Saturday, January 24, 2009

It's the little things that can matter the most

Even though I make my living through writing, I don't stay away from clinical nursing for long. Every so often I go back to work with people, to reconnect to what got me this far.


Since November, I've been filling in from time to time in a seniors' place. There are two parts to it. A highrise where there are independent seniors or those who need a bit of help, and the infirmary section for those who need much more nursing care.


Last week, I worked a couple of days in the area where the patients need more care. Even though I'm in charge, I answer call bells and try to do as much as I can for the patients when I have time, rather than bothering the aids or LPNs for some of this stuff. After all, I do know how to change a brief and do some other tasks that the people may need.


So, a call bell went off and I answered. It was an older lady sitting in her wheelchair trying to fill a tiny bird cage water bottle but she couldn't reach what she needed. I didn't even know there was a bird in there! So, I offered to help her and we filled up the water bottle together and muddled through getting it reattached. I've never had a bird so I didn't know how, and she couldn't physically do it - but between the two of us, we managed quite well, I think.


Anyway, she was so appreciative that I took the time to do that one small thing. And sadly enough, I knew if I'd been busier, I may not have been able to take the time to do it.


We need to remember to think about the small things in life sometimes. It's the small things that people often remember and it's the small things that can touch a soul.



Thursday, January 22, 2009

And, as everything changes... so do guidelines for treating menopause

First of all - I'm not sure about the "treating" part for menopause. After all, menopause isn't a condition that can be treated or needs to be treated. There may some symptoms of menopause that could be treated if they become too uncomfortable, but really - treating menopause?


Anyway, before I get totally off track, there are now updated guidelines for Canadian doctors, issued by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. They say that hormone replacement therapy, now called hormone therapy (HT) is not all as bad as some studies have made it out to be.


Because of issues that many have with the biggest study, the Women's Health Study and its findings that HT was dangerous, doctors are countering with their own research searches to find the opposite findings. As a result, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is now says that doctors may consider prescribing HT for women who are having problems dealing with menopause symptoms for as long as four or five years. It may be given for longer periods, if needed.


You can read more about this in the article Menopause treatment guidelines updated.


In the news:


Most Male Cancer Deaths Are Smoking Related, Not Just Lung


Tanning no cure for seasonal depression


New Mammography System Gets Marketing Approval in Europe


Today at Womb Within:


If you want to be a dad, it may be best to lay off the marijuana


Heart-to-heart chat may prevent postpartum depression?


Today at Cancer Commentary:


Methodist Health System Prostate Cancer Screening Program wins statewide community service award


Blacks more likely to refuse elective lung cancer surgery & results are surprising


Today at Help My Hurt


Another “huh?” study: Knee replacements work bests when patients/doctors agree


5 Wimpiest Pro Sports Injuries of All-Time





Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Obama and the hopes for health care

Whether you agree with his election or not, it's done and Barack Hussein Obama will become the 44th President of the United States by noon (EST) today. And with hit, he has an enormous responsibility and a heavy load on his shoulders.


Health care is but one of those many issues, but for many - it is *the* issue. Will he be able to bring the fractured and arguing family of health care providers, insurances, and doctors all together to come to a consensus? One can only hope.


Best of luck to my American neighbors and many of us here in Canada are watching, hoping, and praying that this historic event is the beginning of a great period for you all.