Phosphorus Diagnostics: A Milestone for At-Home COVID-19 Testing

After thorough and intensive validation studies, Phosphorus, a New York City-based genomics firm, has been given the green light by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to proceed with saliva testing for COVID-19. This is the second at-home, unsupervised analysis of its kind approved by the FDA so far, featuring at-home sample collection. In light of this development from Phosphorus, the test has been made available online on their website, through health care facilities and employer partnerships who are on the forefront of resuming work with safe working conditions.

Testing Procedures

The saliva-based test has proven to be a better alternative to swab-based methods, which involve repetitive and tedious testing protocols.

Phosphorus has outlined effective protocols to be followed to acquire the test.
Choosing and ordering the test can be done on their website in a process that is friendly, confidential, and time-efficient.

Consumers will fill out a medical questionnaire to help the firm gather vital information regarding the dynamics of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
After ordering the test and filling out the medical questionnaire, an independent medical examiner will review this information and approve the need for a test kit.

Upon approval, a sample collection kit will be sent to the consumer’s home for saliva sample collection. Instructions for collecting the samples are included to avoid any possible cross-contamination. The sample is then shipped back to the laboratory for testing, with results available within 72 hours after the lab has received the samples.

Complying With Guidelines and Standards

From the protocols used to the procedures used for testing the samples in their laboratory, it is evident that Phosphorus has complied with all standards required for this pandemic. Initially, the FDA required a synthetic sample performance study with validations done by them. However, Phosphorus has done more than that since it has become one of the first to be issued an Emergency Use Authorization generated by conducting rigorous clinical agreement studies with the FDA.

According to the reports submitted to the Emergency Use Authorization authority (EUA), Phosphorus Diagnostics has fully adhered to the guidelines stipulated within the FDA regarding COVID-19. The tests and their accompanying procedures were developed at Phosphorus's CLIA laboratory in Secaucus, New Jersey. The firm then partnered with OraSure to provide them with the saliva collection devices.

Partnership With BioIQ

In addition, Phosphorus has collaborated with BioIQ, a health care and clinical assessment technology platform, to help Phosphorus Diagnostics with the logistics of the saliva test. This collaboration has led to the easy-to-use saliva collection kit and protocols observed in the transportation of the samples to the lab. It has also enabled BioIQ's digital platform for symptom assessment, contact tracing, and follow-up care. The fruits of this partnership have proven to be reliable and effective compared to orthodox methods of testing.

Safety First

By making it possible for consumers to collect samples at home, this method of testing enables the pinpointing of COVID-19 cases while limiting possible cross-infections through close contact between health care professionals and patients. As indicated by the administration at Phosphorus Genomics, this testing procedure will allow people to be tested in the comfort of their homes, no matter their location.

Phosphorus Is Certified and Approved

Phosphorus Genomics helps health facilities incorporate the technology of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for more effective and accurate results. Its laboratory is approved and certified by the CLIA and CAP to carry out its operations in every state in the USA. Lately, Phosphorus has shifted its focus to the current pandemic. Today, most of its expertise is geared toward the handling of COVID-19.

In a recent interview, Alexander Bisignano, the co-founder and CEO at Phosphorus, acknowledged the efforts of the FDA so far in their rapid response to this pandemic. He added that it is their utmost duty to help the country get back on its feet.

This is a guest blog entry.

Alzheimer’s Symptoms to Look Out for as You Age

 

Alzheimer’s is a devastating form of dementia that affects over five million Americans. When a person is living with Alzheimer’s, they can lose their memory and even their personality, which is tragic for both themselves and their loved ones. With an illness like this, it’s crucial to spot the signs as early as possible to receive an early diagnosis, which can improve the results from accessing healthcare. Here are some symptoms you should look out for in yourself or an elderly family member.
 

Forgetfulness
 

Forgetfulness is a common occurrence in many people no matter what their age, so don’t worry if you notice yourself forgetting little things like where you last put the TV remote. The time for concern is when forgetfulness interrupts life in a significant way and becomes a common occurrence. If you find that you or a loved one forgets many conversations or doesn’t show up for planned events because they don’t remember arranging them, it is a good idea to get checked out.
 

Changes in personality
 

One of the scariest parts of Alzheimer’s is the changes it makes to a person’s personality. Notable differences would include increased mood swings, loss of interest in what they usually love, and outbursts of anger. If someone is usually happy and down-to-earth, but they are suddenly much moodier and more stressed, then it is a sign that something could be wrong.
 

Slowing down
 

One of the signs of Alzheimer’s is performing daily tasks slower than usual. For example, someone who usually spends about 15 minutes getting dressed in the morning could end up spending half-an-hour to an hour. Of course, as people get older, their movements naturally get slower, but if there is a significant change, then it’s best to visit a doctor.
 

Getting lost
 

Getting lost is a sign of Alzheimer’s that can be terrifying for friends and family. If you or a loved one has shown up in an area with no recollection of how they got there or got lost where they previously knew the area well, then it is a sure sign that medical attention is needed. Symptoms like these can be dangerous, especially as you don’t know where they will end up, so senior housing would be an option to keep them safe and ensure they have the medical attention they need.
 

Language difficulties
 

Take notice if yourself or a loved one start getting words mixed up or forget common words entirely. For example, if they start struggling to remember words like ‘curtain’ or ‘television’, then you must consider seeking medical attention, as it could be a sign of Alzheimer’s.
 

Lessened interest
 

Losing interest in hobbies you used to enjoy can be a sign of numerous illnesses, including depression, but it can also be a symptom of Alzheimer’s. If you, or someone you know, no longer cares for activities they used to love, then it’s best to talk to someone about it and get to the root cause. 

Alzheimer’s is a debilitating and unforgiving disease, but if you spot the symptoms sooner and receive an early diagnosis, the chances at a better quality of life are much higher.

This is a guest blog entry.

2020 Guide to Personal Injury Cases

If you’ve been the victim of an accident that caused injury, it’s important to know what to expect. In order to bring a successful personal injury claim, there are some steps you need to follow and documentation you will need to gather. In 2020, a personal injury case may seem more daunting than ever, but if you arm yourself with the right information, you should feel much more comfortable with your case.

What to Know About Personal Injury Cases in New York

Personal injury cases are often complex, confusing, and stressful to deal with. If you’ve been injured in a personal injury case, the last thing you probably want to think about is legal proceedings, but it’s important to preserve your rights and get the money you deserve from the responsible parties to your injury.

A personal injury claim can be brought when you have been harmed due to someone else’s negligence. Personal injury cases may take a variety of forms, such as car accidents, slip and fall cases, animal bites, or medical malpractice.

Damages in personal injury cases are the money the responsible party pays you to compensate for expenses you have incurred due to the injury, along with compensation for your pain and suffering. Damages may be awarded for:

Medical Expenses

Anything you had to pay relating to medical treatment for your injury: surgery, hospitalization, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, etc.

Lost Wages

If you’ve had to miss work due to your injury, you can be compensated for the income you were unable to earn. Future lost wages can also be awarded if you will be unable to work in the future because you’ve been injured, due to either further recovery time or suffering permanent injury.

Pain and Suffering

You can be awarded money for your pain and suffering due to your injury and how it has changed your life.

Other Costs

If your property was damaged as a result of the incident, such as your car in a car accident, you should be able to include these expenses as part of your claim. Don’t forget additional costs like prescriptions that arose from your injury.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured

It is important to note that in New York, you have three years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Much of the time, this step won’t even be necessary to receive compensation for your injuries, although the threat of a lawsuit does help your case. Unless you have only very minor injuries, it is probably worth it to consult with New York attorneys regarding your case, as being represented by a personal injury attorney has been proven to lead to a better outcome for your case, both in your chances of getting settlement money and in the amount of money you are awarded.

Also be sure to seek medical attention immediately following your injury, as you will require official documentation to help prove the extent of your injuries.

How will COVID-19 affect your case?

In 2020, COVID-19 looms over everything, so naturally, you’ll probably be wondering how the pandemic might affect your case. The good news is your case won’t be delayed indefinitely, though you certainly might have to deal with some delays and changes, primarily that any court proceedings or negotiation attempts will most likely be done via online channels. Depending on your financial circumstances, and those of the defendant in your case, you may also feel increased pressure to settle, to either get a much-needed cash infusion for yourself or to avoid ending up with nothing should the defendant experience financial problems due to the pandemic.

This is a guest blog entry.

6 Health Benefits of Using a Stand-Up Walker

People often require mobility or support aid as they lose stability due to old age. Luckily, there are plenty of market options, including rollators, canes, and standard walkers, known to promote optimal mobility using traditional methods/technology.

Besides these more traditional options, buyers can also opt for alternatives that have entirely transformed seniors’ lives. A stand-up walker is one example of an optimized mobility device that grants users greater security and comfort than a standard walker while eliminating unnecessary wrist and neck strain.

If you feel fed up with archaic mobility aids, review these six major health benefits of stand-up walkers. With a few simple clicks or a quick trip to the store, you can enjoy this mobility aid’s confidence-boosting and posturing-improving effects. Don’t settle for traditional walkers that contort your body into pain-inducing positions. Upgrade your current mobility aid to a stand-up walker. 

Betters your posture

Seniors who use traditional walkers have to assume a back-contorting position. However, with an upright walker, you don’t have to bend your body forward. Note that failure to maintain proper posture when standing or walking poses health complications and risks. Prolonged slouching can cause joint pain, muscle pain, and low blood circulation.

Because upright walkers offer users mobility assistance without making them assume awkward and back-aching positions while walking and standing, you’ll likely notice reduced neck and wrist pain.

Additionally, the human body is designed to walk in an upright position, so it’s better to purchase a walker that doesn’t interfere with your posture. For instance, The Perfect Walker is ergonomically engineered to prevent back pain and hunching. Its padded elbow rests and adjustable height features work to distribute your weight across your shoulders and arms, allowing you to stand tall while walking.

Provides support

Besides helping you stay upright, an upright walker is built with comfortable armrests to support both the left and right sides. The armrests help to distribute weight evenly by relieving your arms from the responsibility of bearing your weight. This mobility aid also comes with a breathable backrest made of mesh to cushion your back muscles.

The lockable braking system also gives the user full control while moving around. While younger people can walk around for long periods without resting, senior citizens often need to take frequent breaks throughout, making the lockable brakes an essential feature. Once you arrive at your destination or tire after walking a significant amount of time, you can lock the back wheels and have a seat.

With these features at their disposal, users won’t have to keep your eyes peeled for park benches or other outdoor seating areas. Instead, owners of stand-up walkers can lock the brakes with a simple maneuver and rest in place. 

Boasts flexibility

Engineers designed the upright walker to function well in every situation, from indoor parties with leveled floors to outdoor events with uneven or rough terrain. The sizable rubber wheels ensure that you can maneuver various surfaces and arrive at your destination comfortably and in one piece. However, remember that you’ll have to practice using the walker to tread the hilly terrain and soil-heavy areas successfully.

As an additional benefit, you can also fold the upright walker to fit into a back seat or trunk, allowing you to transport the mobility device conveniently. Note that these walkers come in various sizes, which is why you’ll need to measure and record your trunk’s dimensions before purchasing the walker to ensure it will fit into the vehicle.

Improves self-esteem

With a stand-up walker, the user can confidently waltz around with a sense of self-sufficiency and the ability to move from one place to another without relying on a caregiver. When an individual with mobility impairments manages to complete different tasks, you’ll notice their self-esteem skyrockets overnight.

Additionally, an upright walker allows users to interact with their loved ones and communicate with others eye-to-eye. Unlike traditional walkers, your loved ones won’t feel the need to crouch down to talk to you.

Increases stability

When using a standard walker, you may suddenly lose balance or unexpectedly become fatigued. Instability impairs your independence and increases the risks of falling. Fortunately, the stand-up walker is equipped with state-of-the-art features that improve user comfort and stability, making those with mobility impairments feel more secure, confident, and stable.

Since you can adjust the settings on a stand-up walker, users can modify the mobility device’s height at-will, meaning this new-and-improved walker will adapt to your ever-changing physical needs. The unrivaled flexibility makes the stand-up walker ideal for seniors, injured individuals, chronically-ill patients, and disabled folks of all different health statuses and body sizes.

Accommodates changing Needs

Standard walkers increase slouching because they aren’t well-adjusted to suit a person’s needs, limiting your maneuverability. Since these walkers can’t be adjusted, they’re less beneficial to users, particularly those whose needs and mobility restrictions continuously change.

A lot of people require adjustable mobility aids to accommodate their declining state of health. Stand-up walkers have flexible features that facilitate customization, ensure user comfort, and conform to your evolving physical needs—bestowing this mobility aid with the title of most the most reliable walker. 

Conclusion

Considering the numerous benefits, stand-up walkers yield better results than standard walkers. They are designed to facilitate effortless movement for individuals with mobility restrictions. Therefore, when shopping for a walker for yourself or a loved one, consider the stand-up walker.

This is a guest blog entry.

5 Health Benefits of Using an Adjustable Bed for Seniors

When most people think of adjustable beds, they initially visualize a patient admitted to a hospital, increasing their bed’s incline to snack on some cafeteria Jello. Notwithstanding popular opinion, adjustable beds can benefit those with mobility restrictions or chronic health conditions. These models are also valuable for seniors with chronic pain or mobility issues.

Typically, as people age, their body experiences rapid transformations, including lowered oxygen levels, decreased bone density, and muscle strength. These dramatic changes can inconvenience and affect the quality of life for seniors over sixty. These seniors’ mobility can worsen over time if deprived of a quality night’s sleep.

Attaining a good night's sleep means owning a comfortable bed conducive to eight hours of uninterrupted slumber. That’s where an adjustable bed comes to the rescue. Here are five benefits you can expect after purchasing an adjustable bed for seniors.

Helps relieve chronic pain

One of the most important benefits of an adjustable bed is that it helps reduce chronic pain. Designed with advanced features, adjustable bed owners can recline into a position suitable for their sleeping needs. When seniors, specifically those with chronic diseases, sit or sleep in a comfortable position, the pain arising from conditions such as arthritis and sciatica will subside.

If you're wondering how the adjustable bed works, it is essential to note that you can control your position with just a touch of a button. You can visit the My UpBed website to learn more about these state-of-the-art bed models.

That said, if you experience severe chronic pain, you can schedule an appointment with your physicians for medical advice that can steer you in the direction of pain relief. Whether the situation requires physical therapy or surgery with lengthy recovery times, these medical professionals can help your elderly loved ones lead pain-free lifestyles and enjoy a high quality of life. 

Promotes a comfortable resting and sleeping position

Seniors with back pain or other chronic pain need a comfortable place to rest or sleep. However, snuggling into a spine-aligning position often poses a challenge for many sleepers. Although support cushions can help to some extent, it's neither an ideal nor long-lasting solution. The good news is that adjustable beds bridge this gap by enabling a person to rest and sleep in a comfortable position based on their preferred sleep style, mobility restrictions, and chronic conditions.

Moreover, through the touch of a button, you can raise your head and shoulders whenever you want to eat or watch television. Similarly, you can lower the bed to your preferred height. The bottom line is that adjustable beds can change settings to suit your specific needs.

Boosts blood circulation

As a person gets older, they may lack the ability to move around freely due to poor blood circulation. Almost all seniors suffer from varicose veins and ulcerated legs caused by prolonged bed rest periods.

While exercising can help reduce this problem, routine cardio isn’t possible for disabled individuals with a limited range of motion. A simple solution to this problem is boosting blood circulation by raising the lower body above the heart. With an adjustable bed, this position is simple to achieve. With a simple push of a button, you can raise the lower portion of your bed with ease. 

Helps reduce the severity of snoring

Breathing problems can prevent an individual from benefitting from a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, snoring occurs when a sleeper is lying flat, forcing the neck to exert unwanted pressure on the windpipe, thereby closing it.

As a result, air cannot move through the windpipe to the lungs effortlessly, so a person produces a snoring sound. In the long-term, this windpipe-straining sleeping position could lead to breathing difficulties, preventing an individual from enjoying quality sleep.

Fortunately, the adjustable bed allows you to raise yourself into a preferred position and prevent tension typically applied on the neck, which can inflict too much pressure on the trachea. When propped into this nearly-inverted position, you’ll rest comfortably and peacefully throughout the night and wake up feeling refreshed. 

Reduces acid reflux

Most people tend to eat before retiring to bed. Sadly, sleeping in a flat position can inhibit the food from traveling through the esophagus, causing an acid pool. As food collects and obstructs the esophagus, it triggers stomach acid build-up, resulting in indigestion, heartburn, and even acid reflux disease.

 If you or a senior,you know, have been diagnosed with acid reflux, you may need to consider an adjustable bed to help prevent stomach acid that rises in the esophagus. Keep in mind, when you elevate your head up five inches or more, stomach acids will be barred from traveling upwards.

While some people may settle for a pillow to help elevate the head, this method isn’t nearly as reliable as it can slip and slide as you toss and turn. In a pinch, pillows tucked under your neck will suffice. However, those elderly sleepers searching for long-term solutions should turn to adjustable beds when addressing their sleep-related woes. 

Conclusion

Though an adjustable bed will involve a higher initial cost, this purchase will be well worth the investment when you rest soundlessly throughout the night and wake up ache-free. Unlike other beds on the market, an adjustable bed offers you the flexibility you need and allows you to adjust select portions of the mattress or the entirety of your sleeping surface.

Remember, mattresses aren’t a one-size-fits-all product. Tailor your bed to your unique sleeping needs.

This is a guest blog entry.

Basic Pandemic Protections: What You Should Know

Despite some states opening back up and students returning to school, the pandemic rages on. As of October 1, the US has had over 7.3 million cases of COVID-19 and many states are seeing upticks in their numbers.  

The good news is that there are things we can do to protect ourselves, such as maintaining social distance, wearing a mask, and washing hands often. With some diligence and a few sacrifices, you can keep yourself and your family safe from the virus. 

Read on to learn more about basic safety precautions you should be taking. 

Wash Your Hands Often

Wash your hands as often as possible. Use warm water and soap and wash for at least 20 seconds any time you are out in public and return home and in the following situations:

• You cough, sneeze, or blow your nose
• You use the restroom
• Before preparing or eating food
• Before you touch your face
• After coming in contact with another person (especially if they are ill)
  

If you can't wash your hands, make sure you use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol until you can wash them properly.

Wear a Mask

Any time you are around others in public, you should wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose. Masks should have multiple layers of material and should not have valves. The mask isn't a substitute for social distancing, though, so you should still maintain an appropriate distance from others even if you are wearing a mask.

Basic PPE kits should include masks, hand sanitizer, face shields, and even rubber gloves if they are used properly.

Monitor Your Health Daily 

You should be alert for any symptoms of the virus on a daily basis, especially if you are leaving the house. If you have symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Loss of taste or smell
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea 
  

If any of these symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider and consider avoiding public places. 

Maintain Social Distance

Any time you are in public, maintain proper social distance, which is 6 feet. Adhere to signs and marks on the floor in grocery stores, restaurants, etc. to allow enough space between people. If you are in contact with anyone who is at high risk, this is especially important. 

If anyone in your house gets sick, try to stay away from them as much as possible. If you can, have them isolated in a bedroom or area of the house away from others and have them use a separate bathroom that is cleaned and disinfected regularly.

  
Clean and Disinfect Properly 

High-touch surfaces, such as tables, doorknobs, countertops, door handles, light switches, faucets, phones, remote controls, keyboards, touchpads, etc. should all be cleaned and disinfected daily, or more often if necessary. 

If the surfaces are dirty, clean them first and then disinfect. Be sure to follow proper guidelines for disinfection.

Protect Yourself and Your Family During the Pandemic 

Basic precautions and a commitment to avoiding unnecessary outings are the key to staying healthy during the pandemic. Be smart, take recommendations from credible sources, and do your part to keep others safe and healthy as well. 

Our blog has many other helpful articles on health, keeping yourself safe, and getting involved in the medical field. Before you go, take a look around at some of our other blog posts.
 

This is a guest blog entry.

8 Medical Supplies That Every Home Should Have In Case of Emergencies

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/TxP9AeN-WA0

Having a fully-stocked emergency kit in your home is very important. You need to invest in having all the necessary supplies and learning how to use them.

This will help you administer first aid to your loved ones when the need arises and also monitor your health as required.

Assuming that won’t need to administer first aid at some point would be incorrect. Take the necessary steps to ensure that you are fully prepared and well educated.

If you are wondering which medical supplies you should invest in. Here are a few for you to consider.

Quality Face Masks

When tending to a sick family member, you need to remember to protect yourself too. Face masks are meant to prevent any contamination. They will also help you avoid contracting any communicable diseases as you administer first aid.

Be sure to get quality face masks that are of medical standards to ensure you are protected. Consult with the HisoMedical company to get the best quality protective wear.

Well-Stocked First Aid Kit

Having a kit with everything needed to administer first aid to someone who’s sick is very important. The Red Cross recommends that you get a first aid kit for both your home and car.

It is also important to include emergency numbers and any medication that can ease pain in the kit. When you invest in a first aid kit you’ll need to check it regularly to know what needs to be replaced.

You should also pay attention to the expiration dates to avoid using anything that would aggravate the situation. As you get your first aid kit you need to make sure that it has all the tools that are needed.

The Red Cross organization recommends a few essential things that should be included in every first aid kit. Take a look at them and make sure you have everything mentioned.

A Sphygmomanometer

Keeping tabs on your blood pressure makes all the difference. It is important to constantly check your levels to ensure that you get treatment on time. With the unpredictability of hypertension, constant use of this device will save you from being admitted to the I.C.U.

It will help you make better decisions and learn what is working and what isn’t as you work toward getting better. Having this device at home will also help you save time. You won’t have to constantly go to your doctor to get your readings.

However, you should make sure that you are well informed about how to take accurate blood pressure readings.

A Thermometer
Fever spikes are one of the most common signs of illness. However, just feeling someone’s temperature is not an accurate way to determine whether they need medical attention.

This is why you need to invest in a quality and accurate thermometer. The thermometer readings will help you determine how bad the situation is.

You can then make an informed decision and take the appropriate steps toward getting better.

Witch Hazel and Calamine Lotion

If you need to address any skin issues, then these two are the products you should have on hand. Witch hazel features a natural astringent and an anti-inflammatory property that allows it to treat diaper rashes, bruising, and itching.

Calamine lotion comes with anti-itch properties that help soothe the skin and ease irritation. It is best used to treat sunburns, eczema, chicken pox, and bee stings.

Having these two in your house will help you attend to such skin issues without having to go to the doctor. However, if the issues persist you should consult with your doctor to get a better solution.  

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide contains antiseptic properties that help prevent infections on minor cuts and burns. When using it on the skin, be sure to clean the affected area first then apply the hydrogen peroxide. Pay attention to your doctor’s instructions while using this product.

Eye Wash and Protective Wear

The eyes are the most neglected parts of the body. However, when you get an eye infection, you must pay attention to making it better.

You can do this by using an eyewash that will help ease the pain and reduce any inflammation. The eyewash will help you get rid of any unwanted things in your eye that may be contributing to your infection.

Having eye pads will help keep your eye clean and reduce discomfort caused by light. This will help your eye heal faster.

A Weighing Scale

One of the most rewarding benefits of working out is the effects and improvement of your health. Tracking your weight is a great way to keep up with your progress.

However, if you notice a rapid drop in your weight, this can be an indication that all is not well. This is why you need to have a weighing scale at home. You’ll get to seek help at the appropriate time before things get out of control.

Conclusion

Investing in your health involves keeping tabs on your progress and having the necessary tools and know-how when things deteriorate.

Knowing this, you should be prepared to take the necessary steps to equip your home with the supplies that you’ll need.

Always remember that first aid is only effective if you consult your doctor afterward. This will help you avoid any complications that can easily be addressed by your doctor.

This is a guest blog entry.

How To Distinguish Between A Good Cook And A Bad Cook

Currently, many of those who are reading this article are entering a phase in their lives where they are required to be able to really cook food, rather than just mix water with this or that powder. Because of the lack of practice, many of you are completely unable to cope with it.

At least, I couldn't. However, over the past two years I have devoted myself entirely to cooking - not only because I am insatiable and completely devoid of willpower and self-control, but mostly because cooking is a great way to relieve accumulated stress. Having cooked a huge number of more and more appetizing dishes each time, having heard Gordon Ramsey scream "idiot" at people in white aprons hundreds of times, I found the main mistake of beginners and unskilled cooks.

Bad cook is too quick to slice meat

What do beginner chefs usually do:
You have spent half an hour preparing a perfect dish, and your stomach is already rumbling impatiently. The smell is so strong that you can't resist it, and you can't wait any longer, because you can control yourself no better than a 4-month-old puppy. So, you take the meat out of the oven, and thank God it's finally ready. You start cutting it, and the meat juice is flowing all over the place. This is a good sign. The juicy meat is delicious. But when you bite off a piece and you realize that something is wrong.

How can meat be so dry when brown juice has just oozed out of it? That's the problem. All of the juice is now on your plate, not in the meat. You couldn't wait for the meat to "rest" before slicing it.

Why shouldn't you do it?

When meat is heated during cooking, the juice inside starts to "boil" from inside to outside. In fact, as the meat is being cooked, the muscle cells contract, pushing the juices out. That's why when you put a dry piece of meat in the oven, by the end of cooking, a small puddle of juice is formed underneath it - and it's not drowned fat at all.

When you take the meat out of the oven, the juices inside continue to boil for a few more minutes. The residual heat from the surface of the meat must be balanced by the less hot middle of the piece, so that the middle of the piece heats up while the surface cools down. This is very important to know, because while the meat is resting, the process of balancing the temperature reaches its peak, and only then the whole piece of meat starts to cool down - now muscle cells begin to relax, turning into a kind of sponge and pulling back the liquid they had previously given.

If you start slicing meat before it has rested and absorbed moisture, you deprive it of juice, making it drier than if you leave it to rest for a few minutes. A good rule in this case is to leave the fried piece of meat for 15-20 minutes on the off stove, where it is still warm but not hot anymore. Or cover it with foil so that it does not cool down sharply. Small pieces of meat - steaks or chicken - take 5 to 10 minutes.

This is s a guest blog entry.

Paying for Medical School Without Going Bankrupt

You might have been dreaming of becoming a doctor your whole life, but you may not have thought about how much medical school can cost. To afford the often steep prices, it’s important to know how to pay for your education without going bankrupt. The trick is to know where to look. 

Consider Taking Out Private Student Loans

Even if you get financial aid and scholarships from your school, you may not have enough to cover the cost of education. That’s when you may want to consider private student loans. Unlike federal loans, which the government regulates, private loans are issued by other lenders. Depending on who offers the loan, the repayment terms, eligibility requirements, and interest rates might vary. Private loans might have higher borrowing rates, so they can cover the remaining expenses after scholarships and other aid is taken into account. Depending on the lender, you might get a lower interest rate than federal loans offer. You’ll likely need to pass a credit check to qualify, and with some, you’ll need a cosigner. 

Look for Local Scholarships 

When you think of scholarships, you may think about undergraduate programs. But as a medical student, you still have plenty of options open. No matter where you are in the process, whether going to a residency or being an undergraduate pre-med student. Many scholarships are based on merit, so pay attention to your grades. Look up scholarships that aren't related to medicine as well. You might get something based on your outside interests, volunteer work, or even heritage. Even if you just get a few hundred dollars from each, they can add up if you get enough. 

Consider Federal Financial Aid

It’s a good idea to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You likely did this for your undergraduate education, but even in medical school, it’s an important step in getting financial aid for your medical education. The application is used to determine the amount of aid you can get based on need. Even if you haven’t gotten accepted by one school, you should still start your FAFSA to get as much aid as you can. They might offer you a federal loan, but there are limits on what you can borrow, and it might not cover everything. Filling out the FAFSA now is the same as when you did it for your undergraduate education. Just see if certain schools have deadlines. Even as a young adult, you might need a parent to fill out the form, so do your research as soon as you can to give yourself plenty of time to get the paperwork in order.

Look for Service Programs

The military and government both offer service programs. In exchange for working for a certain time for them, you can have all or some of your costs covered. For instance, you might work for a couple of years in an underserved community. Or you might commit to serving in the armed forces in exchange for fees and tuition getting covered.

This is a guest blog entry.

Try Out These Amazing CBD Drinks This Winter

CBD is a compound that has massive benefits in our bodies, and the research that is being done every day about this product continues to prove other incredible benefits CBD gives us.

For starters, it plays a huge role in killing free radicals in the body, which usually cause some types of cancers. It is also an essential product in preventing cardiovascular diseases, giving us healthy hearts, and it also helps control neurological disorders.

CBD is also helpful in alleviating pain due to inflammatory diseases like arthritis because of its excellent anti-inflammatory benefits. Moreover, it also helps us get smooth and healthy skin by reducing skin diseases like acne.

Due to the significant benefits of the use of CBD related products, more governments across the world are slowly embracing and allowing products that are made from hemp to be used.

The medical benefits that hemp products have had on patients over the years have been outstanding, and many doctors are surprised by what products made from hemp can do. During this cold season, there are some great CBD drinks you can use for therapeutic benefits, and we have outlined them in this piece.

• CBD Tea

CBD tea has excellent calming effects, which is making it to be used massively across the globe. Surprisingly, this tea has existed for a very long time, and it was mainly used in traditional medicine in treating various diseases.

It is a fantastic drink, and it would fit perfectly for the cold season. If you want to purchase hemp material for making CBD tea, you should research the shops that offer this product by searching online and comparing them. 

Some shops offer discounts on products made from hemp so that people continue buying from them, which is impressive.

When you prepare the CBD tea, you should start by drying the hemp material you have bought before mixing it with hot water.

While this is the right way of making CBD tea, the hot water cannot extract all the useful elements from the hemp, but the tea is still helpful in performing essential functions.

CBD tea is a strong anti-inflammatory, and it helps patients who are suffering from inflammatory diseases because it alleviates their pain. It also helps in healing infections that are caused by bacteria and fungi. 

Moreover, due to its relaxing nature, it is exceptionally helpful in treating anxiety and depression disorders. Anxiety makes you restless, and you may end up hurting yourself or the people around you.

But when you drink the CBD tea, it immediately calms you down, enabling you to concentrate and relax.

• CBD Latte 

While most latte products are made from steamed milk and espresso, it is also possible to make a latte using hemp extracts. Generally, CBD latte has many benefits compared to the coffee made with milk and espresso.

When you drink a cup of CBD latte, you are likely to experience some positive effects on your body. For starters, if you had a terrible headache that made you feel nauseous, the feeling stops after you take a CBD latte.

 It also stops the shaking that we experience during winter because of the low temperatures during this time. Moreover, CBD latte is safe to drink because it does not have any adverse side effects on your emotions or body in general. 

 You will not experience side effects like recurring anxiety attacks, for instance. Remarkably, the CBD latte gives you a feeling of relaxation like no other, enabling you to have balance in whatever you were doing. It also helps boost your energy and overall mood. 

When you are making a latte drink, you have to choose a milk source first. You can use hemp milk that is already made, or you can create one by yourself. If you decide to make the hemp milk by yourself, mix your milk the raw seeds, and you should also add honey and sea salt to it.

You can also use the hemp seeds without milk by using water and a vanilla sweetener. Ideally, the favor should be according to your preference. You can choose vanilla, honey, salt, or any other sweetener you think would be appropriate. 

By the way, if you’ll be trying out all these drinks, why not order a higher quantity from https://mrhempflower.com/wholesale and get wholesale rates? Pretty neat right?

• Hot Chocolate or Strawberry CBD Smoothie

While many chocolate drinks are not always healthy, a creamy chocolate CBD smoothie is very beneficial, especially during the winter season. The CBD chocolate drink is refined to remove all the unhealthy elements that chocolate drinks have.

It does not contain sugar, gluten, oil, or soy, but it includes vegan to enhance its nutrient level. Moreover, making a CBD chocolate smoothie is also as simple and easy as you like.

You have to mix all the ingredients, including hemp seeds, cinnamon, almond milk, Medjool dates, and cocoa powder in a blender until they become smooth. 

Alternatively, if you don’t like chocolate flavors, there is also the strawberry CBD smoothie that got you covered. It is also refined to remove all the harmful components.

As such, it is made of a thick frozen strawberry that gives you a creamy ice texture, without necessarily using ice cream like the conventional milkshakes.

Indeed, drinks that are made from CBD have some outstanding benefits to anyone using them. They have high-levels of essential nutrients, fibers, and fatty acids that are exceptionally beneficial to us. 

Moreover, while hemp is a plant based-source, it has proteins, containing all the essential amino acids that our bodies require. In truth, it is time that all countries around the globe legalized the use of hemp products because of its remarkable health benefits.

This is a guest blog entry.

What Are the Most Popular Medical Jobs?

 

As COVID-19 continues to wreak havoc on our physical and financial health, the healthcare industry has become the most popular and rapidly growing sector in the world. If you're looking for a fulfilling and rewarding career path, consider applying for a health care job in your area.

For those applicants seeking generous compensation and ample advancement opportunities, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the medical industry will experience 18 percent job growth within the next few years. Unlike other industries, the healthcare sector remains insulated from the effects of crashing job markets that may result from coronavirus and related quarantine procedures.

Despite popular misconceptions, a medical job doesn’t require ten years of medical training under your belt or an “M.D.” alongside your name. The healthcare sector offers several job opportunities that require different certifications, skill sets, and levels of experience. So, if you’re passionate about caring for others, here’s a list of the four most popular medical jobs you should consider during your job hunt. 

Registered nurse

 
A registered nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who assists doctors with patient care. These healthcare professionals often work with physician offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, recording crucial patient information and administering medication.

Suppose a certified RN prefers to avoid restrictive work schedules. In that case, they can opt to work as traveling CNA nurses and travel to cross-country or international locations to offer the needed medical services. With generous food stipends, travel reimbursement programs, and free private housing, you can explore exotic locations while pursuing a healthcare career.

To qualify as a registered nurse, you’ll need to complete a bachelor's degree or earn an associate’s degree. You also must have a state nursing license.

After meeting these prerequisites and securing employment, you’ll be responsible for monitoring patient health, completing the necessary documentation, providing emergency care, and overseeing patient administration. Despite the high-stress work environment and long hours, you’ll enjoy a generous salary or hourly compensation while climbing the ladder and building your expertise. 

Physician

By definition, physicians are medical practitioners required to attend to various patient needs. These professionals include gynecologists, neurologists, obstetricians, primary care providers, dermatologists, and ER doctors.

Physicians fall into two basic categories: Doctors of Osteopathy and Doctors of Medicine. Although you can separate these healthcare professionals into two brackets, both Doctors of Osteopathy and Doctors of Medicine generally perform the same job duties, which involve diagnosing and treating patients for a range of medical problems.

Pharmacist

If you’re willing to dedicate six years of your life to your education, a pharmacist position is another excellent medical job you can consider. While many of us interact with a pharmacy team on a monthly or even weekly basis, you may be unfamiliar with a pharmacist’s relevant job duties.  Briefly summarized, a pharmacist is a licensed professional who provides patients with critical medical information and medications.

These healthcare professionals fill medication prescriptions and direct patients on how to take them. Pharmacists also explain the potential side effects of the drugs prescribed and recommend a course of action if patients experience adverse effects. Additionally, pharmacists help patients by determining if a particular medication reacts negatively with current medications and health conditions. Not to mention, they can administer immunizations.

Most of these professionals work for pharmaceutical companies, universities, or local pharmacies. Most full-time pharmacists should plan to work 40+ workweeks. 

Dentist

Dentists play a significant role in ensuring patients' teeth are healthy and not causing discomfort. Primarily, dentists assess and treat a range of problems involving teeth, mouth, and gum health. Often, a dentist’s job duties also include filling cavities, fitting dentures, and whitening teeth.

As a dentist, you can choose to specialize in treating severe oral diseases, performing oral surgery, or straightening teeth. These healthcare professionals often recruit dental assistants and dental hygienists to help clean patients' teeth, maintain patient records, and sterilize instruments. If you aren’t willing to undergo six to eight years of dental training, you can research dental hygienist and dental assistant positions in your area. 

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners are healthcare professionals who provide advanced care services. Some consider nurse practitioners to be advanced RNs with additional responsibilities, including examining patients, providing treatment, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, ordering patient tests, and analyzing results. Unlike registered nurses, the duties of a nurse practitioner resemble those of a doctor.

With training to perform health care services like examining and treating chronic conditions and acute illness, these healthcare professionals often qualify for $89,000 to $130,000 yearly salaries. Nurse practitioners can choose to specialize in pediatric health, geriatric health, and mental health. Those interested may want to specialize in patient populations, where they train to work in different areas such as pediatrics and women's health. 

Conclusion

 
With the job market susceptible to yet another crash, secure employment in an industry with unrivaled job security and incredible benefits packages. If you aren’t interested in applying for medical school and are currently looking for positions with minimal schooling requirements, be sure to research openings for nursing assistant positions, medical assistant positions, and pharmacy technician positions.

This is a guest blog entry.

Why Breathing Exercises Are Crucial to Your Well-being

Breathing is something we do without thinking. It is also true, even when we don’t breathe right. When we are facing stress and anxiety, the way we breathe changes. However, it is not what we notice. We only know that we are not feeling well. From there, stress can take over and cause a litany of problems. That’s unless you learn the right techniques to breathe.

Be Aware of the Way You Breathe

If you want your life to be better, physically and mentally, you should take the time to check on your breathing every day. It is an action you should integrate into your daily routine so that you can act upon it, if there is a problem with it. Are you breathing too fast? Are you breathing at all or only sporadically? Then you need to learn breathing exercises for anxiety. Why: Because not breathing right is the source of many other health issues you may have.

The fact is, so many health problems can be solved through breathing. It can reduce blood pressure and even help with many chronic diseases. Breathing right is like eating right. If you eat junk food all the time or simply too much, it will have a direct effect on your body. You may have digestive problems and become overweight. Breathing is the same; if you don’t breath right, you will have cardiovascular issues which can cause a multitude of other sicknesses.

Breathing Exercises: Not Only for People with Lung Disorders

People suffering from asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have to do breathing exercise to make themselves better. But an MD specializing in asthma and allergy in New York City (Dr. Payel Gupta ) believes that everyone would benefit by doing so. He says that people with healthy lungs often forget to pay attention to the way they breathe and it can cause them various cardiovascular problems. Breathing right improves the blood flow and blood pressure. He confirms that it also alleviates stress and that it helps with cognitive functions.

For Those with Ongoing Problems

If you find yourself trying to catch your breath, you should consult a specialist. If they find a lung problem, they will suggest exercises you can do to keep them in the best shape possible. Though it is true that you cannot regain what you have lost, because of a disease that affected your lungs, you can still maximize what you have. It might be more than what people with normal lungs do, when they are not breathing right.

This is a guest blog entry.

Basic Medical Life-Saving Procedures Everyone Should Learn

https://pixabay.com/photos/emergency-cardiac-rescue-3016877/

Life is unpredictable and emergencies can happen at any time. When it comes to health, people usually only prepare with various health insurance plans. Medical emergencies can be the most difficult to handle as many people are often unprepared for them. There might be times when a call to 911 will not be enough and someone might have to intervene immediately to help the person in distress. The situation can easily become overwhelming due to stress and panic of not knowing what to do, especially if it’s your child. In order to avoid being unable to provide help, it is best to be prepared and learn some basic medical life-saving procedures.

Here is a list of the most common and useful medical procedures that everyone should know and learn.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

 
CPR is one of the most important procedures that you should learn. This procedure is performed when a person goes into cardiac arrest (when a person’s heart suddenly stops beating). It is a life-threatening condition, and if CPR is not performed immediately, it can result in brain damage or even death of the individual. CPR involves compressing the chest consistently and repeatedly to pump blood to the vital organs. The procedure can be learned best at an institute like Lifesaver Education where you can get certified for CPR and AED.

Heimlich Maneuver

 
The Heimlich maneuver is the recommended procedure to perform when someone is choking. It dislodges whatever was blocking the person’s windpipe. You should wrap your arms from behind around the person who is choking, clasp your hands together and then perform multiple upward thrusts towards the person’s belly button until the object causing the choking dislodges. Bear in mind that this way of administering the maneuver is recommended for adults only. There is a different procedure for when a child is choking.

Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)

 
Automatic External Defibrillator or AED is a machine consisting of two electric paddles that are used to restart a heart and bring it back to a normal rhythm after cardiac arrest. It is vital to check for lack of pulse in the person you suspect is suffering cardiac arrest before using an AED on them. Many public places such as malls, restaurants, stores and more have AED available. It is recommended to get training on how to use an AED.

Signs of a Stroke

 
It is important to know the signs of a stroke so that you can help the person in distress immediately. The symptoms of a stroke can be subtle and differ from person to person. Common signs are headaches, disorientation, sudden numbness, difficulty walking, trouble seeing out of both eyes, body drooping on one side, difficulty speaking and weakness of the face. “FAST”, an acronym for Face, Arms, Speech and Time, is a quick way to assess someone for all the mentioned symptoms and determine if they are having a stroke.
 
In any medical emergency, emergency services should be called as soon as possible so that the individual in need receives proper medical help quickly. Medical emergencies are terrifying, but if you are prepared for them, you can help those in distress and potentially reduce further health complications.

This is a guest blog entry.