible information, they can altogether prevent themselves from possible health risks.

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How to Safely Use HCG Diet Injections?

2011-04-02T22:11:00.000-07:00

The HCG diet plan is popular amongst many. This kind of diet comes with special injections that prevent the dieter from starving due to their low calorie intake. Most injections are performed by the dieter�s doctor but in many situations there are those who cannot spare the time to receive a shot from one. Kits can be provided by doctors to help people who cannot see their doctor for injections. Before performing injections on yourself you must consult your doctor. It is advisable that you would use new needles for every injection. Once your needle has been used you must have them disposed of properly. You follow these procedures to help you with your hcg diet injections:

* Use a swab with alcohol to kill bacteria. Rub the swab in a circular motion around the area to be penetrated.

* Allow the alcohol to dry before penetration so it does not sting.

* Gently pinch the skin and insert the needle into muscle. Only a small part of the needle is needed inside the muscle for the injection.

* By pulling the syringe back you can check to see if there is any blood. Find another point of penetration if your syringe draws blood. You can quickly administer hcg diet injections to yourself.

*Dispose of the needle quickly as soon the injection is complete. Do not worry if blood is present afterwards. Just press on the area to stop bleeding. Chances are that there will be a swelling as well as redness after the injection.

You can do certain things to prevent discomfort before taking the shot. To numb the skin you can put ice on the skin. Do not inject in the same spot. It helps to have the hcg diet injections at room temperature if they are refrigerated. There is no need to worry since the procedure is simple; relax. By relaxing the muscles can effectively receive the shots. After a short amount of time, you will be used to the injections. If you have any concerns be sure to meet with your doctor.

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How HCG Side Effects Puts Dieters at Risk?

2011-04-02T22:10:00.000-07:00

Lately,people who have weight management issues have been looking into the hcg diet.Being overweight poses a lot of health problems which can lead to cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.Because the hcg diet promises to assist people lose as much as 15kgs within a month's time, many people are trying this to reach their weight goals. Nonetheless, the public must realize that hcg diet can also produce hcg side effects to users.Some common symptoms of Hcg side effects includes dizziness, headaches, and mood swings. People should be aware that hcg side effects are possible for two main reasons : 1) people have different biological make-up 2) a synthetic hormone can cause damage to bodily functions.These are several hcg side effects that you have to know and be aware of:

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome - Being a hormone by itself, hcg can have health repercussions for females because the hcg can overstimulate the ovaries that produces the eggs. Severe pelvic pain, stomach pain, swelling, nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath are some of the symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

Digestive Disorders- It is also possible for hcg to affect the digestive system which can result to very inconvenient side effects. Some symptoms include dizzines, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and decreased need to urinate. When hcg is abused by people by using it for a long period,the digestive system can be permanently damaged.

Premature puberty in males- When hcg injections are given to young males, they would likely suffer from hcg side effects later. Hcg injections does make young boys experience puberty much earlier than usual. The premature puberty is indicated by deepening of voice and growth of hair in several parts of the body.

Gynecomastia - Hcg is meant for the female body; thus, men who would use it would suffer consequences like hormonal imbalance.Since there would be an increase in estrogen hormone, expect breast enlargement in males.

Some of the minor hcg side effects include headaches, depression, swelling at the site of injection, etc. In cases wherein these aforementioned side effects occur to you,visit a doctor as soon as possible. Shedding excess pounds can be done through a diet program but do not risk hcg side effects.

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HCG Drops Versus Injections

2011-04-02T22:09:00.000-07:00

Because of obesity or sedentary lifestyles there people who worry about getting diseases like diabetes. There have always been people who try to look for solutions to their health problems such as milk-shakes, gym memberships, and even starvation. Hcg diets, which are based on hormones, have recently become popular amongst those looking for weight-loss. Those following this plan sustain a low-calorie diet and receives hcg injections to lose their fats. But because of their schedules some people find going to their doctors for injections to be inconvenient. There are people who do not like needles as well. On the upside, people who are afraid of needles can look to hcg drops.

Loading, stabilization and maintenance are the three phases in the hcg diet. The hcg drops should be taken during the three-week stabilization period. The hcg drops helps trigger weight loss by influencing the hypothalamus to let go of stored body fat. Hcg drops also gives the body its proper nourishment while under the three-week low-calorie diet. During the last three days of stabilization hcg drops are no longer needed to allow the maintenance phase to begin. Thereis no need for concern, hcg drops are synthetic hormones created inside of laboratories. The hcg drops are not made from human placenta.

The hcg drops are ideal for those who do not like receiving daily shots. Though it can be unpleasant during certain times one can perform self-injections. Thus you can choose to take hcg drops instead. Hcg drops also provide a painless alternative that does not produce the stinging sensation of a needle. Another positive is hcg drops cost less than the injections. Many clinics provide a $1500 6-week treatment for that is also uncomfortable for most people. Injections are almost two times as expensive as hcg drops. This is why hcg drops have a greater appeal amongst hcg dieters than hcg injections. Other alternatives to injections include transdermal gels and nasal sprays but just like injections they are costly.

Be sure to consult your doctor for any information about hcg dietary plans. You should also consult your doctor before starting any dietary plans with hcg.

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Brief Guide On The HCG Diet Plan : Phase 1-3

2011-04-02T22:07:00.001-07:00

The HCG diet plan is useful for individuals who are interested to try the hcg diet to lose weight.Simply put, the HCG diet is a low calorie diet supplemented by HCG hormone injections that can provide the nourishment while on this diet. Individuals who are following this diet expect to shed considerable pounds because they thrive on a very small amount of food. The hcg diet plan is broken down into three phases. These phases are known as loading, maintenance, and stabilization phase. People on this diet must strictly follow the loading phase for two days, the 21-40 days of maintenance and a 21 day stabilization period.

The Loading Phase- The loading phase is the initial stage where food intake should be a lot to prepare the body. This phase assists the body in storing up food because it would go to a very low calorie diet on the next stage. During the loading phase, people can eat as much as they can. Almost all kinds of fatty food such as fried chicken, steak, beef pies and even chocolate are allowed. Carbohydrate rich food such as bread, pasta and pizza are also recommended in the loading phase. Supposedly, the fat stored would be able to sustain the body in the succeeding phase. Additionally, the HCG diet plan may also resort to force-feeding since the hypothalamus would still continue to burn fat even after the loading phase.

Maintenance Phase -The succeeding phase which follows the loading phase is the maintenance phase. Usually, this period last for three weeks and can extend to 40 days. This is the part where low calorie intake would be implemented by consuming only 500 calories a day.In fact, this very low calorie diet is the main feature of the HCG diet plan.For the entire duration of the maintenance phase, the dieter would hope to see some results such as fat loss in several areas.

Stabilization Phase The final phase which is less restrictive than maintenance phase. The person can resume to his normal diet; however, carbohydrates must be avoided as much as possible. Normally, men can consume 1,000 calories and 800 calories for women on a daily basis.

Indeed, people can expect to see results from the hcg diet plan, such as lose 15kgs in 30 days.

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HCG Diet Reviews Reveal The Pros and Cons of The Diet

2011-04-02T22:07:00.000-07:00

Individuals who need to lose some weight typically try the latest diet programs available in the market. For many years, thousands of diet programs have appeared that offer various claims. The hcg diet is one of the latest fad diets that attracted many individuals because it has very uncanny features. The hcg diet disseminates to the public that the program can help them shed as much as 15kgs. Alternatively,some people refute this method because it has flaws in its credibility.Hcg diet reviews provide dieters useful information that can guide them to diet safely. When you read hcg diet reviews, you arm yourself with crucial information that concerns your health. Before trying the hcg diet, check first the following points to guide you:

* A lot of people feel confident in trying the hcg diet according to some hcg diet reviews because it must be supervised by a doctor. The diet requires several shots of HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin) , a naturally occurring hormone produced by the body. Since this diet needs medical supervision, some people think it's relatively safe. Each clinic has their own rate when administering the hcg diet program, which can be cheap or costly. Be aware that some clinics charge a lot for for the 30 day program based on some hcg diet reviews.

*The hcg diet have helped some individuals to shed excess pounds. Nevertheless, there are some who failed to finish the cycle due to severe hunger. The very low calorie diet is not an easy task for the average person.

*Hcg diet reviews websites also inform people about the diet's lack of scientific evidence that would prove their claims. There are some groups that see this diet method as a scam since a doctor involved in the diet was considered a fraud. As a matter of fact, some studies published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition refute the hcg diet claims.

*Individuals who advocate exercise and diet together are not in favor of the method based on some hcg diet reviews. Some people would prefer an exercise program along with a diet which is a healthier approach in controlling weight.

Diet is one of the effective ways to solve weight management concerns; yet, be diligent and read hcg diet reviews to be safe.

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Sciatica Symptoms Within The Frame Of Sciatica

2011-04-02T22:05:00.001-07:00

To make for the proper preparation for sciatica, an individual should be provided with answers to the questions that are commonly asked or commonly felt. When most of the cases are the result of issues in the lower back, it can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious condition such as an infection or fracture .

Pain from the sciatica always begins in the lower back that extends through the buttocks and down the leg that goes down to the foot . One of the accurate sciatica symptoms that can be given to you is the throbbing pain that you experience from the back through the buttocks, down into one leg. Right after an accident, these are the most common areas of sciatica nerve inflammation caused by the injury .

Sciatica symptoms may also be accompanied by muscle spasms in the lower back that cause extreme and sharp pain . There would be more additional pain to any movement made when a person tenses up in response to the contraction. When a person cough, sneezes or any bending and twisting movement, pain is worsened .

Ranges of motion are limited to when sciatica symptoms occurred . Individuals who suffer in the Symptoms find it impossible to get a hold of an agreeable position . Either in standing, sitting, or lying down without experiencing pain with every little move .

Sciatica symptoms are accompanied with pain in the back, buttocks, and leg caused by the inflammation of the Sciatic Nerve . Together with a cold sensation in the leg, nerve inflammation brings a throbbing, sharp and cyclic motion of pain sensations.

If the pain is more than you can handle that sciatica symptoms has, you can have it referred as it may be a sign of a deeper injury or condition along with it . On the other hand, the unbearable pain should be addressed by the physician if chronic and severe muscle spasms comes along with it .

Consultation to the Doctor is needed if any of the sciatica symptoms persists to get a complete medical history . However, you can reduce the occurrence of sciatica symptoms by starting an exercise program with focus on muscle balance . Start light and improve on gradually . Before starting any program, remember that these pattern of activities should approved and recommended by the Doctor .

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Basic Facts That Answer What is the HCG Diet?

2011-04-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

Because there are just too many diet plans around, individuals find it hard to evaluate which really works. People should remember that trying a diet program is not easy as it sounds because human beings have different physical conditions. Individuals have different allergic reactions to food or medications that they take. Additionally, individuals with a chronic condition are very sensitive to new types of diet. The most basic and safe step when going on a diet is to seek the advice of a health professional.

What is the hcg diet method?

The definition of hcg is Human Chrorionic Gonadotropin. Pregnant women produce this hormone in the placenta during the length of the gestation period. Since it is a hormone, it is responsible for controlling different metabolic functions. The hcg hormone is part of the hcg diet method that people must take. However, the ones used in the hcg injections is made from sterile cells in laboratories. It is entirely used for medicinal purposes. The hormone injections are necessary to ward off hunger pangs while the person is on the diet. Typically, the hcg diet is a thirty day program classified into three phases. For at least twenty-one days, the dieter must subsist on a very low caloried diet that is really challenging.

What is the hcg diet protocol?

Basically, the hcg diet was originally created by Dr ATW Simeons through his book Pounds and Inches. The dieter must take lots of water since this facilitates the elimination of ketones and other waste products. The hcg diet protocol also emphasizes the need for protein. The necessity of fruits and vegetables in the diet is good for proper digestion. Dairy products like egg and milk must be avoided as much as possible. Furthermore, the hcg diet protocol does not allow any form of massage at all. Another doctor, Kevin Trudeau, developed a modification of hcg diet. His hcg diet protocol allowed some changes on the plan such as post breakfast snack and taking additional supplements.He also recommends herbal or organic tea such as Yerba Mate.

What is the hcg diet and its side effects?

Certain symptoms such as headaches, mood swings, and dizziness are manifested by the body due to low blood sugar caused by hunger. One of the end result of too much hunger is tension headache. Thus, always seek medical advice before getting into any form of diet program for yoru own safety.

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Sciatica Relief Measures For Sciatica

2011-04-02T22:04:00.001-07:00

Impulses of pain run along the path of sciatic nerve from sciatica which runs from the lower back, buttocks, down to the legs and foot. There may be presence of weakness, numbness and tingling which vary according to the location that the sciatic nerve or nerve root is affected .

To most people, finding sciatica relief can be challenging at times . People sometimes misunderstood the concepts of sciatica therapy because of the methods itself. Symptoms of the sciatic Nerves are sometimes temporary in majority . Sciatica can be mildly painful but there are a few sciatica relief methods to relieve the severe pain from sciatica .

Rest in one of the most effective sciatica relief practiced by many. Because the body needs more healing, rest provides for it . In episodes of pain, you may also apply heating pad to help your muscles relax . Battery powered pad are available at the local supplies shop should the pain is often experienced during the time of work .

When the pain becomes increasingly more intense, pain medications like Tylenol and Ibuprofen from sciatica relief helps in edging off the pain . From the supplementary measure to take off the discomfort, there are medical services where a person can go to for a sciatica relief . To get your posture back, there is a chiropractor therapy to help your hips and back realigned and take the pressure off the sciatic nerve.

Sciatica relief also have Stretching measures . Your hamstrings, arms and legs can be extended . To release the tension of our Hamstring muscles, make it a habit to bend forward everyday but do not go beyond limits as this may cause strain on the other hand . Sciatica relief supplements have also fish oils . This reduces inflammation within the whole body so you may see marked improvement on your sciatica relief after taking this supplement .

To start off, having a bath can used to manage your sciatica . Epsom salts are added to a warm bath to have muscle mass absorb magnesium. Magnesium is considered as natural muscle relaxant . Locked up and inflamed muscles at your lower back are relaxed by it.

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Sciatica Stretches: Extensions And Flexes For Discomfort

2011-04-02T22:04:00.000-07:00

To overcome the pain and numbness by the pain in sciatica, increase your flexibility and strengthen your spins from simple stretching. Engaging in physical therapy is also a very cost effective and long term solution to sciatica .

Sciatica stretches help reduce pain give the amount of relief with extension exercises and stretches on the lower back and buttocks muscles . With their stomach on the floor, this type of sciatica stretches begin. However, people having painful episodes cannot do this position .

Depending on your condition, sciatica stretches move in small increments gradually working your way up to a five or six inch range of movement . With your arms bent and placed at the level of the shoulder, this is your starting point where you can begin your sciatica stretches. With your hands, slowly press upward to lift the upper portion of the body while maintaining the hips and legs touched to the floor .

Sciatica stretches relieves nerve pain by keeping your body relaxed as you hold on to certain position for a second or two . You can also employ this method when you stand up with your hands on your hips while slowly leaning or arching backward two to three inches to start with .

Low back exercises are some of the sciatica stretches that encourages a strong back which helps center the core of the body over the trunk . Good posture and sciatica stretches enhances relief of sciatica episodes . On your stomach, make for a low back extension exercise with your hands placed on the lower back.

Sciatica pain can be relieved by toe touch stretch . Gravity helps in flexing a few lower back muscles . Slowly bend and reach toward the floor with your hands, while keeping your feet together and facing forward . You may not be able to reach all the way to the floor . Don�t push it hard as you breathe in and out for several seconds and slowly bring your back from the starting position.

Muscle stretching is a good method to train your muscles from the physical therapy and to steady your back to prevent any nerve compression .

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Sciatica Pain Scale and Getting Over It

2011-04-02T22:03:00.000-07:00

Sciatica involves the inflammation, pain and tenderness on the path of the nerve from the thigh through the leg. Sciatica pain usually starts in the buttocks and extends down the rear of the thigh and lower leg to the sole of the foot and along the outer side of the lower leg to the top of the foot . Lower back is also a spot for sciatica pain to be originated .

Sciatica pain are sometimes result of the undiagnosed underlying medical condition. Pain can either be moderate to severe and debilitating from the causes of pain . Trauma from car accidents, falls and sport injuries can cause direct compression on the nerve roots that result in sciatica nerve Pain .

Spinal Stenosis is a nerve compression disorder that affects majority of the population of the older people on the other hand. For them, in simple activities like walking and standing, sciatica pain increases . Relief from the pain comes upon sitting . Sciatica pain has also Spinal Tumors to consider . Tumors press on the nerve roots which brings nerve pain .

Sciatica pain are sometimes brought forward by herniated disc which is the common reason for the nerve pain and occurs when the gel-like center of the disc compresses the nerve tissue . Anatomical disorders or malfunctions aren't just the reasons for nerve trauma. There are also improper dosage of medications that result causes a direct impact on the vertebrae and carrying weight regardless of the weight causes lower back problems as well .

Be careful not to damage your sciatic nerve as it would result to useless legs once this is completely transected . You will lose the foot-ankle movement and lower limbs won't be able to be flexed . Sciatica pain may also be felt in the buttock and this may cause the patient to feel uneasy during movements .

However, sciatic pain relief are available that are mostly geared with the issue of lower back pain . Lower back pain may incline more as skeleton disorder and not just as an ordinary disease . Implement good measures in your body to take care of it as you try to maintain the alignment of your spinal cord by avoiding carrying heavy objects or more than your body can take.

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Minimizing The Occurrence Of Sciatica Causes

2011-04-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

From the five pairs of nerve roots created the longest nerve in the body which is the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve extends from the spinal cord to the buttocks and hips and then down back of the legs .

The discomfort begins when the signs of sciatica causes begins to show . Herniated or ruptured Discs counts as one of the sciatica causes. Each spinal disc has inner-gel like compositions and thick outer cartilage . When the center of these discs forces its way through the outer covering, it puts pressure on the spinal nerves . Along with the sensitivity of the nerves are the discomfort of pain, numbness, tingling, leg pain and weakness.

Sudden fall or accidents are also among the sciatica causes that brings ruptured or herniated discs . They can also flatten, dry up and weaken as you age which makes them more likely to rupture .

Another cause of sciatic pain is the stenosis of the Lumbar spine that is also one of the sciatica causes . Certain areas of your spinal canal are narrowing that protects the spinal cord . The structure of the spinal canal has been made with extra room to provide for the spinal cord nerves . The spinal cord and the spinal nerves gets pinches when the room in the canal started to narrow down. These sciatica causes bring pain, weakness and numbness of the legs, feet and buttocks .

When one vertebra moves to another vertebra, or Spondylosisthesis, it becomes one of the sciatica causes . This happen because of the disc degeneration between two vertebrae and compress the sciatic nerve in the end . Tumors that grow in spinal area of the body also results to pinched nerves and thus leading to sciatica as well.

Sciatica causes are diverse and the Doctor may not always be able to confirm a single cause . Regular checkups should be practiced as a precaution . It calls for prevention in heading into a large issue to deal with after. You should have a proper diet and observe proper body mechanics as well . If you look after yourself, other causes may be prevented aside from the anatomical basis of sciatica causes.

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Fitting In With Recommended Sciatica Cure

2011-04-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

Because brings discomfort and pain, treatments are handed over the table to choose from the options that a Patient needs.

Sciatica cures may include resting, physical therapy, drug therapy and in rare cases, surgery .

Physical Therapy and Rest

To allow the condition rest on its own, this has been the one of the few suggested treatment to make room for the condition to heal on its own. To help treat sciatica itself, few of the steps are taken to move for its natural treatment . This has been considered as a mild sciatica cure because patients are prescribed with physical therapy regime . Light exercises is applied on the lower back and muscles extended on the lower extremities. Supporting the nerve with a brace or other support device may aid recovery, along with cooling down on your sciatic nerve .

Drug Therapy

Sciatic Cure could have the administration of steroid injections to and within the range of sciatic nerve to minimize inflammation . Majority of the patients take pain killers for sciatica Symptoms while waiting for the sciatic nerve to heal .

Surgery

If there's already a lot of damage on the sciatic nerve and pain has become immeasurable, Surgery may be prompted. This form of sciatica cure is used to take of the pressure on the sciatic nerve that causes sciatica . It could make the repair on the slipped discs or legions that are compressing the nerve . Spinal Fusion is a different procedure that calls for the fusion of the vertebrae .

Along with these sciatica cures, there are also some other methods that helps get rid of the pain brought by sciatica . For one, there is A\acupuncture to adjust the energy flow through the human body with pins and needles . This theory explains that when the energy is not balanced, energy are collected into one spot that results to pain and addressed as sciatica .

Sciatica cures has Homeopathy that sources out natural medicines to help treat this kind of condition. This focuses on the natural herbs to help allay pain instead of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that risk you to internal bleeding .

Sciatica cures are best assisted by a physician who knows how to deal with the symptoms and gravity of the condition you have.

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Extra Pain Relief From Sciatica Exercises

2011-04-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

The sciatic nerve is located from the rear hips side all the way down to the legs. There are several conditions that causes sciatic pain . sciatic pain should be identified as early as possible by the Doctor but exercises help in the meantime . To bring up some of the energy from the pain, here are a few of sciatica exercises to help you with.

Stretching from knee to chest

This is one of the sciatica exercises that instructs you to pull your knee gently to your chest and the opposite side of your body . Beginning at 10 seconds, increase your time limit up to 30 seconds. You should be in your comfortable, loose-fitting clothing while you lie on the floor or into another stable surface . With your lower back to the floor, extend your leg that is not experiencing pain and raise the painful leg bending it at the knee .

Hamstring extension routine

Another type of sciatica exercises that will make you lie on your back while keeping your feet flat on the floor and your knees raised . Pull the knee towards you with a towel under one knee . Your hands can make up for support in this type of sciatica exercises if you don't have the towel to assist you with.

Knee cross-Over

Stay flat on the floor while your knees are bent . While keeping your feet intact on the floor, lower your knees to one side and then the other . Your lower back should remain as still as possible in this kind of sciatica exercises .

Abdominal Crunches

This is also a kind of sciatica exercises apart from creating abdominal packs . Make sure that your back stays flat on the surface with you arms crossed on top of your chest and your knees flexed. To prevent strain in lifting your body, do not clasps your hands behind your head .

Other sciatica exercises also have back extension technique and leg exercises along with others. sciatic pain may then be avoided when this exercises has been adapted until you are waiting for the right time to attend your Doctor's appointment.

By Health Tips

Applying The Methods Of Various Sciatica Treatment

2011-04-02T21:59:00.001-07:00

Together with the tingling and burning sensation brought about by sciatic pain are also numbness and reduction of movement in the legs. Frequently, sciatic pain stems from a herniated or degenerated disk in the lumbar spine which can irritate the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the human body . In a non-scientific basis, sciatica is termed as lower back pain .

To deal with the pain of sciatica, there are different processes of sciatica treatment that you can make use of. Ice can be used for the sciatica treatment at home and leave for around 10 minutes to minimize the inflammation around the nerve and repeat the process for another two or more .

Observe your body positions especially when you sit . As part of the sciatica treatment, balance your pelvis as much as possible to ease off the pain from the other areas quickly. Any pain influenced by the sciatic nerve can be taken care of by little stretching . The piriformis muscle has the sciatic nerve running through and along side of it and stretching assists in alleviating the pain quickly .

Natural methods are also some of methods that sciatica treatment applies . Topical pain reliever in the form of capsaicin has been effective for sciatic pain . This can reduce the neurotransmitter substance functions in alerting the brain by how strong the signal of pain that the body is experiencing . Sciatic Treatment also has nutritional supplements in the form of magnesium. This particular electrolyte functions has the calming functions and assists in absorbing the nutrients . To make for the proper health of the nerves, B Vitamins is also important . Pain sensitivity and nerve inflammation is increased once this type of Vitamin is deficient .

Sciatica can also be treated by Osteopathic Manipulation which is often used as a means of gentle spine manipulation in order to take pressure off from the compressed otherwise pinched nerves . On the other hand, Bodywork and Massage Therapy counts in the methods of sciatica treatment . Proper body mechanics in sitting and standing are learned and taught by pointing out the importance of movement . This type of treatment targets in easing off any kind of sciatic pain brought about by sciatica.

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Basic Question: What Is Sciatica?

2011-04-02T21:59:00.000-07:00

Because of the massive compression on the nerves, sciatica comes up with a set of symptoms together with a lot of pain. It could have pain that may be caused by general compression or irritation of one of five spinal nerve roots .

For people who are affected by this, what is sciatica for them is a common form of low back and leg pan . Sciatica is a symptom that comes together rather than a diagnosis itself that irritates the nerve root. Depending upon the underlying symptoms form what is sciatica, treatments for its symptoms are different .

Referred pain from what is sciatica is caused by the damage to facet joints in the lower back and is felt as pain in that same area to posterior upper legs . The Sciatic Nerve Roots are compressed form the spinal disc herniation resulted from what is sciatica causes. Disc Herniation have become possible because the liquid center of the disc bulges outwards . The tearing of the external ring of fibers results to compression of the nerve root and bring inflammation and swelling on the surrounding tissue

What is sciatica on the other hand is that, it has a lot of governing factors that only differs in manifestations . Because of these many conditions, treatments differ from patient to patient . Some of the common indicators of sciatica are numbness in the feet, legs, strange sensations and weakness . Physician conducts a few more diagnostic tests to know more about what is sciatica symptoms are bringing.

The characteristic of pain that what is sciatica comes with is defined as shooting and electricity like . When your leg became numb, it may have the burning and tingling sensation . This can either be annoying and unbearable to others . Other people have reported having pain in one portion of their leg while numb on the other part .

From the explanation and definition of what is sciatica, one should know when they need to contact a Doctor . You should also review some of the sciatica treatment methods . A health care provider should be contacted in case the pain gets worse after a few days.

By Current Health Articles

A Closer Study On Sciatica Back Pain

2011-04-02T21:57:00.000-07:00

sciatica back pain has been one of the most unbearable, nagging and lingering pain that you can have from the sciatica Condition. From the sciatica symptoms, it�s not obvious at first unless you know how you can look for that in the first place .

Since sciatica is usually rooted in the back, sciatica back pain has been one of the common causes of sciatica but the pain is usually felt in the buttocks, hips and legs . The sciatic nerve is among the nerve bundles that can be found in the lower back. You can really be in some serious pain when you are placed into some of the anatomical displacements that are often felt in the back that causes the nerves to be compressed .

Sciatica back pain is different from pain in the same area caused by a pulled muscle . Instead of concentrating into one place, the pain that sciatica back pain begins from the lower back and radiates down into the buttocks. The reason why most of the people felt the pain down to one leg is because it continues to go down at the back of the leg . The intensity brought about by sciatica back pain range from mild to unbearable . It sometimes comes together with muscle weakness down on the length of your leg .

Upon your consultation to the Doctor, diagnosis of sciatica back pain will be treated accordingly upon the precise characteristic of what the pain in your lower back feels like . He may perform physical movements like leg lifts or squats to assess your range of motion . An order of Diagnostic Tests can be given to examine the discs closely at your back. CT scan is used to look for tumors on the spinal cord and a broken pelvis is seen over X-ray .

Causes are different to make the treatment for your sciatica back pain . There are condition which you can be treated with counter pain relievers or something heavier given by your Doctor . Light to moderate exercises to physical therapy helps strengthen the muscles in you back and relieve the pain .

In some cases, the need for surgery may come as a solution and remove a part of the discs that may have ruptured or misaligned that causes your sciatica back pain .

By Health Articles

Pediatric Nurse

2011-03-09T21:35:00.002-08:00

A pediatric nurse is a child�s best friend during the times when children get sick. If you aspire to become a pediatric nurse, it is not only the paper qualifications and experience in the field that you will require to have, but also the passion and drive to do what it takes. So let�s explore the day in the life of a pediatric nurse, and look at the special qualities that one should have to succeed in their job.

Becoming a pediatric nurse is not a joke. It is not something that can be considered the most laid back and relaxing job on earth. In fact, when you deal with kids of all ages, the amount of stress both with work load and the emotional drain that you will witness on a daily basis will leave you devastated at the end, if left untouched or unconsulted.

If you are aspiring to become a pediatric nurse, that will be most probably because you love being around kids. If that is the case, you will also need to check how strong you are as a person before opting in for becoming a pediatric nurse. if you have an emotional attachment to kids, you may be prone to stress, depression and anxiety, when you see them going through pain and medical procedure. Especially, if you select to work at a ward or division dealing with mortal health conditions such as cancer, nobody could promise that your life will become flowery and happy. In fact, it may take a turn to the worse as far as emotions are concerned.

So unless you are a happy bubble that spreads arrow attacks of positivity to every soul that you bump in to and if you don�t have a positive outlook in life which makes it easier for other people to hang out with you, you should not opt in for a career specialization as a pediatric nurse. Children always turn to pediatric nurses when they are in hospital. So unless you have patience, tolerance and a very positive attitude that you can spread across a ward, to both children and your colleagues, a specialization for being a pediatric nurse, is not for you.

If course, you will have seen other grumpy personalities being absorbed in to pediatric wards to work as a pediatric nurse. On closer evaluation, you will also see the kind of negativity and dullness they spread. You wouldn�t want to end up like that now, would you?

By Health Articles, Nursing Assitant Job Guide Book , How To Become Dental Assitant

Nursing Uniforms

2011-03-09T21:35:00.001-08:00

Although nursing has a long history, ir has been properly established during the 19th century. By 19th century, a number of nursing practices came in to the healthcare arena and people started looking at the nursing professional as a true profession. During World War 1 and World War 2, the nursing profession became very prominent in the society and it was an honor to become a nurse in that era.

From the inception of the nursing profession, there was a uniform attached to it as well. First of all, the uniform of nurses looks as same as nun�s habit. There is a good reason for this. Before the emergence of nursing career, it was the nuns who took care of the patients. When the nursing profession was established, it borrowed the design of nun�s habit for the uniform. In addition to that, nursing went hand in hand with religion and adopted the titles as �sister� for the nursing practice.

After the initial emergence of nursing uniforms, then it was time for rapid change. With the time, nun�s habit looking nursing uniforms started changing its way and by 1940, there have been a little bit of change took place in nursing uniforms. After 1940, it was all about the changes. In the US, the nursing uniform went through dramatic changes. The nursing uniforms were adopted by various institutions different ways but belonging to a certain rules and standard set up by the national governance bodies.

The change to the nursing uniforms was embraced by many people with the good heart and some people did not like the change. As an example, more orthodox countries refused to do dramatic changes to the nursing uniforms and try to maintain its appearance at 1940�s level. These uniforms include the under-dress, over-dress, apron, and the cap. Sometimes, they also wear a pin too. These uniforms are still in use in the UK and orthodox 3rd world countries.

In the US, nursing uniforms have gone through many changes. By now, most of the nurses wear scrubs as their uniform. When compared to the traditional uniform, scrub is somewhat easier to wear and maintain. When it comes to an emergency situation, scrubs can be a breeze. But not all the nurses welcome scrubs as their uniform. Some people argue that wearing scrubs does not give the identification the nurses deserve. According to them, people in scrubs could be identified as hospital cleaners or surgeons.

By Health Articles, Nursing Assitant Career Guide, Dental Assitant Job Guide Book

Nursing Shoes

2011-03-09T21:35:00.000-08:00

No matter what people say, nursing shoes are the most important aspect of a nurse�s attire. But you will hardly understand why, unless otherwise you are a nurse, yourself.

So in this article we try to shed some light in to why nursing shoes are so important, the changes that have taken place in the past decades with regards to nurses attire and shoes and how comfortable nursing shoes can save a whole lot of trouble for both the nurse and her colleagues and employer.

Traditionally, clogs have been used by nurses because they were relatively cheap and had a reputation of providing protection to feet. Later on the clogs became scrubs and nowadays, they remain an important part of a nurse�s attire.

Scrubs have done a pretty good job in providing the well deserved comfort and protection to nursing feet. Nurses are always on the run, they never stand or sit still in one place for more than a few minutes. Therefore, their shoes need to be as good as their feet. Although scrubs are no more called scrubs, it is the same type of footwear that we call nursing shoes, today.

Usually, nursing shoes will have big ventilating holes to provide enough air to the feet. imagine being stuck on a pair of heels until the shift is over? Or imagine how much of a pain it would have been to carry on with two back to back night shifts, in a horrible pair of nursing shoes?

All this and more have been now addressed and done away with the introduction of new nursing shoes. Nurses usually get to have two or three pairs of these shoes so that even when they are on night duty or continuous routine work, sometimes extending up to a day or more in length, so that they can feel fresh.

All in all, the nursing industry as well as the profession has been through a long road. From starting out at nunneries, and adopting part of a nun�s attire and being stuck in uncomfortable shoes to getting in to a more casual, free nursing uniforms and nursing shoes.

Although the latter may not come about as a great achievement of the last century, if you ask a nurse, he or she will be able to express with feelings and emotions, how much these nursing shoes and nursing attire changes mean to them.

By Health Articles, Nursing Assitant Job Guide Book , How To Become Dental Assitant

Registered Nurse

2011-03-09T21:34:00.001-08:00

If you want to practice / work as a nurse in the United States, you need to become a registered nurse. Without becoming a registered nurse, you cannot do anything in your profession. Let�s have a look at what it takes to become a registered nurse and the roles and responsibilities in the career.

There are two basic educational qualifications when it comes to becoming a registered nurse; must have graduated from a nursing school or from the college in the nursing program and must have passed the national licensing exam. If you can adhere to these two requirements mentioned above, you can become a registered nurse. In the old days, there were no strict requirements to become a registered nurse. First it was just a low level entry requirement and since then, the entry bar has been raised constantly. By now, you need to have the above qualifications to become a registered nurse.

The registered nurse is the one who has a general education and experience in almost all the areas of the patient care and the one who has special knowledge in an area such as women�s health, babies etc. The specialization is done as the nurse students wish and it also depends on the grades they score through the exams.

Depending on the area the registered nurses choose, their working environment varies. If they choose a hospital environment to work, they usually get to work in well-lit, air conditioned environments. These nurses should provide 24 hours healthcare service the patients, so they work in shifts. In addition to that, they are required to work during nights, weekends, and public holidays. Sometimes, if the nurses are residing in the hospital premises, they should be on-call. Should an emergency arise; they should be ready to go for work. If the registered nurse chooses to become women�s or public health specialist, they will be mostly traveling and be going to the households. For this type of a registered nurse, there are no proper working hours, but they may not be working onsite during the night times.

The registered nurses attached to schools and companies usually do not provide 24 hours care and restricted to work during business hours. Sometimes, registered nurses do work part time in these places to earn some extra money, whenever they get a free time from their regular work. According to the national level statistics, about 20% of registered nurses have worked part-time in the year of 2008. Registered nurses do have a big scope for their business and their ultimate goal is to make everyone healthier.

By Health Articles, Nursing Assitant Job Guide Book , How To Become Dental Assitant

Travel Nursing

2011-03-09T21:33:00.000-08:00

Nursing industry has gone to develop its own branches and variations by now. It is not just one profession which has been there for years, but a collection of sub-professions that work together as nursing function. When it comes to sub professions, travel nursing is one of the prominent things. Let�s have a look at what travel nursing means.

First of all the fact of the matter; there is a shortage of nursing professionals across the nation. This is the prime reason why we have travel nursing in the industry by now. When it comes to the nursing profession, some states and cities do have an overflow of professionals and other do only have a shortage. So in simple, the nursing requirements have not been fulfilled equally. When it comes to moving the nurses from where there is a surplus, they do not wish to leave their home city of state for another one. This is why travel nursing came into the picture. The nurses in one state or city can go to another state or city for short term assignments. The duration could be 13 weeks or 26 weeks. This duration usually differ from one service to another. This way, you can travel to any destination across the nation and serve there for a short period of time and move back if you want. Or else, you can optionally select another destination after the first assignment is completed. This way you can travel as much as you want across the nation. If you are a soul that appreciate traveling and experiencing different climates and cultures, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

When it comes to travel nursing, the employer gives you all what you need. When you go to a new destination, the employer takes care of the accommodation. By default, you are entitled for one bedroom furnished apartment. If you need more than that, that can be mutually arranged with the employer, maybe for some extra money. In cases where you may want to take your children with you, you may want to a bigger apartment.

Since travel nursing involves some level of traveling, the employers usually pay the professionals a travel component in their salary. This is the compensation that they get paid for being away from home. If travel nursing involves daily traveling to another city, the employer usually covers this cost as well. Sometimes, the traveling nurse is paid a per diem during the assignment. If this is the paying model, the nurse receives a tax benefit from the state and federal government.

By Health Articles, Nursing Assitant Career Guide, Dental Assitant Job Guide Book

Tips For Human Beings Entering Nursing

2011-02-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

Fresh into the first semester, she began arriving late or missed class altogether. If it wasn’t a doctor’s appointment, it was a car problem or some child-care issue. This single mother always had a quick excuse. Soon, anyone late or absent from class was accused of, "doing a Janet."

Janet’s speech was peppered with street slang and capped with bursts of nervous laughter. Many viewed her as an immigrant in her own country, shackled by what we assumed was a broken or disadvantaged past. Some felt she was simply miscast in an academic role and not serious about the nursing program.

But, a few of us rallied around her hoping to offer the warm glove of acceptance and help her develop a stronger academic focus.
She agreed to join a study group we had formed. But even in this informal setting she was ill at ease, contributed little, and often appeared lost within herself. This perceived complacency created resentment in our group.

By mid-semester, Janet was less frequently late and was seen eliciting after-hours help from a teacher. But, as we moved into clinical rotations, her poor habits reemerged. She arrived for pre-clinical conferences ill-prepared looking hung-over. Queries into her personal life were invariably met with variations on the, "I'm fine, how are you?" theme. When cautioned about her tenuous academic status and the need to prioritize her affairs, Janet silently fidgeted, the words seeming to pass right through her.

But, when Janet was with patients, she was a natural. Speaking tenderly and without hesitation, she’d hold her patient’s hand and stroked his brow. Her dark eyes conveyed some deep secret of serenity.

Janet continued through the following year in a similar fashion of uneven attendance and waxing and waning interest. We were relieved when she dropped out of our study group. The well of our patience had long been drained and we'd all grown too busy with our own lives.

Few were surprised when she had to reschedule her final exam. She even missed our pinning ceremony.

"I'm sure she's got a great excuse!" someone remarked.

But one student had befriended Janet early on and encouraged her despite the gradual alienation of the rest of us. And only now--long after the thin veil of our compassion had fallen away--did we learn the truth.

Janet was not lazy. Nor was she apathetic. She missed the pinning ceremony because she had pneumonia--pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. And she'd been so often tardy and self-absorbed because she'd been suffering the physical and psychological assault of AIDS. Now, one month after graduation, Janet was dead.

Her friend explained that Janet had long lived in the shadow of obscurity. But she was determined to accomplish some mainstream success before it was too late.

"I don't want to die a nobody," she had confided in her friend. "I want to be a nurse."

Grappling with a disadvantaged past was one thing. But remaining composed while going toe-to-toe with the specter of an untimely death illuminated resolve rare among human beings. Janet showed us the real face of courage. And, for that, she will remain immortal.

Intimate Talk!

2010-11-27T08:20:00.000-08:00

It's easy to put if off, but there are huge benefits for you - and your man. So make sex a regular daily routine... just like brushing your teeth!

Good sex is truly wonderful. The warmth of his skin, his smell, the whisper of his mouth across yours. It's a meeting of minds, bodies and souls, a mutual, profound bonding that penetrates us to our very core. The only problem is, long-term relationships can be a kiss of death to regular sex. Ask anyone who's been married for years. No one seems to have time for it anymore. It's so difficult to muster up the interest or the energy to regard sex as a normal part of life. Other important things seem to take precedent - like our work, house chores and, er the telly.

8 (Quick) sizzling moves to jump-start your sex life

Realise there's probably nothing wrong with the relationship if the sight of your partner's body doesn't always send you into a frenzy. Sex requires effort. Try something new. Take turns giving each other massages. Stop blaming each other or your work for your low desire. Making love means making time. Pick a day(s) when you want to get physical and stick to it. Studies show the more you anticipate sex, the higher your pleasure factor. Talk each other up. Low self-esteem and sex don't mix. You need to feel good about yourself - and you can help each other with this. Also define your sexual needs, share your findings - and try fulfilling them.

If you're simmering because he hasn't helped with the household chores, you aren't going to feel especially loving towards him. Thrash it out - then trash it out. Love, like everything, needs to be balanced.Your partner should be as committed as you are in the relationship. Clear your mind and make space for sex. Why worry about work at 10.30pm? They're not paying you for that. Get your priorities right. Turn off the phone, clear a space, and then concentrate on your lover and you. Relocate. Bring back early days of lust - the sofa, shower, kitchen table, and car. When the urge strikes, don't think. Just do it. Set the alarm a little earlier and make love first thing in the morning. Testosterone levels are highest when we first wake up and decreases as the day progresses. Remember, sex is one of life's challenges. It's supposed to be fun and one of the few areas where adults can play. So turn off the TV and turn on each other!

BABY, Behave!

2010-11-23T09:37:00.000-08:00

Your child needs your guidance to learn good behaviour, so knowing when to say ' no ' is crucial

AGES and STAGES : What your child understands ?

6 - 12 months - There's no dubt that at this age your child begins to understand the words 'yes' and 'no' and also to recognise when you're annoyed with her. However, this doesn't mean you can expect her to do what you ask.
18 months - The typical toddler likes to draw the line herself and rejects attempts to do this for her. Resistance to rules can be fierce, and many parents feel they face a constant struggle.

2 years - She's full of her own importance and expects you do as she wants, not the other way round. Because she lacks patience, she can explode with frustration the instant she hears 'no'.
3 years - Your child now realises she isn't the only one who is expected to behave properly - everyone at home needs to think of others, too. She tries harder to conform as she's keen to please you.
4 years - She may become something of a disciplinarian now, and ready to tell you off for putting your feet on the chair or for leaving a used mug on the floor. She realises the rules apply to everybody, not only to her.
5 years + ; By now, your child is so aware of the way she's expected to behave that she can usually do this without a reminder from mum or dad. In fact, your child often draws the line herself now.

GOOD BEHAVIOUR YOUR 10 - POINT ACTION PLAN
It's never easy to draw the line in a confrontation with your child. Know when to stand your ground, and how to do so effectively.

ALWAYS PRAISE GOOD BEHAVIOUR. A cuddle when your child does what you ask him to will encourage him to do the same next time. Praise for good behaviour is always more effective than punishment for naughty behaviour.
EXPLAIN YOUR RULES. He's more likely to do as you ask if he understands why. Use terms he can understand, for example, "Don't touch that because it could hurt you and make you cry".
HAVE CONFIDENCE. You're the parent, after all. Even though he still challenges you , trust yourself to know that you're being reasonable and sensible.
USE DIVERSIONS. Rather than saying an outright "no" , try to distract your child, or find a different way round the problem.
GIVE LOTS OF ATTENTION. Make sure to spend as much time as you possibly can with your child, so that he doesn't feel the need to misbehave just to get noticed.
STAY IN CONTROL. Children can sometimes create a fuss just for the sake of getting a heated reaction. It's important to keep calm when provoked. Say firmly, "I'm not going to talk to you until you stop being silly."
KEEP LOOKING FORWARD. You'll feel terrible at the end of a day in which you spent most of the time reprimanding your child. Everybody has days like that. Put it behind you and look forward positively to tomorrow.
ANTICIPATE YOUR CHILD'S BEHAVIOUR. If you know your three-year-old becomes irritable in the hour before bedtime because he's so tired, think about bringing bedtime forward a little, or reading him an extra story, to avoid a crists altogether.
WALK AWAY. There may be times when you're so fed up with constant battles that you feel ready to explode. That's normal. Instead of shouting, walk into another room for a couple of minutes until you calm down.
DEAL WITH INCIDENTS AS THEY HAPPEN. You can't expect a young child to remember what he's done wrong hours after it's happened. Deal with it immediately - then let it go.

STUTTER ! Something Serious?

2010-10-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

When is that STUTTER SOMETHING SERIOUS?
When her tot started stuttering, people said it would go away. But this mother was not willing to ignore it. She shares how she helped her son talk confidently again.
" Don't worry", said friends and family when my three-year-old started to stutter. " He's just learning new words". But after a few weeks of " I-I-I want's" and " L-l-like's ", one particular incident made me decide to take action.
We were in the middle of our usual bedtime story and my little fellow was stuck on the word "spot". All that was coming out of his mouth was " S-s-s..."
I wanted patiently, but suddenly my son clamped his hands over his mouth and said himself, "S-s-s..stop it. Sp-sp-speak properly. T-t-talk like a big boy."
It chilled my heart to see my little boy so frustrated and angry with himself.
Over the next few weeks, my paediatrician monitored my son's stuttering pattern. I also requested his pre-school teachers for regular updates about his stuttering, and implemented a zero-tolerance policy on any teasing.
Thankfully, my older six-year-old son showed restraint towards his little brother. My younger son's teachers also kept an eye on his classmates.
At home, my husband and I spent time reading to our son, encouraging him to tell stories at his own pace. After about three months of all this, to my relief, the stutter had gone.
During that time I researched the topic of stuttering in children, and found that the crucial time for diagnosis and treatment is between the eges of two and five. And the signs are easy to miss.

So what are the signs to watch out for? Make a note if you observe the following symptoms in your child :

Excessively repeats words and phrases. For example, "I-I-I want that..."
Stretches syllables. For example, " Sssshhow me how..."
Shows facial tension, blinks,grimaces or jerks his or her head.
The child struggles with speech and avoids situations where he or she will have a talk.
Has blocks in speech . This indicates that the child is trying to speak but cannot get the sound out.

TIME IT RIGHT ( ^__^)

PENJAGAAN ~ untuk Ibu Hamil ketika Berpuasa

2010-08-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

HIKMAH BERPUASA DAN KELEBIHAN RAMADHAN

Kelebihan Ramadan, umat Islam di seluruh pelusuk dunia serentak mengerjakan puasa dalam satu masa tertentu. Kesatuan Hati dan niat tulus Ikhlas ini di lakukan semata-mata untuk mengabdikan diri terhadap Allah SWT. Dengan diwajibkan berpuasa, semua golongan Islam, kaya dan miskin, berada dan tidak berada terpaksa menempuh ujian yang sama. Dengan berpusa menimbulkan keinsafan dan perasaan bertimbang rasa serta kasih-mengasihi sesama umat Islam. Amalan berpuasa melahirkan jiwa insan yang selalu taat kepada Allah, justeru itu akan lahir pula ketenangan jiwa dan ketakwaan.

Dari segi kesihatan, perut yang melalui proses berpuasa dapat dibersihkan, sekali gus beberapa penyakit yang terdapat di dalam tubuh badan manusia dapat diatasi. Dalam istilah perubatan berpuasa amat digalakkan bagi membuat ujian darah sebelum mendapat langkah-langkah perubatan pengamalan yang lain dilakukan. Contoh pembedahan atau ujian penyakit.

Puasa itu disifatkan oleh Rasulullah SAW sebagai separuh daripada kesabaran. Orang yang berpuasa lebih disayangi Allah, selamat daripada api neraka dan menghapuskan dosa-dosa kecil. Kedatangan Ramadan ada keistimewaannya kerana dianjurkan ibadah solat Tarawih, di samping itu diwajibkan juga zakat fitrah (badan) ke atas golongan yang mampu sebagai satu kewajipan membantu insan Muslim yang lain, khususnya mereka yang daif. Ketibaan Ramadan menandakan terbukanya pintu-pintu syurga, ditutup pintu-pintu neraka dan dirantaikan syaitan. Malam Nuzul al-Quran (17 Ramadan) merupakan saat penting

al-Quran diturunkan dari langit ke dunia untuk menjadi pedoman manusia hingga ke akhir zaman. Terdapat Lailatul Qadar iaitu satu malam yang padanya terdapat saat penuh keberkatan menyamai 1000 bulan (83 tahun 3 bulan) ganjaran pahalanya daripada Allah SWT. Rugilah kita sekiranya kita ketinggalan di dalam bulan puasa ini...

Tiada kemudaratan Untuk Ibu Mengandung Berpuasa.

Kita sebenarnya juga berpuasa sewaktu tidur setiap malam, cuma tempoh tidur mungkin tidak selama tempoh berpuasa Ramadan. Waktu makan pada siang hari boleh diganti dengan waktu makan pada malam hari iaitu berbuka, selepas solat Maghrib , waktu sahur dan mengambil minuman berkalori sebelum tidur. Eloklah mengamalkan bersahur lewat dan segera berbuka apabila masuk waktunya. Memahami perubahan normal yang berlaku dalam kehamilan meyakinkan seseorang untuk meneruskan berpuasa, tetapi dengan mengambil langkah berkaitan. Secara amnya , perubahan yang berlaku dalam kehamilan boleh dibahagikan kepada 3 fasa atau trimester.

Trimester 1 (bulan pertama hingga ketiga)

~loya , muntah , pening , pedih ulu hati sering berlaku "morning sickness".

~kehilangan cecair badan daripada muntah kadangkala tidak cukup diganti dengan makan dan minum bagi wanita yang terganggu seleranya. hingga tidak bermaya . Tambahan pula bau pil supplement sperti folic acid dan zat besi boleh tambah loya sehingga menjangkau bulan keempat kehamilan.

Trimester 2 ( bulan keempat, kelima dan keenam kehamilan)

~tempoh yang paling selesa. Selera makan kembali normal dan bertambah.

~mempengaruhi psikologi si ibu menjadi positif untuk berpuasa tanpa gangguan..amat menyeronokan waktu ini.

~lebihkan minum air kerana mudah dehidrasi pada waktu ini. Elak berdiri terlalu lama. Tekanan Darah menjadi lebih rendah daripada biasa. Elak perubahan posisi yang mendadak apabila hendak bangun. Seeloknya daripada berbaring, anda duduk sebentar , kemudian bangun perlahan-lahan sebelum mula melangkah. Kurangkan aktiviti yang tidak penting untuk simpan tenaga contoh berjalan-jalan ( shopping) boleh mengurangkan gula dalam darah dan dehidrasi.

Trimester 3 ( bulan ketujuh hingga lahir)

~mudah penat saiz kandungan semakin besar dan berat.

~mudah rasa mengah,sakit pada bahagian ari-ari, pedih ulu hati, sembelit, ketegangan akibat kontraksi Braxton Hicks boleh menjadikan anda tidak selesa dan mudah keletihan.

~selain penjagaan aktiviti ; memakai pakaian yan selesa dan tidak ketat, tidak memakai kasut tumit tinggi serta berhati-hati sewaktu berjalan agat tidak jatuh. serta berhati-hati sewaktu berkenderaan di jalan raya - kemalangan lebih kerap berlaku. Semoga semuanya dapat membantu menghadapi kehamilan dengan jayanya.

WATER WORKS !

2010-08-09T09:23:00.000-07:00

Did you know there's a difference between dehydrated skin and dry skin?

Or that there's a difference between hydration and moisturisation?

If you've been in the dark, grab a glass of water and find out why you need to give hydration some serious

attention !

Dehydration

As we know , the majority of our body is made up of water, contributing about 60% of the body's weight. Most of it is found within the cells of the body ( intracellular space ). The rest is found in extracellular space, consisting of blood vessels ( intravascular space ) and the spaces between cells ( interstitial space ).

The skin alone accounts for 20% of water. We lose about 2.5 litres of water each day via sweat, urine and bowel movements and cell processes.

We lose water even when we think we don't - When we breathe, humidified air leaves the body. When the amount of water leaving the body is greater than the amount being taken in, dehydration sets in and shows on our skin ( the body's largest organ ), making it look dull, dry,tight and uncomfortable, with superficial lines. The skin cells lose water and their plumpness reduces with insufficient hydration of the stratum corneum, the outer most layer of the epidermis, dehydration renders the skin an ineffective barrier against environmental aggressors. This is not a good thing.

Causes of Moisture Loss

Dehydration is caused by external and internal factors.

Externally --> there's rapid water evaporation - caused by environmental factors, incorrect skincare routine, diet, lifestyle and sun exposure.
Internally --> it's all about insufficient internal hydration - caused by abnormalities in bodily functions, illness, medication and ageing.

So it can't be blamed solely on not drinking sufficient water. Staying out in the sun reduces water and makes the skin diarrhoea and vomitting.

Poor cleansing habits and products like soap, dry out skin. Harsh acne treatments, like hydrogen peroxide, alter the keratinisation process and weaken the skin.

Cigarette smoking is directly associated with wrinkle formation.

Regular use of scrubs can break down cell cohesion in certain skin types.

Air conditioning causes moisture to evaporate quickly.

Hot showers remove sebum from the skins surface.

Excessive table salt intake can have a dehydrating effect.

Coffee, too, can contribute to dehydration.

Q :Dehydrated skin vs dry skin.....!!?

>>" Selamat Berpuasa Kepada Rakan-rakan, Rakan Blogger dan Tetamu Pembaca"<<

CLINICAL CARE GUIDELINE

2010-07-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

CHEST PAIN AND ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME

These systematically developed statements have been created to assist the practitioner in the formulation of health care decisions in specific clinical circumstances. They are not to be construed as an inflexible set of correct procedures or protocols.

In each clinical circumstance the exercise of individual judgment is essential.

Guidelines are based upon statistical averages and opinions of practicing clinicians. Variation from these guidelines does not constitute improper care or improper professional judgment. Evaluation of these variations requires detailed analysis of the facts and circumstances surrounding the individual patient�s care.

SUBJECT: Chest Pain and Acute Coronary Syndromes

OBJECTIVE

The goal of these guidelines is to improve the quality and efficiency of management of adult patients with acute coronary syndromes in accordance with the ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndromes Clinical Practice Guidelines. Specifically:

1. Provide management and diagnostic guidelines for patients assigned to these categories: chest pain, unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, Non-ST Segment Elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and ST-Segment Elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

2. Provide recommendations and supporting evidence for the continued management of patients with these conditions in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

3. Provide critical pathway as standard for rapid ACS risk assessment and rapid comprehensive therapy for optimal patient care and cost-effectiveness.

4. Rapid initiation of therapy aimed at achieving reperfusion for patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with goal of door to PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) of 120 minutes.

5. Reduce the risk of cardiac damage and death in patients who present with symptoms suggestive of unstable angina and Non-ST Segment Elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

6. Provide standard discharge treatment plan based on Cardiac Hospitalization Atherosclerosis Management Program (CHAMP).

7. Provide recommendations for ambulatory setting for post discharge patients with chest pain, unstable angina, and acute myocardial infarction.

DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this guideline, the following definitions apply:

Chest pain - Patients without evidence of acute myocardial infarction or active myocardial ischemia on ECG with chest pain that is not definite angina. These patients are defined as not having features that give them an intermediate or high likelihood of significant coronary artery disease.

Unstable Angina - Patients without evidence of acute myocardial infarction who have chest pain and are felt to have an intermediate or high likelihood of significant coronary artery disease.

Non ST-Segment Myocardial Infarction - Patients with clinical presentations similar to unstable angina with detectable quantities of markers of myocardial injury in circulation, most commonly troponin I or CK-MB. ECG ST-segment or T-wave changes may be persistent.

ST-Segment Myocardial Infarction - Patients with symptoms suggestive of myocardial infarction and an ECG with ST elevation of 1mm or left bundle branch block. Patients with medically refractory chest pain associated with ischemic ECG changes that persist for greater than 20 minutes (refractory unstable angina/non Q-wave myocardial infarction) are included in this category.

POSITION STATEMENTS

Patients with acute myocardial infarction require rapid initiation of therapy aimed at achieving reperfusion.

All patients with acute coronary syndrome require appropriate risk stratification to determine optimal choice and timing of therapies.

Discharge planning and education should include emphasis on secondary prevention to alter the natural history of underlying cardiac disease and prolong long-term survival outcomes.

PROCEDURE

Emergency Department

I. Assessment/Diagnosis (Early Risk Stratification)

A. History (likelihood of ischemia due to CAD)

1. Nature of anginal symptoms (definite angina, probable angina, probably not angina, and not angina).

2. Prior history of CAD or myocardial infarction.

3. Sex.

4. Age.

5. Number of traditional risk factors: smoking, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, family history, cocaine use, hypertension, post menopausal.

6. Special considerations.

a. Women may present more frequently than men with atypical chest pain and symptoms.

b. Diabetics and elderly may have atypical symptoms.

B. Electrocardiogram � 12 lead ECG should be obtained and reviewed immediately within 10 minutes in patients with ongoing chest discomfort or as rapidly as possible in patients with history of chest discomfort consistent with ACS, but has resolved by time of evaluation.

1. Diagnostic criteria for STEMI.

a. 1mm ST elevation in 2 or more contiguous limb or precordial lead left bundle branch block, not known to be old.

2. ECG findings useful for establishing the likelihood of CAD NSTEMI, unstable angina.

a. ST segment depression >1mm.

b. Inverted T-waves > 1mm in two or more contiguous leads.

C. Physical Examination

1. Goal: to identify potential precipitating causes of myocardial ischemia (e.g., hypertension, thyrotoxicosis).

2. Complete a thorough cardiovascular and chest examination.

3. Sign of left ventricular dysfunction is single strongest predictor of subsequent cardiac death in patients with CAD: cardiogenic shock, sustained ventricular arrhythmia, complete heart block, pulmonary edema.

D. Biochemical Cardiac Markers (see Table 1)

1. For initial MI rule out, Cardiac labs (CK-MB, Troponin I, and total CPK).

2. Labs to be drawn q6 hours x 3, and then at physician�s discretion.

E. Conclusion of Initial Evaluation with Documentation Using Risk Stratification Guideline (see Table 2)

1. Focused history with symptom characteristics, response to nitroglycerin.

2. Presence of coronary artery disease risk factors.

3. ECG findings.

4. Physical Exam: presence of pulmonary edema, hypotension, or ventricular arrhythmia.

5. Document risk stratification with appropriate diagnosis.

a. Possible ACS.

b. Likely or definite ACS (without continuing ischemic pain or high-risk features).

c. Definite ACS with continuing ischemic pain, other high-risk features, or planned intervention.

II. Care Treatment Plan

A. ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) (see Addendum 1)

1. Goal: rapid initiation of therapy aimed at reperfusion, time from door to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of 120 minutes.

a. Contact Interventional Attending and CCU fellow immediately.

b. All patients should receive regular ASA 325mg as soon as possible. (Definite contraindications: evidence of life-threatening hemorrhage or clear history of severe hypersensitivity to ASA.)

c. All patients should be given intravenous bolus of heparin and started on heparin drip. (Definite contraindications: acute pericarditis, aortic dissection, heparin allergy, major life threatening hemorrhage.)

d. Patients should be treated with intravenous beta-blocker, followed by oral beta-blockers. (Definite contraindications: cardiogenic shock, hypotension, severe COPD/asthma, AV block > 1^st degree.)

e. Patients with ongoing chest pain despite SL NTG and beta-blockers, with SBP >90 mmHg should be started on intravenous nitroglycerin drip.

B. Unstable Angina/Non-ST Elevation MI (NSTEMI)

1. Goal: medical therapy or revascularization to prevent the evolution to MI and diagnostic testing (coronary angiography or physiologic stress testing) to assess coronary risk.

C. Chest Pain

1. Patients who are pain free, have either normal or non-diagnostic ECG, and have a normal set of initial cardiac marker should be considered for further evaluation to screen for non-ischemic discomfort versus low risk ACS.

2. Patients will be observed in the ED with continuous cardiac monitoring.

3. Follow up at 2 hours with ECG and cardiac markers (CK, CK-MB, Troponin-I).

4. An increase in CK-MB level of +1.5 ng/mL or greater, or cardiac troponin I level of +0.2ng/mL or greater is defined as significant and an abnormal marker.

a. Patients who develop recurrent pain during observation, new ECG changes, or abnormal cardiac markers should be admitted.

5. If no interval change in ECG, symptoms, or change in delta CK-MB and troponin-I at 2 hour follow up period, patients may be discharged from the ED and return for stress test as outpatient within 72 hours.

6. In the following situations, patients will be provided with a cardiology referral for outpatient follow-up of a cardiology workup and/or stress test.

a. Completion of the accelerated chest pain protocol, and following clearance for discharge from the ED (NOTE: excluding cocaine chest pain).

b. Patients with a likelihood of coronary heart disease as determined by cardiac risk factors and clinical assessment.

III. Discharge Education and Planning

A. Patients should be given written discharge instructions with review of treatments, and symptoms that would require contact of their physician.

B. Patients should be instructed to call their primary care physician to arrange a follow-up appointment within 72 hours of discharge.

Inpatient Care

I. Assessment/Diagnosis

A. The CCU fellow and the cardiology team shall determine whether patient will be monitored on 6WSD or CCU based on risk stratification.

B. Nursing staff shall notify the CCU resident of patient�s arrival on the unit, tele-monitor assigned, and nursing admission database to be completed.

C. Nursing staff shall notify the CCU resident of any changes in patient�s clinical condition, any arrhythmias recorded on telemetry monitor, and any abnormal lab values.

II. Care Treatment Plan

A. ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) (see Addendum 1)

1. Goal: rapid initiation of therapy aimed at reperfusion, initiation of thrombolytic therapy within 30 minutes or time from door to PCI (direct catheterization) of 120 minutes.

2. Initial Therapy.

a. Notify CCU fellow and cardiac cath team immediately with determination of diagnosis.

b. All patients should receive regular ASA 325 mg as soon as possible. (Definite contraindication: evidence of life-threatening hemorrhage or clear history of severe hypersensitivity to ASA.)

c. All patients should be given intravenous bolus of heparin at 5000 units or 65 units/kg and started on heparin drip at 12units/kg/hr (1000 units/ml) or 1000 units/hr. (Definite contraindications: acute pericarditis, aortic dissection, heparin allergy, major life threatening hemorrhage.)

d. Patients should be treated with intravenous beta-blockers, followed by oral beta-blockers. Initiate intravenous Metoprolol 5mg x 3 every 5 minutes, followed by 50mg Q6hours x 8 doses and then 50-100mg BID. (Definite contraindications: cardiogenic shock, hypotension, severe COPD/asthma, AV block > first degree.)

e. Patients with ongoing chest pain despite SL NTG and beta-blockers, with SBP >90 mmHg should be started on intravenous nitroglycerin drip (follow Nitroglycerin protocol).

f. Patients should be taken immediately to cath lab for catheter based intervention.

g. Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (Abciximab, Eptifibatide) should be strongly in conjunction with catheter based intervention. (see Addendum 3)

h. Thrombolytic Therapy - per interventional attending�s discretion - is indicated for chest pain <>

i. Oxygen therapy: maintain pulse oximeter saturation > 92%.

3. Sub-acute Therapy

a. Patients should be continuously monitored on ECG for 48-72 hours in uncomplicated myocardial infarction (MI).

b. Continue ASA 325mg po qd on all patients.

c. Continue beta-blocker on all patients unless contraindicated.

d. All MI patients without contraindications should be started on ACE inhibitors within two weeks of acute myocardial infarction onset, even if blood pressure and ejection fraction are normal.

e. ACE Inhibitors should be started on all patients with LV dysfunction (LV function <>

f. Statins or other lipid lowering agents should be started on all patients.

g. Anticoagulation with Warfarin is indicated for a trial fibrillation or LV thrombus post myocardial infarction.

h. Consultations ordered for cardiac rehab, social worker, dietitian, or chaplain.

i. Initially bed rest is recommended followed by an advance with ambulation on day 2 or 3.

j. Patients should be placed on a cardiac diet.

B. Unstable Angina/Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) (see Addendum 2)

1. Treatment Strategies.

a. Early conservative strategy: coronary angiography is reserved for patients with evidence of recurrent ischemia or chest pain, congestive heart failure or depressed LV function, malignant ventricular arrhythmias, or a strongly positive stress test.

b. Early invasive strategy: coronary angiography is the initial diagnostic strategy for unstable angina patients with persistent chest pain/ischemia despite anti-ischemic therapy, elevated troponin I level, new or presumable new ST-segment depression, symptoms of congestive heart failure or depressed LV systolic function, high-risk findings on noninvasive testing, hemodynamicin stability, sustained ventricular arrhythmias, prior PCI (within 6 months), and prior CABG.

2. General Care

a. Patients should remain on continuous ECG monitoring for ischemia and arrhythmia detection.

b. Maintain pulse oximeter saturation <>

c. Patients should be placed on bed rest during initial phase of management.

d. Patients should remain NPO except meds until clinical stability is demonstrated and cardiac catheterization need and timing is determined.

e. Consider and initiate consultations as needed: cardiac rehab, dietitian, social worker, and chaplain.

3. Pharmacologic Treatment

a. All patients should receive ASA 325mg as soon as possible, unless contraindicated.

b. Patients risk stratified at intermediate or high likelihood ACS should be on anticoagulation with heparin, bolus (follow hospital Normogram or Lovenox at 1mg/kg sq q12); Continue Heparin 2 - 4 days or until revascularization is performed.

c. Beta-blockers should be started on all patients unless contraindicated. Initiate with IV metoprolol 5mg x 3 every 5 minutes to total dose of 15mg, followed in 2 hours by 25-50mg PO every 6hr. (Definite contraindications: cardiogenic shock, hypotension, AV block > 1^st degree, severe COPD/Asthma.)

d. Patients where beta-blockers are contraindicated, consider calcium channel blockers (Diltiazem or Verapamil).

e. Patients with definite ACS, positive cardiac markers, should be started on Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitor: 180mcg/kg Eptifibatide (Integrillin) IV bolus, followed by 2.0mcg/kg/min Eptifibatide IV infusion; If Creatinine is 2.0 - 4.0, infuse 1.0mcg/kg/min. (Hold Eptifibatide if patient is on dialysis.) (see Addendum 3)

f. Nitroglycerin 0.4mg SL should be given promptly with presentation of chest pain every 5 minutes x 3 or until pain relief or SBP <>

g. Morphine sulfate can be considered for patients whose symptoms are not relieved with nitroglycerin and beta-blockers. (Definite contraindications: hypotension, respiratory insufficiency, intolerance.)

C. Chest Pain

1. Patients admitted with diagnosis of chest pain should be placed on R/O MI protocol with EKG and cardiac markers (CPK, CK-MB, Troponin I) every 6 hours x 3. The CCU resident or fellow should be notified with every EKG readings and any abnormal lab values.

2. All patients should receive 325mg aspirin.

3. Patients should be given nitroglycerin SL and assessed for pain relief.

4. Decision for noninvasive stress testing will be based on patient�s history.

a. Exercise treadmill with additional imaging.

b. Pharmacologic stress testing with imaging for patients unable to exercise due to physical limitations.

III. Discharge Education and Planning

A. Patients should be sent home on aspirin 81mg to 325mg indefinitely.

B. Patients should be sent home on clopidogrel (plavix) 75mg qd if post stent, brachytherapy, or unable to tolerate aspirin.

C. Patients should be sent home on statin or lipid lowering agent, goal of LDL<>

D. If LVSF <>

E. Within two weeks of discharge, all post PCI, UA, MI, stable CAD, PVD, CVD and diabetic patients should receive an ACE inhibitor.

F. Patients should be sent home on beta-blocker, unless contraindicated.

G. Calcium channel blockers (Diltiazem or Verapamil) are indicated if beta-blockers are contraindicated.

H. Nitrates should be considered as a second line after beta-blocker for symptomatic control of angina.

I. Patients should be instructed to complete and aerobic exercise program on minimum of 3-5 times per week; Post MI patients should be referred to cardiac rehab program.

J. Patients with current tobacco use who are ready to quit should be referred to smoking cessation clinic, and this should be clearly documented.

K. Patients should receive dietary counseling on the National Cholesterol Education Program Step 2 Diet during hospitalization (refer to dietitian as need).

L. Patients and family should receive education throughout the hospitalization course on all the above treatment plans, monitoring of symptoms, and follow up.

M. Acute MI education folder should be given to all post MI patients with appropriate documentation.

N. Continuation of the above targeted therapies is pertinent with continued education.

O. The discharge planner assigned to the specific location or unit should be involved in the discharge plan throughout the hospitalization course with proper communication and documentation.

P. Patients should have a follow up appointment with their Primary Care Physician (PCP) within 2 weeks.

Q. Patients should have a follow up appointment with the Cardiologist in 1-2 weeks.

R. Patients should be instructed to bring their ACS discharge instruction sheet to their first follow up appointments with their PCP and Cardiologist.

S. Other follow up appointments should also be given and documented in Gemini by physician.

Outpatient Clinic Follow Up Care

I. Assessment/Diagnosis

A. Cardiovascular and anginal symptoms.

B. Compliance with medications, diet, exercise program, smoking cessation follow up.

C. Physical examination, including groin exam for patients post coronary angiography.

D. EKG as needed.

II. Care Treatment Plan

A. Chest pain.

1. Patients considered low risk, was ruled out for MI, should undergo exercise or pharmacologic stress testing.

2. Follow the guideline for risk stratification and treatment plan for noninvasive stress testing.

3. Patients with positive stress testing should be referred for cardiac catheterization.

B. Unstable Angina

1. Aggressive risk factor modifications and reinforcement of lifestyle changes, including AHA step II diet, exercise program or cardiac rehab, smoking cessation.

2. Continued medical management with aspirin, beta-blockers, ace-inhibitors, nitrates, and cholesterol-lowering agents.

3. Management and referral to appropriate care for co-morbid conditions (i.e., hypertension, diabetes, heart failure).

C. Acute Myocardial Infarction (STEMI and NSTEMI)

1. Continue targeted therapy as outline in Cardiovascular Hospitalization Atherosclerosis Management Program (CHAMP).

a) Aspirin.

b) Beta-blockers.

c) Statins or cholesterol-lowering agent with target LDL <>

d) Ace-Inhibitors.

e) Clopidogrel (plavix) for post PTCA/stent, Drug-Eluting stent, brachytherapy.

f) Exercise program or cardiac rehab.

g) Smoking cessation.

h) AHA step II diet.

2. Management and referral to appropriate care for co-morbid conditions (i.e., hypertension, diabetes, heart failure).

III. Discharge Education and Planning

A. Patients and family should be educated on all of the above targeted therapies and also monitoring of symptoms.

B. Education on warning signs of a heart attack and plan of action should be included.

Table 1: Biochemical cardiac markers for evaluation and management of patients with suspected ACS but without ST-Segment elevation on 12-Lead.

Marker

Advantages

Disadvantages

Clinical Recommendations

CK-MB

� Rapid, cost-efficient, accurate assays.

� Ability to detect early reinfarction.

� Loss of specificity in setting of skeletal muscle disease or injury, including surgery.

� Low sensitivity during early MI (6h after symptom onset); or

� Later after symptom onset (36h) and for minor myocardial damage (detectable with troponins).

Prior standard and still acceptable diagnostic test in most clinical circumstances.

Normal lab values:

Male: 8 ng/ml

Female: 6 ng/ml

Cardiac Troponins

� Powerful tool for risk stratification.

� Greater sensitivity and specificity than CK-MB.

� Detection of recent MI up to 2 weeks after onset.

� Useful for selection of therapy.

� Detection of reperfusion.

� Low sensitivity in very early phase of MI (<6>

� Limited ability to detect late minor reinfarction.

Useful as a single test to efficiently diagnose NSTEMI, with serial measurements. Know diagnostic �cutoffs�.

Normal lab values:

<2.0>

Table 2: Risk Stratification: Likelihood that signs and symptoms represent ACS secondary to CAD.

Feature	High Likelihood	Intermediate Likelihood	Low Likelihood
History	� Chest or left arm pain or discomfort as chief symptom reproducing prior documented angina. � Known history of CAD, including MI.	� Chest or left arm pain or discomfort as chief symptom. � Age > 70 years. � Male sex. � Diabetes mellitus.	� Probable ischemic symptoms in absence of any of the intermediate likelihood characteristics. � Recent cocaine use.
Examination	� Transient MR. � Hypotension. � Diaphoresis. � Pulmonary edema. � Rales.	� Extracardiac vascular disease.	� Chest discomfort reproduced by palpation.
ECG	� New, or presumably new transient ST-segment deviation (>0.05 mV); or � T-wave inversion (>0.2 mV) with symptoms.	� Fixed Q waves. � Abnormal ST segment; or � T waves not documented to be new.	� T-wave flattening; or � Inversion in leads with dominant R waves. � Normal ECG.
Cardiac Markers	� Elevated cardiac TnI or CK-MB.	� Normal.	� Normal.

Table 3: Noninvasive Risk Stratification

Coronary Angiography

High risk (>3% annual mortality rate)

Severe resting LV dysfunction (LVEF <0.35)

High-risk treadmill score (score < -11)

Severe exercise LV dysfunction (exercise LVEF <0.35)

Stress-induced large perfusion defect (particularly if anterior)

Stress-induced multiple perfusion defects of moderate size

Large, fixed perfusion defect with LV dilation or increased lung uptake (thallium-201)

Stress-induced moderate perfusion defect with LV dilation or increased lung uptake (thallium-201)

Echocardiographic wall motion abnormality

Stress echocardiographic evidence of extensive ischemia

Coronary Angiograph or Medical Management

Intermediate risk (1-3% annual mortality rate)

Mild/moderate resting LV dysfunction (LVEF 0.35-0.49)

Intermediate-risk treadmill score (-11<5)

Stress-induced moderate perfusion defect without LV dilation or increased lung intake (thallium-201)

Limited stress echocardiographic ischemia with a wall motion abnormality only at higher doses of dobutamine involving <>

Medical Management

Low risk (<>

Low risk-treadmill score (score > 5)

Normal or small myocardial perfusion defect at rest or with stress

Normal stress echocardiographic wall motion or no change of limited resting wall motion abnormalities during stress

Addenda

ST-Elevation MI (STEMI) Order Set

Suspected Unstable Angina/Non-ST-Elevation MI: (NSTEMI) Order Set

Glycoprotein IIB/ IIIA Inhibitors

((NOTE: IMPORTANT!!))

Addendum #1:

ST-Elevation MI (STEMI) Order Set

Initial Orders

DIAGNOSTICS

� Stat ECG, obtain old ECG record

� Labs to be drawn stat: CMP, CBC/diff, PT/PTT/INR, CK and CK-MB (site specific), Troponin-I

� Lipid panel

� Stat portable CXR

� Cardiac monitor and SaO₂ monitors

� Other_____________________________________________________

ANTI-ISCHEMIC THERAPY

� Oxygen 2L/min Nasal Cannula (titrate to keep pulse oximetry saturations >94%)

� IV 0.9NS _____ml/hr

� Morphine Sulfate

NITROGLYCERIN THERAPY (Hold if patient has taken Sildenafil (Viagara) within 24 hours)

� Nitroglycerin 0.4mg SL q5 min x 3 doses or until pain relief or SBP <>

� Nitroglycerin paste _____ inch(es) topically x 1

� IV � start Nitroglycerin infusion at 10mcg/min, then titrate to chest pain relief

B-BLOCKER THERAPY

� Metoprolol (Lopressor) 5mg IV q 5min x 3 doses (Hold for SBP <90),> 1^st degree, decompensated CHF, severe COPD/Asthma)

ANTI-THROMBOTIC THERAPY

� Aspirin 162 mg po (2 chewable 81 mg tablets)

FIBRINOLYTIC THERAPY (Per discretion of Interventional Attending)

Indications: chest pain <>

1. History of hemorrhagic stroke at any time; other stroke or cerebrovascular event within 1 year.

2. Known intra-cranial neoplasm.

3. Active internal bleeding.

4. Suspected aortic dissection (consider CT of chest).

TPA (Per interventional attending)

� Full dose:15mg IVP, then 0.75mg/kg (maximum 50mg) over 30 min, then 0.5mg/kg (maximum 35mg) over 60 min

� Facilitated PCI (per interventional attending discretion)- Alteplase plus Eptifibatide

� Patient eligibility- <75yo>

� Serum Creatinine <2.0>

All Patients shall receive:

� ASA 160mg �325mg STAT

� Heparin - 60Units/KG (max 4000 Units) followed by 12/units/kg/hr (max 800units/hr titrated to aPTT 50-70)

� Alteplase Dose (should precede GPIIb IIIa inhibitors) - 15mg IVP followed by .75mg/kg (max 35mg) over 60 minutes

� Eptifibatide Dose - 180mcg/kg IVP, followed by 2mcg/kg/mininfusion. Second bolus -90mcg/kg IVP thirty minutes after first bolus. Infusion continues x 18-24 hours post PCI or max of 48 hours

HEPARIN THERAPY

May be administered simultaneously with TPA or given alone

� Unfractionated heparin: 5000 units IV bolus or 60 units/kg bolus (1000units/ml), then 1000 units/hr IV or 12units/kg/hr IV

� Follow Heparin Normogram per hospital protocol

� Goal of PTT 60-80

Addendum # 2:

Suspected Unstable Angina/Non-ST- Elevation MI: (NSTEMI) Order Set

Initial Orders

DIAGNOSTICS

� Stat ECG, obtain old ECG record

� Stat labs: CMP, CBC/diff, PT/PTT/INR, CK and CK-MB (site specific), Troponin I

� Lipid Panel

� Stat portable CXR

� Cardiac monitor and SaO2 monitors

� Other ___________________________________________________________

ANTI-ISCHEMIC THERAPY

� Oxygen 2L/min Nasal Cannula (titrate to keep pulse oximetry saturations >94%)

� IV 0.9NS _____ml/hr

� Morphine Sulfate

NITROGLYCERIN THERAPY

� Hold if patient has taken Sildenfil (Viagara) within 24 hours

� Nitroglycerin 0.4mg SL q 5min x 3 doses or until pain relief or SBP <>

� Nitroglycerin paste ____ inch(es) topically x 1

� Start IV infusion of Nitroglycerin at 10mcg/min, then titrate for pain relief

B-BLOCKER THERAPY

� Metoprolol (Lopressor) 5mg IV q 5 min x 3 (Hold SBP <90,> 1^st degree, decompensated CHF, severe COPD/Asthma)

ACS ANTI-THROMBOTIC TREATMENT GUIDE

Possible ACS:

� Aspirin 162 mg (2 chewable 81 mg tablets)

Likely/Definite ACS (without continuing ischemic pain or high risk features)

� Chief symptom: chest or left arm discomfort

� Prior MI, History of CAD, extra-cardiac vascular disease, age >70 years

� ECG: fixed Q waves, presumed old abnormal ST segments or T waves

� Aspirin 162 mg po (2 chewable 81 mg tablets)

� Noxaparin (Lovenox) ___mg SQ x 1 (1mg/kg dose) or

� Unfractionated heparin ____ units IV bolus (1000units/ml), followed by ______ units/hr (Follow Heparin Normogram per hospital protocol)

Definite ACS with any of the following features:

� Continuing ischemic pain (despite ASA, clopidigrel, IV NTG, heparin)

� High-risk (of death or non-fatal MI) features: positive cardiac enzymes, new or transient ST-segment changes, chest pain at rest >20minutes, diabetes, pulmonary edema, recent MI, age >75 years, hypotension

� Planned intervention

� Aspirin 162mg (2 chewable 81 mg tablets)

� Eptifibatide (Integrillin) - See Micromedex for details

______180mcg/kg Eptifibatide IV bolus

______2.0mcg/kg/min Eptifibatide IV infusion

� (NOTE: Half infusion rate if serum creatinine is between 2-4 mg/dl, hold if patient is on hemodialysis)

� Unfractionated heparin _____ units IV bolus (1000units/ml), then ____units/hr IV infusion (Follow Heparin Normogram per hospital protocol)

Addendum #3:

Glycoprotein IIB/ IIIA Inhibitors

Medication Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics

	Eptifibatide	Abciximab
Mechanism of Action	Reversible inhibitor of receptor	Monoclonal antibody that irreversibly inhibits receptor
Half life	1.5 � 2.5 hours	a: <> b: 30 minutes *
Duration of Action � Platelet aggregation � Bleeding time	2 � 4 hours 15 � 30 minutes	~ 48 hours ~ 24 hours

*NOTE: Half-life is deceiving. Applies to free drug in serum, drug still bound to receptor at 15 days.

Dosing (eptifibatide used in most cases, abciximab is used sparingly in Cath lab):

Eptifibatide

(Dosing charts available in pharmacy, cath lab, and CCU)

Abciximab

Acute Coronary Syndrome

180 mcg/kg IVP, plus 2 mcg/kg/min [generally continued x 24 hrs after PCI (if performed), may give up to 96 hrs total]

**For pt�s with SCr 2.0 - 4.0mg/dl, reduce maintenance infusion rate to 1.0 mcg/kg/min**

0.25 mg/kg IVP, then 0.125 mcg/kg/min (max 10 mcg/min)

x 18 � 24 hrs (for pts undergoing PCI w/in 24hrs)

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

180 mcg/kg IVP x 2 (10 minutes apart), plus

2 mcg/kg/min x 20 � 24 hrs

**For pt�s with SCr 2.0 - 4.0mg/dl, reduce maintenance infusion rate to 1.0 mcg/kg/min**

0.25 mg/kg IVP, then 0.125 mcg/kg/min (max 10 mcg/min)

x 12 hrs

Adverse Drug Reactions/Monitoring Parameters:

� Bleeding [vascular access site (usually groin) most common].

� CBC baseline, QD, and if bleed suspected.

� PTT as appropriate (in most cases due to concomitant heparin therapy).

� 50 � 70 seconds [goal may be higher (60 � 80 seconds) if PCI performed].

� For PCI, may use activated clotting time (ACT) with goal of 200 � 300 seconds.

� Thrombocytopenia (primarily with abciximab, rare with eptifibatide).

� May be given concomitantly with IV heparin and ASA.

University of Illinois Medical Center at Chicago Procedures for Integrilin� Use

I. Requires cardiology approval.

II. Screen for appropriate use and contraindications.

III. Verify patient weight.

IV. Patient selection.

A. Ischemic chest pain at rest > 10 minutes within last 12 hours.

AND

ECG changes consistent with ischemia.

1. ST depression.

2. T wave inversion.

3. Normalization of previously abnormal T waves.

C. Positive Troponin I or CPK-MB.

D. Recurrent chest pain on medical therapy (ASA, heparin, nitrates, beta-blocker).

MMRV

2010-07-21T18:53:00.000-07:00

MEASLES, MUMPS, RUBELLA & VARICELLA ( chickenpox ) TARGET INNOCENT CHILDREN. Get Them Before They Get Close.

KNOW THESE THREATS AND PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN FROM THEM.

They are Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella (chickenpox) who appear as harmless illnesses in children. However, infections from MMRV viruses can lead to serious complications that may involve hospitalisation and burden the family. Because MMRV viruses are highly contagious and mainly targets children, it is vital to prevent them from harming your child.

MEASLES

Most contagious vaccine~preventable infection in humans.

Spread by airborne or droplet exposure.

Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis ( red eyes ) and a rash.

May result in complications of the ear and pneumonia.

MUMPS

Acute infectious disease caused by the mumps virus.
May cause inflammation of brain and/or tissue covering the brain and spinal cord.
Common symptoms include swelling of salivary glands (near jaw line ) and pain particularly when chewing, fever and headache.
Known complications include permanent deafness, infection of other organ systems and sterility.

RUBELLA

A common childhood disease also known as German measles.
Virus is spread by airborne or droplet exposure and may be present in urine, feces and skin.
Birth defects if acquired by a pregnant women: deafness, cataracts, heart defects and mental retardation.

VARICELLA ( chickenpox )

The primary cause of chickenpox , a highly contagious illness.
Children may have as many as 200 to 500 spots, which occur in waves. High temperatures can reach up to 38.9oC.
The virus is easily spread through coughs, sneezes or direct contact with secretion from the rash.
May result in scarring, shingles (reactivation of varicella zoster virus ) and the central nervous system being affected.

CHICKENPOX IS COMMON as everyone has a 95% chance of having it something in life. It occurs in almost 90% of children below the age of 12.

But , did you know the various complications chickenpox can bring ?

Brain swelling and inflammation ( encephalitis; headaches, unsteadiness while walking, seizures )
Lung infection (pneumonia; cough, difficulty breathing)
Bacterial infection of the skin (cellulitis; painful,red and swollen skin )
Bone infection ( osteomyelitis; pain in infected area, difficulty in moving )
Joint infection ( arthritis , join pain )

There are chances that these complications will result in hospitalisation and in some cases , lose of life.

PREVENTING MMR + V ( Measles , Mumps, Rubella ) + ( Chickenpox )

Remember, contagious MMRV viruses mean higher infection risks for your child. An infection may spread to other family members plus burden parents who have to miss work to care for a sick child.

Now , additional protection from the VARICELLA ( chickenpox ) virus alongside the compulsory MMR vaccinations is available. You can spare your child from extra pain and injections by protecting against 4 threats at 1 go.

Ask your doctor how 1 vaccine protects your child from 4 deadly diseases.

BERSENAM SECARA BETUL DAN SELAMAT

2010-07-01T19:18:00.000-07:00

Pandauan Senaman Penting

Untuk Pesakit DIABETES

Bawa gula-gula/manisan bersama anda. Makan sekiranya anda berasa pening kerana keadaan hipoglisemia ( paras glukos rendah ).
Pakai kasut yang berlapik dan selesa, bersarung kaki untuk mengelakkan dari kecederaan kaki.
Jangan melakukan senaman semasa lapar atau kenyang. * Perlu seimbangkan waktu lepas 20 minit makan.

Untuk Pesakit Hipertensi? Tekanan Darah Tinggi

Berhenti bersenam jika pening, sakit dada dan sukar bernafas.

Untuk anda yang GEMUK

Jangan lakukan senaman yang terlalu agresif dan cuba minimakan pergerakan yang berimpak tinggi bagi mengelakkan kecederaan pada otot-otot.

KEMAMPUAN BERSENAM

Ujian Percakapan : Perlahankan intensiti anda sekiranya anda sesak nafas bila bercakap semasa bersenam. Tingkatkan intensiti anda sekiranya anda masih mampu bergelak semasa bersenam.
Kira Sasaran Denyutan Jantung Anda:-

220 - umur x 60% Denyutan Jantung ; contoh Jika umur anda 70tahun

220 - 70 = 150

150 x 0.60 = 90

150 x 0.90 = 135

Cuba kekalkan denyutan jantung di antara 90 dan 135 seminit.
Dapatkan nasihat doktor jika: Denyutan jantung semasa berehat berdekatan atau melebihi sasran denyutan jantung anda.
Anda sedang mengambil rawatan ubatan yang boleh memperlahankan denyutan jantung.
untuk mendapatkan denyutan jantung anda. Mempalpat jantung nadi di pergelangan tangan selari dengan pangkal ibu jari.
Untuk mengira denyutan jantung anda, mempalpat denyutan nadi selama 10 saat. Keputusannya digandakan dengan 6.

Garis Panduan di sajikan supaya anda bersenam secara menyeronokkan.

Dapatkan nasihat doktor sebelum memulakan program senaman kecergasan.
Mulakan senaman dengan perlahan dan tingkatkan secara beransur-ansur untuk beberapa minggu bila anda semakin lebih cergas.
Mulakan senaman berselang seli 2-3 minit, dengan 2-3 minit berehat selama 15 minit. Aktiviti senaman perlu ditambah 2-3 minit setiap minggu sehingga mencapai 30 minit.
Mulakan dengan aktiviti memanaskan badan untuk mengelakan rasa sakit dan kesakitan selepas senaman.
Menyejukkan badan dengan membuat aktivit ringan seperti berjalan atau melakukan regangan bagi mengelakkan pening dan sakit.
Perlahankan aktiviti anda jika anda mengalami kesukaran bernafas semasa melakukan senaman.
Berhenti dengan serta merta jika anda mengalami ketidakselesaan, sakit dan pening.
Pakaian mestilah bersesuaian, longgar dan selesa serta pakai kasut yang sesuai.
Masa yang paling sesuai untuk melakukan senaman: setiap pagi ( sebelum 9.30 pagi waktu Malaysia) ; Petang ( selepas pukul 6 petang ).
Persekitaran tempat senaman : permukaan yang rata. Suhu dan kelembapan udara terkawal. Kawasan redup/ teduh. Tempat yang cukup terang.
Pastikan anda mengambil minuman yang secukupnya , sebelum , semasa dan selepas bersenam untuk menggantikan kehilangan peluh.

ALAHAN MAKANAN

2010-06-22T01:12:00.000-07:00

ELAKKAN ALAHAN MAKANAN

Gejala alahan makanan termasuklah rasa seperti dicucuk-cucuk pada mulut, ruam hives, kesukaran bernafas, pening serta bengkak pada bibir, muka , lidah dan tekak. Jika alahan berkenaan teruk, gejala lain akan muncul seperti laluan udara terhalang kerana tekak membengkak, denyutan nadi yang laju serta rasa pening dan tidak sedarkan diri.

Langkah-langkah jika mengalami alahan:-

Ketahui apa yang anda makan dan minum. Pastikan baca label makanan dengan teliti.
Pastikan ahli keluarga terdekat atau rakan sekerja anda tahu mengenai alahan yang anda alami.
Bincang dengan doktor sekiranya mahu membawa epinephrine kecemasan.
Jika anda menghidapi asma, pastikan jika makan di luar pastikan makanan berkenaan tidak mengandungi sulfites.
Baca label pada bungkusan makanan mengandungi sodium bisulfite, potassium bisulfite, sodium sulfite, sulfur dioxide dan potassium metabisulfite.

Alahan makanan adalah reaksi yang tercetus melalui sistem imun. Hampir enam peratus kanak-kanak dan dua peratus dewasa mengalami masalah alahan terhadap makanan dan angka lebih besar dicatatkan untuk golongan yang tidak tahan dengan makanan.

Tidak tahan laktosa adalah satu contoh tidak tahan makanan. Mereka yang mengalami masalah ini akan menyebabkan kekurangan enzime laktase yang diperlukan untuk mencerna gula, susu atau laktosa dalam susu dan produk tenusu lain. Akibatnya , mereka boleh diserang sakit perut, kembung perut, angin atau cirit-birit.

Dalam alahan makanan, sistem imun anda tersalah mengenal pasti makanan tertentu atau kompenen makanan yang bertindak sebagai bahan bahaya. Sistem imun manusia mencetuskan sel tertentu bagi menghasilkan antibodi immunoglobulin E (IgE) bagi menentang makanan yang membawa masalah. Antibodi berkenaan akan mengesan makanan yang bermasalah dan memberi isyarat kepada sistem imun untuk melepaskan histamin dan beberapa kimia ke saluran darah.
Kebanyakan alahan makanan dicetuskan protein tertentu seperti yang terdapat dalam telur, kekacang, ikan dan makanan laut bercengkerang.

PASTIKAN ANAK ANDA MEMPUNYAI

2010-05-24T21:47:00.000-07:00

BERAT DAN KETINGGIAN NORMAL

Bagi ibu bapa yang ada anak terlalu kurus, sebaik-baiknya dapatkan nasihat doktor atau pakar pemakanan supaya mereka boleh merancang program pemakanan khusus untuk mengatasi maslah itu. Pada masa sama, panduan di bawah mungkin boleh membantu

Masak makanan kegermarannya. Jika dia tidak suka sayur, hiris halus atau kisar sayur untuk dicampurkan dalam makanan berkenaan.

Dengar keinginan selera anak. Sebaik-baiknya bincang dengan anak apa hidangan yang dia mahu makan (asalkan ia berkhasiat) dan minta bantuan anak untuk menyediakan makanan itu bersama-sama

Sediakan hidangan seimbang yang mengandungi protein, kaborhidrat dan lemak ( lemak tidak tepu dan monotaktepu.) Untuk anak yang terlalu kurus, pakar pemakanan menyarankan supaya hidangannya membabitkan karbohidrat ( 60 hingga 70%). Protein ( 10 hingga 15%) dan sedikit lemak

Galak anak makan makanan yang tinggi kandungan kalori, vitamin dan mineral

Anda juga boleh menyediakan makanan berkalori tinggi tetapi berkhasiat seperti mencampurkan telur jika membuat kentang lenyek, masukkan ayam ke dalam sup atau keju ke dalam bubur nasi

Galakkan anak minum susu. Beli perisa yang digemarinya

Elak menyediakan minuman atau snek setengah jam sebelum waktu makan kerana ia menjejaskan selera anak dan membuatkan mereka tidak mahu makan

Jus buah juga baik untuk menambah pengambilan kalori anak. Lebih baik jika anda dapat mencampur beberapa jenis buah ( jus buah campur)

Sediakan snek berkhasiat seperti kekacang , buah-buahan kering atau segar. Sesekali, anda boleh beri anak makan aiskrim yang bercampur buah-buahan dan kekacang

Rangsang anak untuk makan yogurt. Ia bukan saja enak, tetapi juga kaya dengan probiotik untuk merangsang pertumbuhan bakteria baik dalam usus.

Ajak anak untuk beriadah, sebaik-baiknya setiap hari. Aktiviti fizikal dan cergas juga boleh merangsang selera anak.

Pastikan anda sekeluarga makan bersama. Jadikan waktu makan bersama ini menyeronokkan dan antara cara yang boleh anda lakukan ialah bertanya mengenai peristiwa yang berlaku di sekolah.

Sesekali ubah selera dengan makan di luar atau membuat barbeku di halaman rumah. Ia juga akan merangsang anak untuk makan lebih banyak.

Kurangkan gangguan. Tutup televisyen ketika makan kerana keinginan menonton rancangan yang digemari akan membuat anak anda makan sedikit dan tergesa-gesa.

Pastikan rumah anda bebas daripada snek yang tidak berkhasiat. Ini termasuk gula-gula dan minuman berkarbonat. Kajian mendapati snek yang tidak berkhasiat ini boleh membuatkan mereka tidak berasa lapar terhadap makanan berkhasiat.
Pelbagaikan menu sarapan. Sarapan adalah sajian paling penting dalam kehidupan seseorang, termasuk kanak-kanak. Kanak-kanak yang bersarapan mempunyai daya tumpuan lebih baik di dalam bilik darjah.

Jadilah ibu yang kreatif dalam menyediakan makanan. Makanan yang cantik akan lebih mudah menarik selera anak. Tidak salah jika meniru cara hidangan di restoran atau hotel untuk menjadikan makanan yang biasa tampak menyelerakan.

TANGANI STRESS

2010-05-19T19:07:00.000-07:00

SiHAt SepAnJaNg HayAT

Kemarahan adalah satu masalah utama emosi akibat stress.
Stress ialah tindakbalas fizikal, emosi dan mental kepada perubahan. Kita semua mengalami stress di rumah, sekolah atau tempat kerja. Kita perlu sedikit stress untuk berfungsi secara berkesan. Adakalanya stress boleh juga menjadi faktor motivasi terhadap perkembangan hidup seseorang. Stress yang keterlaluan boleh menjejaskan kesihatan.

KENAPA ANDA STRESS?

Diri sendiri ( contoh : Anda kecewa, anda tidak dapat apa yang anda mahu )
Keluarga anda ( contoh : Masalah dengan suami/isteri dan anak, pindah rumah, masalah kewangan )
Pekerjaan anda ( contoh : Anda tidak cemerlang dalam kerja, ketua anda tidak berpuas hati dengan kerja anda, anda tidak dinaikkan pangkat, tukar kerja, dibuang kerja )
Komuniti anda ( contoh : Jiran dan komuniti tidak ramah )

Bila anda Stress...

Jantung anda berdegup kencang dan sukar bernafas
Anda cepat marah
Anda rasa tidak gembira
Anda kehilangan selera makan
Anda hilang minat bekerja
Anda tidak lagi menikmati hobi
Anda tidak cukup tidur
Anda menengking-nengking
Anda ingin membaling sesuatu
Anda cuba menjauhkan diri

Apa yang harus dilakukan apabila anda marah ??:

Menyedari yang anda sedang marah... Katakan : " Saya sedang marah ".
Bertenang... kira hingga 10, tarik nafas panjang dan mengucap
Kenal pasti kenapa anda marah
Cuba dengar penjelasan orang lain
Jangan berkata sesuatu untuk menyakitkan hati atau menghukum orang lain
Anda perlu beredar jika tidak dapat mengawal kemarahan
Berbincang dengan orang lain jika tidak mampu mengendalikan kemarahan
Membinasakan diri memaafkan - menerima kenyataan bahawa manusia juga melakukan kesalahan.

Kuasai Kemahiran untuk menyelesaikan masalah cara IDEAL

I - Kenal pasti masalah ( Identify the problem )

D - Jelaskan pilihan yang boleh diambil ( Describe possible options )

E - Buat penilaian bagi setiap cadangan - baik dan buruknya ( Evaluate consequences of each option - the pro's and con's )

A - Bertindak - pilih satu cara untuk bertindak ( Act )

L - Berlajar dari pengalaman sama ada hasilnya berjaya atau tidak ( Learn )

Cara mengurangkan kemungkinan untuk marah

Berfikir secara positif
Jangan salahkan orang lain apabila berlaku kesilapan
Belajar menyukai diri sendiri
Usahakan yang terbaik daripada apa yang anda ada
Belajar menerima apa yang tidak dapat diubah
Jangan risau tentang kekurangan yang ada
Bertenang
Lakukan senaman selalu
Adakan hobi
Luangkan masa untuk keluarga , kerja dan beriadah
Dapatkan tidur yang cukup
Dapatkan teman untuk meluahkan masalah
Bersifat asertif. Berani berkata "TIDAK" untuk kegiatan luar, jemputan atau temu janji yang anda tiada masa untuk hadiri
Tetapkan matlamat yang realistik untuk diri anda. Tidak semua anda dapat kecapi. Sedarilah bahawa tidak semua perkara penting seperti yang anda sangkakan.

Perkembangan mental & social

2010-03-29T21:27:00.000-07:00

Seoarang bayi merupakan pelajar yang paling bijak dan mudah menerima sesuat yang diajar kepadanya. Anak anda tidak seharusnya dianggap terlalu mentah untuk memahami atau belajar tentang sesuatu. Malah, dia perlu diajar mengikut peringkat usia yang bersesuaian dengan dirinya. Namun, setiap kanak-kanak itu mempunyai kadar perkembangan yang berbeza. Anda tidak seharusnya terlalu tegas atau garang dalam mendidik anak-anak dan terlalu berharap agar dia dapat belajar atau memahami sesuatu dengan cepat atau di luar kemampuannya. Ini akan menyebabkan anda berasa kecewa, hilang keyakinan dan mungkin berputus asa.

Kemahiran belajar

Pada awalnya, orang yang paling penting dalam kehidupannya adalah orang yang sentiasa berada disisinya atau menjaganya sepanjang masa, di mana selalunya orang tersebut adalah ibunya sendiri. Maka, anda adalah guru yang paling penting dalam kehidupan anak anda. Sesungguhnya, anda perlu memberitahunya mengenai cerita/sesuatu yang menarik yang terjadi dalam kehidupan sehariannya. Ceritakan tentang pengalaman baru yang dialaminya, terangkan segala yang anda lihat atau Nampak dan sentiasa melakukan aktiviti bersamanya. Sentiasa berikan banyak galakan dan pujian walaupun pencapaiannya tidak seperti yang anda harapkan. Namun, anda harus terus memberikan dorongan walaupun bayi anda gagal melakukannya.

Kemahiran bertutur

Pakar-pakar kesihatan percaya bahawa beberapa hari setelah bayi dilahirkan, dia sudah mula dapat bertindakbalas terhadap bunyi orang yang sedang bercakap berbanding dengan bunyi-bunyi lain di sekelilingnya. Malah, bayi yang masih kecil dapat membezakan antara bunyi dan bahasa orang yang sedang bercakap, di mana ini merupakan sebahagian daripada asas untuk mempelajari sesuatu bahasa.

Bayi anda lebih mudah mempelajari sesuatu bahasa berbanding dengan orang lain. Beberapa cara untuk membantu bayi belajar adalah melabelkan sesuatu objek. Ketika anda sedang berbual-bual dengannya, sebut nama objek tersebut dan ulanginya dengan lebih kerap. Namun, janganlah anda terlalu mengharap agar bayi anda dapat menyebut perkataan-perkataan tersebut dengan tepat. Berusahalah untuk memahami perkataan yang disebutnya untuk membantu kemahirannya bertutur. Bayi anda pasti akan berasa seronok dapat berkomunikasi dengan anda, jadi sentiasalah memberi sokongan dan galakkan kepadanya untuk terus mencuba.

Kemahiran social

Daripada seorang bayi yang pasif semasa lahir, lambat laun bayi anda akan mula mengajuk tingkah laku orang di sekelilingnya. Pada awalnya, bayi akan mengajuk mimic muka dan tindak-tanduk atau pergerakan badan anda, seterusnya dia akan mengajuk cara nada bercakap dan akhirnya perbuatan anda. Bayi yang mempunyai hbungan yang rapat, manja dan mesra apabila berada di sisi ibunya akan lebih bermotivasi untuk menjalinkan hubungan yang mesra dengan orang lain. Adalah penting untuk bayi menyertai aktiviti bersama dengan ahli keluarganya. Ini akan membri bayi peluang untuk belajar mengenai kehidupan dan orang di sekeliling secara amnya terutamanya adab dan adapt masyarakatnya.

Perkembangan mental & social

Kemahiran belajar

(Apa yang bayi anda fahami?)

Kemahiran bertutur

( Bagaimana bayi belajar bertutur ?)

Kemahiran social

( Tingkah laku / Cara pergaulan bayi )

0 hingga 3 Bulan

Dapat mengenali wajah anda jika anda merapatkan muka anda kea rah bayi kurang daripada 12 inci (30 sm0

Apabila dia berusia sebulan, dia dapat mnegajuk mimic muka anda.

Bayi anda akan menangis sebaik sahaja dia dilahirkan. Pada peringkat permulaan, bayi anda hanya tahu menangis sahaja, lambat laun dia akan pandai mengagah sebagai tanda dia berasa seronok dan gembira.

( Beberapa minggu pertama) Tidak berupaya untuk bertindabalas pada dunia luar.

Matanya akan mengekori objek yang bergerak apabila berusia 2 bulan

Mula membalas senyuman anda dan pandai mengagah. Walaupun dia masih tidak tahu untuk bercakap, ini merupakan salah satu isyarat yang bayi sedang belajar untuk berkomunikasi dengan anda.

Mengenali wajah ibunya dan orang-orang yang biasa berada di sekelilingnya. Kelihatan takut jika ternampak orang asing dengan memalingkan mukanya ataupun mungkin akan menangis.

(3 bulan) Akan membalas percakapan anda dengan senyumannya dan mengagah dengan kuat.

Menunjukkan minat ingin tahu dengan keadaan di sekelilingnya.

Dapat membezakan bunyi percakapan dan bunyi-bunyi yang lain.

Menoleh ke arah bunyi.

4 hingga 6 Bulan

Akan ketawa kecil apabila anda bermain dengannya.

Akan menoleh kea rah sebarang bunyi dan suka jika diletakkan dalam keadaan duduk.

Suka membuat bunyi-bunyi bising dan menyebut beberapa perkataan seperti bunyi Bah, Maa, Paa, Moo,Dah.

Suka diberi perhatian.

Muka menyedari keadaan yang asing bagi dirinya, dapat meluahkan perasaan takut, tidak suka dan marah.

Mula pandai untuk memilih makanan.

Amat berminat untuk melihat dirinya di cermin.

Terus berkomunikasi dengan orang dewasa, membuat pelbagai bunyi dan menunggu sehingga seseorang membalas kelakuannya sebelum dia melakukan semula.

Pandai membuat mimic muka.

7 hingga 9 Bulan

Mula pandai untuk memilih makanan.

Amat berminat untuk melihat dirinya di cermin.

Bertindakbalas dengan lebih baik kea rah bunyi, sama ada suara manusia atau nada muzik.

Dapat menyebut 2 patah perkataan hujung kepada perkataan penuh contohnya Maama, Aabaah.

Lebih aktif dan lebih bijak berinteraktif.

Suka bermainan � cak � cak�

Mengenali namanya sendiri apabila dipanggil.

Pandai membuat pelbagai jenis bunyi untuk menarik perhatian.

Bermain dengan bibirnya dengan menyebut perkataan yang mudah dengan berulang kali seperti

Abababa.

Belajar untuk menarik perhatian orang ramai. Berminat dalam perbualan orang dewasa.

Mula memperlihatkan � kuasanya� , misalnya akan menghalang anda dari melakukan sesuatu, cuba mengelak daripada anda membasuh mukanya. Memberi sepenuh perhatian terhadap barang permainannya dan membelek-beleknya seolah-olah ingin memeriksanya dengan teliti. Mencari objek yang tersembunyi.

Pertuturan menjadi lebih baik kerana bayi akan cuba menyambung beberapa patah perkataan dan mnyebutnya seperti sepotong ayat. Anda akan tahu bila bayi anda akan mula hendak bercakap.

Bergaul dengan mengajuk bunyi percakapan dan tindak-tanduk orang lain.

Memahami beberapa perkataan mudah contohnya jangan, � bye � bye�.

10 bulan hingga 12 bulan

Memahami perkataan pendek dan ayat �ayat mudah

Pertuturan menjadi lebih baik kerana bayi akan cuba menyambung beberapa patah perkataan dan menyebutnya seperti sepotong ayat. Anda akan tahu bila bayi anda akan mula hendak bercakap.

Bargaul denga mengajuk bunyi percakapan dan tindak-tanduk orang lain. Memahami beberapa perkataan mdah contohnya jangan, � bye � bye�

Bayi anda akan suka membuat bunyi bising, ingin menggoyang, mengetuk, memukul apa sahaja yang boleh mengeluarkan bunyi.

Suka melemparkan atau menjatuhkan barang dengan sengaja dan menyurh anda mengutipnya semula.

Anak anda membuat apa sahaja supaya anda ketawa dan mengulanginya beberapa kali.

Mungkin mengetahui beberapa patah perkataan yang mudah.

Menyebut dan menggunakan perkataan pertamanya. Perkataan pilihannya adalah nama benda yang penting baginya, contohnya oraang ( nama, abah), objek ( bola,jam)

Memahami dan patuh kepada arahan mudah seperti � jangan �

Memahami keadaan yang berbeza; berupaya meluahkan perasaannya dengan lebih baik.

Mungkin pada peringkat ini, tidak boleh berenggang dengan anda.

Saya ucapakan terima kasih kerana anda meluangkan masa dengan membaca ruangan ini. Saya berharap segala maklumat yang saya kongsikan dapat memberi panduan kepada anda disamping dapat merealisasikan impian menjadi kenyataan�InsyaAllah!

Semoga Berjaya!

Apakah Perkembangan Awal Bayi?

2010-03-27T23:23:00.000-07:00

BAB 3

PERKEMBANGAN AWAL BAYI

Perkembangan Fizikal

Sebagai seorang ibu atau bapa, melihat anak anda membesar dan berkembang dengan sihat adalah suatu pengalaman yang paling menggembirakan. Dalam tempoh 12 bulan pertamanya, anda pasti akan berasa kagum melihat bagaimana dia membesar dengan cepat. Bahkan, tempoh ini juga, beberapa peristiwa penting akan berlaku di mana dia akan menguasai beberapa kemahiran dari segi fizikal, mental dan social.

Beberapa kemahiran ini biasanya dapat dikuasai oleh kebanyakan bayi yang sedang membesar dan secara tidak langsung anda mungkin dapat meramalkan waktu yang tepat bila ia akan berlaku. Kemahiran yang telah dikuasainya bukan hanya diukur dari segi apa yang dia telah lakukan tetapi bagaimana dia melakukannya. Dalam erti kata lain, bayi akan membesar serentak dengan kemampuannya untuk menguasai kemahiran tersebut. Biarkan bayi anda menguasai beberapa kemahiran mengikut kemampuannya serta berilah dia peluang untuk melakukannya mengikut kadar kebolehannya sendiri.

Sementara itu, anda hanya perlu memberikannya sepenuh kasih sayang, sokongan dan dorongan yang berterusan serta membantunya dalam menguasai kemahiran- kemahiran tersebut pada peringkat yang berbeza terutamanya dalam tempoh satu tahun ini. Anak anda pasti akan berasa seronok berdamping dengan anda ketika menempuh pelbagai dugaan dalam menguasai kemahiran- kemahiran seperti yang telah disenaraikan di bab seterusnya. Adalah diingatkan bahawa setiap bayi mempunyai kadar perkembangan yang berbeza. Maka , saya menyediakan bahagian seterusnya, seharusnya dijadikan sebagai panduan untuk anda semata � semata.

Perkembangan fizikal

1 BULAN

Perkembangan Tubuh Badan

Sejak lahi, bayi akan sentiasa berada di dalam kedudukan mengerekot. Rangka kepalanya sangat lembut ( otot leher masih tidak kuat untuk menyokong kepalanya). Kakinya lebih cenderung dalam posisi membengkok dan hanya berupaya mengangkat sedikit kepalanya untuk menoleh kea rah kiri dan kanan.

Mengawal Pergerakan Tangan (kemahiran)

Masih tidak pandai mengawal pergerakkan tangannya kerana tangannya masih cenderung berada dalam posisi menggenggam.

Mengawal Daya Penglihatan (kemahiran)

Daya penglihatannya masih belum berfungsi dengan sempurna. Belajar untuk memfokus pada jarak 10 inci ( 25 sm ).

2 BULAN

Perkembangan Tubuh Badan

Pandai menggeliat.

Boleh mengagkat kepalanya pada 45? selama beberapa minit.

Mengawal Pergerakan Tangan (kemahiran)

Bayi akan membuka dan menggenggam tangannya sesuka hati.

Menghabiskan masa meneliti bagaimana rupa parasnya, menyelami perasaannya sendiri dan menerokai pergerakannya.

Mengawal Daya Penglihatan (kemahiran)

Sangat suka melihat tangan dan jari � jemarinya apabila diletakkan berdekatan kea rah mukanya.

3 BULAN

Perkembangan Tubuh Badan

Badannya tidak lagi mengerekot. Dia boleh mendepangkan lengan dan kakinya. Dapat menendang dengan kuat. Apabila didukung dalam keadaan menegak, dapat mengawal pergerakkan kepalanya.

Mengawal Pergerakan Tangan (kemahiran)

Mungkin tidak berapa pandai menggunakan tangannya untuk mencapai objek yang berdekatan dengannya.

Tidak berupaya untuk menggenggam sesuatu untuk masa yang lama.

Mengawal Daya Penglihatan (kemahiran)

Mula mengetahui hubungan antara melihat dan membuat sesuatu.

Melihat tangannya dengan penuh perhatian dan amat khusyuk.

Mengajuk pergerakkan badan orang lain.

Mula pandai merenung mata orang dewasa dan akan tersenyum buat pertama kalinya.

4 BULAN

Perkembangan Tubuh Badan

Dapat berpusing dari posisi melenting kemudian meniarap, menyokong berat badan dengan lengannya.

Mengawal Pergerakan Tangan (kemahiran)

Akan mula menghisap jari dan bermain � main dengan tanganya seolah � olah dia baru menemui tangannya.

Akan menyentuh apa sahaja yang dia Nampak. Tibalah masanya bagi anda memberikan mainan untuknya.

Mengawal Daya Penglihatan (kemahiran)

Boleh melihat sesuatu objek dan dapat meneka jarak objek tersebut dan cuba mencapainya.

Amat menyukai warna � warna terang.

5 BULAN

Perkembangan Tubuh Badan

Apabila diletakkan dalam keadaan meniarap, dapat mengangkat kepalanya.

Dapat berpusing dari posisi meniarap dan kemudian melentang.

Mengawal Pergerakan Tangan (kemahiran)

Belajar untuk memegang objek, dengan membuka dan kemudian menggenggam jari � jemarinya.

Mengawal Daya Penglihatan (kemahiran)

Daya penglihatannya akan menjadi lebih baik dan boleh memfokus pada sesuatu objek pada apa jua jarak dan mengikuti pergerakan objek tersebut..

6 BULAN

Mungkin dapat duduk tanpa sokongan untuk beberapa saat.

Dapat mengangkat kepalanya ketika berbaring.

Perhatian : Giginya yang pertama mungkin akan tumbuh pada usia 6 bulan, namun setiap bayi adalah berbeza.

Boleh memegang sesuatu objek dengan jari tangannya dan mungkin boleh menggerakkan pergelangan tangannya.

Memasukkan semua benda dalam mulut.

Dapat memfokus dan menilai jarak sesuatu objek.

Dapat membezakan antara objek yang kecil/besar.

7 BULAN

Keupayaannya untuk duduk menjadi lebih baik, mungkin akan cuba mengimbangi badannya.

Dapat memegang sesuatu objek dengan kedua-dua belah tangannya.

Mula mencuba untuk menggunakan tangannya untuk makan.

Dapat memfokus dan menilai jarak sesuatu objek.

Dapat membezakan antara objek yang kecil/besar.

8 BULAN

Dapat duduk dengan baik tanpa perlu disokong jika dia tidak bergerak.

Mungkin badannya akan bergoyang ke hadapan atau kebelakang.

Tindakbalas refleks penggenggamannya menjadi lebih baik.

Dapat mengutip objek kecil dengan ibu jari dan telunjuk.

Boleh melambaikan tangannya.

Mengenali wajah- wajah yang biasa dilihatnya.

9 BULAN

Berusaha untuk merangkak dan mneyokong berat badannya dengan menggunakan tangan dan lutut. Boleh menukar kedudukannya daripada berbaring kepada duduk.

Dapat mengawal pergerakan setiap jari-jemarinya.

Mula menggunakan jari telunjuk untuk mencucuk atau menunjukkan sesuatu.

Lebih bijak memfokus � pandai mencari objek yang telah terjatuh dan tersembunyi atau disembunyikan.

10 BULAN

Merangkak dengan tangan dan kaki yang lebih tegak. Mungkin akan mengundur buat seketika.

Menarik sesuatu benda sebagai sokongan untuk berdiri. Sesetengah bayi akan terus berdiri tegak dan berjalan tanpa peringkat merangkak.

Akan menerokai setiap objek baru dengan tangannya.

Berupaya untuk memegang dua objek dengan sebelah tangan tetapi mungkin sedikit cuai apabila hendak melepaskannya.

Lebih bijak memfokus � pandai mencari objek yang telah terjatuh dan tersembnyi atau disembunyikan.

11 BULAN HINGGA 12 BULAN

Berjalan mengiring atau ke hadapan dengan memegang seseorang atau perabot.

Mungkin pandai bertatih dan berjalan jatuh.

Dapat mengawal pergerakan tangannya dengan lebih baik.

Dapat mengutip benda-benda kecil seperti butang baju.

Berlajar untuk mencampakkan barang dengan sengaja.

Mengalihkan sesuatu objek dari tangan kiri ke kanan atau sebaliknya.

Belajar menyuapkan makanan dengan sendiri.

Mula melihat dan mengikut objek yang bergerak dengan pantas.

Apakah Masalah Biasa Bayi Yang Baru Lahir?

2010-03-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

Bab 2

Masalah � masalah biasa Yang dihadapi Oleh Bayi Yang Baru Lahir

Ketika tempoh beberapa minggu pertama kehidupan bayi, bayi yang sihat boleh turut menghadapi beberapa masalah biasa yang dihadapi oleh bayi-bayi yang lain. Namun, anda boleh menguruskan masalah ini dengan sendirinya. Berikut adalah senarai beberapa masalah biasa yang kerap dialami oleh bayi yang baru lahir dan apa yang patut anda lakukan :

Masalah-masalah biasa dan apa yang patut anda lakukan:-

Sedu

Sedu adalah perkara biasa yang berlaku selepas penyusuan yang mungkin akan berlarutan sehingga 10 minit. Maka, adalah digalakkan agar anda kerap menyendawakan bayi anda. Bayi mungkin akan menyedut sedikit udara ketika sedang menyusu, dan sedikit udara inilah, akan menyebabkan dia berasa sudah kenyang walaupun dia belum cukup kenyang, sebenarnya. Cuba sendawakan bayi anda selepas setiap penyusuan.

Kembung Perut

Bayi akan menagis dengan jeritan yang kuat dan dalam keadaan teresak-esak. Selalunya ini terjadi pada bayi yang berusia 1-3 bulan. Punca masalah kembung perut ini masih belum diketahui. Bayi yang mengalami masalah kembung perut ini sukar untuk dipujuk dan anda boleh perhatikan caranya menagis dengan kakinya terangkat-angkat kea rah dadanya.

Mintalah nasihat daripada doctor. Bagi mengurangkan masalah kembung perut ini, anda mesti mengamalkan teknik penyusuan yang betul, kerap sendawakan bayi dan mengenalpasti makanan-makanan yang boleh menyebabkan alahan pada bayi.

Buat teknik massage / sentuhan di bahagian perut dengan menggunakan minyak bayi yang boleh digunakan. Kemungkinan bayi berasa terlalu dingin atau cara pemberian susu dengan botol, penolakakn udara bersama susu yang boleh mengundang rasa tidak selesa bayi.

Muntah / Tumpah susu ( Jeluak )

Muntah susu adalah masalah biasa yang dialami oleh kebanyakkan bayi dan adalah disebabkan oleh pelbagai factor. Bayi yang diberi minum susu yang terlalu banyak akan memuntahkan susunya semula. Faktor-faktor lain termasuklah cara penyediaan susu yang kurang tepat, saiz lubang pada putting susu tidak sesuai dan cara anda memegang botol semasa memberi susu adalah salah, di mana bayi akan cenderung untuk menyedut lebih banyak udara ketika menyusu. Maka, pastikan teknik penyusuan yang digunakan adalah betul. Kerap sendawakan bayi anda. Lambat laun bayi akan kurang memuntahkan susunya semula. Jika bayi anda menyusu dengan sempurna dan berkembang secara normal, anda tidak perlu risau mengenainya.

Namun, jika bayi anda bertukar menjadi biru semasa memuntahkan susunya dengan banyak, sukar untuk bernafas, atau nafas bunyi berdehit atau tercekik dan berat badannya tidak bertambah, maka segeralah berjumpa dengan doctor.

Kulit Kepala Berkerak

Keadaan ini berlaku apabila terdapat selaput yang tebal, berwarna kekuningan dan berkerak di atas kulit kepala bayi. Usah risau, kerana keadaan ini tidak menyakitkan bayi. Anda boleh membuangnya dengan mencuci kulit kepala bayi dengan minyak bayi atau minyak zaitun dan biarkannya selama 10-15 minit, seterusnya, basuh rambutnya dan lap kulit kepala bayi dengan lembut.

� Ruam Panas

Pada bayi yang baru lahir, akan kelihatan beberapa tompok merah pada muka , leher dan badan. Namun, anda tidak harus berasa risau kerana keadaan ini akan hilang begitu sahaja tanpa memerlukan apa-apa rawatan. Jangan sapukan bedak pada kulit bayi, kerana bedak tersebut tidak akan mengeringkannya bahkan debu bedak itu akan merangsang perpeluhan dan ruam akan menjadi bertambah teruk.

� Ruam Lampin

Kulit di sekitar bahagian ari-ari, punggung, sekitar kemaluan akan menjadi merah dan gatal-gatal disebabkan oleh kencing atau najis. Pastikan kulit bayi sentiasa bersih dan kering dengan kerap menukar lampinnya yang telah lembap dan basah. Bersihkan bahagian di sekitarnya dengan air dan gumpalan kapas terutamanya selepas dia membuang air besar. Adalah dinasihatkan agar anda menggunakan lampin yang berkualiti tinggi untuk bayi anda.

� Ruam susu

Kadangkala susu yang keluar dari mulut bayi boleh menyebabkan ruam pada bahagian tepi mulutnya, pipi dan dagu. Selepas setiap penyusuan, anda haruslah mengelap mulut dan muka bayi anda dengan kain atau gumpalan kapas yang basah

Jaundis ( sakit kuning )

Masalah ini tidak terdapat pada bayi ketika dia lahir, tetapi mula terjadi pada hari kedua atau ketiga dan menjadi semakin teruk pada akhir minggu pertama. Jaundis adalah satu keadaan di mana kulit dan mata putih bayi bertukar menjadi kuning. Warna tersebut sebenarnya terjadi apabila darah terkumpul dalam hati bayi yang belum cukup matang dan hati tersebut tidak berupaya memproses bahan kimia yang berwarna kuning yang dipanggil bilirubin dengan cukup pantas.

Anda harus berjumpa dengan doctor untuk mengetahui tahap keseriusan keadaan jaundis ini. Bayi yang mengidap jaundis yang amat teruk akan dirawat di hospit l, biasanya melalui fototerapi atau proses menukar darah. Jaundis yang tidak begitu teruk adalah tidak merbahaya, biasanya dapat dirawat di rumah dengan meletakkan bayi di tepi tingkap agar kulit bayi dapat disinari dengan cahaya matahari pagi untuk beberapa jam setiap hari.

Sebenarnya, bayi yang menyusu badan akan mneyebabkan masalah jaundis ini bertambah teruk. Bayi akan lambat sembuh dan akan mengidap jaundis untuk beberapa minggu. Namun, jika keadaan jaundis ini tidak begitu teruk, adalah selamat untuk meneruskan penyusuan susu ibu.