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
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Pediatric Nebulizers
Does your child suffer from asthma and is hesitant to use a nebulizer? We may be able to help. Puff the penguin is a child friendly nebulizer that can help. It's friendly design makes using a nebulizer much less intimidating.
When does your child need a nebulizer?
When does your child need a nebulizer?
A nebulizer changes medication from a liquid to a mist so that it can be more easily inhaled into the lungs. Nebulizers are particularly effective in delivering asthma medications to infants and small children and to anyone who has difficulty using an asthma inhaler.
It is also convenient when a large dose of an inhaled medication is needed. Nebulized therapy is often called a "breathing treatment." And a variety of medications -- both for immediate relief and maintenance of asthma symptoms -- are available for use with a nebulizer.
Monday, April 11, 2011
We Carry Maternity and Post Maternity
Purely Yours Professional Breast Pump with Carry All
Pump: Adjustable suction and cycle settings simulate babys nursing pattern; maximize milk production and personal comfort level. Pump anytime, anywhere with AC adapter or AA batteries. Stylish black tote bag carries pump and accessories; keeps mothers milk cooled and stored for 10 hours. HygieniKit allows single or dual pumping; prevents contaminants from entering milk with unique closed milk collection system. Pump may be removed from tote, or operated inside the tote bag for added privacy. PumpPump directly into bottles or freezer bags”two built-in holders accommodate either container. Contents: Purely Yours breast pump, dual HygieniKit, microfiber Carry All tote, AC power adapter, milk storage guide magnet, and Cool'N Carry insulated tote bate bag with 3 cooling elements and six 4 oz bottles with tops. 1-year warranty.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Lift Chairs: Restoring Independence for the Elderly
Age is an inevitable fact of life. We will all age, there is really no fountain of youth, and no way to keep age from finding us. Possibly the most frustrating aspect of aging is the loss of our mobility and independence. Having the ability to remain independent throughout the aging process is a very important aspect in many lives. Knowing that we can come and go as we please without help is crucial in respect to our self confidence.
A lift chair is a wonderful resource for retaining or regaining your independence. With a lift chair, you have the ability to move from a sitting to a standing position without any help from others. Many styles of lift chairs are available, as well as different aspects of reclining positions. A lift chair can help you to regain your confidence by ensuring that you will be able to go from sitting to standing, without the fear of falling.
A lift chair works by using a motorized mechanism that simply lifts your seat with the push of a button. If you normally need help standing up, a lift chair can give you that help. You simply push the button to raise the chair, and you are lifted into a complete standing position. Once you are on your feet, you can simply walk away from your chair.
Lift chairs also help with the sitting process. When you are ready to sit in your chair, you simply back up to the seat, and push the decline button. The chair will take you into a sitting position slowly, so that you do not lose your balance.
Gaining independence is a very important feeling. Knowing that you have the ability to sit and stand alone, without the help of family and friends, is a wonderful emotion. Many elderly people, as well as those who have been injured or are disabled for a number of reasons, have found their independence again with a lift chair.
With the many styles and colors available in lift chair models, it is safe to assume that you will be able to match your lift chair to your current home furnishings. There are also styles available that will take up very little space, so if you live in a small home or apartment, there is a lift chair that will fit perfectly into small living spaces.
Making the decision to purchase a lift chair seems like an overwhelming task, however, knowing how a lift chair can help to restore your ability to do things on your own is a major decision maker for many. Knowing that you will have restored your mobility, and having more independence in your daily life is the best reason to consider purchasing a lift chair. You will have the ability to move around your home as you wish, without relying on the help of others to get you on your feet or to help you sit. Regaining your independence is a wonderful feeling, and deciding to use a lift chair is the first step.
A lift chair works by using a motorized mechanism that simply lifts your seat with the push of a button. If you normally need help standing up, a lift chair can give you that help. You simply push the button to raise the chair, and you are lifted into a complete standing position. Once you are on your feet, you can simply walk away from your chair.
Lift chairs also help with the sitting process. When you are ready to sit in your chair, you simply back up to the seat, and push the decline button. The chair will take you into a sitting position slowly, so that you do not lose your balance.
Gaining independence is a very important feeling. Knowing that you have the ability to sit and stand alone, without the help of family and friends, is a wonderful emotion. Many elderly people, as well as those who have been injured or are disabled for a number of reasons, have found their independence again with a lift chair.
With the many styles and colors available in lift chair models, it is safe to assume that you will be able to match your lift chair to your current home furnishings. There are also styles available that will take up very little space, so if you live in a small home or apartment, there is a lift chair that will fit perfectly into small living spaces.
Making the decision to purchase a lift chair seems like an overwhelming task, however, knowing how a lift chair can help to restore your ability to do things on your own is a major decision maker for many. Knowing that you will have restored your mobility, and having more independence in your daily life is the best reason to consider purchasing a lift chair. You will have the ability to move around your home as you wish, without relying on the help of others to get you on your feet or to help you sit. Regaining your independence is a wonderful feeling, and deciding to use a lift chair is the first step.
For more information about the benefits if lift chairs visit www.alpinemedicalsupply.com.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Why Durable Medical Equipment?
How Durable Medical Equipment Can Assist People With Impaired Mobility
| Written by Nancy McMahon Durable medical equipment is used to provide additional support and care to patients outside of the hospital environment and is designed to support both temporary and permanent conditions. Durable medical equipment ranges from inexpensive items that can be bought from any good healthcare supplier (offline or online) such as walking sticks, basic blood pressure monitors and back supports, through to expensive specialist equipment that needs to be prescribed by a healthcare professional such as prosthetics or dialysis machines. Durable medical equipment can offer a number of practical ways to support patients that are suffering from impaired mobility, whether this is a temporary affliction due to accident or post-surgery recovery, or a permanent condition resulting from a disability or ongoing illness. Health insurance providers may be able to assist you with financing durable medical equipment and it is important that you check your policy carefully to see what you are entitled too. Help for getting aroundWhen you have mobility impairments even the simple process of getting around in your own home can become difficult and you may need round the clock assistance from a care giver. There are a number of durable medical equipment products that can help you to move much more easily around your home, and these can give you a measure of independence and make normal, everyday tasks such as feeding your pets or going to the bathroom on your own much easier. Grab rails and other lifting aids positioned at key areas around the home are ideal for those patients that are unsteady on their feet, and can assist people with difficulties rising from a sitting or prone position to get more easily out of bed and up from chairs. Motorized lifting equipment can also be useful for patients with severe mobility issues, and can assist care givers in lifting the patient in and out of bed, and can also be used to modify bathrooms so that washing and using the toilet is easier. Wheelchairs and walkers are other key items of durable medical equipment that can assist patients to become more mobile and independent, and there are a number of different designs available to suit a whole range of disabilities and physical impairments. There are also some specialist types of equipment available for helping mobility impaired patients to travel outside of the home more independently such as mobility scooters and also adapted bikes, which are basically three wheeled pushbikes (that can be foot or hand driven), which are ideal for helping to encourage young children with physical impairments to become more mobile. Help around the homeMobility impairments can make even simple, everyday tasks much more difficult and time consuming, but there are a many different types of durable medical equipment available that can assist with these tasks and make day-to-day life much easier such as:
Where to get durable medical equipmentSpecialist durable medical equipment such as prosthetics will have to be provided by your local hospital or healthcare provider, and they will also service these items for you and provide any replacements you need. Other types of durable medical equipment such as walkers, crutches and wheelchairs can be sourced from any good medical suppliers and there are many different stores both online and offline stocking these kinds of products. Durable medical equipment can provide ongoing support for patients suffering from illnesses, disabilities or injuries that restrict their mobility and normal daily functions, and come in a diverse range of products from self help tools such as crutches, walkers and grab rails through to complex and expensive devices such as prosthetics and respiratory apparatus. The range of durable medical equipment is diverse and costs can vary significantly depending on the individual person’s needs and the duration of their illness, but there is no doubt that durable medical equipment can significantly improve the lives of many patients and allow them to live at home with the minimum reliance of carers and family members.
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Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Lumbar Support Cushion with Massage
Lumbar Support Cushion with Massage gently supports the natural curvature of your lower back, preventing the tendency to slouch, enhancing overall posture. Vibrating, soothing massage added for extra comfort. Lightweight & Portable.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Help Prevent Spider Veins During Pregnancy with Compression Stockings
Thursday, March 17, 2011
| The Legend of St Patrick Celebrated on 17th March |
When he was 16, he was captured by pagan Irish raiders and sold into slavery to a chieftain named Meliuc in Antrim , Ireland. He spent his teen years and time alone as a shepard to tend to his master's sheep. During this time, his spirituality awakened and his belief in God became strong. He would pray many times in a day. After 6 years being in slavery, he had a dream that he would find a ship to take him to freedom. He escaped to follow his dream. He had to travel about 200 miles before he found a ship ready to set sail. He managed to return to his family and home. Although Patrick was born a British, he considered himself an Irish because it was in Ireland that he discovered God. He had another vision. This vision would take him back to Ireland to preach the Gospel later. After his escape, he visited the St. Martin's monastry at Tours. He also visited the island sanctuary of Lerins. He placed himself under the guidance of a bishop named, St. Germain (Germanus). Patrick was promoted to priesthood later. He stayed in Britain for eighteen years. During those years, he was still haunted by memories of Ireland and would often speak of his experiences in Ireland with St. Germain. The Bishop, St. Germain recommended Patrick to the pope. Patrick requested to be sent to Ireland but was denied. Palladius was chosen instead. When Palladius died, Patrick was chosen to be sent to Ireland. He was called to Rome and made a Bishop by Pope Celestine in 432 before he went on his mission to Ireland. It was during that occasion that the name "Patercius" or "Patritius" was given to him. The name comes from two Latin words, "pater civium" meaning "the father of his people". He suffered many trials as a missionary in Ireland. St. Patrick was imprisoned by the Druids but managed to escape. There are also many legends which talks about the miracles and magical fights between him and the Druids. One of which is when he was confronted by a chieftain named Dichu. Dichu drew his sword to kill Patrick but could not do so because his arm became rigid until he declared himself obedient to St. Patrick. Dichu was overwhelmed by the miracle that he made a gift of a large sabhall (barn). This was the first sanctuary dedicated by St. Patrick. Another legend St. Patrick is most known for is driving the snakes from Ireland. Some tales tell that he stood on a hill and used a wooden staff to drive the snakes into the sea and banished them forever from Ireland. Another legend says that the snake resisted. St. Patrick then tricked it into entering a small box and cast it into the sea. It is true that Ireland has no snakes. However, he managed to win favor with the local kings later. He spent the next 28 years traveling across the countryside to spread the word of God. He could do this easily as he was fluent with the Celtic language. He succeeded in converting almost the entire population of the island. Legend has it that St. Patrick would use the shamrock to explain the Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The word "shamrock" comes from the Gaelic word "seamrog" (In irish, it means "summer plant") meaning "trefoil" (three leafed) or "little clover". In Arabia, it is called shamrakh. It was a sacred emblem in Iran and to the Persian triads. It is also a sacred plant among the Druids. Shamrock is the national flower of Ireland. Many Irish people wear a shamrock on St. Patrick's Day. It is not the Irish national emblem. The harp has that honor. This explains the color green and shamrocks on St. Patrick's Day. Today, if you do not wear green on St. Patrick's Day, you will get pinched !! St. Patrick died at Saul, Downpatrick, Ireland, on the 17 March, 461 A.D at the age of 76. He is believed to be buried in Downpatrick, County Down. This is why we celebrate St. Patrick's Day on the seventeenth of March. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. The first St. Patrick's Day celebration in the United States was held in Boston in 1737. The largest St. Patrick's Day parade is in New York City. |
Patrick was born in Britain in the year 387. His real name is Maewyn Succat. The name St. Patrick was given to him later in life by Pope Celestine. His parents, Calphurnius and Conchessa belonged to a high ranking Roman family. St. Patrick recorded most of the history of his life and his spiritual writings in the "Confessio" (Confession). St. Patrick also wrote letters to Coroticus. In this letter, he criticized a raid on Ireland conducted by Coroticus, a British chieftain. Several of Patrick's converts were killed during the raid. The letter also shows St.Patrick's resentment of the scornful attitude of British clergymen and nobility toward the Irish.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
The More Rapid Their Convalescence
March 16
“The sooner patients can be removed from the depressing influence of general hospital life the more rapid their convalescence.”-Dr. Charlie Mayo, Mayo Clinic
Benefits of Home Care for Elderly
There are many benefits of having a loved one cared for in her own home instead of in a nursing care facility or group home. Most elderly are cared for at home by a primary caregiver such as a spouse, child or friend in combination with the assistance of a home care agency. Home care agencies can provide a wealth of services for older adults. Going through a licensed home care agency will assure that individuals are screened and qualified to enter the home and provide direct care.
There are many benefits of having a loved one cared for in her own home instead of in a nursing care facility or group home. Most elderly are cared for at home by a primary caregiver such as a spouse, child or friend in combination with the assistance of a home care agency. Home care agencies can provide a wealth of services for older adults. Going through a licensed home care agency will assure that individuals are screened and qualified to enter the home and provide direct care.
Convenience
One of the main reasons that many people seek out home care for their elderly loved ones or themselves is for convenience. Having a medical care team come out and care for the patient means the patient doesn't have to leave the home as frequently. This can be especially beneficial to homebound patients who may be wheelchair or walker bound, or unable to move at all. Having a home care staff visit is also a cost-saving alternative to placing the patient into a medical care facility---which can cost several thousands of dollars each month.
Personal Care
For the homebound elder, having proper hygienic care is important. It may have become harder to shower or bathe as the patient has gotten older. The home health aide can visit several times a week to make sure the patient is showered, groomed and dressed. Qualified certified aids may assist with dressing changes or emptying catheter bags. Registered wound care nurses may come out and perform wound and skin care.
Health Care
Health care is an added benefit to the elderly person receiving home care services. Qualified and licensed nurses will visit as needed to care for the patient's medical needs. These nurses work under the direct supervision of a medical director or primary physician to provide proper care. Some of their services may include taking vitals, inserting catheters, drawing blood, applying pain patches, administering medication and assessing overall patient health.
Respite Care
Many home care agencies both public and private generally offer respite care to their patients. Respite care is where a volunteer, nurse or home health aide sits with the patient while the primary caregiver is away or seeks rest or respite. Respite care can involve monitoring the patient, spending time with the patient or even spending the night with the patient so they are not left alone.
Housekeeping
Housekeeping is an important benefit to utilizing home care services. A housekeeper is either hired directly by the elderly person or services are provided by a home health care agency. Some of these services may include making the bed, laundry, wiping down furniture, dusting, vacuuming and making sure the entry ways and thresholds are clear and safe for the patient to pass through. Some housekeepers may run errands or occasionally do outside yard work and repairs for the patient.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Product Spotlight: Therabath Professional Paraffin Bath
Product Spotlight: Therabath Professional Paraffin Bath
How Does Paraffin Wax Heat Therapy Work?
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Paraffin wax has a very high heat capacity, meaning it is able to absorb and retain a great amount of heat. A paraffin wax spa takes advantage of paraffin's heat-retaining capacity in a simple process called heat transfer. In technical terms, heat is transferred to the core of the affected area as paraffin goes through a phase change. As it melts, the paraffin becomes a liquid and is able to retain more heat. Then, when a hand, foot, or other area is dipped into the heated bath, the phase of the paraffin that surrounds the dipped area quickly changes into a solid. The heat that is given off is called the heat of fusion.
More simply, the heat that goes into melting the paraffin comes out when it solidifies into a comforting paraffin coating, thus transferring the heat into the affected limb. Another way to look at it is the paraffin is the medium that transfers heat from the Therabath to the painful area.
At the same time, the heat from the paraffin opens pores and increases circulation in the skin. This is why paraffin is so beneficial to skin, leaving skin softened and more radiant. See more information on paraffin treatment hygiene.
Can moist heat therapy help my pain and stiffness? How about my dry weary skin?
Paraffin therapy is one of the most effective methods of applying deep heat to relieve pain and stiffness. The warm paraffin also moisturizes for healthier looking, softer skin.
Therabath warm paraffin wax treatments are fast-acting, drug-free, and versatile, providing heat therapy for many different applications from arthritis joint pain relief to salon hand, foot, and facial services.
Therabath paraffin baths can be used in the home, office, hospital, medical spas, or clinic ...
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- to soothe chronic arthritis joint pain
- to relax stiff muscles
- in therapeutic massage for clients and for practioners' self-care
- prior to therapeutic exercise
- during physical and occupational therapy
- to increase range of motion
- to relieve dryness from repeated hand-washing
- for tired, overworked hands
- for very dry skin
- for salon manicures and pedicures
- for paraffin facials
- in spas
- to warm cold hands, especially in winter
- and more!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Senior Citizens' Resources
Senior Citizens' Resources
Find government resources for seniors on money, housing, health, consumer protection, and more.
- Caregivers' Resources
Help providing care, benefits, long-distance caregiving, legal matters, support for caregivers... - Consumer Protection for Seniors
Consumer fraud, elder rights, advocates for nursing home residents... - Education, Jobs, and Volunteerism for Seniors
Adult education, AARP working options, Senior Corps... - End-of-Life Issues
Advance directives, estate planning, hospice... - Federal and State Agencies for Seniors
Administration on Aging, Social Security Administration, Veterans' Health Administration... - Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Benefits and assistance, health and safety, state resources... - Health for Seniors
Disease, health care facilities, Medicare, nutrition... - Housing for Seniors
Reverse mortgages, in-home help, nursing home comparison, and more... - Laws and Regulations Concerning Seniors
Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Medicare Modernization Act, Social Security Act... - Money and Taxes for Seniors
Investing, tax counseling, estate planning... - Retirement
Pension plans, benefits calculator, retirement ages... - Travel and Recreation for Seniors
Amtrak senior discount, older drivers, travel tips...
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings and socks are specialised hosiery items designed to increase blood circulation. Their main theraputic purpose is to provide graduated pressure on the lower leg and foot to alleviate circulatory problems such as edema, phlebitis and thrombosis. Unlike traditional dress or athletic stockings and socks, compression stockings use stronger elastics to create significant pressure on the legs, ankles and feet. Compression stockings are tightest at the ankles, gradually becoming less constrictive towards the knees and thighs. By compressing the surface veins, arteries and muscles, the circulating blood is forced through narrower circulatory channels. As a result, the arterial pressure is increased which causes more blood to return to the heart and less blood to pool in the feet. Doctors will typically recommend these stockings for those who are prone to getting blood clots, edema, and blood pooling in the legs and feet from prolonged periods of sitting or inactivity. They are worn by those who are ambulatory; however, in some cases, they are worn by diabetics whose legs are prone to excessive swelling.Friday, March 4, 2011
Bath Safety
Did you know that approximately 40% of falls within the home happen in the bathroom? A great number of these falls can be prevented with a few simple safety items, available at a great price for you at AlpineMedicalSupply.com.
Click here to see an array of Bath Safety items.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Accu-Check Glucometer Review
We bought Accu - Chek Advantage blood glucose meter a few weeks ago. It was to monitor the blood glucose frequently at home.
Machine: The machine is handy with large display and with facility to store multiple readings in memory.The readings are in mmol/L and not in mg/dl. This machine comes with few needles and pen type needle to collect blood by finger pricking or from ear lobes.
Pen type needle: The needles are really pen free. One can adjust the needle depending on type of the skin whether it is soft or semisoft.
Really easy to finger prick and simple to use.
Reading: The readings on this machine seems reliable and accurate. It was very close in readings shown in the nearby clinic. In terms of accuracy, it seems highly reliable. There is a small chart that shows corresponding reading in mg/dl.
Cost: This brand was the costliest in the hospital pharmacy clinic compared to 2 other brands. Since our MIL has the same brand of glucometer with no complaints for few years, we thought of going for this brand.
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