We strongly urge you to make a pre-holiday
review of safety practices in your home to help reduce
the chances of accidents and injuries.
Here are tips for a safe and accident free holiday:
Lighted candles and electric Christmas tree lights are potential fire hazards. Homeowners are advised to inspect the string of lights for possible frayed wires,
crimped wires that could lead to short circuits, or defective sockets that could create special electrical problems of their own. While lighted candles lend special
effects to the holiday season, they should never be displayed on the tree or near any evergreen boughs. They should be used only in glass containers designed
for candle illumination.
Because gift wrappings, boxes, cartons, and packing materials burn very fast and generally high heat, they should never be burned in the fireplace. There is a tendency to allow the overloading of extension cords and the scattering of cords on the
floor during the holiday season because it is a temporary condition.
It is safer to avoid these practices, even temporarily. NEVER overload an electrical circuit and NEVER leave extension cords out where someone can
trip over them. Finally - two good Christmas gifts for the entire family are an extra smoke detector an a fire extinguisher (for both home and car)
Prepare your car for winter. Start with a checkup that includes:
-Checking the ignition, brakes, wiring, hoses and fan belts
-Changing and adjusting the spark plugs
-Checking the air, fuel and emission filters, and the pvc valve
- inspecting the distributor and the battery
-Checking the tires for air, sidewall wear and tread depth, and
antifreeze levels and the freeze line
Your car should have a tune up to ensure better gas mileage,
quicker starts and faster response on pick-up and passing power
Toy safety depends on the toy itself, the child’s ability to use it safely, and on an adult’s instruction and supervision for proper use. With so many different toys on the market, it is not easy to choose the right one.
Parents are urged to select toys carefully, following these guidelines
for safety:
- Look for well-made, sturdy toys which will take a pounding
- Insist on smooth, rolled edges that won’t cut young fingers
- Be sure they have no parts small enough to fit into the mouth,
ears, or nose
-make sure toys are made of non-flammable material and that
painted surfaces are labeled “non-toxic.”
- Look for Underwriters laboratories (UL) listing on electrical
toys.
A toy that is too simple or too complicated for a small child is
frustrating and unsafe.
Be aware that in a family with children of different ages toys
used by older children can be hazardous for the younger children.
Teach children to put toys away and NEVER to leave toys in walkways or stairways
Parents can protect their children from painful accidents by
keeping toys in good repair, checking frequently for hazard producing
damage, and by discarding toys that can’t be repaired to a safe condition
Check for the safety labels on the gifts and toys you buy. Make sure the gift is appropriate, not just one that caught your eye.
When you decorate the tree keep this thought in mind: Lights and wires and plugs get old and must be checked from time to time.
Pet Safety
Poinsettias are toxic to cats, chocolate and many nuts are hazardous for pets to eat, and tinsel and ornaments can become an intestinal obstruction if eaten
Now that you’re thinking safety in all the many different ways, we know that you’ll have a SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
New Treatment guidelines in works for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
“Carpal tunnel syndrome, otherwise known as CTS, is among the most common disorders of the upper extremity. It affects up to 10 percent of the population and is related to many factors, but is thought to be caused by increased pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel in the wrist,” said Michael Keith, M.D., chair of the AAOS work group responsible for creating the new guideline.
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, in 2005, an estimated 3.1 million people sought help from physicians for the treatment of CTS.
“The Academy created this clinical practice guideline to improve patient care for those suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome,” said Keith. “The document serves as a point of reference and educational tool for both family practitioners and orthopaedic surgeons, streamlining possible treatment processes for this ever-so common ailment.”
In June 2007, the Journal of the Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS) reported about 500,000 CTS surgical procedures are performed each year. The same study also reported the economic impact due to CTS is estimated to exceed $2 billion annually.
The final CTS treatment guideline contains nine recommendations that include both operative and non-operative treatment options, as well as alternative techniques. Some of the recommendations include:
• Traditional bracing or splinting
• Local steroid injection
• Oral steroids
• Ultrasound
• Carpal tunnel release surgery
After doing a thorough analysis of the current literature, the work group found no evidence that supports the following treatments:
• Heat therapy
• Acupuncture
• Diuretics
• Electric stimulation
• Massage therapy
• Magnet therapy
• Nutritional supplements.
“This guideline is not intended to stand alone,” added. Keith. “It can be used as a starting point for physicians and can open up the lines of patient-physician communication on possible treatment options.”
As new research, knowledge and literature on CTS becomes available, this guideline will be reviewed and re-evaluated by the Guidelines and Technology Oversight Committee. It will be considered for updating in 3 to 5 years, which is consistent with evidence-based standards.
The guideline was developed by an AAOS physician volunteer work group and was based upon a systematic review of the current scientific and clinical information on accepted approaches to treatment and/or diagnosis. The entire process lasted about 18 months and included a review panel consisting of internal and external committees, public commentaries and final approval by the AAOS Board of Directors.
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, in 2005, an estimated 3.1 million people sought help from physicians for the treatment of CTS.
“The Academy created this clinical practice guideline to improve patient care for those suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome,” said Keith. “The document serves as a point of reference and educational tool for both family practitioners and orthopaedic surgeons, streamlining possible treatment processes for this ever-so common ailment.”
In June 2007, the Journal of the Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS) reported about 500,000 CTS surgical procedures are performed each year. The same study also reported the economic impact due to CTS is estimated to exceed $2 billion annually.
The final CTS treatment guideline contains nine recommendations that include both operative and non-operative treatment options, as well as alternative techniques. Some of the recommendations include:
• Traditional bracing or splinting
• Local steroid injection
• Oral steroids
• Ultrasound
• Carpal tunnel release surgery
After doing a thorough analysis of the current literature, the work group found no evidence that supports the following treatments:
• Heat therapy
• Acupuncture
• Diuretics
• Electric stimulation
• Massage therapy
• Magnet therapy
• Nutritional supplements.
“This guideline is not intended to stand alone,” added. Keith. “It can be used as a starting point for physicians and can open up the lines of patient-physician communication on possible treatment options.”
As new research, knowledge and literature on CTS becomes available, this guideline will be reviewed and re-evaluated by the Guidelines and Technology Oversight Committee. It will be considered for updating in 3 to 5 years, which is consistent with evidence-based standards.
The guideline was developed by an AAOS physician volunteer work group and was based upon a systematic review of the current scientific and clinical information on accepted approaches to treatment and/or diagnosis. The entire process lasted about 18 months and included a review panel consisting of internal and external committees, public commentaries and final approval by the AAOS Board of Directors.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving safety
Safety Tips from the Red Cross
November 24, 2008 – The American Red Cross wants to remind everyone of important safety issues that will help ensure a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday.
Since Thanksgiving usually involves preparing lots of food, cooking safety should be a priority. Unfortunately, cooking fires are more likely to occur on Thanksgiving Day than any other day of the year according to the National Fire Protection Association.
The Red Cross offers the following tips to prevent home fires this Thanksgiving:
• Monitor your cooking at all times. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of Thanksgiving Day home fires.
• Keep potholders and food wrappers at least three feet away from heat sources while cooking.
• Wear tighter fitting clothing with shorter sleeves when cooking.
• Make sure all stoves and ranges have been turned off when you leave the kitchen, and that ovens are turned off when you leave the house.
• Set timers to keep track of turkeys and other food items that require extended cooking times.
• Turn handles of pots and pans on the stove inward to avoid accidents.
• Follow all manufacturer guidelines regarding the appropriate use of appliances.
• After guests leave, designate a responsible adult to walk around the home, making sure that all candles and smoking materials are extinguished.
Finally, it’s important for every household to make sure to have working smoke alarms. The Red Cross encourages people to install smoke alarms on every level of their house and outside sleeping areas and to test the batteries once a month.
Even with the best preparation and precautions, accidents can happen. Cooking-related burns are a common hazard of the Thanksgiving holiday. For a superficial burn, cool the area by running it under cold water until the heat eases and then loosely cover the burn with a sterile dressing to help prevent infection. A critical burn requires medical attention.
Choking is another threat to a happy holiday dinner. Common causes of choking include talking while eating; eating too fast; and trying to swallow large pieces of poorly chewed food. If you feel as if food may be caught in your throat, never leave the room-stay where others can see you and help if your airway becomes blocked.
To help someone who is choking, remember “FIVE-and-FIVE Can Keep Them Alive.” First, ask the person if they are able to breathe and if you can help. Once you know the person is unable to cough, speak or breathe, have someone call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number.
Lean the person forward and give FIVE sharp back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. If the obstruction isn’t dislodged, stand behind the person and give FIVE quick, upward thrusts into the abdomen. Repeat back blows and abdominal thrusts as necessary. If you are alone, you can perform abdominal thrusts on yourself, just as you would on someone else. Thrusts can also be administered by leaning over and pressing your abdomen firmly against an object such as the back of a chair
November 24, 2008 – The American Red Cross wants to remind everyone of important safety issues that will help ensure a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday.
Since Thanksgiving usually involves preparing lots of food, cooking safety should be a priority. Unfortunately, cooking fires are more likely to occur on Thanksgiving Day than any other day of the year according to the National Fire Protection Association.
The Red Cross offers the following tips to prevent home fires this Thanksgiving:
• Monitor your cooking at all times. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of Thanksgiving Day home fires.
• Keep potholders and food wrappers at least three feet away from heat sources while cooking.
• Wear tighter fitting clothing with shorter sleeves when cooking.
• Make sure all stoves and ranges have been turned off when you leave the kitchen, and that ovens are turned off when you leave the house.
• Set timers to keep track of turkeys and other food items that require extended cooking times.
• Turn handles of pots and pans on the stove inward to avoid accidents.
• Follow all manufacturer guidelines regarding the appropriate use of appliances.
• After guests leave, designate a responsible adult to walk around the home, making sure that all candles and smoking materials are extinguished.
Finally, it’s important for every household to make sure to have working smoke alarms. The Red Cross encourages people to install smoke alarms on every level of their house and outside sleeping areas and to test the batteries once a month.
Even with the best preparation and precautions, accidents can happen. Cooking-related burns are a common hazard of the Thanksgiving holiday. For a superficial burn, cool the area by running it under cold water until the heat eases and then loosely cover the burn with a sterile dressing to help prevent infection. A critical burn requires medical attention.
Choking is another threat to a happy holiday dinner. Common causes of choking include talking while eating; eating too fast; and trying to swallow large pieces of poorly chewed food. If you feel as if food may be caught in your throat, never leave the room-stay where others can see you and help if your airway becomes blocked.
To help someone who is choking, remember “FIVE-and-FIVE Can Keep Them Alive.” First, ask the person if they are able to breathe and if you can help. Once you know the person is unable to cough, speak or breathe, have someone call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number.
Lean the person forward and give FIVE sharp back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. If the obstruction isn’t dislodged, stand behind the person and give FIVE quick, upward thrusts into the abdomen. Repeat back blows and abdominal thrusts as necessary. If you are alone, you can perform abdominal thrusts on yourself, just as you would on someone else. Thrusts can also be administered by leaning over and pressing your abdomen firmly against an object such as the back of a chair
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Are Disease managment Programs effective or too costly- review of recent research
A review of current peer reviewed research or research presented by professional organizations with peer reviewed journals reveals that Disease Management programs are not cost effective for direct costs without inclusion of indirect costs, societal costs. In addition Programs that are effective are long term, and targeted to selected populations.
In effect Insurance companies who must manage a broad scope of health care costs and over a long period of time may benefit from disease management programs for targeted patients. Firms that are out sourcing these models, will find reactive disease management programs too expensive. But other research indicates that proactive programs for health coaching are on the increase and profitable in 2008.
Nov. 9, 2004 (New Orleans) — Disease management improves survival in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), especially in those with advanced disease. But the program does not save healthcare utilization or costs, according to results of a late-breaking clinical trial presented here at the American Heart Association 2004 Scientific Sessions.
"Disease management promised a lot but those promises may be empty," lead investigator Autumn Dawn Galbreath, MD, vice chairman for clinical programs in the Department of Medicine at the University of Texas in San Antonio, said when presenting the results at an early morning press conference. The formal results were presented at the meeting by coinvestigator Gregory I. Freeman, MD, from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.
The investigators randomized 1,069 community-based patients with CHF to receive disease management or usual care. Average age of the group was 70.9 years. All had systolic heart failure with ejection fractions averaging 35% or echo-confirmed diastolic heart failure. Patients were followed for 18 months, with investigators conducting assessments of clinical status by telephone at six-month intervals.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/582790
October 29, 2008 (Philadelphia, PA) — A heart-failure disease-management program that had cut the risk of hospitalization in a predominantly Hispanic and black population [1] is also cost-effective in that the benefit came at an expected societal cost under $25 000 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained
In the current analysis, the nurse-led intervention cost an average of $2177 per patient but reduced hospital costs by $2378 per patient; however, "higher costs for outpatient procedures, medications, and home healthcare prevented the intervention from being cost-saving over the 12-month study," according to the authors.
The incremental cost per QALY gained for the intervention program was estimated at $19 691 or $21 470, depending on the quality-of-life instrument used, either the Health Utility Index Mark 3 or EuroQol-5D, respectively, after adjustment for baseline quality-of-life differences between groups.
The estimated net 12-month cost to Medicare associated with implementation of the disease-management program was either $3176 or $3673 per QALY, respectively.
The study's results are consistent with an ongoing Medicare demonstration product, according to Hebert et al, that "found no evidence that [its] nurse-management interventions were cost-saving or cost-neutral.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/582790
The economic effectiveness of disease management programs, which are designed to improve the clinical and economic outcomes for chronically ill individuals, has been evaluated extensively. A literature search was performed with MEDLINE and other published sources for the period covering January 1995 to September 2003. The search was limited to empirical articles that measured the direct economic outcomes for asthma, diabetes, and heart disease management programs. Of the 360 articles and presentations evaluated, only 67 met the selection criteria for meta-analysis, which included 32,041 subjects. Based on the studies included in the research, a meta-analysis provided a statistically significant answer to the question of whether disease management programs are economically effective. The magnitude of the observed average effect size for equally weighted studies was 0.311 (95% CI = 0.272-0.350).
The results suggest that disease management programs are more effective economically with severely ill enrollees and that chronic disease program interventions are most effective when coordinated with the overall level of disease severity.
http://www.citeulike.org/user/waffle168/article/197597
Heart failure (HF) disease management programs have shown impressive reductions in hospitalizations and mortality, but in studies limited to short time frames and high-risk patient populations. Current guidelines thus only recommend disease management targeted to high-risk patients with HF.
METHODS: This study applied a new technique to infer the degree to which clinical trials have targeted patients by risk based on observed rates of hospitalization and death. A Markov model was used to assess the incremental life expectancy and cost of providing disease management for high-risk to low-risk patients. Sensitivity analyses of various long-term scenarios and of reduced effectiveness in low-risk patients were also considered. RESULTS: The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of extending coverage to all patients was $9700 per life-year gained in the base case. In aggregate, universal coverage almost quadrupled life-years saved as compared to coverage of only the highest quintile of risk. A worst case analysis with simultaneous conservative assumptions yielded an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $110,000 per life-year gained. In a probabilistic sensitivity analysis, 99.74% of possible incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were <$50,000 per life-year gained. CONCLUSIONS: Heart failure disease management programs are likely cost-effective in the long-term along the whole spectrum of patient
risk. Health gains could be extended by enrolling a broader group of patients with HF in disease management.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18215605
Here is the video link
http://www.bupafoundation.co.uk/asp/awards/08_awards/health_at_work_award.asp
In effect Insurance companies who must manage a broad scope of health care costs and over a long period of time may benefit from disease management programs for targeted patients. Firms that are out sourcing these models, will find reactive disease management programs too expensive. But other research indicates that proactive programs for health coaching are on the increase and profitable in 2008.
Nov. 9, 2004 (New Orleans) — Disease management improves survival in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), especially in those with advanced disease. But the program does not save healthcare utilization or costs, according to results of a late-breaking clinical trial presented here at the American Heart Association 2004 Scientific Sessions.
"Disease management promised a lot but those promises may be empty," lead investigator Autumn Dawn Galbreath, MD, vice chairman for clinical programs in the Department of Medicine at the University of Texas in San Antonio, said when presenting the results at an early morning press conference. The formal results were presented at the meeting by coinvestigator Gregory I. Freeman, MD, from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.
The investigators randomized 1,069 community-based patients with CHF to receive disease management or usual care. Average age of the group was 70.9 years. All had systolic heart failure with ejection fractions averaging 35% or echo-confirmed diastolic heart failure. Patients were followed for 18 months, with investigators conducting assessments of clinical status by telephone at six-month intervals.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/582790
October 29, 2008 (Philadelphia, PA) — A heart-failure disease-management program that had cut the risk of hospitalization in a predominantly Hispanic and black population [1] is also cost-effective in that the benefit came at an expected societal cost under $25 000 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained
In the current analysis, the nurse-led intervention cost an average of $2177 per patient but reduced hospital costs by $2378 per patient; however, "higher costs for outpatient procedures, medications, and home healthcare prevented the intervention from being cost-saving over the 12-month study," according to the authors.
The incremental cost per QALY gained for the intervention program was estimated at $19 691 or $21 470, depending on the quality-of-life instrument used, either the Health Utility Index Mark 3 or EuroQol-5D, respectively, after adjustment for baseline quality-of-life differences between groups.
The estimated net 12-month cost to Medicare associated with implementation of the disease-management program was either $3176 or $3673 per QALY, respectively.
The study's results are consistent with an ongoing Medicare demonstration product, according to Hebert et al, that "found no evidence that [its] nurse-management interventions were cost-saving or cost-neutral.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/582790
The economic effectiveness of disease management programs, which are designed to improve the clinical and economic outcomes for chronically ill individuals, has been evaluated extensively. A literature search was performed with MEDLINE and other published sources for the period covering January 1995 to September 2003. The search was limited to empirical articles that measured the direct economic outcomes for asthma, diabetes, and heart disease management programs. Of the 360 articles and presentations evaluated, only 67 met the selection criteria for meta-analysis, which included 32,041 subjects. Based on the studies included in the research, a meta-analysis provided a statistically significant answer to the question of whether disease management programs are economically effective. The magnitude of the observed average effect size for equally weighted studies was 0.311 (95% CI = 0.272-0.350).
The results suggest that disease management programs are more effective economically with severely ill enrollees and that chronic disease program interventions are most effective when coordinated with the overall level of disease severity.
http://www.citeulike.org/user/waffle168/article/197597
Heart failure (HF) disease management programs have shown impressive reductions in hospitalizations and mortality, but in studies limited to short time frames and high-risk patient populations. Current guidelines thus only recommend disease management targeted to high-risk patients with HF.
METHODS: This study applied a new technique to infer the degree to which clinical trials have targeted patients by risk based on observed rates of hospitalization and death. A Markov model was used to assess the incremental life expectancy and cost of providing disease management for high-risk to low-risk patients. Sensitivity analyses of various long-term scenarios and of reduced effectiveness in low-risk patients were also considered. RESULTS: The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of extending coverage to all patients was $9700 per life-year gained in the base case. In aggregate, universal coverage almost quadrupled life-years saved as compared to coverage of only the highest quintile of risk. A worst case analysis with simultaneous conservative assumptions yielded an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $110,000 per life-year gained. In a probabilistic sensitivity analysis, 99.74% of possible incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were <$50,000 per life-year gained. CONCLUSIONS: Heart failure disease management programs are likely cost-effective in the long-term along the whole spectrum of patient
risk. Health gains could be extended by enrolling a broader group of patients with HF in disease management.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18215605
Here is the video link
http://www.bupafoundation.co.uk/asp/awards/08_awards/health_at_work_award.asp
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
DAOHN Regulatory update for Oct 2008
DAOHN October 15 Regulatory affairs
Also included in this update is the complete Healthcare Plans for OBAMA Biden and McCain plans they are included at the bottom of the update.
OSHA posted 14 letters of interpretation
OSHA, defines first aid
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has awarded $24 million for influenza pandemic preparedness
Finns have outgrown their environment, making them less able to cope in today’s society.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed safe patient handling legislation on September 28, for the fifth time in five years
The United States Chamber of Commerce held a forum to recreate new anti ergonomics standard org.
Also included in this update is the complete Healthcare Plans for OBAMA Biden and McCain plans they are included at the bottom of the update.
OSHA posted 14 letters of interpretation
OSHA, defines first aid
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has awarded $24 million for influenza pandemic preparedness
Finns have outgrown their environment, making them less able to cope in today’s society.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed safe patient handling legislation on September 28, for the fifth time in five years
The United States Chamber of Commerce held a forum to recreate new anti ergonomics standard org.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
ADA amendments act passes house and Senate
The Senate and the house have approved the ADA Amendments Act which expands protection against workplace discrimination for people with disabilities and overturns Supreme Court rulings that limited the scope of the regulation.
Both the House and the Senate bills define a disability as a physical or mentail impairment that "substantially limits" one or more life activities. They increase the number of activities covered and add a category of bodily functions and allow workers to sue if they believe they are mistreated under the revised ADA regulation.
Both the House and the Senate bills define a disability as a physical or mentail impairment that "substantially limits" one or more life activities. They increase the number of activities covered and add a category of bodily functions and allow workers to sue if they believe they are mistreated under the revised ADA regulation.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
DAOHN Government Affairs Update September 2008
· Workplace Exposure to Synthetic Fragrance on Wednesday
· Health care coverage projected to increase at double-digit rates into 2009.
· NIOSH Posts New Indoor Environmental Quality Topic Pages
· Regulation Proposed to Help Protect Health Care Providers from Discrimination
· Researchers link BPA exposure to health concerns
· mosquito-borne illness for FL 2nd adult case of West Nile virus (WNV) was confirmed.
· OSHA is accepting public comments on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
· NIOSH is hosting the "No Fit Test" Respirator Research Workshop on November 6, 2008.
The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses Inc. has partnered with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Decatur Memorial Hospital in Illinois, the Massachusetts Nurses Association, the Alabama State Nurses Association, and the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Environmental Health Education Center to offer a webcast titled Reducing Workplace Exposure to Synthetic Fragrance on Wednesday, Oct. 15, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. EST. Supported in part by a grant from the Nurses Work Group of Health Care Without Harm (HCWH), the webcast will identify the pertinent chemistry and common adverse reactions to perfumes and other fragranced products; discuss the concept of individual sensitivity as it relates to occupational and environmental health and worker safety; and list the key components of a policy that addresses a fragrance-free work environment.
"Our partners for this webcast join us in supporting and promoting the importance of a fragrance-free workplace as just one of many health and safety programs that can benefit workers and ultimately have a positive impact on productivity and a company’s bottom line,” said AAOHN President Richard Kowalski.
NIOSH Posts New Indoor Environmental Quality Topic Pages
The agency has posted three new indoor environmental quality "topic pages" that discuss these issues and provide answers to frequently asked questions, along with suggestions for things you can do, resource links to follow, and other references on each of the following:
§ Dampness and Mold in Buildings Topic Page--Dampness results from water incursion either from internal sources (e.g. leaking pipes) or external sources (e.g. rainwater). Dampness is a problem in buildings because it provides the moisture that supports the growth of bacteria, fungi (i.e., mold), and insects
§ Building Ventilation Topic Page--Building ventilation is the circulation of air throughout a building. The ventilation or the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system of a building supplies and removes air either naturally (windows) and/or mechanically to and from a space. Building ventilation may be an important factor determining the relationship between airborne transmission of respiratory infections and the health and productivity of workers.
§ Maintaining Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) during Construction and Renovation Topic Page--Construction and renovation projects in office settings can adversely affect building occupants by the release of airborne particulates, biological contaminants, and gases. Careful planning for IEQ and the prevention of exposure during these activities is essential.
You can find the new topic page links at www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/default.html
Health Plan Rates Projected to Continue Double-Digit Increase into '09
September 16, 2008
According to the results of a survey released by the ACS company Buck Consultants, a human resource and benefits consulting firm, costs for the most popular types of health care coverage are projected to increase at double-digit rates through the remainder of 2008 and into 2009.
In its 19th National Health Care Trend Survey, Buck Consultants found that health insurers reported an average prescription drug trend of 11.4 percent, down slightly from the 11.7 percent reported in the prior survey. The most popular types of health plans continue to increase more than 10 percent. They include Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): 11.1 percent; Point-of-service (POS): 10.8 percent; Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): 11.1 percent; High Deductible Consumer Driven: 10.7 percent.
Regulation Proposed to Help Protect Health Care Providers from Discrimination
A new proposed regulation would increase awareness of, and compliance with, three separate laws protecting federally funded health care providers’ right of conscience. This proposed rule was placed on public display at the Federal Register today by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
“This proposed regulation is about the legal right of a health care professional to practice according to their conscience,” HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt said. “Doctors and other health care providers should not be forced to choose between good professional standing and violating their conscience. Freedom of expression and action should not be surrendered upon the issuance of a health care degree.”
Over the past three decades, Congress has enacted several statutes to safeguard these freedoms, also known as provider conscience rights, and the proposed regulation would increase awareness of and compliance with these laws. Specifically, the proposed rule would:
Clarify that non-discrimination protections apply to institutional health care providers as well as to individual employees working for recipients of certain funds from HHS;
Require recipients of certain HHS funds to certify their compliance with laws protecting provider conscience rights;
Designate the HHS Office for Civil Rights as the entity to receive complaints of discrimination addressed by the existing statutes and the proposed regulation; and
Charge HHS officials to work with any state or local government or entity that may be in violation of existing statutes and the proposed regulation to encourage voluntary steps to bring that government or entity into compliance with the law. If, despite the Department’s efforts, compliance is not achieved, HHS officials will consider all legal options, including termination of funding and the return of funds paid out in violation of the nondiscrimination provisions.
“Many health care providers routinely face pressure to change their medical practice – often in direct opposition to their personal convictions,” said HHS Assistant Secretary of Health, Admiral Joxel Garcia, M.D. “During my practice as an OB-GYN, I witnessed this first-hand. But health care providers shouldn’t have to check their conscience at the hospital door. This proposed rule will help ensure that doesn’t happen.”
While it would strengthen provider conscience rights, the proposed regulation would in no way restrict health care providers from performing any legal service or procedure. If a procedure is legal, a patient will still have the ability to access that service from a medical professional or institution that does not assert a conflict of conscience. For example, the proposed regulation does not affect the ability of private clinics to provide abortion services in accordance with the law.
Congress has enacted three separate statutes to protect provider conscience rights. First, in the 1970s, the Church Amendments were enacted at various times in response to debates over whether receipt of federal funds required recipients to provide abortions or sterilizations. The Amendments also protected health care providers and other individuals from discrimination by recipients of HHS funds on the basis of their refusal, due to religious belief or moral conviction, to perform or participate in any lawful health service or research activity.
Second, in 1996, section 245 of the Public Health Service Act was enacted to prohibit the federal government and state or local governments that receive federal financial assistance from discriminating against individual and institutional health care providers, including participants in medical training programs, who refused to, among other things, receive training in abortions; require or provide such training; perform abortions; or provide referrals for, or make arrangements for, such training or abortions.
Third, the Weldon Amendment to the Department’s fiscal year 2005 appropriations act, and to subsequent years’ appropriations acts, prohibited the provision of HHS funds to any state or local government or federal agency or program that discriminates against institutional or individual health care entities on the basis that the entity does not provide, pay for, provide coverage of, or refer for abortion.
Despite this, many in the health care industry, and members of the general public, are unaware of these provider conscience rights. For example, an ethics opinion put forth several months ago by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists appeared to disregard these laws. Subsequent action by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, which appeared to adopt the opinion, had the potential to force physicians to either violate their conscience by referring patients for abortions (or taking other objectionable actions) or risk losing their board certification. This case and others illustrate the need for the proposed rule to increase awareness of, and compliance with, the three statutes protecting provider conscience rights.
Researchers link BPA exposure to health concerns
In the first large-scale human study of the chemical, some found with bisphenol A in their urine had more than double the normal risk of heart disease and diabetes.
The first large-scale human study of a chemical widely used in plastic products, including baby bottles and tin can linings, found double the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and liver problems in people with the highest concentrations in their urine, British researchers reported Tuesday.The findings confirm earlier results obtained in animals, increasing pressure on the Food and Drug Administration to limit use of the chemical Bisphenol A, commonly called BPA.
By Thomas H. Maugh II, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer September 17, 2008
PENSACOLA – Escambia County Health Department Director Dr. John Lanza today issued a mosquito-borne illness advisory for Escambia County after the county’s second adult human case of West Nile virus (WNV) was confirmed. This is the county’s second case since 2006.Symptoms of West Nile virus disease may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion. Physicians should contact their county health department if they suspect an individual may meet the case definition for a mosquito-borne illness. Department of Health (DOH) laboratories provide testing services for physicians treating patients with clinical signs of mosquito-borne disease.The health department reminds residents and visitors to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes that may cause encephalitis disease. Escambia County Mosquito Control and the health department continue surveillance and prevention efforts and encourage everyone to take basic precautions to help limit exposure by following the department of health recommendations.Your personal mosquito protection efforts should include the “5 D’s” for prevention: - Dusk and Dawn: Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are seeking blood. For many species, this is during the dusk and dawn hours. - Dress: Wear clothing that covers most of your skin. - DEET: When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) are recommended. Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are other repellent options. - Drainage: Check around your home to rid the area of standing water, which is where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. - Screens: Cover open windows and doors with screens. Check screens regularly for tears and openings that need to be repaired. OSHA seeks approval for proposed rule on remedies for violations of personal protective equipment and training standards
WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is accepting public comments on a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and training standards. The proposal clarifies that when an OSHA standard requires an employer to provide PPE, such as respirators, or training to employees, the employer must do so for each employee subject to the requirement. Each employee not protected may be considered a separate violation for penalty purposes."We want employers to understand the importance of complying with OSHA’s PPE rule for each and every one of their employees," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke, Jr. "Without question, providing PPE for all employees will reduce costs, save money and, most importantly, save lives."
NIOSH is hosting the "No Fit Test" Respirator Research Workshop on November 6, 2008. The workshop aims to examine how the latest material technology (shape-changing polymers, adhesives, etc.) may be leveraged to improve current and future respirator designs including the long-term possibility of moving away from current fit-testing requirements, while preserving user protection. We would like your input as we finalize the workshop agenda.
An estimated 5 million workers wear respirators in 1.3 million U.S. workplaces to provide protection against various airborne hazards. Respiratory protection is critically dependent upon the fit of the respirator to the user's face. A fit test is required to assure that a given respirator fits an individual. Reports from the National Academies' Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommend research toward better-fitting respirators, with the ultimate goal of finding a way to obviate the need for initial and annual fit testing
· Health care coverage projected to increase at double-digit rates into 2009.
· NIOSH Posts New Indoor Environmental Quality Topic Pages
· Regulation Proposed to Help Protect Health Care Providers from Discrimination
· Researchers link BPA exposure to health concerns
· mosquito-borne illness for FL 2nd adult case of West Nile virus (WNV) was confirmed.
· OSHA is accepting public comments on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
· NIOSH is hosting the "No Fit Test" Respirator Research Workshop on November 6, 2008.
The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses Inc. has partnered with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Decatur Memorial Hospital in Illinois, the Massachusetts Nurses Association, the Alabama State Nurses Association, and the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Environmental Health Education Center to offer a webcast titled Reducing Workplace Exposure to Synthetic Fragrance on Wednesday, Oct. 15, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. EST. Supported in part by a grant from the Nurses Work Group of Health Care Without Harm (HCWH), the webcast will identify the pertinent chemistry and common adverse reactions to perfumes and other fragranced products; discuss the concept of individual sensitivity as it relates to occupational and environmental health and worker safety; and list the key components of a policy that addresses a fragrance-free work environment.
"Our partners for this webcast join us in supporting and promoting the importance of a fragrance-free workplace as just one of many health and safety programs that can benefit workers and ultimately have a positive impact on productivity and a company’s bottom line,” said AAOHN President Richard Kowalski.
NIOSH Posts New Indoor Environmental Quality Topic Pages
The agency has posted three new indoor environmental quality "topic pages" that discuss these issues and provide answers to frequently asked questions, along with suggestions for things you can do, resource links to follow, and other references on each of the following:
§ Dampness and Mold in Buildings Topic Page--Dampness results from water incursion either from internal sources (e.g. leaking pipes) or external sources (e.g. rainwater). Dampness is a problem in buildings because it provides the moisture that supports the growth of bacteria, fungi (i.e., mold), and insects
§ Building Ventilation Topic Page--Building ventilation is the circulation of air throughout a building. The ventilation or the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system of a building supplies and removes air either naturally (windows) and/or mechanically to and from a space. Building ventilation may be an important factor determining the relationship between airborne transmission of respiratory infections and the health and productivity of workers.
§ Maintaining Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) during Construction and Renovation Topic Page--Construction and renovation projects in office settings can adversely affect building occupants by the release of airborne particulates, biological contaminants, and gases. Careful planning for IEQ and the prevention of exposure during these activities is essential.
You can find the new topic page links at www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/default.html
Health Plan Rates Projected to Continue Double-Digit Increase into '09
September 16, 2008
According to the results of a survey released by the ACS company Buck Consultants, a human resource and benefits consulting firm, costs for the most popular types of health care coverage are projected to increase at double-digit rates through the remainder of 2008 and into 2009.
In its 19th National Health Care Trend Survey, Buck Consultants found that health insurers reported an average prescription drug trend of 11.4 percent, down slightly from the 11.7 percent reported in the prior survey. The most popular types of health plans continue to increase more than 10 percent. They include Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): 11.1 percent; Point-of-service (POS): 10.8 percent; Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): 11.1 percent; High Deductible Consumer Driven: 10.7 percent.
Regulation Proposed to Help Protect Health Care Providers from Discrimination
A new proposed regulation would increase awareness of, and compliance with, three separate laws protecting federally funded health care providers’ right of conscience. This proposed rule was placed on public display at the Federal Register today by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
“This proposed regulation is about the legal right of a health care professional to practice according to their conscience,” HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt said. “Doctors and other health care providers should not be forced to choose between good professional standing and violating their conscience. Freedom of expression and action should not be surrendered upon the issuance of a health care degree.”
Over the past three decades, Congress has enacted several statutes to safeguard these freedoms, also known as provider conscience rights, and the proposed regulation would increase awareness of and compliance with these laws. Specifically, the proposed rule would:
Clarify that non-discrimination protections apply to institutional health care providers as well as to individual employees working for recipients of certain funds from HHS;
Require recipients of certain HHS funds to certify their compliance with laws protecting provider conscience rights;
Designate the HHS Office for Civil Rights as the entity to receive complaints of discrimination addressed by the existing statutes and the proposed regulation; and
Charge HHS officials to work with any state or local government or entity that may be in violation of existing statutes and the proposed regulation to encourage voluntary steps to bring that government or entity into compliance with the law. If, despite the Department’s efforts, compliance is not achieved, HHS officials will consider all legal options, including termination of funding and the return of funds paid out in violation of the nondiscrimination provisions.
“Many health care providers routinely face pressure to change their medical practice – often in direct opposition to their personal convictions,” said HHS Assistant Secretary of Health, Admiral Joxel Garcia, M.D. “During my practice as an OB-GYN, I witnessed this first-hand. But health care providers shouldn’t have to check their conscience at the hospital door. This proposed rule will help ensure that doesn’t happen.”
While it would strengthen provider conscience rights, the proposed regulation would in no way restrict health care providers from performing any legal service or procedure. If a procedure is legal, a patient will still have the ability to access that service from a medical professional or institution that does not assert a conflict of conscience. For example, the proposed regulation does not affect the ability of private clinics to provide abortion services in accordance with the law.
Congress has enacted three separate statutes to protect provider conscience rights. First, in the 1970s, the Church Amendments were enacted at various times in response to debates over whether receipt of federal funds required recipients to provide abortions or sterilizations. The Amendments also protected health care providers and other individuals from discrimination by recipients of HHS funds on the basis of their refusal, due to religious belief or moral conviction, to perform or participate in any lawful health service or research activity.
Second, in 1996, section 245 of the Public Health Service Act was enacted to prohibit the federal government and state or local governments that receive federal financial assistance from discriminating against individual and institutional health care providers, including participants in medical training programs, who refused to, among other things, receive training in abortions; require or provide such training; perform abortions; or provide referrals for, or make arrangements for, such training or abortions.
Third, the Weldon Amendment to the Department’s fiscal year 2005 appropriations act, and to subsequent years’ appropriations acts, prohibited the provision of HHS funds to any state or local government or federal agency or program that discriminates against institutional or individual health care entities on the basis that the entity does not provide, pay for, provide coverage of, or refer for abortion.
Despite this, many in the health care industry, and members of the general public, are unaware of these provider conscience rights. For example, an ethics opinion put forth several months ago by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists appeared to disregard these laws. Subsequent action by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, which appeared to adopt the opinion, had the potential to force physicians to either violate their conscience by referring patients for abortions (or taking other objectionable actions) or risk losing their board certification. This case and others illustrate the need for the proposed rule to increase awareness of, and compliance with, the three statutes protecting provider conscience rights.
Researchers link BPA exposure to health concerns
In the first large-scale human study of the chemical, some found with bisphenol A in their urine had more than double the normal risk of heart disease and diabetes.
The first large-scale human study of a chemical widely used in plastic products, including baby bottles and tin can linings, found double the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and liver problems in people with the highest concentrations in their urine, British researchers reported Tuesday.The findings confirm earlier results obtained in animals, increasing pressure on the Food and Drug Administration to limit use of the chemical Bisphenol A, commonly called BPA.
By Thomas H. Maugh II, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer September 17, 2008
PENSACOLA – Escambia County Health Department Director Dr. John Lanza today issued a mosquito-borne illness advisory for Escambia County after the county’s second adult human case of West Nile virus (WNV) was confirmed. This is the county’s second case since 2006.Symptoms of West Nile virus disease may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion. Physicians should contact their county health department if they suspect an individual may meet the case definition for a mosquito-borne illness. Department of Health (DOH) laboratories provide testing services for physicians treating patients with clinical signs of mosquito-borne disease.The health department reminds residents and visitors to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes that may cause encephalitis disease. Escambia County Mosquito Control and the health department continue surveillance and prevention efforts and encourage everyone to take basic precautions to help limit exposure by following the department of health recommendations.Your personal mosquito protection efforts should include the “5 D’s” for prevention: - Dusk and Dawn: Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are seeking blood. For many species, this is during the dusk and dawn hours. - Dress: Wear clothing that covers most of your skin. - DEET: When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) are recommended. Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are other repellent options. - Drainage: Check around your home to rid the area of standing water, which is where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. - Screens: Cover open windows and doors with screens. Check screens regularly for tears and openings that need to be repaired. OSHA seeks approval for proposed rule on remedies for violations of personal protective equipment and training standards
WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is accepting public comments on a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and training standards. The proposal clarifies that when an OSHA standard requires an employer to provide PPE, such as respirators, or training to employees, the employer must do so for each employee subject to the requirement. Each employee not protected may be considered a separate violation for penalty purposes."We want employers to understand the importance of complying with OSHA’s PPE rule for each and every one of their employees," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke, Jr. "Without question, providing PPE for all employees will reduce costs, save money and, most importantly, save lives."
NIOSH is hosting the "No Fit Test" Respirator Research Workshop on November 6, 2008. The workshop aims to examine how the latest material technology (shape-changing polymers, adhesives, etc.) may be leveraged to improve current and future respirator designs including the long-term possibility of moving away from current fit-testing requirements, while preserving user protection. We would like your input as we finalize the workshop agenda.
An estimated 5 million workers wear respirators in 1.3 million U.S. workplaces to provide protection against various airborne hazards. Respiratory protection is critically dependent upon the fit of the respirator to the user's face. A fit test is required to assure that a given respirator fits an individual. Reports from the National Academies' Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommend research toward better-fitting respirators, with the ultimate goal of finding a way to obviate the need for initial and annual fit testing
Monday, September 8, 2008
Happy Birthday MOM!
Today my mother turns 74, Atypically mom, we went to an art show ( By my sister who has wonderful photography, by the by) and saw Rupaul who did a fabulous show at Crabby Dicks in Delaware city, even in the tropicial wind and rain from Hanna.
How many other people can say their 74 young mom still enjoys cross dressers?
Way to go mom! Love you!
How many other people can say their 74 young mom still enjoys cross dressers?
Way to go mom! Love you!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
DAOHN Update for July
The Department of Transportation Final Rule on Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs has been published in Vol. 73, No. 123 of the Federal Register. It is effective as of August 25, 2008.The new rule amends certain provisions of its drug and alcohol testing procedures to change instructions to collectors, laboratories, medical review officers, and employers regarding adulterated, substituted, diluted, and invalid urine specimen results. Some changes will make it more difficult for employees to beat the testing process, by requiring more observed collections and more stringent checking for items such as prosthetic devices designed to carry clean urine.
Asbestos research comment period. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is inviting public comment on a draft report that focuses on the occupational exposure and toxicity issues pertaining to asbestos and other elongated mineral particles. The report, or “roadmap,” aims to identify research priorities, which in turn may address the many longstanding uncertainties that have surrounded asbestos fiber and its health effects.Deadline for comment is September 30, 2008. Go to http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/review/public/099-A/ for materials, as well as to provide comment via online form, e-mail, fax, or mail.
Researchers who are part of the World Health Organization research consortium at Harvard Medical School suggest ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a good candidate for targeted workplace screening and treatment programs. They claim that workers with ADHD lose significant amounts of work time and that therapies already exist to improve certain aspects of workers’ performance. “It might be cost-effective from the employer perspective to implement workplace screening programmes and provide treatment for workers with ADHD.”The people studied were employed adult workers from ten countries, including the US. An average of 3.5% of workers have ADHD, and it is more common in males than females. Adults with ADHD may be hyperactive, easily distracted, forgetful, or impulsive and often do not know they have this disorder. These workers do approximately 22 days less work per year (in quality and quantity) than workers who do not have the disorder.
Health and wellness update for employers
Recognizing that chronic illness accounts for 75 percent of healthcare spending, many employers are taking a hands-on approach to improving employee health and wellness by promoting programs that address smoking, obesity and disease prevention and management.
At a press briefing July 15 hosted by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), representatives from Food Lion LLC, DTE Energy and the National Business Group on Health (NBGH) discussed employee engagement in workplace wellness programs that drive healthier behaviors and control costs.In conjunction with the briefing, BCBSA also released a new report, “Engaging Consumers @ Work” (EC@W), that found workplace education and activation programs can increase worker participation in wellness programs by 21 percent or more – suggesting big dividends for employers who invest in these programs.
Designed for nurses and safe patient handling committee members, the articles were produced by portal sponsor Liko North America, which manufactures safe lifting equipment, to inform hospital employees about the importance of safe lifting in all aspects of patient care. The series details:
Selecting Lifts for Patients with Special Needs - Special needs patients, such as elderly, morbidly obese or orthopedic patients, require the correct lift or sling to safely move them throughout the hospital. This article explains the proper lift to use depending on the need of the patient.
Safe Lifting: The Assessment Imperative - This article reviews the general guidelines for safe patient handling and the importance of a routine assessment of ergonomic hazards and the patient’s functional ability, level of assistance and mental status.
Infection Control for Lifts and Slings - In order to ensure patient safety during the lifting process, it is important that lifts and slings are clean, decontaminated and disinfected. This article details the importance of infection control when using lifts and slings.
Safe Patient Handling Programs: How to Calculate Return on Investment - Implementing safe handling programs in hospitals not only reduces patient-handling injuries but also significantly cuts the direct and indirect costs that coincide with lifting injuries. This article explains how facility managers can calculate their ROI, which results in reducing expenses significantly.
For this trial, 322 "moderately obese" men and women (but mostly men) were randomized to one of three diets: low-fat, restricted calorie; Mediterranean, restricted calorie; or low-carb, non-restricted-calorie.
The Mediterranean diet had the most amounts of dietary fiber and also included lots of fruits and vegetables. All three regimens had similar calorie counts.
Over the next two years, an astounding 84.6 percent of participants stayed on their diets.
Mean weight loss for the low-fat group was 2.9 kilograms (4.8 pounds), 4.4 kg (9.7 pounds) for the Mediterranean group and 4.7 kg (10.3 pounds) for the low-carb group.
For the 272 participants who stayed on their diets, the mean weight loss was 3.3 kg (7.3 pounds), 4.6 kg (10.1 pounds) and 5.5 kg (12.1 pounds), respectively.
The low-carb regimen reduced the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL "good" cholesterol by 20 percent, while the low-fat one lowered the ratio by 12 percent.
The best change in lipids was seen in the low-carb group, with a 20 percent increase in HDL cholesterol and a 14 percent decrease in triglycerides.
The Mediterranean diet produced the most favorable changes in blood glucose and insulin levels among the 36 participants with diabetes. In this group of patients, the low-fat diet increased fasting glucose levels.
Asbestos research comment period. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is inviting public comment on a draft report that focuses on the occupational exposure and toxicity issues pertaining to asbestos and other elongated mineral particles. The report, or “roadmap,” aims to identify research priorities, which in turn may address the many longstanding uncertainties that have surrounded asbestos fiber and its health effects.Deadline for comment is September 30, 2008. Go to http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/review/public/099-A/ for materials, as well as to provide comment via online form, e-mail, fax, or mail.
Researchers who are part of the World Health Organization research consortium at Harvard Medical School suggest ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a good candidate for targeted workplace screening and treatment programs. They claim that workers with ADHD lose significant amounts of work time and that therapies already exist to improve certain aspects of workers’ performance. “It might be cost-effective from the employer perspective to implement workplace screening programmes and provide treatment for workers with ADHD.”The people studied were employed adult workers from ten countries, including the US. An average of 3.5% of workers have ADHD, and it is more common in males than females. Adults with ADHD may be hyperactive, easily distracted, forgetful, or impulsive and often do not know they have this disorder. These workers do approximately 22 days less work per year (in quality and quantity) than workers who do not have the disorder.
Health and wellness update for employers
Recognizing that chronic illness accounts for 75 percent of healthcare spending, many employers are taking a hands-on approach to improving employee health and wellness by promoting programs that address smoking, obesity and disease prevention and management.
At a press briefing July 15 hosted by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), representatives from Food Lion LLC, DTE Energy and the National Business Group on Health (NBGH) discussed employee engagement in workplace wellness programs that drive healthier behaviors and control costs.In conjunction with the briefing, BCBSA also released a new report, “Engaging Consumers @ Work” (EC@W), that found workplace education and activation programs can increase worker participation in wellness programs by 21 percent or more – suggesting big dividends for employers who invest in these programs.
Designed for nurses and safe patient handling committee members, the articles were produced by portal sponsor Liko North America, which manufactures safe lifting equipment, to inform hospital employees about the importance of safe lifting in all aspects of patient care. The series details:
Selecting Lifts for Patients with Special Needs - Special needs patients, such as elderly, morbidly obese or orthopedic patients, require the correct lift or sling to safely move them throughout the hospital. This article explains the proper lift to use depending on the need of the patient.
Safe Lifting: The Assessment Imperative - This article reviews the general guidelines for safe patient handling and the importance of a routine assessment of ergonomic hazards and the patient’s functional ability, level of assistance and mental status.
Infection Control for Lifts and Slings - In order to ensure patient safety during the lifting process, it is important that lifts and slings are clean, decontaminated and disinfected. This article details the importance of infection control when using lifts and slings.
Safe Patient Handling Programs: How to Calculate Return on Investment - Implementing safe handling programs in hospitals not only reduces patient-handling injuries but also significantly cuts the direct and indirect costs that coincide with lifting injuries. This article explains how facility managers can calculate their ROI, which results in reducing expenses significantly.
For this trial, 322 "moderately obese" men and women (but mostly men) were randomized to one of three diets: low-fat, restricted calorie; Mediterranean, restricted calorie; or low-carb, non-restricted-calorie.
The Mediterranean diet had the most amounts of dietary fiber and also included lots of fruits and vegetables. All three regimens had similar calorie counts.
Over the next two years, an astounding 84.6 percent of participants stayed on their diets.
Mean weight loss for the low-fat group was 2.9 kilograms (4.8 pounds), 4.4 kg (9.7 pounds) for the Mediterranean group and 4.7 kg (10.3 pounds) for the low-carb group.
For the 272 participants who stayed on their diets, the mean weight loss was 3.3 kg (7.3 pounds), 4.6 kg (10.1 pounds) and 5.5 kg (12.1 pounds), respectively.
The low-carb regimen reduced the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL "good" cholesterol by 20 percent, while the low-fat one lowered the ratio by 12 percent.
The best change in lipids was seen in the low-carb group, with a 20 percent increase in HDL cholesterol and a 14 percent decrease in triglycerides.
The Mediterranean diet produced the most favorable changes in blood glucose and insulin levels among the 36 participants with diabetes. In this group of patients, the low-fat diet increased fasting glucose levels.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Ergonomic tips for Milwaukee
Stuck in one of the saddest hotels I have been in for a long time. Vaguely creepy, vomit in front of the stairwell this morning, no phone book or even one of the everpresent tourist guides to the area. But packing up and moving to a new hotel and having to pay again for a room, well unless a knight in shining armour shows up to rescue me from imminent squalor, I guess I am stuck. Business travel is alright, but tiring.
Ergo tips for travellers:
Take a pillow! hotel pillows often never quite right, and you can avoid neck pain with your own pillow. Get a suitcase with four wheels, you can push and pull it and save your arms from dragging it through airports and hotels, try pushing instead of pulling. Get a backpack or ergonomic case for your laptop and if you a purse user, get one with a wide strap. I have an Ameribag that keeps the weight of the purse on your back and shoulder not just your shoulder. (AAA has them)
Take a portable soft wrist rest (like IMAK ergobeads) it rolls up into the laptop case and laptop holder for working on your laptop.
Get a decent hotel room, not one where you are stepping over someones lost lunch. (will wait for knight to arrive and whisk me to a Hilton)
Ergo tips for travellers:
Take a pillow! hotel pillows often never quite right, and you can avoid neck pain with your own pillow. Get a suitcase with four wheels, you can push and pull it and save your arms from dragging it through airports and hotels, try pushing instead of pulling. Get a backpack or ergonomic case for your laptop and if you a purse user, get one with a wide strap. I have an Ameribag that keeps the weight of the purse on your back and shoulder not just your shoulder. (AAA has them)
Take a portable soft wrist rest (like IMAK ergobeads) it rolls up into the laptop case and laptop holder for working on your laptop.
Get a decent hotel room, not one where you are stepping over someones lost lunch. (will wait for knight to arrive and whisk me to a Hilton)
Friday, June 6, 2008
sometimes we need to recognize our own, Congratulations Tyler
05/30/08WELCOA Announces National Panel of Advisors for 2008-2009
Congratulations Tyler Hanley !
Tyler Hanley, CSCS Corporate Wellness Professional
ATI Physical Therapy (Romeoville, IL)
Mr. Hanley graduated from the University of Montana in 2005 with
a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Physiology. Immediately upon
graduation, he accepted a job with ATI Physical Therapy in Aurora, IL
as a work conditioning director and strength conditioning specialist.
Currently, he serves as a corporate wellness professional in the
Preventative Medicine Department where he has worked with a
variety of clients from a variety of industries. He is completing his
MBA in Health Informatics and Management from the University of
Illinois at Chicago. With a passion for helping others, Mr. Hanley has
devoted the past 3 years of his career to workplace wellness and
injury prevention.
Congratulations Tyler Hanley !
Tyler Hanley, CSCS Corporate Wellness Professional
ATI Physical Therapy (Romeoville, IL)
Mr. Hanley graduated from the University of Montana in 2005 with
a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Physiology. Immediately upon
graduation, he accepted a job with ATI Physical Therapy in Aurora, IL
as a work conditioning director and strength conditioning specialist.
Currently, he serves as a corporate wellness professional in the
Preventative Medicine Department where he has worked with a
variety of clients from a variety of industries. He is completing his
MBA in Health Informatics and Management from the University of
Illinois at Chicago. With a passion for helping others, Mr. Hanley has
devoted the past 3 years of his career to workplace wellness and
injury prevention.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
vision and ergonomics Protect your eyes
If you were Bifocals:
Bifocals are designed for reading at an approximate distance of 16 inches. The typical computer monitor is positioned 18 to 30 inches away from the user. Bifocals are angled downward for reading. Bifocal users must tilt their necks and heads in order to see the screen.
It is a good idea to lower the monitor so that the neck can remain in a neutral position while looking out of the glasses.
One other option would be to get a pair of glasses that are used solely for the computer.
Contact Lenses/dry eyes:
Individuals who wear contact lenses blink less than people who have normal vision or wear glasses. Contact wearers need to ensure they blink enough (average is 22 a minute, typically computer users and contact lens wearers about 6 to 10 times a minute)
Consider using use artificial tears to reduce eye irritation. NOTE: Do not use vasoconstrictors to reduce redness and irritation in the place of artificial tears.
Differences in Computer versus Printed Material:
Printed material is characterized by smooth, dense, black lines with edges that are well defined. Eyes focus to printed material differently than characters on the computer screen, because the characters on the computer screen fade out around the edges, or are fuzzier and irregular edges with pixels. The characters are the brightest in the middle and then fade out, so the eyes have difficulty focusing on them. Eyes can end up being fatigued and this can result in eyestrain.
VISION TIPS
Rest your eyes for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes at a minimum. ( the 20/20 rule!)
Change the distance of your focusing during rest periods. Look out the window at something 20 feet away or more.
Keep your screen clean with proper contrast.
For CRT users : Reduce glare on your screen by eliminating or reducing overhead, direct lighting or direct glare for windows. If you can see your own image in the monitor screen before it is turned on, reflections and indirect glare from the screen it may cause glare problems.
For LCD screen users, keep light levels around the screen as even as possible.
Monitor/Screen distance
Use the one third rule for distance to the monitor, put something on the screen you typically read every day, Move back as far away as you can and still see the text clearly. One third of that distance is your best viewing distance. (if less than 24 inches, consider changing glasses or enlarging font.
Unless you wear bifocals, the top of the monitor should come to approximately your mid forehead ( or in other words, the top of the viewing screen should be at eye level)
Bifocals are designed for reading at an approximate distance of 16 inches. The typical computer monitor is positioned 18 to 30 inches away from the user. Bifocals are angled downward for reading. Bifocal users must tilt their necks and heads in order to see the screen.
It is a good idea to lower the monitor so that the neck can remain in a neutral position while looking out of the glasses.
One other option would be to get a pair of glasses that are used solely for the computer.
Contact Lenses/dry eyes:
Individuals who wear contact lenses blink less than people who have normal vision or wear glasses. Contact wearers need to ensure they blink enough (average is 22 a minute, typically computer users and contact lens wearers about 6 to 10 times a minute)
Consider using use artificial tears to reduce eye irritation. NOTE: Do not use vasoconstrictors to reduce redness and irritation in the place of artificial tears.
Differences in Computer versus Printed Material:
Printed material is characterized by smooth, dense, black lines with edges that are well defined. Eyes focus to printed material differently than characters on the computer screen, because the characters on the computer screen fade out around the edges, or are fuzzier and irregular edges with pixels. The characters are the brightest in the middle and then fade out, so the eyes have difficulty focusing on them. Eyes can end up being fatigued and this can result in eyestrain.
VISION TIPS
Rest your eyes for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes at a minimum. ( the 20/20 rule!)
Change the distance of your focusing during rest periods. Look out the window at something 20 feet away or more.
Keep your screen clean with proper contrast.
For CRT users : Reduce glare on your screen by eliminating or reducing overhead, direct lighting or direct glare for windows. If you can see your own image in the monitor screen before it is turned on, reflections and indirect glare from the screen it may cause glare problems.
For LCD screen users, keep light levels around the screen as even as possible.
Monitor/Screen distance
Use the one third rule for distance to the monitor, put something on the screen you typically read every day, Move back as far away as you can and still see the text clearly. One third of that distance is your best viewing distance. (if less than 24 inches, consider changing glasses or enlarging font.
Unless you wear bifocals, the top of the monitor should come to approximately your mid forehead ( or in other words, the top of the viewing screen should be at eye level)
Monday, June 2, 2008
Tuva vacation
Ok, so knowing that no one will ever read this, I am keeping notes on where I want to go on vacation.
So far I am Thinking Kyzyl, Tuva. As a longtime fan on Dr. Feynman, I would somehow seem a worthwhile trek to make. I recall that there was a statue or some kind of sign dedicated to Dr. Feynman, in Tuva, but I can't find a picture of it online. If anyone actually reads this, tell me your vacation plans, any thoughts on Tuva? I have looked into the bus routes and flights from Moscow. I am not sure I want to risk flying in this area, Might be safer to do the train and bus.
So far I am Thinking Kyzyl, Tuva. As a longtime fan on Dr. Feynman, I would somehow seem a worthwhile trek to make. I recall that there was a statue or some kind of sign dedicated to Dr. Feynman, in Tuva, but I can't find a picture of it online. If anyone actually reads this, tell me your vacation plans, any thoughts on Tuva? I have looked into the bus routes and flights from Moscow. I am not sure I want to risk flying in this area, Might be safer to do the train and bus.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
ergonomics for hairstylists
OK, you have heard this all before, but after having my haircut today and watching the stylist standing with arms held out to shoulder level and up, they have got to have a lot of discomfort at the end of the day.
First make sure your scissors have a bend in them to avoid bending your own wrists. There are ergonomic scissors for stylists out there, invest in yourself and get them. Kenchii makes several some with a swivel, flex scissors is another brand.
Make sure between clients you take the time to do shoulder rolls and gentle stretches of your hands and arms.
I need to look good, so please you need to be comfortable cutting hair, and for pete's sake wear comfortable shoes.
First make sure your scissors have a bend in them to avoid bending your own wrists. There are ergonomic scissors for stylists out there, invest in yourself and get them. Kenchii makes several some with a swivel, flex scissors is another brand.
Make sure between clients you take the time to do shoulder rolls and gentle stretches of your hands and arms.
I need to look good, so please you need to be comfortable cutting hair, and for pete's sake wear comfortable shoes.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Monday's rant
I get a lot of questions about ergonomics, from engineers and healthcare professionals. Some from people who know ergonomics and others from people who just think they do.
I have no problem with the first, I learn alot from them and hope they can get something from me. the second group is a problem. Ergonomics is not a sub species of Medicine or Engineering. It pulls from mulitple fields including health care and engineering as well as pyschology, physics and other sciences.
There is a reason that it is a degree unto itself with credentialed providers. I see more than a few people who have had an evaluation and gotten poor advice that made problems worse.
If you need an ergonomic evaluation, get it from a reliable source and a reliable evaluator. You may not need the full services of a Certified Professional Ergonomist, but at the least make sure you have your evaluation done by someone with experience in the field. Who knows not only what your risk factors are, but what equipment is available and how to use it.
For Heaven's sake don't get cheap chairs.
I have no problem with the first, I learn alot from them and hope they can get something from me. the second group is a problem. Ergonomics is not a sub species of Medicine or Engineering. It pulls from mulitple fields including health care and engineering as well as pyschology, physics and other sciences.
There is a reason that it is a degree unto itself with credentialed providers. I see more than a few people who have had an evaluation and gotten poor advice that made problems worse.
If you need an ergonomic evaluation, get it from a reliable source and a reliable evaluator. You may not need the full services of a Certified Professional Ergonomist, but at the least make sure you have your evaluation done by someone with experience in the field. Who knows not only what your risk factors are, but what equipment is available and how to use it.
For Heaven's sake don't get cheap chairs.
Friday, May 16, 2008
TGIF Gardening ergonomic tips.
Friday, I still feel like crap, but it is an all paperwork day so I can avoid inflicting my irritability on anyone else.
For those of you looking ahead to gardening this weekend, here are some ways to get through the weekend without killing yourself. (first and foremost, wear gloves!)
USE WELL DESIGNED GARDENING GLOVES AND TOOLS
Tools
- Shorter tool handles provide greater leverage control (best for small hand tools).
- Longer tool handles provide greater power and are best for jobs which require full body motion (example: loppers or pruners).
- Handles should be cylindrical in shape.
- The shape of the handle should provide equal pressure along the entire arch of the palm (contoured, not straight).
- The handle should be made of compressed rubber to minimize friction.
- If your existing tools have wooden or metal handles, consider adding padded tape such as “Wrap N Grip” or pipe insulation foam.
- Handles should be 1.25” x 1.75” in diameter and a minimum of 5” long.
- The recommended maximum distance between two handles for tools with a handle span (example: pruners/shears) is 2” to 2.7”.
To Enjoy Gardening...
- Before you begin gardening, take a few minutes to stretch to help minimize muscle soreness and the risk of tendonitis. In particular, do stretches for your arms and back.
- Let your daily physical activity level serve as your guide for how long you can garden. For example, if you are physically active 1 hour a day, you should be able to garden an hour a day.
- Be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration while you are gardening.
- Even if you do not feel fatigued, take a break for a few minutes each hour.
- Change gardening tasks frequently (at least every 30 minutes). For example, if you are weeding and using the small muscles of your hands, rotate this task with watering the flowers, hoeing or trimming the shrubs where you are using larger muscles in a standing position.
- Be sure to keep hand tools sharp with a tool sharpener (i.e. honing stone).
- Keep tools with moving parts in good working order and oiled so there is little resistance with use.
Tools that I have seen that work ( I haven’t evaluated, personally, but have heard that they help, the arthritis association also has recommendations
Circle Hoe
Extend a hand
Padded handles and handles that aren’t straight
This website has a lot of them
http://www.cleanairgardening.com/gardentools.html
For those of you looking ahead to gardening this weekend, here are some ways to get through the weekend without killing yourself. (first and foremost, wear gloves!)
USE WELL DESIGNED GARDENING GLOVES AND TOOLS
Tools
- Shorter tool handles provide greater leverage control (best for small hand tools).
- Longer tool handles provide greater power and are best for jobs which require full body motion (example: loppers or pruners).
- Handles should be cylindrical in shape.
- The shape of the handle should provide equal pressure along the entire arch of the palm (contoured, not straight).
- The handle should be made of compressed rubber to minimize friction.
- If your existing tools have wooden or metal handles, consider adding padded tape such as “Wrap N Grip” or pipe insulation foam.
- Handles should be 1.25” x 1.75” in diameter and a minimum of 5” long.
- The recommended maximum distance between two handles for tools with a handle span (example: pruners/shears) is 2” to 2.7”.
To Enjoy Gardening...
- Before you begin gardening, take a few minutes to stretch to help minimize muscle soreness and the risk of tendonitis. In particular, do stretches for your arms and back.
- Let your daily physical activity level serve as your guide for how long you can garden. For example, if you are physically active 1 hour a day, you should be able to garden an hour a day.
- Be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration while you are gardening.
- Even if you do not feel fatigued, take a break for a few minutes each hour.
- Change gardening tasks frequently (at least every 30 minutes). For example, if you are weeding and using the small muscles of your hands, rotate this task with watering the flowers, hoeing or trimming the shrubs where you are using larger muscles in a standing position.
- Be sure to keep hand tools sharp with a tool sharpener (i.e. honing stone).
- Keep tools with moving parts in good working order and oiled so there is little resistance with use.
Tools that I have seen that work ( I haven’t evaluated, personally, but have heard that they help, the arthritis association also has recommendations
Circle Hoe
Extend a hand
Padded handles and handles that aren’t straight
This website has a lot of them
http://www.cleanairgardening.com/gardentools.html
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Spring cold
Nothing worse than a cold in the spring. Being sick fits in January and February, but it is somehow worse when the weather turns nice. I had read that ZiCam works to reduce the duration of colds, but only the if you use the ZiCam nasal swab, considering my nose seems to be moving at high speed to have liquids leave, I find it hard to believe that putting something in your nose will work. But, I am trying everything.
Recently read an article about allergens, and that allergies that you "grew out of" as a child can come back when you are older and super allergens may be a culprit. I have nothing to pass on in the way of ergonomics, but if you have a good cold remedy, let me know.
Check below, I have added and ergonomics news feed to the page.
Recently read an article about allergens, and that allergies that you "grew out of" as a child can come back when you are older and super allergens may be a culprit. I have nothing to pass on in the way of ergonomics, but if you have a good cold remedy, let me know.
Check below, I have added and ergonomics news feed to the page.
Monday, May 12, 2008
safe foot wear sneaker monday
Rainy Monday's are almost too cliche to mention, but a dreary day here. For those of you who need to get up and get to work in this weather (as do I) make sure your foot wear is appropriate. High heels are not good shoes for most weather but worse when it is wet. Shoes with flat soles and tread with circles ( not channels) are the safest. I am particulrly fond of skateboarding shoes as they grip well. Another source for shoes is shoes for crews. ( I will stick the link to them here later)
Ok ergokids, be safe walking leave the heels and leather soled shoes at home. It is sneaker Monday
Ok ergokids, be safe walking leave the heels and leather soled shoes at home. It is sneaker Monday
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Ergonomics and Driving
Today is Mother's day. If you are driving to mom's house today or driving mom to dinner, take the time to make your car seat comfortable.
Take the time to learn how to adjust your seat, steering wheel and mirrors
Adjust the drivers seat so your legs reach and compress the pedals comfortably, then raise the seat height so that your knees are slightly lower then your hips.
(get a cushion if you need it. it helps with vibration for long drives)
Then adjust the back of the seat so that where you curve in ( just above your butt at the small of your back is where the seat back curves out.
Adjust the steering column so that the middle of the steering wheel is about elbow height. (padding on steering wheel can reduce vibration) If posssible wrists and elbows should be as close to the same height as possible.
Adjust mirrors and put on seat belt, seat belt should be on the shoulder and not ride on your neck.
Fine tune the seat adjustments to ensure comfort.
Take the time to learn how to adjust your seat, steering wheel and mirrors
Adjust the drivers seat so your legs reach and compress the pedals comfortably, then raise the seat height so that your knees are slightly lower then your hips.
(get a cushion if you need it. it helps with vibration for long drives)
Then adjust the back of the seat so that where you curve in ( just above your butt at the small of your back is where the seat back curves out.
Adjust the steering column so that the middle of the steering wheel is about elbow height. (padding on steering wheel can reduce vibration) If posssible wrists and elbows should be as close to the same height as possible.
Adjust mirrors and put on seat belt, seat belt should be on the shoulder and not ride on your neck.
Fine tune the seat adjustments to ensure comfort.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Adjust your chair!
Let’s start with simple ergonomics for office workers. By now many people have heard about ergonomics and know to avoid bad postures and overuse.
But HOW to make your desk work for you is a horse of another colour.
Office workers who use a keyboard and mouse a lot.
Start with your chair. Get the height right ( Usually a lever on the right side of the seat)
Your elbows should be at the height of your work. Your feet should be on the floor ( or if you have to, use a foot rest. But get the kind that rock or have massage balls, something that moves so you don’t keep your feet in the same position all day.
Most of the people I see don’t adjust their chairs. Play with it! Find out if the seat slides in and out, does the back adjust?
· Use the 20/20 rule to take a stretch break every 20 minutes for 20 seconds
· Avoid forward flexion of the spine, as often as possible lean back and keep your back in good alignment.
o Keep your mouse close to the desk edge your elbow should be directly under your shoulder
o Keep your back supported by the chair back when keying or mousing.
o Avoid using your shoulder to cradle the phone
o Keep your arms rests lower than the desk edge and lower then elbow height
· Avoid twisting or turning to reach for items on the desk
But HOW to make your desk work for you is a horse of another colour.
Office workers who use a keyboard and mouse a lot.
Start with your chair. Get the height right ( Usually a lever on the right side of the seat)
Your elbows should be at the height of your work. Your feet should be on the floor ( or if you have to, use a foot rest. But get the kind that rock or have massage balls, something that moves so you don’t keep your feet in the same position all day.
Most of the people I see don’t adjust their chairs. Play with it! Find out if the seat slides in and out, does the back adjust?
· Use the 20/20 rule to take a stretch break every 20 minutes for 20 seconds
· Avoid forward flexion of the spine, as often as possible lean back and keep your back in good alignment.
o Keep your mouse close to the desk edge your elbow should be directly under your shoulder
o Keep your back supported by the chair back when keying or mousing.
o Avoid using your shoulder to cradle the phone
o Keep your arms rests lower than the desk edge and lower then elbow height
· Avoid twisting or turning to reach for items on the desk
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