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
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Rosacea and a Princess
A few weeks ago, a nurse at work was experiencing a flare-up of rosacea. For the first time I saw firsthand not only the physical pain—but the mental anguish and frustration she was experiencing from the lack of an effective and coherent plan of care to treat this common skin disease. My friend had been treated by several dermatologists using several treatment options all with varied success. She tried prescription medications, and changes in diet both with dismal results.
Rosacea is a common skin disease often beginning with a tendency to blush or flush more easily than others. Rosacea can cause more than redness and because of the number of signs and symptoms of rosacea they have broken it into four subtypes.
1.) Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: Redness, flushing, and visible broken blood vessels (spider veins), swollen skin, skin may be very sensitive and may sting and burn, dry skin with roughness or scaling
2.) Papulopustular rosacea: Redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts usually where the skin is very red and they tend to come and go, oily skin, spider veins, skin may be very sensitive and may sting and burn, raised patches of skin called plaques
3.) Phymatous rosacea: Skin thickening with a bumpy texture especially common on the nose but can also thicken on the forehead, ears, cheeks, and chin, pores look large, and oily skin
4.) Ocular rosacea: Irritated and red eyes often looking watery or bloodshot, gritty feeling like sand in the eyes, eyes burn and sting with itching and dryness, can be sensitive to light, blurry vision, eyelids can become swollen and may look like they have a sty
Beyond the physical symptoms there are mental aspects of the disease also affecting a person’s quality of life. In a survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society, 41% said their rosacea caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Many worry their rosacea will get worse and about possible side effects of the medicine they use to treat the disease. Obviously, the feelings of frustration and embarrassment can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety and depression, which can lead to missed days of work. In the same survey nearly 30% said rosacea had caused them to miss work.
However, there are treatment options and those who seek treatment are more likely to experience an improved quality of life than those who don’t. Treatment includes: Medicine applied to the rosacea, sunscreen (applied daily may help prevent flare-ups), an emollient to help repair the skin, lasers and other light treatments, and antibiotics (topical or oral). The most important thing to remember you have treatment options and seeking treatment will empower you with knowledge and this power alone will improve your self-esteem and your life.
Rosacea and a princess, if you are suffering with rosacea you are not alone as Diana, Princess of Wales also suffered with the disease. Prince Charles suffers and Princess Diana suffered with rosacea as well as their son Prince Harry. Highlighting the risk factor of a family history and having light-colored skin. Remember to reduce your risk by not smoking, applying sunscreen daily, keeping stress in balance, and avoiding alcohol. And if you suffer with rosacea, remember—you are in the company of a princess.
Howard S. Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Rosacea is a common skin disease often beginning with a tendency to blush or flush more easily than others. Rosacea can cause more than redness and because of the number of signs and symptoms of rosacea they have broken it into four subtypes.
1.) Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: Redness, flushing, and visible broken blood vessels (spider veins), swollen skin, skin may be very sensitive and may sting and burn, dry skin with roughness or scaling
2.) Papulopustular rosacea: Redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts usually where the skin is very red and they tend to come and go, oily skin, spider veins, skin may be very sensitive and may sting and burn, raised patches of skin called plaques
3.) Phymatous rosacea: Skin thickening with a bumpy texture especially common on the nose but can also thicken on the forehead, ears, cheeks, and chin, pores look large, and oily skin
4.) Ocular rosacea: Irritated and red eyes often looking watery or bloodshot, gritty feeling like sand in the eyes, eyes burn and sting with itching and dryness, can be sensitive to light, blurry vision, eyelids can become swollen and may look like they have a sty
Beyond the physical symptoms there are mental aspects of the disease also affecting a person’s quality of life. In a survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society, 41% said their rosacea caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Many worry their rosacea will get worse and about possible side effects of the medicine they use to treat the disease. Obviously, the feelings of frustration and embarrassment can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety and depression, which can lead to missed days of work. In the same survey nearly 30% said rosacea had caused them to miss work.
However, there are treatment options and those who seek treatment are more likely to experience an improved quality of life than those who don’t. Treatment includes: Medicine applied to the rosacea, sunscreen (applied daily may help prevent flare-ups), an emollient to help repair the skin, lasers and other light treatments, and antibiotics (topical or oral). The most important thing to remember you have treatment options and seeking treatment will empower you with knowledge and this power alone will improve your self-esteem and your life.
Rosacea and a princess, if you are suffering with rosacea you are not alone as Diana, Princess of Wales also suffered with the disease. Prince Charles suffers and Princess Diana suffered with rosacea as well as their son Prince Harry. Highlighting the risk factor of a family history and having light-colored skin. Remember to reduce your risk by not smoking, applying sunscreen daily, keeping stress in balance, and avoiding alcohol. And if you suffer with rosacea, remember—you are in the company of a princess.
Howard S. Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Thursday, April 26, 2012
So You Want A Tattoo?
It seems tattoos are graduating from the stereotype of being only for carnival workers, sailors, and bikers. Tattoos are and have been moving into the mainstream of our society. According to a USA Today survey 24% of people 18 to 50 years old sport at least one tattoo. The art of tattooing dates back to 3300 B. C., and even has biblical mention. No matter your view on the art of tattooing—it is shared by Kings and commoners, prisoners, sailors, and sweethearts.
With the number of tattoo parlors popping up all around, you could be the proud owner of a new tattoo in just a matter of a few hours. I think it is wise to mention that tattoos are much easier to get—than to get rid of. So, some food for thought on choosing the right tattoo artist, the procedure, safety, and options for when your tattoo falls short of your expectations.
Tattoo artist typically use a machine that acts similar to a sewing machine by repeatedly puncturing the skin and injecting small droplets of ink. The process is done without anesthetics and can cause pain ranging from slight to significant discomfort. Anytime the skin is pierced it can result in a small amount of bleeding; and of course when our skin is breached there is a risk of infection.
So, have you decided to get a tattoo and do you know your risk? It is important to know the risk and the importance of reporting any signs of complications to your healthcare provider immediately should they occur. Tattoo dyes can cause allergic reactions in some people. The most common dye colors causing reactions such as an itchy rash are green, red, yellow, and blue; these symptoms may last a few days or in some cases have occurred years later. Skin infections: usually associated with redness, swelling, pain, and may have a pus-like, foul smelling discharge. Another skin problem called granuloma (bumps) can develop around the tattoo. More serious complications such as bloodborne disease including tetanus, hepatitis B and hepatitis C; can be minimized by choosing a reputable artist who insist on clean conditions and makes your health paramount.
As always I recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before making decisions that could affect your health. Then ask yourself if you are truly ready to invest in permanent body art. Before the ink starts flowing is the time to remove all doubt and think through your decision. I think we all would agree it usually is a bad idea to allow yourself to be pressured into any decision; much less the decision to get a tattoo. Make sure when deciding on the art of choice you are free of the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If after consultation and deep contemplation you have decided to get a tattoo then here are some tips on choosing the right artist. Check with the local health department on licensing and regulation requirements and has the artist of operator been cited for any infringements. Make sure the artist wash their hands and wear clean gloves. Ask them to remove any needles and tubes from their sealed packaging in your presence. Any trays, pigments, or containers should be unused. Demand the artist use only heat sterilized (autoclave) equipment including instruments and supplies and tables, drawer handles and sinks should be disinfected with bleach or a commercial disinfectant. If all of these meet your inspection ask to use the restroom and if it is not equally clean—run.
After your tattoo is complete make sure you leave with care instructions. Typically, I would recommend applying an antibiotic ointment to the tattooed skin until healing is complete. Apply mild moisturizer several times a day, avoid sun exposure for a few weeks, and stay out of swimming pools, hot tubs, rivers and lakes. Shower no baths if the tattoo would be submerged in bath water, and remember to report any signs and symptoms of infection to your healthcare provider.
Kings, commoners or sweethearts, I think the most beautiful biblical passage on the subject is found in Isaiah 49:15b-16a: "I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands."
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
With the number of tattoo parlors popping up all around, you could be the proud owner of a new tattoo in just a matter of a few hours. I think it is wise to mention that tattoos are much easier to get—than to get rid of. So, some food for thought on choosing the right tattoo artist, the procedure, safety, and options for when your tattoo falls short of your expectations.
Tattoo artist typically use a machine that acts similar to a sewing machine by repeatedly puncturing the skin and injecting small droplets of ink. The process is done without anesthetics and can cause pain ranging from slight to significant discomfort. Anytime the skin is pierced it can result in a small amount of bleeding; and of course when our skin is breached there is a risk of infection.
So, have you decided to get a tattoo and do you know your risk? It is important to know the risk and the importance of reporting any signs of complications to your healthcare provider immediately should they occur. Tattoo dyes can cause allergic reactions in some people. The most common dye colors causing reactions such as an itchy rash are green, red, yellow, and blue; these symptoms may last a few days or in some cases have occurred years later. Skin infections: usually associated with redness, swelling, pain, and may have a pus-like, foul smelling discharge. Another skin problem called granuloma (bumps) can develop around the tattoo. More serious complications such as bloodborne disease including tetanus, hepatitis B and hepatitis C; can be minimized by choosing a reputable artist who insist on clean conditions and makes your health paramount.
As always I recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before making decisions that could affect your health. Then ask yourself if you are truly ready to invest in permanent body art. Before the ink starts flowing is the time to remove all doubt and think through your decision. I think we all would agree it usually is a bad idea to allow yourself to be pressured into any decision; much less the decision to get a tattoo. Make sure when deciding on the art of choice you are free of the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If after consultation and deep contemplation you have decided to get a tattoo then here are some tips on choosing the right artist. Check with the local health department on licensing and regulation requirements and has the artist of operator been cited for any infringements. Make sure the artist wash their hands and wear clean gloves. Ask them to remove any needles and tubes from their sealed packaging in your presence. Any trays, pigments, or containers should be unused. Demand the artist use only heat sterilized (autoclave) equipment including instruments and supplies and tables, drawer handles and sinks should be disinfected with bleach or a commercial disinfectant. If all of these meet your inspection ask to use the restroom and if it is not equally clean—run.
After your tattoo is complete make sure you leave with care instructions. Typically, I would recommend applying an antibiotic ointment to the tattooed skin until healing is complete. Apply mild moisturizer several times a day, avoid sun exposure for a few weeks, and stay out of swimming pools, hot tubs, rivers and lakes. Shower no baths if the tattoo would be submerged in bath water, and remember to report any signs and symptoms of infection to your healthcare provider.
Kings, commoners or sweethearts, I think the most beautiful biblical passage on the subject is found in Isaiah 49:15b-16a: "I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands."
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
Monday, February 6, 2012
My Heartbeat Goes To The Dogs
As a nurse I am a strong proponent of organ donation, and I am an organ donor myself. When you see organ recipients and their families, you are able to conceptualize the magnitude that organ donation has on both the donor and the recipient. From a donor’s viewpoint you know that you have made someone else’s life better, stronger, and have made the ultimate humanitarian gift – life. The recipient is often given a new freedom in life and is better able to enjoy the things most of us take for granted.
I usually do not write about animal health, but if we stop and think about health and the health of our pets they really do inter-relate. Our pets become part of our family, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention pets can help decrease blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels and feelings of loneliness. Dogs, cats and horses can also suffer from the same kinds of cardiac abnormalities similar to humans and exhibit identical symptoms such as fainting episodes and exercise intolerance.
When the idea of pacemaker donation from humans to man’s best friend – dogs - was first discussed with me my mind reeled with ethical and moral questions on a professional level as well as on a personal level. Being an animal lover, I have a lot of difficulty thinking about animals suffering needlessly or at the hands of neglect. Since I am a proponent of organ donation, it didn’t take long to get my head around the concept. I started thinking about all the people I knew and the patients I have cared for who have pacemakers. Since you cannot donate pacemakers from human to human, the benefits of donation from human to animal became clear. So why not keep the beat going in a beloved pet? It becomes easy to see there are a lot of pacemakers out there that could benefit another life and keep the joy and smiles in the hearts of many.
I think about the service dogs for the blind, military and community that are not easily replaced. A simple life- saving pacemaker could prolong their lives and the lives they serve. Pacemakers have been estimated to prolong a dog’s life by as much as five years. Pacemakers cost around $6,000 making them cost prohibitive for most. It is estimated that 90% of dogs needing pacemakers don’t get them. Manufacturers will donate pacemakers when their expiration dates are nearing; however, these devices are too few to serve all the needs.
Think about all the ways animals enrich our lives; they put smiles on faces old and young alike. Why not will your pacemaker, or donate a loved one’s pacemaker, to extend the life of a beloved pet or service animal? Donating or willing a pacemaker is simple; ask the funeral home to remove the pacemaker and give it to you or a loved one. If they are being cremated the pacemaker has to be removed anyway so funeral homes are experienced in their removal.
Donated pacemakers can benefit horses, cats and dogs, and those who love them. You can make a difference in a defenseless life and the lives they touch.
Simply mail the pacemaker to:
US Mail address: Dr. Becky Gompf, D.V.M.
Dept. of SACS
C247 VTH
Knoxville, TN 37996-4544
UPS or Federal Express:
Dr. Becky Gompf, D.V.M.
Dept. of SACS
2407 River Dr.
Knoxville, TN 37996
Because of a personal interest in 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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
