Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Monday, June 20, 2011
Best Ways to Take a Temperature
The best way to take a temperature depends a lot on the patient. Parents who have tried taking temperatures in young, wiggly children will tell you the best way is the fastest. Of course, getting the most accurate measurement is also important. Make sure a thermometer is part of your home medical supplies.
Many doctors recommend taking a rectal temperature in children under 3 years old. This temperature reading will be the most accurate since it is the most internal. This method requires 2 to 3 minutes using a mercury thermometer and holding the thermometer carefully in place with the child lying across your lap.Taking an oral temperature works well with older, more cooperative children and adults. The patient needs to be able to keep his mouth closed for 2 to 3 minutes while the temperature is being taken - this is hard to do with a cold. No cold or hot liquids should be consumed for at least 15 to 20 minutes before the temperature is taken, and either a mercury or digital thermometer can be used.
A faster way of measuring temperature is using a Tympanic thermometer for just a few seconds. This thermometer is more expensive, and must be inserted just right into the ear canal for an accurate reading. A build up of earwax will also give a false reading.
An underarm reading is the least accurate and takes the longest. If your child refuses to let you take his temperature anywhere else, you can put a thermometer under his arm for 4 to 5 minutes while holding the arm tight against his side. Some times this is the least traumatic way to take a fussy child’s temperature.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Why Monitor My Blood Pressure?
Every time you step into a doctor’s office they measure your weight and take your blood pressure. Why is it so important to check your blood pressure regularly anyway? Should a blood pressure machine be part of my home medical supplies?Your blood pressure is the force of the blood against the walls of your arteries. If you have Hypertension, it means you have high blood pressure. Hypotension means you have low blood pressure.
When your blood pressure is taken, the highest pressure recorded is the systolic pressure. The diastolic pressure is the lowest. Your blood pressure measurement is given with the systolic, or highest number written over the lowest or diastolic number.
Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. If your numbers are between 120/80 and 140/90 you are “prehypertension” and are at risk for high blood pressure. For prehypertension or hypertension you will need to monitor your blood pressure more frequently as directed by your doctor.
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is when your systolic pressure is below 90. This can be a sign of shock and can be life threatening. If you feel dizzy or faint, contact your doctor immediately.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Safety Tips for Power Wheelchairs
Safety Tips for Power Wheelchairs
For those with difficulty getting around, a power wheelchair can be their most important piece of medical eqpt. For a smooth transition into using a power wheelchair, it’s good to familiarize yourself with a few basic safety precautions. You should start by familiarizing yourself with your new chair and all the features it has to offer.
One of the best ways to start is by reading your owner’s manual. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the safe operation of your new chair. Also learn how to adjust it to make it comfortable and fit your needs the best.
Get into the habit of always turning off the power control when the chair is not in use. The power should also be off when you are transferring in and out of the chair. The power should also be off when re-charging the battery.
If your power chair comes with a seat belt, always use it. The seat belt will prevent you from accidentally falling off the seat. Keep the battery fully charged so the chair is always ready to use. You may want to charge it every night.
After learning to maneuver your chair around inside your home, you can have greater mobility by using it outdoors as well. Extra precautions need to be taken to avoid falls, especially if there are any uneven places nearby. Avoid heavy traffic areas and make sure others can see you by using a flag. Keep your chair in good condition by having repairs performed promptly.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Product Spotlight
Adjustable Composite Bath and Shower Seat with back
This contemporary-designed bath and shower seat is equipped with the patented easy-to-use Exact Level™ system. It has large, easy-to-grip handles and molded-in storage areas for hand-held shower spray. Ideal for people requiring a larger seating area. The seat is available with or without a back and has "S" shaped drainage holes to eliminate gray water pooling.
Other Features & Benefits
Seat adjustment 18 1/2" to 23 1/2" Weight capacity is 300 lbs.
| Item Number: | B656-00 |
| Specifications: | 25 1/4"w x 20"d x 31"h |
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)