Human suffering is all around us and people seem to be suffering more every day. In my childhood memories I seemingly cannot recall specifics about suffering, was it because as child I could not recognize suffering, was I simply sheltered from the suffering around me—or did we live in a happier time. Suffering goes back to biblical times so we know suffering has always been part of life. Without sorrow could there be happiness—would we know the joy of laughter?
Suffering is all around us every day and it knows no boundaries of age, wealth or health. For the teenager who suffers from acne or the disappointment of being dumped before the prom, their pain is real and just as devastating. The person who loses a job and suddenly faces unemployment in a down economy, or a spouse files for divorce—what if all this happens on the same day. None of the above illustrates or begins to describe the suffering associated with the loss of a child or loved one, a devastating illness, addiction, hunger, or disaster. We all suffer—some in silence, some unheard, and some without compassion nonetheless, we all will experience the pain of suffering.
Our society over time has improved and refined the art of inflicting suffering on one another as if there is a reward for it. We disregard or minimize the pain felt by the teenager who was dumped before the prom by saying “it is just a date,” or the loss of pet by saying “it is just a dog.” Our lives are full of “could have—would haves”, and “only ifs,” as we get caught up in providing for our families from day to day, week to week, month to month, as our own suffering fades into the obscurity of everyday lives. The mundane causes the suffering of others to fade into acceptance or worse we blame those who suffer.
We all have stories of a doctor or nurse who have great bedside manners, and how these talented individuals impact the care and perception of a person’s ailment. When your healthcare provider is embodied with kindness, grace, love, and forgiveness, you find gentleness with a deeper healing as you realize they stand with you and help carry the burden. You still have the same illness, the same disease, the same cares—but the difference is the grace of caring improves the science of medicine.
You don’t have to be a doctor or nurse—have the right words or phrases; the giving of one’s time enhances healing by standing with those who suffer. I am convinced as we share the struggles of others the weight of our own cares are lightened. Together by encouraging, love, acceptance, and forgiveness, we reassure and support those who suffer while we inflict love and healing on those we touch.
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Halloween’s Lucky 13 to Safety
The thought of Halloween fills my head with mysterious haint tales and russet leaves blowing across a path, with the eerie sights of carved pumpkins glowing in a mist of flickering light. Halloween is filled with ghosts and goblins running amuck in search of tricks and treats. The fall air fills with sounds of mischievous giggles and laughter as they mix with the smell of scorching pumpkins on a cool, crisp night. Ooh, the magic of Halloween! Suddenly, giggles and laughter cease when a child lies motionless on the cold, dark pavement—the result of an accident caused by a Halloween distraction. Had I only changed one thing—giggles and laughter would still fill the night.
Halloween safety is a must and we all play an important role in keeping ghosts and goblins safe. Use the Halloween Lucky 13 steps to a safer and happier Halloween:
1). Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, blunt, and flexible to prevent injury.
2). Costumes should be well fitted to avoid trips and falls. Masks should not block vision or impair hearing. Consider a cosmetic mask instead of a loose-fitting mask that could restrict breathing or vision. Always test make-up in a small area first for sensitivity and irritation. Remove all make-up before bedtime to prevent skin and eye irritations.
3). Make sure costumes are made of flame-resistant material and stay clear of lit candles and bulbs. Review the “Stop-Drop-Roll” technique in case clothes catch on fire.
4). Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see trick-or-treaters.
5). Carry a flashlight to aid your vision; the light will also help others to see you.
6). Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in small groups or with a trusted adult.
7). Walk on sidewalks or the far edge of the road, facing traffic.
8). Use designated crosswalks and look both ways before crossing. Avoid running out from between parked cars and driveways.
9). WALK—don’t run—from house to house; avoid running across lawns where ornaments or furniture may present unforeseen dangers.
10). Choose safe houses for trick-or-treating; children should not enter any home or apartment unless they are accompanied by a trusted adult.
11). Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats unless you know the cook well.
12). Warn children not to eat treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering and/or choking hazards. Limit the amount of treats that are eaten.
13). When possible, wear brightly colored costumes to increase visibility.
The 13 steps to a safer Halloween aren’t just for children. Adults face the same visibility hazards as children; therefore, as you head out to Halloween parties to enjoy the festivities, be sure to apply the same rules. Drivers, please slow down and look out for ghosts and goblins of all ages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that children, ages 5 to 14, are four times more likely to sustain pedestrian injuries on Halloween between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. than on any other night of the year.
Keep your eyes on the path ahead and your ears tuned to the giggles and laughter as you watch and listen to the traditions of Halloween. Enjoy the sights and smells of carved pumpkins while ghosts and goblins trick-or-treat. As quickly as a candle flickers in the night, Halloween’s distractions could end a life.
Because of the importance of this topic and an overwhelming positive response, this column is being repeated.
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Halloween safety is a must and we all play an important role in keeping ghosts and goblins safe. Use the Halloween Lucky 13 steps to a safer and happier Halloween:
1). Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, blunt, and flexible to prevent injury.
2). Costumes should be well fitted to avoid trips and falls. Masks should not block vision or impair hearing. Consider a cosmetic mask instead of a loose-fitting mask that could restrict breathing or vision. Always test make-up in a small area first for sensitivity and irritation. Remove all make-up before bedtime to prevent skin and eye irritations.
3). Make sure costumes are made of flame-resistant material and stay clear of lit candles and bulbs. Review the “Stop-Drop-Roll” technique in case clothes catch on fire.
4). Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see trick-or-treaters.
5). Carry a flashlight to aid your vision; the light will also help others to see you.
6). Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in small groups or with a trusted adult.
7). Walk on sidewalks or the far edge of the road, facing traffic.
8). Use designated crosswalks and look both ways before crossing. Avoid running out from between parked cars and driveways.
9). WALK—don’t run—from house to house; avoid running across lawns where ornaments or furniture may present unforeseen dangers.
10). Choose safe houses for trick-or-treating; children should not enter any home or apartment unless they are accompanied by a trusted adult.
11). Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats unless you know the cook well.
12). Warn children not to eat treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering and/or choking hazards. Limit the amount of treats that are eaten.
13). When possible, wear brightly colored costumes to increase visibility.
The 13 steps to a safer Halloween aren’t just for children. Adults face the same visibility hazards as children; therefore, as you head out to Halloween parties to enjoy the festivities, be sure to apply the same rules. Drivers, please slow down and look out for ghosts and goblins of all ages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that children, ages 5 to 14, are four times more likely to sustain pedestrian injuries on Halloween between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. than on any other night of the year.
Keep your eyes on the path ahead and your ears tuned to the giggles and laughter as you watch and listen to the traditions of Halloween. Enjoy the sights and smells of carved pumpkins while ghosts and goblins trick-or-treat. As quickly as a candle flickers in the night, Halloween’s distractions could end a life.
Because of the importance of this topic and an overwhelming positive response, this column is being repeated.
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
All Lacquered Up
I often reminisce of the many rich lessons my grandmother taught me growing up and reflecting them in my writings. Even on her deathbed those in her midst could not help but join in the laughter and lighthearted conversations she was known for. The conversations I remember most during this time were the jovial laughs and references to her well-manicured hands and feet. See, the day before she died she had had her weekly manicure and pedicure but, this time she had added a rhinestone to the already bright and shiny ruby red fingernail polish. Her toes sparkled almost as bright as her personality with laughter and wit at every turn. With gel polish all the rage, I have to wonder what humor my grandmother would find today about nail polish lasting two to three weeks.
The two-week manicure seems all the rage among women I know—and why not, celebrities like Penelope Cruz and Jessica Alba are lining up for their appointments. Whether you like neon yellow, hot pink, metallic silver, or classic red, everyone seems to love the lasting power of the gel manicure. The benefits of this chip resistant polish are it is quick drying, long lasting and obviously a time saver. However, these benefits may come with a higher price to pay besides the increased dollars to upgrade the polish.
The lights used to cure the polish are just as damaging as the UV light we are trying to avoid. These lights are like tiny tanning beds that can cause discoloration, spots, wrinkles, thin skin, and skin cancer. Studies are already showing a correlation between an increase in skin cancer and the increase in popularity of these types of manicures. These UV lights may accelerate the drying time of your nails, but they also speed up the signs of aging on your hands.
I am not advocating avoiding gel polishes or not indulging yourself in a good manicure. I am advocating going prepared to your next salon appointment with the tools and knowledge to protect your health and keeping your hands as youthful looking as possible. I recommend slathering on a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before your hands go under the UV lights. Using a sunscreen that incorporates anti-aging benefits will not only protect your skin, but will also improve their appearance. Your nails need a breather from polish to stay healthy and strong so give them a break now and again.
So before you get your nails all lacquered up, remember there is more to beautiful hands than just the nails. Do yourself a favor and treat your hands to a truly luxurious spa treatment by applying sunscreen with anti-aging properties. Not only will your hands be healthier and younger looking longer—you will also be reducing your risk of skin cancer. Indulge yourself with beautiful nails—so doll them up bright and enjoy your life!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please e-mail me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
The two-week manicure seems all the rage among women I know—and why not, celebrities like Penelope Cruz and Jessica Alba are lining up for their appointments. Whether you like neon yellow, hot pink, metallic silver, or classic red, everyone seems to love the lasting power of the gel manicure. The benefits of this chip resistant polish are it is quick drying, long lasting and obviously a time saver. However, these benefits may come with a higher price to pay besides the increased dollars to upgrade the polish.
The lights used to cure the polish are just as damaging as the UV light we are trying to avoid. These lights are like tiny tanning beds that can cause discoloration, spots, wrinkles, thin skin, and skin cancer. Studies are already showing a correlation between an increase in skin cancer and the increase in popularity of these types of manicures. These UV lights may accelerate the drying time of your nails, but they also speed up the signs of aging on your hands.
I am not advocating avoiding gel polishes or not indulging yourself in a good manicure. I am advocating going prepared to your next salon appointment with the tools and knowledge to protect your health and keeping your hands as youthful looking as possible. I recommend slathering on a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before your hands go under the UV lights. Using a sunscreen that incorporates anti-aging benefits will not only protect your skin, but will also improve their appearance. Your nails need a breather from polish to stay healthy and strong so give them a break now and again.
So before you get your nails all lacquered up, remember there is more to beautiful hands than just the nails. Do yourself a favor and treat your hands to a truly luxurious spa treatment by applying sunscreen with anti-aging properties. Not only will your hands be healthier and younger looking longer—you will also be reducing your risk of skin cancer. Indulge yourself with beautiful nails—so doll them up bright and enjoy your life!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please e-mail me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Healthy Summer Reading
With summer well underway, it’s a good time to get a head start on reading ideas. In 2011, unemployment continued to rise, causing economic uncertainty and the loss of health benefits for many Americans. Every year Library Journal (LJ) publishes a list of the best consumer health books. Highlights from the 2011 list are as follows:
Barken, Frederick M., M.D. Out of Practice: Fighting for Primary Care Medicine in America. Cornell Univ. ISBN 9780801449765. Barken, a retired primary-care physician and health policy instructor at Ithaca College, fairly examines and critiques the current health-care model. The problem: insurance companies and government administrators make decisions.
Bohn, Yvonne, M.D., & others. The Mommy Docs’ Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy and Birth. Da Capo Lifelong. ISBN 9780738214603. Three female obstetricians who are mothers themselves tell women what they need to know about preparing for pregnancy, prenatal care, and birth. Including information about infertility, nutrition, exercise, high-risk pregnancy, and premature birth.
Delgado, Jane L. The Buena Salud Guide for a Healthy Heart. Newmarket. ISBN 9781557049438. Latina clinical psychologist and health educator Delgado covers heart disease among Hispanics, providing simple explanations in a conversational tone. She also covers healthy lifestyles, diagnostic tests, and procedures. With websites for further information.
Groopman, Jerome, M.D., & Pamela Hartzband, M.D. Your Medical Mind: How To Decide What Is Right for You. Penguin Pr: Penguin Group (USA). ISBN 9781594203114. Groopman, a Harvard Medical School oncologist, and endocrinologist Hartzband take a fascinating look at how people make decisions about health and medical care, taking into account the influence of family history, culture, and profession.
Jones, Heather K. Good Housekeeping Drop 5 Lbs: The Small Changes, Big Results Diet. Hearst: Sterling. ISBN 9781588167866. Registered dietician Jones offers simple weight-loss tactics that do not require major sacrifice and drastic lifestyle changes. She tells readers how to shop, eat, exercise, and deal with holiday parties and restaurant meals.
Miller, Sloane. Allergic Girl: Adventures in Living Well with Food Allergies. Wiley. ISBN 9780470630006. A social worker with multiple food allergies writes an empathetic, empowering guide to help people live well and enjoy life while maintaining a safe environment. She covers finding an allergist, creating safe environments, and building positive relationships.
Support your local library!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Barken, Frederick M., M.D. Out of Practice: Fighting for Primary Care Medicine in America. Cornell Univ. ISBN 9780801449765. Barken, a retired primary-care physician and health policy instructor at Ithaca College, fairly examines and critiques the current health-care model. The problem: insurance companies and government administrators make decisions.
Bohn, Yvonne, M.D., & others. The Mommy Docs’ Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy and Birth. Da Capo Lifelong. ISBN 9780738214603. Three female obstetricians who are mothers themselves tell women what they need to know about preparing for pregnancy, prenatal care, and birth. Including information about infertility, nutrition, exercise, high-risk pregnancy, and premature birth.
Delgado, Jane L. The Buena Salud Guide for a Healthy Heart. Newmarket. ISBN 9781557049438. Latina clinical psychologist and health educator Delgado covers heart disease among Hispanics, providing simple explanations in a conversational tone. She also covers healthy lifestyles, diagnostic tests, and procedures. With websites for further information.
Groopman, Jerome, M.D., & Pamela Hartzband, M.D. Your Medical Mind: How To Decide What Is Right for You. Penguin Pr: Penguin Group (USA). ISBN 9781594203114. Groopman, a Harvard Medical School oncologist, and endocrinologist Hartzband take a fascinating look at how people make decisions about health and medical care, taking into account the influence of family history, culture, and profession.
Jones, Heather K. Good Housekeeping Drop 5 Lbs: The Small Changes, Big Results Diet. Hearst: Sterling. ISBN 9781588167866. Registered dietician Jones offers simple weight-loss tactics that do not require major sacrifice and drastic lifestyle changes. She tells readers how to shop, eat, exercise, and deal with holiday parties and restaurant meals.
Miller, Sloane. Allergic Girl: Adventures in Living Well with Food Allergies. Wiley. ISBN 9780470630006. A social worker with multiple food allergies writes an empathetic, empowering guide to help people live well and enjoy life while maintaining a safe environment. She covers finding an allergist, creating safe environments, and building positive relationships.
Support your local library!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
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