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12 Ways to Reduce Your Risk For Breast Cancer

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Story at a Glance Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. There are factors you can’t control, such as heredity links or breast density. However, today’s article provides 12 different ways you can minimize your risk of breast cancer. All of them are things you can control and incorporate into your lifestyle.

Twenty years ago, three friends of mine, Jean, Penny, and Cindy. went in for their annual mammogram. All of them were in their mid-forties, had no history of breast cancer in their families and expected normal screenings. But instead of the pink envelope in the mail they usually got announcing clean bills of breast health, they got phone calls instead. Each needed a second screening and then a biopsy. All three met with their respective physicians and were given the news all women dread. “You have breast cancer.”

All of their stories have a happy ending, although it wasn’t easy getting there. They underwent chemo and radiation therapies, and Penny opted for a full mastectomy as an extra precaution. When asked why, she said, “It’s more important that I’m here to witness my children’s milestones and their children’s milestones than anything else in the world. It wasn’t that much of a sacrifice. An adjustment, yes. But not a sacrifice.”

Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 1 in 8 women is affected by the disease. As high as those numbers appear, it’s not all bad news. Fewer women are getting and dying from breast cancer than ever before. “Cancer is not an inevitability. Women have more control over the disease than they think,” says Margaret I. Cuomo, MD, author of A World Without Cancer. “Everything we do from the moment we wake—from what we eat and drink to whether or not we exercise and avoid BPA, parabens, and other carcinogenic chemicals—is a factor that can turn on or off the genetic switches in our bodies, including ones that could lead to cancer. The risk of many cancers, including breast cancer, can be significantly reduced by living a healthy lifestyle.” (You can watch an interview with Dr. Cuomo here.)

Unfortunately, the most significant risk for breast cancer is being a woman—but taking specific measures can reduce your chances of developing the disease. While some factors, such as age, aren’t within your control, other factors are well within your reach to manage. What follows are 12 ways you can reduce your risk of breast cancer.

1.  Manage your weight

If you are overweight or considered obese, your risk for breast cancer increases. An American Cancer Society (ACS) study found that women who gain 21 to 30 pounds after the age of 18 were 40% more likely to develop breast cancer than those who gain five pounds or less. While the 10,000 steps a day recommended by nearly all fitness devices sounds like a lot, studies have shown that walking 10,000 steps a day (about 5 miles) is a reasonable and consistent way to approach weight loss.

2. Step it up

Physical activity is tied to managing weight. Exercise is particularly important as you grow older and your metabolism slows. The Department of Health and Human Services and The American Cancer Society recommend getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week. In the alternative, you can opt for 75 minutes of intense activity a week, or engage in a combination of both. But you don’t have to do it all at once. You can spread it out over a week. The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) reports that walking briskly for about 90 minutes to 2.5 hours can reduce your risk of breast cancer by as much as 18%. Strength training can also help reduce your risk and can also improve your bone health.

3.  Bend and stretch

More and more studies show that extended sitting increases the likelihood of developing cancer, especially for women. If you spend 6 or more hours each day sitting, you have a 10% greater risk for breast cancer. Women who sit less than three hours a day have lower risk. Many health apps and wearable health devices remind you to get up and take 250 steps each hour. 250 steps only takes a few minutes, but can increase your energy and focus – and get you moving in short bursts.

breast cancer4. Find alternatives to hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been recommended by doctors as a viable way to help control symptoms of menopause. However, The Women’s Health Initiative determined that prolonged use of this type of treatment increases a woman’s risk of breast cancer by 24%.

Mary L. Gemignami, MD, a breast surgeon at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York says, “The average woman taking hormone therapy (HT) should weigh the potential increased breast cancer risk versus the quality-of-life component and limit the duration of use.” She added, “However, women with a significantly high risk of breast cancer should avoid taking it if at all possible, unless they’ve had their ovaries removed and are going through surgical menopause.”

If you opt for HT, the National Institutes of Health recommends reevaluating that decision with your doctor every 3 to 6 months and talk about other options to manage postmenopausal symptoms.

5. Put it out

It is well established that smoking is linked to an increased risk for lung cancer and a number of other respiratory disorders. But there is a growing body of evidence suggesting it is also linked to breast cancer risk. One of the best things you can do for your overall health is to stop smoking; or never to start.

6. Consider breastfeeding

Breastfeeding might play a role in breast cancer prevention. The longer you breastfeed, the greater the protective effect. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition mothers who consistently breastfeed their babies for at least the first six months have a 10% reduced risk of death from cancer compared with those who don’t. “There is significant data that suggests that breastfeeding lowers risk,” says Otis Brawley, MD, chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society. “If a mom can do it, it’s worth trying.”

7. Reduce alcohol intake

Excessive alcohol intake increases a person’s risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer. Studies show that women who have 2 to 3 alcoholic drinks a day have a 20% higher risk of getting breast cancer. Those who limit drinking to no more than 1 drink per day have a negligible increase. A drink is defined as 1.5 ounces of hard liquor, 5 ounces of wine or 12 ounces of regular beer.

8. Healthy diet/eat the right foods

Many benefits can be derived from eating a healthy diet, including lowering your risk of breast cancer. Harvard researchers recently found that women who had the highest carotenoid levels in their blood had a 19% lower risk of breast cancer than those with the lowest levels. Carotenoids are vibrant pigments that act as antioxidants and are found in fruits and vegetables such as leafy greens, carrots, tomatoes, and red peppers.

9. Be vigilant about detection/early detection

breast cancer Catching the presence of breast cancer early dramatically improves your prognosis. The American Cancer Society indicates the 5-year survival rate for breast cancer is 99% if found early and limited to the breast.

If you’re of average risk, which means you have no family history of cancer, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends having a mammogram and clinical breast exam every one to two years beginning at age 50. The ACS recommends starting in your early 40s. Talk to your physician about the best screening regimen for you. Once you begin, the easiest way to remember it’s time for your screening is to arrange it around your birthday.

10. Know how dense your breasts are

One of the newest ways to protect yourself against breast cancer is knowing your breast density. Having more tissue than fat in your breasts makes cancer harder to detect on a mammogram. Having dense breasts makes you six times more likely to develop cancer.

If your breast density is high, there is nothing you can do to lower it, although it does tend to decrease with age. As an extra precaution, ask your doctor about adding an MRI or ultrasound to your screening. Or consider a digital mammography, which provides higher contrast, making abnormalities easier to see. Even if your breast density is low, you still need regular checkups.

11. Know your family cancer history, maternal and paternal

About 5 to 10 percent of all cancers, including breast cancer, are hereditary and passed down in families through a variety of mutated genes. A woman’s risk of breast increases if she has any of the following heredity links:

  • First-degree relatives – mother, sister or daughter, or male relatives who have had breast cancer.
  • Multiple family members on your mother’s or father’s side who have had breast cancer.
  • Numerous diagnoses on either side of your family, including second- and third-degree relatives – aunts, uncles, and cousins.

If you have a troublesome family history of cancer, you may want to seek out a geneticist for genetic testing.

12. Avoid unnecessary screening tests

This step may seem counterintuitive. Mammograms are one of the best ways of detecting breast cancer, yet the ionizing radiation is a risk factor for the disease because it may cause DNA mutation in cells. But keep your mammogram appointment. The small risk far outweighs the benefit of early detection.

Robert N. Hoover, MD, ScD, director of the epidemiology and biostatistics program at the National Cancer Institute, says, “Mammograms deliver very small doses of radiation, and if you follow general guidelines, it’s not going to be an issue. The same is true for annual dental X-rays and airport security screening, and if your doctor says you need a diagnostic X-ray for any reason, the risk of minimal radiation exposure is outweighed by the possibility of diagnosing a potential medical problem.”

If your doctor tells you that you need an X-ray, make sure you understand the reason why; if you’re still not sure you need one done, get a second opinion.

breast cancerPrevivors

Someone who hasn’t had cancer but remains at high risk is sometimes referred to as a previvor. Previvors may take extra precautions to lower their risk of breast cancer. One such step is having a prophylactic mastectomy if you learn you have a BRCA mutation, something you can discover through genetic testing. Another option is increasing the frequency and types of screenings. There are also chemopreventive drugs you can take. These pharmaceuticals along with routine screenings and leading a healthy lifestyle can also reduce your risk. Ask your doctor for details on what may be available.

If you view yourself as a previvor and want to connect with others like yourself, visit FORCE and Bright Pink.

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Medical Terminology: Decoding the Language of Healthcare on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

Is Anti-Aging Today’s Fountain of Youth?

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  Anti-Aging – A Continue the Conversation topic

Anti-aging is the first topic in a new monthly series I call Continue the Conversation. In each monthly   segment, I’ll be providing my thoughts on a topic related to healthcare. Then I’ll invite you to continue the   conversation. From your thoughts, I hope to learn more about what healthcare subjects you’re most   interested in and want to see more information about.

 

Anti-aging – a fountain of youth or an imposter?

anti-agingThe other day a friend asked me, “What’s your take on anti-aging?”

I thought about it for a minute, then responded, “I’m all for a long and healthy life as well as good quality living.”

Later that night I got to thinking about our never-ending quest for youth. It started back in the 3rd Century when references to a Fountain of Youth appeared in manuscripts. This magical fountain promised to restore youth, health, and vitality to anyone who drank from it or even bathed in it. The legend of its existence became more renown in the 16th Century when the Spanish explorer, Juan Ponce de Leon supposedly searched for it when he traveled to what is now known as Florida.

Although we have always treasured youth, contemporary society lasers on it to the point where anti-aging, or staying young is an absolute. This can be problematic if the definition focuses on looking young rather than feeling young through better health.

Toward my point, if you go to the Internet and key in the term “anti-aging,” you’ll not find too many articles on slowing the aging process through changes in lifestyle – resulting in better vitality and energy. Mostly your search results provide an abundance of skin and hair care products selling you a more youthful appearance. But what good is looking young if you feel sick or dragged down?

I’m of the opinion that every season of life is beautiful – just like in nature. We need to see the beauty in spring and summer – but also in autumn and winter! As we get older every wrinkle or crease in our faces tell a story. It is a master painting created through a person’s experiences and emotions. Should we not behold this beauty? Or should we Botox and face-lift it away? Just to be clear, I am not entirely against plastic esthetic surgery – but I think we have focused far too much on outer beauty instead of character and inner allure and grace.

To be fair, anti-aging is also about living longer. If we can remain lucid and productive, we can continue our contributions to life, science, and other pursuits, including each other. But it’s difficult to dissect altruistic purposes from the motive to just want to live longer. As for myself, I’m not yet ready to move on because I still have a significant vision unfulfilled.

Continue the Conversation

Although looking young and slowing the aging process are not mutually exclusive, companies tend to treat them as such. You’ve read my take on the concept of anti-aging. What do you think? Should we strive for endless youth on the outside, healthy living on the inside, or merely to avoid dying? I’m interested in your thoughts – and your questions. You can continue the conversation below.

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Medical Terminology: Decoding the Language of Healthcare on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

 

The Case For Nurse Practitioners

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Story at a Glance

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are highly skilled nurse practitioners nursing professionals who provide comprehensive care to patients with a high degree of autonomy. This article defines the profession and provides information on:

Roles and responsibilities.
Training and education.
Licensure and certification.

 

One of the writers for our site goes to a nurse practitioner as her regular doctor. Although the practitioner works with a licensed, board-certified medical doctor, my colleague prefers the NP. She says, “For one thing, she spends time with me. She’s not rushed and listens to what I say. If I call with a problem, she calls me back personally. She doesn’t hand it off to someone I don’t know, and who doesn’t know me.”

As I nod, she quickly adds, “Plus she fully explains what’s wrong with me, then gives me options for treatment. I feel like a real person when I see her.”

I can’t say all NPs are like this, but many of them are. My friend’s experience has been all positive for her.

What are nurse practitioners?

You may derive from my friend’s experience that Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced-practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive care to patients. They focus on preventative care, but also can diagnose and treat. This includes writing prescriptions.

Make no mistake, nurse practitioners are first and foremost nurses. As the story above indicates, their interaction with patients includes patient education and holistic care. For the most part, they treat the whole person.

What makes nurse practitioners different from physician’s assistants?

Both nurse practitioners (NP) and physician’s assistants (PA) are advanced healthcare providers that can be found in many healthcare organizations. The differences between the two positions might not be immediately obvious, especially since there is overlap in their responsibilities. Most of the distinctions are found in the training and education of each specialty.

Nurse practitioners work autonomously and take initiative in their clinical decisions. Physician’s assistants do not have this level of independence and must always work under the direct supervision of a licensed, board-certified medical doctor. NPs can also perform procedures, such as suturing, something PAs cannot do.

Lastly, NPs require more education and far more clinical experience than PAs. PAs, on the other hand, can start their career with less on-the-job training and frequently without an advanced degree.

Responsibilities of nurse practitioners

Nurse practitioners may encounter many circumstances during the course of a day. But their primary responsibilities include:

  • Conducting physical exams.
  • Coordinating referrals.
  • Diagnosing, treating, and providing ongoing management of diseases.
  • Ordering lab tests and procedures.
  • Performing certain procedures and minor surgeries, such as biopsies.
  • Prescribing medication.
  • Providing patient education and counseling supportive of healthy lifestyles.
  • Taking the patient’s history.

Becoming a nurse practitioner

To become a nurse practitioner, you’ll need a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Before entering a master’s or doctoral program, you must first graduate from an accredited nursing program with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN). At that time you’ll be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. You must pass this exam if you want to practice nursing.

If you have an Associate’s Degree in nursing, even if you are an RN, you will have to obtain the BSN before entering an MSN program.

The length of time it takes to obtain an MSN or DNP depends on a student’s starting point. Here are some typical timetables:

  • RN (associate’s degree) – takes two years.
  • RN (associate’s degree) to BSN – takes two years.
  • BSN to MSN takes about two years.
  • BSN to DNP takes three to four years.
  • MSN to DNP takes one to two years.

Some graduate programs may require students to gain clinical experience before enrollment. The number of years they expect will vary from school to school. Other programs may allow students to gain their experience while working through the program. Either way, clinical experience is vital to becoming a nurse practitioner. It provides the variety of experiences you’ll need to be able to address the medical concerns and situations you’ll encounter.

To accommodate different needs in lifestyles, both online and classroom nurse practitioner programs are available.

Online programs allow students to work in the field while continuing their studies. It’s convenient and in some cases less expensive. If clinical experience is required, students may be placed in local hospitals. Sometimes students can gain clinical experience at their place of employment.

Blended, or hybrid programs have online components, but require you to be on ground occasionally – weekly or once or twice per semester. Travel may be local or could require you to fly to a main campus in another state.

Nurse practitioner program specialties

nurse practitionersOnce you become a nurse practitioner, you can elect to specialize in a field. Your NP program may include training in some specialties. If not, certification can be obtained through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Some areas include:

  • Acute Care
  • Family Medicine
  • Gerontology
  • Neonatal Care
  • Pediatrics
  • Psychiatry
  • Women’s Health

Examination, licensure, and certification

If you are interested in becoming certified in a specialty, you may be able to do so concurrently while enrolled within an MSN or DNP program. In the alternative, you can do it as an independent study through the ANCC or other training organization. Keep in mind that not all specialties offer a certificate. If this is true in an area you are interested in, you can earn it through clinical competency. This means you gain experience while working within that specialty. Eligibility for clinical competency certifications differ from program to program, so researching requirements is recommended.

Once a specialty program is completed, you can take a certification exam. These exams verify that you have the training and experience necessary to specialize. For example, if you want to be a Family NP, you would take the Family Nurse Practitioner Exam. Upon passing, your title becomes FNP-C (Family Nurse Practitioner Certified).

Be reminded that licensure and certification are different. Certification means you are competent to practice in a chosen specialty. Licensure means you are legally permitted to practice in your state of residence. You are advised to review your state’s requirements for both certification and licensing.

Lower healthcare costs

Nurse practitioners can lower the costs associated with healthcare. Patients who use NPs as their primary healthcare providers may discover they have fewer emergency room visits and shorter hospital stays. NPs also fill the ever-growing shortage of primary care physicians. And, as you can surmise from my friend’s experience, patients may be better satisfied with the quality of care.

Becoming a nurse practitioner can give you the best of two worlds; that of a nurse and that of a medical practitioner. The years of education required are much less, which lowers the cost outlay for your education. While you can’t become an NP quickly, you can begin working as a nurse as you gain the additional training needed to become a nurse practitioner.

Other articles you may be interested in:

8 Surgical Specialties for Registered Nurses
Helping the Trauma Victim as a Trauma Nurse
Associate Degree versus a Bachelor Degree in Registered Nursing
5 Reasons Your Application Gets Rejected by Nursing Schools

For an podcast interview with a surgical nurse, click here.

If becoming a nurse practitioner has sparked your interest, you can get started today with one of two kits from The Apprentice Doctor. There’s no need to wait until you are in an official nursing program, or even in college. Either kit enables you to practice skills you’ll need in any nursing career.

The Apprentice Doctor® Suturing Course and Kit is a resource that in almost no time at all teaches you how to suture wounds. As a nurse at any level, you’ll use this skill frequently. The kit contains everything you need to get started.

The Apprentice Doctor® Phlebotomy Course and Kit is another handy resource at your fingertips. This program teaches you how to confidently perform phlebotomy procedures. Drawing blood is a skill almost all nurses perform – and they have to be very good at it to minimize discomfort for the patient. If you want to start your education being a great nurse, why not begin phlebotomy training right away?

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Human Behavior in Medicine on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

 

A Day in the Life: All You Wanted to Know About Nursing Careers

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You’re thinking about becoming a nurse. But how do you know if it’s the right job for you? And is nursing a good career path to follow? Whether you’ve just graduated high school or you’re a working professional looking to make a career change, becoming a registered nurse can be a great move for your professional development, offering a very rewarding career — but it’s not for everyone. Before you get too excited and buy yourself that brand new stethoscope, here are seven must-know factors to consider before becoming a nurse.

1. You Can Choose from Many Different Degree Paths.

You do need a special degree to become a nurse, but thankfully there are many educational options available to aspiring nurses at every stage of their careers. For those who know early that they want to become a nurse, you can get a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN), attend one of the few remaining diploma schools or go to college to get your four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. Another option for those who have already graduated from college and then realized they wanted to become a nurse is a master of science in nursing (MSN) program. If you need to continue working while getting your degree, some universities offer night and weekend classes, part-time programs spread out over more time or online courses that you can complete remotely.

2. There’s No Such Thing as a Typical Day.

Because your duties for each shift will be based on the needs of your patients, no two shifts will ever be exactly the same. The length of them will also vary, even if you’re scheduled for exactly 12 hours each time — some days you might only need to stay a few minutes late, while on other days you’ll get a rush of patients and have to stay several hours past your official clock-out time. Certain activities will give your shifts a rhythm, such as completing a handover from the night team or doing hourly rounds. However, these activities will also vary somewhat based on how many patients you have and what their needs are.

3. Different Shift Lengths and Schedules are Available

The length and number of your shifts each week will depend on the facility where you work. Hospitals are increasingly moving towards three 12-hour shifts per week, which include both nighttime and daytime hours as well as weekend shifts — after all, patients need care 24/7. Many hospitals also require a set number of support shifts or on-call hours each month from each nurse. However, certain private practice offices, such as pediatricians, may keep more “regular” business hours, working about eight hours per day Monday through Friday. Generally speaking, hospitals let nurses determine their shifts in advance. In addition, some nurses choose to only work part-time at either hospitals or private practices.

A Day in the Life - Nursing Careers 2

4. Work-Life Balance Can Be Challenging

Given the structure and timing of their shifts — 12 hours or longer, nights and weekends, on-call shifts — nurses are often out of sync with the rest of the working world. This can make it tough to take care of a family or even just keep up with friends who have regular work hours and weekends off. Because it’s such high-pressure work, nurses also find themselves bringing that stress into their personal lives even when they’re not on the clock, and many RNs say it takes them a while to calm down and be able to sleep after each shift.

5. The Job Outlook is Good

We need nurses now more than ever: With Baby Boomers aging and many experienced nurses set to retire in the next few years, the U.S. needs more than one million new nurses by 2022 to avoid a nursing shortage. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of registered nurse jobs will increase 15 percent by 2026 — more than double the average for all occupations. The median salary for registered nurses was $70,000 for 2017 — 185 percent more than the median annual wage — and more experienced professionals such as nurse practitioners can make far more money. If you become a registered nurse, you’ll probably be able to find a job easily for many years to come.

6. You Can Select from Dozens of Specialties

There are more than 100 nursing specialties to pursue, from critical care to pain management to midwifery to diabetes to HIV/AIDS. Some specialties pay more than others or offer more opportunities for advancement, so do your research ahead of time and try to intern in a few specialties before making your decision. If you find that you’ve reached the ceiling for your particular specialty, you can always go back to school for a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree or a Ph.D. in nursing science to get that promotion or make a switch to a different role.

A Day in the Life - Nursing Careers 3

7. It’s a Tough but Fulfilling Career

Many people have dreamed of donning scrubs and taking care of patients ever since they saw an episode of “Grey’s Anatomy.” But real-life nursing is not like TV shows: It can be emotionally and physically draining, and it requires a thick skin and good stress-coping skills. Seeing patients in pain can be really trying, especially if you’ve built a relationship with them and their families over time. But for those individuals who are cut out for it, many say they love working as a nurse: 83 percent of nurses say they are satisfied with their choice of nursing as a career, and only 9 percent report dissatisfaction. Even though the work can be exhausting, nurses love taking care of patients and making a difference on the front lines of care.

A career in nursing is not for everyone, but many love the endless variety and ability to care directly for patients. Whether you’re just beginning to explore a career or are ready to get an advanced degree, keep these seven factors in mind before you decide to become a nurse — and who knows, it might turn out to be one of the best decisions of your life.

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Foundation Medical Course on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

 

What Are the Benefits and Risks Of Immunization?

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immunizationStory at a Glance

The topic of immunization is one that confuses many people. It is fraught with myth mixed with fact. After reading this article, you’ll learn about:

  • The benefits and risks of immunization.
  • The social responsibility of immunization.
  • Natural immunity.

Specific information about measles vaccinations can be found here.

You’ll also be provided with easy-to-read immunization schedules, including one designed for adults with specific health concerns.

The other day I was talking with a colleague, and she asked, “What’s your take on immunizations? My niece just had her first baby and is worried. Maybe it’s because she’s a first-time mom and worried about everything. Should she be concerned, though?”

There is a lot of debate surrounding the issue of immunization. If you are a regular visitor to the site, you know I am very scientifically minded. Thus, more often than not, I am pro-vaccination.

Having said that, I am aware there are rare, individual instances where vaccinations can cause, or have caused harm to an immuno-compromised baby. So when I’m asked by nervous individuals about immunization, I tell them all the same thing. It depends. Some people are disappointed in my response because, like many things in our world, it falls into a murky area. The personal decision to receive an immunization has to be what you consider best for yourself, or your child. Gather as much information as possible, weigh the known benefits versus the risks, then make a choice.

When viewing immunization in a global capacity, it may boil down to what is best for the population instead for the small number of individuals that may be compromised or even die. However, I also think biomedical companies go overboard by developing inoculations against almost anything in the book. When that happens, the benefits versus the risks of immunization become a lot less clear. For example, every Fall there is a mass push for everyone to get a flu shot. For some people it’s recommended. For others there isn’t a clearcut benefit, so getting one doesn’t make sense.

What’s important is using your common sense. While information is traded freely on the information highway, you must weigh what you learn and make informed, intentional choices rather than follow blindly the forms of persuasion so prevalent on the Internet.

Today’s article is an overview of immunization. In the end, we’ll provide a simple chart of the most common vaccinations recommended for all ages and the timetable in which the medical community suggests they be given.

Immunizations save lives

The single, most significant benefit of vaccinations is that they prevent disease. In one year, vaccines prevented between 2 and 3 million deaths worldwide.

As shown in this table, immunizations decrease the rate, and impact of diseases

Disease

Number of 20th Century Annual Cases

2006 Cases

Percent Decrease
Measles 503,282 55 99.9%
Diphtheria 175,885 0 100%
Mumps 152,209 6,584 95.7%
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) 147,271 15,632 89.4%
Smallpox 48,164 0 100%
Rubella 47,745 11 99.9%
Haemophilus influenzae type b, invasive (HiB) 20,000 29 99.9%
Polio 16,316 0 100%
Tetanus 1,314 41 96.9%

Source: The Impact of Vaccines in the United States

It’s tempting to think that improved hygiene and sanitation are the reasons for the dramatic decreases. However, the primary reason for the drop in numbers is due to immunization. But we can’t escape the fact that while significant reductions do exist, the diseases themselves have not been eliminated, especially in less-developed counties.

As we have seen in the U.S. and in other countries, vaccine-preventable diseases, such as polio, can and will return if we stop our immunization practices. An outbreak of a deadly disease can happen if just one infected traveler returns from a country where the disease hasn’t been eliminated.

Immunization protects the community

Although immunization is perceived as a personal choice, your decisions also impact your community. A vaccination protocol can move from a personal choice to one of social responsibility. A vaccinated community helps to protect those who are not vaccinated. This is known as “herd immunity” or “community immunity,” which means when people are vaccinated, they prevent disease from being spread to others who are not. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, examples of unvaccinated individuals include:

  • Babies too young to receive vaccines.
  • The elderly.
  • Individuals allergic to vaccine components.
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems.
  • Pregnant women.
  • Unvaccinated children and adults.

In any community, if less than 90% of children are immunized, infectious diseases can take hold and spread. Fortunately, in the U.S. 97% of all the children have been vaccinated according to the recommended schedule provided at the end of this article.

The remaining 3% tend to live in the same region, which may diminish any benefit that could be derived from community immunity for the people living there.

You may wonder if there are thresholds of community immunity against specific diseases. There are. The following chart, from Immunize for Good, will give you an idea.

Disease Threshold of Vaccinated People Required for Community Immunity to be Effective
Diphtheria 85%
Measles 83-94%
Pertussis 92-94%
Polio 80-86%
Smallpox 83-85%

Immunization is cost effective

The most crucial thing vaccines do is save lives. But according to Berkeley Wellness, published by the University of California, they also save money. It is always less expensive to prevent a disease than to treat it. In a single birth cohort, $13.6 billion are saved in the direct costs associated with a routine childhood immunization program. To put that number into individual savings, for every dollar we spend on childhood immunizations, we save $18.40.

When individuals elect to forego vaccines, significant costs are associated with treatment, and sometimes loss of life and permanent birth defects. The following are some examples.

  • Chickenpox – Approximately one out of 1,000 children will develop severe pneumonia or encephalitis.
  • Measles – If contracted during pregnancy, this disease can can cause severe birth defects such as deafness, heart defects, and developmental disorders.
  • Meningococcal meningitis – Anywhere from 5-10% of the individuals who develop this disease will die, even if they receive appropriate treatment. Further distressing statistics indicate of those who survive, 11-19% will lose a limb or suffer other life-alternating disorders such as deafness, seizures or strokes.

Immunizations are safe

In January 2013, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) published the most comprehensive examination of an immunization schedule to date. The same report uncovered no evidence of major safety concerns associated with adherence to the CDC-recommended childhood immunization schedule.

Here’s what the Institute of Medicine (IOM) says about vaccination safety:

  • “The current recommended U.S. childhood immunization schedule is timed to protect children from 14 pathogens by inoculating them at the time in their lives when they are most vulnerable to disease.”
  • “Before the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends adding a new vaccine to the immunization schedule, it reviews comprehensive data about that vaccine’s safety and efficacy in clinical trials, injuries and deaths caused by the disease the vaccine is designed to combat, and the feasibility of adding the new vaccine into the existing schedule, among other factors.”
  • “Delaying or declining vaccination has led to outbreaks of such vaccine-preventable diseases as measles and whooping cough that may jeopardize public health, particularly for people who are under-immunized or who were never immunized.”
  • “States with policies that make it easy to exempt children from immunization were associated with a 90 percent higher incidence of whooping cough in 2011.”
  • “…the IOM committee finds no evidence that the schedule is unsafe. The committee’s review did not reveal any evidence base suggesting that the U.S. childhood immunization schedule is linked to autoimmune diseases, asthma, hypersensitivity, seizures, child developmental disorders, learning or developmental disorders, or attention deficit or disruptive disorders.”

Read the full report here.

Natural immunity

Immunity can be achieved both naturally and through vaccines. And both result in protection.

In considering both options, it can be said that natural immunity typically lasts longer. It can also be said that vaccine-induced immunity provides better benefits with lower risks. However, keep in mind that some vaccines, such as those for tetanus, certain cases of flu and pneumonia produce longer-lasting protection, which can be very advantageous.

Another point to consider when wrestling with natural immunity versus injection-based immunization is the breadth of coverage. While enduring and recovering from an infection of any sort, you will only be immune to future infection of a single strain. However, vaccines can often protect against multiple strains of a disease, such as polio and pneumonia, both of which have multiple strains.

Additionally, not all infections offer protection over the course of your life; even for a single strain (i.e., whooping cough). So, when thinking about your options, consider longevity and other variables.

Research suggests that the risks of immunization are lower than the risks for natural infection for every recommended vaccine. Take, for example, pertussis, or whooping cough. It can be very severe for unvaccinated children under the age of 1. It requires hospitalization and even with diligent care, 1 in 200 will die. Six out of every 100 unvaccinated children who contract measles will also suffer from pneumonia. In that scenario, 2 children out of every 1000 will die.

Parents who choose not to vaccinate often do so to avoid risk, but given the data, choosing not to vaccinate may be a riskier choice.

Risks of immunization

It would be remiss not to point out some of the possible risks of immunization. Although by comparison they are small, they do exist and must be taken into consideration when confronted with getting a vaccine.

Potential side effects

Side effects vary for each vaccine with each presenting its own risks. Some common side effects of most vaccines are:

  • Allergic reactions requiring immediate medical attention (most serious)
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Nausea
  • Pain, redness, and swelling at the site of injection
  • Tiredness

Most side effects subside after a short period of time. If not, contact your primary care physician. If you experience an allergic reaction, call your doctor immediately.

The list above is not comprehensive. When reviewing the benefits and risks of any immunization, consult your health care professional for specific effects. If you choose to get a vaccine, contact your primary medical caretaker if you experience anything out of the ordinary after receiving it.

Immunization Schedules

The following immunization schedules are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For ease of use, they are split into different age ranges.

Children, Birth Through 6

Pre-teens and Teens, 7-18 Years

Adults, by Health Condition

Begin a career in allied health today.

Healthcare is one of the fastest growing industries today, with hundreds of opportunities for someone just like you. You can start developing your professional skills today!

The Apprentice Doctor® Academy has developed and perfected an Online Course for Future Doctors to assist them towards fulfilling their dreams of becoming great medical professionals. The For Future Doctors Foundation Medical Online Course with accompanying Medical Kit has helped launch the career of thousands of want-to-be doctors!

The Apprentice Doctor® Suturing Course and Kit is a resource that will teach you how to suture wounds – all in a few short hours! If you want to become a healthcare worker, why not learn how to suture wounds now?

The Apprentice Doctor® Phlebotomy Course and Kit is another handy resource at your fingertips. This kit teaches you how to confidently perform phlebotomy procedures. If you want to start your education in allied health, why not begin phlebotomy training right away?

If you’re interested in other general healthcare topics, you may want to read the following articles through The Apprentice Doctor.

Vital Signs – What Do They Reveal?
Does Technology Put Your Health at Risk?
Demystifying the New FDA Nutrition Label
What is Immunotherapy?
Value-Based Medicine: Healthcare’s Future

Start a Conversation

What do you think about immunizations?

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Medical Microbiology on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

 

Helping the Trauma Victim as a Trauma Nurse

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Story at a Glance

trauma centerAccording to the National Trauma Institute, trauma accounts for 41 million emergency department visits and 2.3 million hospital admissions across the nation each year. One of the first individuals that trauma patients see is a Trauma Nurse.

Today’s article focuses on the following information about trauma nurses:

  • the difference between a trauma nurse and an emergency room nurse
  • types of patients treated
  • job duties
  • educational requirements
  • special certifications
  • scholarships available for your education
  • job salaries and outlook
  • career options

 

According to the National Trauma Institute, trauma accounts for 41 million emergency department visits and 2.3 million hospital admissions across the nation each year. Trauma is the #1 cause of death for Americans between the ages of 1 and 46. The Society of Trauma Nurses indicates that the number of traumatic injuries continues to grow, especially in the elderly. Trauma nurses deal almost exclusively with this patient population.

The differences between a trauma nurse and an ER nurse

When nursing students investigate potential career paths, I’ll sometimes be asked, “What’s the difference between a trauma nurse and an ER nurse. Aren’t they the same thing?” For the novice nurse, it’s a fair question. But seasoned nurses learn there are distinct differences between the two roles.

Trauma nurses interact with patients during their state of emergency. They are trained to handle a variety of medical issues to save the lives of their patients. The objective of all trauma nurses is returning the patients to their normal lives once they have been appropriately treated.

Medicine has become increasingly complex and specialized in past few decades. As a result, careers in nursing have become diversified, allowing registered nurses to concentrate in fields much like doctors. Becoming a trauma nurse is one such specialty.

Although an ER has a unique role in a hospital and can assist with trauma patients in small hospitals, only trauma nurses are trained to help trauma patients in larger, metropolitan hospitals.

Differences in the Condition of the Patient Being Treated

A trauma nurse is similar to a trauma surgeon due to the condition of the patient they are treating. Some hospitals are large enough to have a trauma department. Patients who have injuries to organs have sustained stab or gunshot wounds are sent here as opposed to the emergency room. Trauma nurses have seconds to properly treat the wounds and stabilize the patient as much as possible while awaiting other members of a trauma team.

Patients sent to the general emergency department are normally able to speak for themselves. They are sick or have been involved in a minor accident or fall resulting in a broken bone, a sprained joint or other ailments that can be treated by non-specialty medical personnel.

Here’s a brief audio/video about Trauma Nurses that may be of interest to you:

Duties of a Trauma Nurse

As mentioned, the nursing profession is becoming more demanding. Patient needs are more unique and may present new challenges, and complications. Specialized care is required more than ever before.

The juggling of patient care along with larger intradepartmental teams creates chaotic and stressful situations for trauma room nurses. They are often faced with making decisions without being able to talk to a patient. Family members may not be on the scene when treatment has to be rendered, making the environment even more pressurized. All this transpires while the trauma nurse is aware of one inescapable fact – a missed call could result in loss of life.

Because of the severe condition of the patients seen by trauma nurses, professionals in this role must adapt and accept as part of the job the excruciating medical injuries encountered by people. Trauma nurses are the first line of defense against further damage or loss of life. As such, a trauma nurse must remain calm and well organized, prioritizing patients and their treatment.

A trauma nurse provides different kinds of emergency medical procedures including:

  • Administering medicine or drugs.
  • Drawing blood.
  • Intubation.
  • IV insertion.
  • Monitoring for any changes in condition, however small.
  • Preparing a patient for surgery or diagnostic testing as needed.

Steps to Becoming a Trauma Nurse

The first step in becoming a trauma nurse is to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). Although becoming a nurse through a diploma program is a fulfilling career, it is an insufficient starting point for being a trauma nurse. You must have a minimum of an associate degree to begin your journey.

The flow of education into trauma nursing is as follows:

  • Associate Degree: An ADN, associate’s degree in nursing, can be completed in two years. It’s not the optimal nursing degree, but it is the one that will get you on the path into trauma nursing the fastest.
  • Undergraduate Degree: A BSN, bachelor of science in nursing, is a four-year program. Most hospitals require a BSN as before hiring. Although this is not the fastest route, it does provide greater job stability and higher earning capability.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN: Once you have your ADN or BSN in hand, you must pass the national licensure exam to practice nursing.
  • Specialized Trauma Nurse Training: As a licensed, registered nurse, you must next secure two years of additional training in the field of trauma and emergency care. Without this extra training, you cannot work as a trauma nurse.
  • Graduate Degree: An MSN, master of science in nursing degree is additional education you can acquire once you have a BSN. Although not required to become a trauma nurse, it is the next natural next step in a nursing career and will open additional opportunities for you. It is another two to three years of education and in some cases can be completed online.
  • Doctorate Degree: After an MSN you may choose to enter a DNP program which is a doctorate of nursing. This is an additional one to two years of training and can be completed online.

Trauma Nurse Certification

Becoming certified as a trauma nurse is not mandatory. But if you want to add value to your degree, and rise above the competition, it’s a good idea to pursue this certification. The best time to take the courses required for this certification exam is after you have been in the nursing field for a few years and gained a minimum of 1000 hours of trauma nurse experience.

Two trauma nurse certifications are available.

Type of Trauma Nurse Certification Qualifications Organization Comments
Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN)
  • Current, unrestricted registered nurse license in the U.S. or U.S. RN equivalent.
 Preferred, but not mandatory:

  • 2 years trauma nursing experience at an average of 1000 practice hours across the trauma care continuum.
  • 20 to 30 hours of trauma specific coursework across trauma continuum.
Trauma Nurse Specialist (TNS)
  • Current, unrestricted registered nurse license in the U.S.
  • Other requirements vary from state to state.

 

Trauma nurse certification is specific to measures the attainment of a defined body of nursing knowledge pertinent to the trauma specialty. It lets employers know how serious you are about the specialty. It also gives them greater confidence in your ability to perform with high levels of competency in emergency situations.

Scholarships for Trauma Nurses

The education required for becoming a trauma nurse is expensive. However, the Emergency Nurses Association Foundation offers a scholarship which awards twenty-five scholarships annually to undergraduate and doctoral nursing students in amounts ranging from $3,000 to $10,000.

Continuing Education

To maintain your registered nursing license, continuing education is required. The number of contact hours varies from state to state, although most will require documentation of ongoing education throughout your licensure cycle.

You must re-certify yourself as a Certified Emergency Nurse Certification every four years.

Salaries and Job Outlook

In May 2017 the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the median annual wage for registered nurses as $70,00 (about $33/hour).

The BLS predicts that nursing employment will grow at a rate of 15 percent through 2026 — faster than the average for all jobs. There is a shortage of all nurses, with baby boomer nurses nearing retirement, and the growing health demands of our aging population.

The University of Nebraska – Lincoln published a U.S. Registered Nurse Workforce Report Card and Shortage Forecast in 2012. The report indicates that the following states currently have the most acute nursing shortages.

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Montana
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • Texas
  • Virginia

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that in May 2017, the top five paying states for nursing salaries are: California, Hawaii, District of Columbia, Oregon and Massachusetts, paying between $88,000-$102,000 annually. However, if you think about moving, consider the cost of living in each state. It’s possible that the annual compensation reflects higher costs for rent, goods and services.

Career Options for Trauma Nurses

Trauma nurses can work anywhere trauma patients are treated. But trauma nurses can find busy, fulfilling careers in the following specific settings:

  • Burn units.
  • Critical care units.
  • ED critical care areas.
  • Emergency medical services (EMS).
  • Medical flights.
  • Medical-surgical and rehabilitation units.
  • Trauma centers (Levels I, II, and III).

Can you begin your career in trauma nursing today?

Indeed yes!

As you have read, trauma nurses draw blood and insert IVs. You can learn those skills right away with The Apprentice Doctor® Phlebotomy Course and Kit. This is kit with instructional material that will give you mastery over venipuncture tasks – all of which are needed as a nurse and especially as a trauma nurse.

The Apprentice Doctor® Suturing Course and Kit is a resource that will teach you how to suture wounds in a couple of hours! If you want to become a trauma nurse, or even start your path into nursing– why not learn how to suture wounds now?
If you’re interested in nursing school these articles in The Apprentice Doctor may be of interest to you:

Is Your High School Curriculum Preparing You for a Medical Career?
8 Surgical Specialties for Registered Nurses
Associate Degree versus a Bachelor Degree in Registered Nursing
5 Reasons Your Application Gets Rejected by Nursing Schools
OR Nurses: An Interview

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Control Bleeding on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

Also, explore the Control Bleeding Simulation Practice Kit on Apprentice Doctor Kits.

 

8 Surgical Specialties for Registered Nurses

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Becoming a Surgical Nurse

surgical nurses, nursing specialties, nursing, registered nurses, nursing careersArticle at a Glance

In our nursing articles you have read about post-secondary degrees in nursing. You have even learned how to improve your application for getting into nursing school. In today’s article you’ll read about 8 surgical specialties you can pursue once you are a licensed registered nurse. For each one you’ll see:

A brief description of the career.

A list of typical duties.

The educational path to follow.

The type of experience to obtain.

Certification and re-certification requirements.

Snapshot of 8 surgical nursing specialties

Below is a chart that lists the eight surgical nursing specialties this article covers. The table provides the name of the position and the type of nursing environment to expect. All of the roles require you to be a licensed, registered nurse.

Specialty Name

 Nursing Environment(s)
Cardiac Cath Lab Nurse – Registered Nurse-Board Certified (RN-BC) Clinical; emergency; surgical
Nurse Anesthetist – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Advanced Practice; surgical
Ophthalmic Nurse – Certified Registered Nurse in Ophthalmology (CRNO) Clinical; surgical
Otorhinolaryngology Nurse – Certified Otorhinolaryngology Nurse (CORLN) Clinical; surgical
Perianesthesia Nurse – Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) and/or Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Surgical
Perioperative (Surgical) Nurse – Clinical Nurse Specialist-Certified Perioperative (CNS-CP) Surgical
Plastic Surgery Nurse – Certified Plastic Surgical Nurse (CPSN) or Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) Clinical; surgical
Transplant Nurse – Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse (CCTN)

Surgical

As you read details about the positions, you’ll learn the general duties performed, the educational path to follow, and information on the certification process.

To become a type of surgical nurse requires dedication and significant training. However, if you pursue any of these roles, you will find yourself with a gratifying career.

1. Cardiac Cath Lab Nurse – RN-BC

Another name for a cardiac cath lab nurse is a cardiac-vascular nurse. This type of surgical nurse assists surgeons with the insertion of a catheter into a chamber or vessel of the heart. This procedure is used to diagnose or treat heart conditions. It’s possible you’ll also assist with coronary catheterization. These procedures are performed in highly specialized labs using advanced technologies in cardiac care.

Typically a cardiac cath lab nurse will assist in some, if not all of the following types of procedures:

  • Angioplasties.
  • Pacemakers and cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) implants.
  • Stent placements.
  • Valvuloplasties.

To become a certified cardiac cath lab nurse, you’ll take the following steps:

  • Obtain an associate or bachelor degree in registered nursing.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN.
  • Obtain a Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification (RN-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). As stated on their site, eligibility for this certification is extensive and requires the following:
    • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
    • Participate in a six-month cardiac cath lab training program run by a hospital.
    • Work two years in an ER, ICU or coronary care unit.
    • Have practiced the equivalent of 2 years full-time as a registered nurse.
    • Have a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in cardiac-vascular nursing within the last 3 years.
    • Have completed 30 hours of continuing education in cardiac-vascular nursing within the last 3 years.

Once you receive the RN-BC credential, it will have to be renewed every five years.

Because eligibility requirements, fees and continuing education information changes as the industry does, check the ANCC website for details when you’re ready to begin the education process.

You may be interested in watching this video about the cardiac nursing specialty.

2. Nurse Anesthetist – CRNA

As the name implies, a nurse anesthetist gives anesthesia and anesthesia-related care to patients before, during, and after surgery. A CRNA faces a variety of situations and unexpected events during operations. That’s why the path into this field is so intensive. Nurse anesthetists are among the most in-demand, and highest-paid, of all nursing professions.

Some of the responsibilities of a nurse anesthetist include:

  • Assisting with outpatient procedures.
  • Helping patients with pain management.
  • Performing epidurals.
  • Providing operating and emergency room care.

The steps to becoming a nurse anesthetist are:

The Continued Professional Certification (CPC) is their recertification program. It consists of two four-year cycles. The CPC is a relatively new program, so it is always best to check the NBCRNA website for current details. They provide detailed manuals and samples of test questions.

3. Ophthalmic Nurse – CRNO

As you may know, the field of ophthalmology involves eyecare beyond optometry. An ophthalmic nurse cares for individuals faced with severe eye disorders and serves as a vital member of surgical teams.

Some duties of an ophthalmic nurse include:

  • Conducting pre-operative assessments.
  • Helping patients with glaucoma, cataracts and other eye trauma.
  • Positioning patients and verifying surgical sites.
  • Serving as a circulating or scrub nurse during eye surgeries.

To become an ophthalmic nurse, the steps you follow are:

  • Obtain your nursing diploma, associate or bachelor degree in registered nursing.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN.
  • Work a minimum of two years as a registered nurse in ophthalmic nursing.
  • Pass the Ophthalmic Nursing certification exam administered by the National Certifying Board for Ophthalmic Registered Nurses (NCBORN). As their site states, eligibility requirements to take the test are:
    • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
    • Have two years of full-time or the equivalent (4,000 hours) experience in ophthalmic registered nursing practice.

Continuing education and recertification is required for a Certified Registered Nurse in Ophthalmology (CRNO) every five years. The certification exam itself is only given twice a year. It is always advisable to check the NCBORN website for current details. You can also download manuals and outlines about requirements and the test itself.

4. Otorhinolaryngology Nurse – CORLN

Otorhinolaryngology nurses provide care for patients facing illnesses, diseases, or disorders related to the head. Areas include the skin, neck, ears, nose, oral cavities, and cranial nerves.

Some responsibilities of an otorhinolaryngology nurse are:

  • Assisting with radiation treatments.
  • Diagnosing patients.
  • Providing support for patients undergoing medical and surgical procedures.

The steps to becoming an otorhinolaryngology nurse are:

  • Obtain your nursing diploma, associate or bachelor degree in registered nursing.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN.
  • Work a minimum of three years as a registered nurse.
  • Pass the Certified Otorhinolaryngology Nurse (CORLN) exam facilitated by the Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Head-Neck Nurses (SOHN). As you will note from their site, eligibility requirements are:
    • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
    • Have at least three years of experience in otorhinolaryngology and head-neck nursing practice.

Upon passing, you will become a Certified Otorhinolaryngology Nurse (CORLN). The test is only offered twice a year, so checking the SOHN website for updated information is always the best practice. Currently, CORLN recertification is required every five years.

5. Perianesthesia Nurse – CPAN and/or CAPA

Perianesthesia nurses, or recovery room nurses, carefully monitor patients as they recover from the effects of anesthesia after surgery. Perianesthesia nurses are well trained on how to handle patients with unexpected reactions upon awakening such as confusion or pain. They often consult with patients before and after surgery, and provide information about ongoing care at home once the patient is discharged.

Typical duties of a perianesthesia nurse include:

  • Caring for patients in recovery.
  • Giving patients recovery tips for home.
  • Prepping patients for surgery.

There are two certifications for a perianesthesia nurse. Each covers a specific phase of anesthesia. The first, the CPAN, certifies a nurse to care for patients in the post-anesthesia phase. The second, CAPA, is more extensive. It certifies a nurse to care for patients in preanesthesia, the day of the surgery, and post-anesthesia and extended care. You can be certified in one or the other, or opt for dual certification.

The educational flow to become a perianesthesia nurse is:

  • Obtain an associate or bachelor degree in registered nursing.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN.
  • Apply to take your certification through the American Board of Perianesthesia Nursing (ABPANC).
    Per the ABPANC site, eligibility requirements for a Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) are:

    • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
    • Have 1,800 hours of direct clinical experience caring for patients in post-anesthesia Phase I obtained within the two years prior to applying for initial certification.

Per the ABPANC site, eligibility requirements for the Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) are:
Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.

  • Have 1,800 hours of direct clinical experience caring for patients in preanesthesia phase, day of surgery/procedure, post-anesthesia Phase II and/or extended care obtained within the two years prior to applying for initial certification.

Per the ABPANC site, eligibility requirements for dual certification:

  • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
  • Direct clinical experience hours required for both CPAN and CAPA (1,800 hours each).

Because of the complexity of two potential exams and dual certification, and specific testing dates, it is recommended you visit the ABPANC for details and updates to their handbook.

This two-minute video entitled We are Perianesthesia Nurses may be of interest to you.

https://youtu.be/deIfDhWrPCA

6. Perioperative (Surgical) Nurse – CNS-CP

Perioperative nurses care for patients during the entire course of their surgical experience. They monitor patients to ensure they are receiving the best quality of care during surgery. They also serve as intermediaries between the surgical team and the patients’ families. They can be seen assisting in the recovery room, and sharing post-operative tips patients should follow when they return home.

Typical duties of perioperative nurses include:

  • Giving patients recovery tips for home.
  • Interviewing and assessing patients for surgery.
  • Maintaining a sterile operating room throughout surgery.
  • Monitoring patients and coordinating care during surgery.

The educational path to becoming a perioperative nurse is:

  • Obtain a bachelor degree in registered nursing.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN.
  • Gain experience working in critical care and in the ER.
  • Pass the Certified Nurse Operating Room exam (CNOR) through the Competency and Credentialing Institute (CCI). As their site indicates, eligibility requirements are:
    • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
    • Be currently working full-time or part-time in perioperative nursing an area of nursing education, administration, research or clinical practice.
    • Complete a minimum of 2 years and 2,400 hours of experience in perioperative nursing, with a minimum of 50% (1,200 hours) in an intraoperative setting.

Recertification for a Clinical Nurse Specialist-Certified Perioperative is required every five years. The CCI site contains updated information on initial certification and renewal.

A Day in the Life of a Perioperative Nurse may give you additional insight about this career.

7. Plastic Surgery Nurse – CPSN or CANS

Plastic surgery nurses help patients facing or recovering from plastic surgery procedures. They with procedures that range from small and elective, to more complicated operations like facial reconstruction.

Typical duties of a plastic surgery nurse include:

  • Explaining procedures to patients.
  • Prepping the surgery room.
  • Working with surgeons and other members of a surgical team.

The educational flow for a plastic surgery nurse is:

  • Diploma, associate or bachelor degree in registered nursing.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN.
  • Work for two years as a registered nurse in surgical nursing with half the hours being in plastic surgery.
  • Pass the Certified Plastic Surgical Nurse (CPSN) exam facilitated by the Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board (PSNCB) exam. Their site provides details on the following eligibility requirements:
    • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
    • Have a minimum of two 2 years of plastic surgery nursing experience as a registered nurse in a general staff, administrative, teaching, or research capacity within 3 years prior to application.
    • Have a minimum of 1,000 practice hours in plastic surgery nursing during 2 of the preceding three 3 years before making application.

There is also a Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) certification exam, also facilitated by the PSNCB. Details on the following eligibility requirements can be located on their site:

  • Hold a current, active, unencumbered RN license.
  • Work in collaboration or in a practice with a physician that is Board Certified within one of the following core specialties: Plastic/Aesthetic Surgery, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, or Facial Plastic Surgery (ENT).
  • Have a minimum of 2 years of nursing experience as a registered nurse within one of the listed core specialties above in a general staff, administrative, teaching, or research capacity within 3 years prior to application.
  • Have spent at least 1,000 practice hours within the core specialties during the preceding 2 years before making application.

Recertification for either credential is every three years. Because there are two exams with different eligibility requirements, and the tests are given only during certain times of the year, it’s best to check the PSNCB website.

You may want to view this short video on What is a Plastic Surgery Nurse?

https://youtu.be/ObXpSdzBdaU

8. Transplant Nurse – CCTN

Transplant nurses work with patients who donate and receive organs. These nurses are highly skilled at preparing living donors for transplant operations, including any risks involved in the donation. They perform similar services for patients receiving transplant organs from deceased individuals. Transplant nurses assist medical teams during surgery and work in post-operative care. They carefully monitor patients for post-transplant complications like organ rejection.

Typical duties of a transplant nurse include:

  • Clearing patients and donors for surgery.
  • Monitoring patients’ vital signs after surgery.
  • Ordering lab tests to confirm an organ match.
  • Taking medical histories.

The path to becoming a transplant nurse is:

  • Get diploma, associate or bachelor degree in registered nursing.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN.
  • Get a few years experience in critical care, intensive care or medical-surgical nursing.
  • Pass the Transplant Nurse certification exam through the American Board for Transplant Certification (ABTC). Their site outlines the following eligibility requirements:
    • 24 months general experience as a registered nurse.
    • 12 months experience while working as a transplant nurse, which can occur concurrently with RN experience.

Recertification for a Certified Clinical Transplant Nurse (CCTN) is every five years. Check the ABTC website for updated information when you are prepared to embark on this career path.

Exam Preparation

As you have read, all of these specialties require experience in the field before you are eligible to take the exam. It is essential to understand that practical field experiences do not adequately prepare you to pass any of the certification tests.

You have invested substantial time and financial resources for your education, so it is recommended that you take a preparatory course for your selected exam. You should also use the review materials and practice tests provided to you on each site. Most successful candidates spend two to three months consistently studying before attempting their exam. Since there are fees involved, you want to pass your exam the first time. So, create a study routine and follow it faithfully.

It can also be helpful for you to join a professional organization associated with the surgical specialty that most interests you. In some cases, the organization can offer you reduced exam fees and special training materials.

No matter what surgical specialty you prefer, you will have to obtain a degree in registered nursing and gain practical experience in the field. If you dedicate yourself to becoming a surgical nurse, you will find more career opportunities open to you.

Still interested?

If any of these nursing specialties has sparked an interest in a nursing career, you can get started today with one of two kits from The Apprentice Doctor. There’s no need to wait until you are in an official nursing program, or even in college. Either kit enables you to practice skills you’ll need in any nursing career.

The Apprentice Doctor® Suturing Course and Kit is a resource that teaches you how to suture wounds in a short period of time. As a nurse, you’ll use this skill almost daily. The kit contains everything you need to get started. Take a look at the following video for a closer view of the contents of the kit.

The Apprentice Doctor® Phlebotomy Course and Kit is another handy resource at your fingertips. This program teaches you how to confidently perform phlebotomy procedures. Drawing blood is a skill nurses perform frequently – and they have to be very good at it to minimize any discomfort for the patient. If you want to start your education being a great nurse, why not begin phlebotomy training right away? Take a quick look at the following video for an introduction to the kit.

If you are interested in the education you need to get started in registered nursing, the following articles will be of interest to you:

Associate Degree versus a Bachelor Degree in Registered Nursing
5 Reasons Your Application Gets Rejected by Nursing Schools

For an podcast interview with a surgical nurse, click here.

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Sterility and Aseptic Techniques on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

Also, explore the Scrub for Surgery Kit on Apprentice Doctor Kits.

 

Demystifying the New FDA Nutrition Label

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Story at a glance

In May of 2016, the FDA announced new nutrition labeling guidelines. Demystifying the new FDA nutrition label, as well as the old one, helps all of us make better informed decisions about what we eat. Changes in the label include:

New guidelines on serving sizes
Inclusion of added sugars
Updated nutrient listing

The article defines the nutritional categories and provides some information on how to make better dietary choices.

Demystifying FDA Nutrition Labels

If anyone has ever told you that reading nutrition labels is an essential life skill, they were right. Knowing how nutrition labels define nutrients allows you to make better food choices. The new labeling guidelines, announced in May 2016, help even more, but only if you understand what the changes mean. Demystifying nutrition labels can result in improved health, energy, and vitality. Knowing what you’re eating, how much, and how often can help you avoid some of the following health conditions:

  • certain cancers
  • heart disease
  • high blood pressure
  • obesity
  • osteoporosis
  • type 2 diabetes

The key to using nutrition labels for better health is understanding the regulations guiding the numbers – and performing a little math.

Portion/serving size

Portion size is the decryption key to demystifying the entire nutrition label. All the other information flows from there.

What’s considered a reasonable portion? You may have faced the following types of situations which can cause confusion in answering that question.

  • Restaurants serving enough food on a plate to feed a family of four – but it’s all yours.
  • Candy bars increasing pieces and amounts.
  • A snack bag two or three times the size of the ones we used to toss into a lunch bag.

So we think we know what a portion is. Except maybe we don’t.

What is a reasonable serving size and do nutrition labels disguise it? To be fair, the label doesn’t hide the portion size as much as it relies on you to read carefully and calculate how much you’re eating.

Here’s a typical example. You pull into the parking lot of a convenience store and dash in for a salty snack. You snap up a bag of pretzels. It’s a smaller bag than you buy for your family, so you’re confident it’s a portion since the bag is much smaller. You’ve made a good choice, right?

Maybe.

Depending on the brand, a serving size of miniature pretzels is about 15 pieces – around 100 calories. But is your snack bag a 100-calorie bag? Chances are it contains three servings which is 45 pretzels and 300 calories.

In this example, if you plan on eating the whole bag, you’ll have to multiple all the other numbers on the label by three since since the values listed apply to one serving only.

To help you find the serving size without a magnifying glass, the new label now lists the number of servings per container first, with the serving size beneath it in larger, bold type.

new FDA nutrition labels, old and new label comparison, nutrition labels

But that’s not the only change. In addition to placement, there are some specific modifications in the guidelines that establish the serving sizes on the new label. By law the serving size suggested is based on the amount of food and drink people actually consume, not on the amount they should be eating. It will come as no surprise that people have changed their eating habits since the original guidelines were established in 1993.

For example:

  • One serving of ice used to be 1/2 cup. Under the new guidelines it will be 2/3.
  • One serving of soda used to be 8 ounces. The new guidelines will set it as 12 ounces.

Package size also impacts how much people eat. The serving size now reflects how much people generally eat in one sitting. As an example:

  • A 15-ounce can of soup will no longer be considered two servings. It will be labeled as one since most people eat the entire can for one meal.

Some larger packages of food are more difficult to calculate. The contents could be consumed in one, or multiple sittings. In those cases manufactures are required to provide two columns. One column will provide the information per serving. The second one will provide the same information per package. Examples of this are:

  • A pint of ice cream.
  • A can of crisps.

new FDA food label, dual column food label, nutrition facts

Calories

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the number of calories you eat in a day. If you are trying to maintain a 2000 calorie per day diet, then knowing how many calories exist in a serving is important. Let’s say a package contains four, one-half cup servings and each portion is 50 calories. If you eat the whole package, you’ve suddenly consumed 10% of your daily calories all at once.

The number of calories is now very prominent in the new label. It’s still listed near the top, but is bigger and in bold type.

Total fat

The next fact contained on a nutrition label is total fat content. Most of us know we don’t need as much fat in our diet as we get, especially saturated fat. But some fat in our diet is necessary. Put into context, if the dietary fat number is 5% or less, it means the product is fairly low in fat content. If it’s 20% or more it may be best to leave the product on the shelf.

You will no longer see the number of calories from fat on the new label. Current research suggests the type of fat ingested is more important than the amount.[1] You will still see the saturated and trans fat grams, both of which you should limit in your diet.

Cholesterol

The next item on the new nutrition label covers cholesterol content, followed by sodium. This is the reverse of older label.

There may be no way to avoid all cholesterol. But we can cut back on the “bad” cholesterol (LDL or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol). Packaged foods, however, don’t differentiate between the two. If your medical professional has told you to reduce your cholesterol intake, always take a look at the number on the nutrition label. A good approach is determining the percentage of cholesterol the packaged food contains based on how much you plan on eating. Just like with fat, if the number is less than 5%, it’s not much. If it’s more than 20%, consider a different food selection.

Sodium

Most canned foods are high in salt. And although fresh, seasonal, and organic foods are better in quality and taste, many families have to use canned foods to stretch their food budgets. Outside of specific recommendations from your doctor, keep your sodium intake under 2300 milligrams per day.

In a ground-breaking move, the FDA has drafted voluntary sodium targets. Although voluntary, restaurants and food manufacturers may choose to lower the amount of salt in certain foods to meet these targets, making salt easier to manage. You’ll be able to choose how much salt you want in your food. Ingesting less salt can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Carbohydrates – low carbs, net carbs, too many carbs?

I don’t need to tell you the near obsession Western culture has with carbohydrates. More often than not, individuals make every attempt to reduce them in their diets.

The new nutrition label provides more information about carbohydrates than it has in the past. It now includes added sugars, a vital piece of information that was omitted on the old label.

new FDA nutrition label, nutrition labels, added sugars

According to the FDA, “Scientific data shows that it is difficult to meet nutrient needs while staying within calorie limits if you consume more than 10 percent of your total daily calories from added sugar, and this is consistent with the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.” [1]

Consuming added sugars increases calories that can put on weight without providing a lot of nutritional value. Added sugars also quickly raise your blood sugar, which is a particular concern for individuals who have diabetes.

If you’re calculating total carbs, you need three numbers from the nutrition label.

  • Serving Size
  • Number of Servings Per Container
  • Grams of Total Carbohydrates per serving

The total carbohydrate number reveals how many grams of carbohydrates are in one serving. If you are eating more than one serving, you’ll need to multiply the grams of carbohydrates accordingly. Keep in mind that the itemized numbers on the label may not add up to the total because starch is not listed.

If you are netting your carbs, you’ll have to perform a little more math. Subtract sugars, added sugars and dietary fiber from the total number of carb grams to get your net carbs.

You can still gain weight on a low-carb diet if you allow your total calorie count to go unchecked. Net carb practices don’t necessarily pay attention to calories. You may be hitting your intended carbohydrate number, but ingesting more calories. You may also be eating more starch than you intend, which is hard to manage since it’s not listed on the nutrition label. Try balancing your carbs within a modest daily caloric intake.

Fiber

Even though dietary fiber is included as part of the carbohydrate count, demystifying the role of fiber in your diet can improve your health. Foods with higher fiber make you feel full for longer periods of time because it leaves your system slowly. So, you may eat less.

Fiber can help nutrition in the following ways:

  • When eaten in large amounts, fiber blocks absorption of carbohydrates (and other nutrients, including protein and fat), reducing the total number of calories absorbed by the body.
  • Since fiber leaves your stomach slowly, you won’t experience large spikes in blood glucose. Sugary snacks, like candy bars, digest quickly creating considerable dips in blood glucose. That’s why shortly after you eat food high in sugar you may suddenly feel tired a hour or so later.

Sugar

Sugar is another challenging issue to manage. With the new label, you’ll get a better idea of how much you’re consuming. However, you may decide to select a sugar-free version of the same food. This creates a different dilemma.

Sugar-free food may not be as calorie-friendly as you believe. Sugar-free products may not have a lot of sugar, but they can still be loaded with calories. Why? Because they may contain more fat. Compare the regular version to the sugar-free version. You may be surprised to note the number of calories is about the same.

Protein

Protein information is located in the same spot on the new FDA nutrition fact label as it is on the old one.

Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass. Our body also uses it to make any glucose we aren’t getting from carbohydrates. When purchasing food, read nutrition labels and choose some products for protein. But consider the fat grams when doing so. Many foods rich in protein are also high in saturated fat. Dairy products considered good for protein may also contain high amounts of trans fat. Food labels can help you make informed decisions.

If you don’t eat much protein, keep an eye on it. You don’t want to end up losing muscle mass. The National Academy of Sciences recommends we get ten to thirty-five percent of our calories from protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Information on vitamins and minerals is sparse on nutrition labels. The daily value of vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron were required on the old label, although specific amounts were not listed.

The FDA requires the new label to list vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium. Vitamin D and potassium are included because if you have insufficient quantities of them in your diet, it can increase your risk of chronic disease. Vitamin D also contributes to better bone health. Potassium helps reduce high blood pressure.

In the new label, vitamins and minerals must also show the amounts of each in the food.

Vitamins A and C are no longer listed since deficiencies in those vitamins is now rare.

Percent daily value

When reviewing a food label, you may not pay much attention to the column labeled, “% Daily Value.” These numbers tell you how much a particular nutrient contributes to your daily diet if you consume 2000 calories per day. To put those numbers into context, any nutrient that shows a daily value of 5% or less means the food provides very little of that nutrient. If it lists an amount of 20% or more, then that food may be a reasonable source of that nutrient.

The footnote defining the percent daily value is revised on the new FDA label.

When will you see the new FDA label on packages?

Many manufacturers are already using the new label. Most will have it in place by no later than July 2018. Smaller companies have an extra year to comply. If you’re wondering if imported foods have to meet the new labeling requirements, the answer is yes.

Demystifying the new FDA nutrition label so you know what it really says enables you to make informed decisions about what you’re eating.

new FDA nutrition label

To your better health. And thanks for stopping by today.

Becoming a nutritionist or registered dietitian may be an ideal career for you. You can begin today!

Anatomy and physiology, chemistry and microbiology are only some of the courses you’ll need to become a registered dietitian. Many are similar to what pre-med students need to become medical doctors.

The Apprentice Doctor® Academy has developed and perfected an Online Course for Future Doctors and other medical professionals to assist them towards fulfilling their dreams of entering the allied health industry. For Future Doctors Foundation Medical Online Course with accompanying Medical Kit has helped launch the career of thousands of healthcare professionals!

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The Apprentice Doctor® Phlebotomy Course and Kit is a resource that will teach you how to confidently perform phlebotomy procedures in a couple of hours! If you want to perfect that skill, why not learn how to perform venipuncture procedures now?

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References:

[1] https://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/ucm385663.htm

Photo Source: Photos provided by the Food and Drug Administration showing proposed new food nutrition facts labels. (Food and Drug Administration via AP).

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Medical Terminology: Decoding the Language of Healthcare on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

 

5 Reasons Your Application Gets Rejected by Nursing Schools

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Story at a Glance

Do you want to become a nurse, but can’t get into a program? There are 5 probable reasons your application gets rejected by nursing schools.

Do your nursing school applications contain any of the following weaknesses?

You haven’t completed the pre-requisites (or you may not know what they are).

Your grade point average is too low.

Your test scores don’t meet the minimum admissions criteria.

Your preferred school won’t accept you (but perhaps another one does).

The lack of acceptance has made you frustrated and discouraged.

If even one reason is true for you, read on. If you’re serious about becoming a nurse, learn the ways to overcome these difficulties.

 5 Reasons Your Application Gets Rejected by Nursing Schools; and how you can overcome them.

 

We read a lot about why students stay in nursing school and the reasons they drop out. Lots of articles and FAQ sheets tell you what to expect in nursing school. They also go over the licensing exam and details about the career. But few review the reasons an application gets rejected by nursing schools or what to do about it.

If your dream is to become a nurse, but you can’t get accepted, read on. Listed below are the top 5 reasons this may be the case and what you can do to overcome each one.

1 – You haven’t completed the prerequisites

application gets rejected by nursing schools, you haven't completed the prequisitesNursing schools prefer their students to have some foundational knowledge when they begin training. They don’t expect you to know about nursing. But they do want you to have completed courses in the sciences. They scan your transcript for curriculum like anatomy and physiology, chemistry, nutrition, and microbiology. They also expect to see general education courses such as English, sociology, and psychology. Without them, your application is probably rejected by nursing schools.

If you are serious about entering a nurse training program, talk with an admissions representative about prerequisites. Once you have a list, review the courses you have and then make a dedicated effort to complete the rest.You can pick up most, if not all the necessary classes at a community college or online. But before taking this step, talk to your intended nursing school to make sure the credits will transfer into their program. Always keep in mind that transfer of credit, also known as TOC, is still at the discretion of the receiving institution.

2 – Your grade point average is too low

grade point average too low

Like medical school, nursing school is very competitive. If your grade point average in high school, or college, was lower than a 3.0, admissions committees will probably pass over your application. Sometimes they will consider you if you demonstrate an improved grade trend. But there are enough applicants with consistently high grades that they don’t have to. So don’t count on that.

If you haven’t taken any pre-requisites, you can probably overcome a low grade point average. As you complete the necessary courses and do well, your grade point average will rise. If you already have the pre-requisites, don’t give up. Bolster your application with letters of recommendations, a snappy admissions essay or even community work in a hospital or clinic. Reference those right away in your cover letter and make sure you include them in your application package.

3 – Your test scores don’t meet the minimum admissions criteria

test scores don't meet the minimum admissioins criteria

As you investigate nursing schools, you’ll discover they want you to pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), which assesses your skills in reading, math, science, English and language use. The scores predict your chances of doing well in nursing school. Or they may require the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) A2 exam. Your score on this exam assesses the likelihood of your passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). A license is essential because without it, you can’t practice in the field. No school wants you expending your time and financial resources if you’re not going to be successful. Plus, you don’t want to take on debt and have nothing to show for it at the end of the line. It’s a protective type of step. Want to crush the NCLEX exam? Take a look at these study tips and resources for nursing students.

Both the HESI and the TEAS are standardized tests scored by independent third parties, so the accuracy of their predictive ability is very high. If you’ve taken one of these tests and not reached a school’s minimum threshold score, you need to study more.

You can’t avoid facing one of the two tests. Without a high score, an application gets rejected by nursing schools. So prepare yourself to do well. There are many live review courses for these exams as well as study materials and practice tests. A small investment in your future now may earn you big rewards with a satisfying, rewarding career later.

4 – Your preferred school won’t accept you

As you’ve gathered by now, nursing schools are very selective. You might have a school preference, but don’t limit yourself to only one. That specific school may not see you as a good match for their training program. If that happens and you don’t have a pool of other schools to choose from, where does that leave you?

Ask yourself what’s more important to you – going to your dream school or becoming a nurse? If you complete a nurse training program and pass your licensing exam, you are a nurse no matter what school you attended. So keep your options open.

5 – The lack of acceptance has left you frustrated and discouraged

lack of acceptance has left you frustrated

No matter what anyone says, if a nursing school declines your application, your feelings will be hurt. If you have everything you need and are still not accepted, remember that it probably isn’t personal.The need for nurses is high. But the number of nursing schools and qualified instructors can’t meet the demand. So schools can only accept so many students. Sometimes it’s a numbers game. That works in your favor. If you apply enough times and to enough schools, your chances of being accepted improve. So even if you feel discouraged and want to give up, submit applications anyway. One day you may be pleasantly surprised.

Your next steps

SMART goals

Overcoming some of these obstacles requires perseverance, time and planning. To achieve your dream, establish SMART goals. Doing so keeps things manageable for you and will help you reach your dream. They also allow you to weave your objective naturally into the busy life you have. But what are SMART goals?

SMART is an acronym for the following:

Specific or Simple – Your overall goal of “getting into nursing school,” is too general and too big. Keep your steps to tiny specifics, like making one phone to one nurse to interview her about school. When you keep things simple, you won’t get overwhelmed.

Measurable – Measurable refers to numbers, or quantities such as one phone call, two classes, three applications. When you hit the number, you know you’ve accomplished the step.

Achievable – This is related to simple and specific. In other words, only do what you can do. Try not to take on everything at once. If your test scores are too low, don’t make your first goal passing the test. That may not be achievable. Plus, it’s too general of a target. What you can do is find a practice test. Or sign up for a review course. Each one of those tasks is achievable. When you have a series of achievable steps, you will feel successful all the time. That has the added benefit of reducing your frustration.

Realistic – If you need five pre-requisite courses, it might not be practical to take all five at once. It’s better to take more time by completing one class at a time than it is to do all five and possibly fail, or drop out.

Timely, or Time Limited – You may have heard the cliche that goals are dreams with deadlines. Without a firm deadline for each task, it probably won’t get done because other elements of life will overtake you. When they do, you’ll be tempted to push your deadline farther down the road. So set timeframes for each task, and hold yourself to them.

Establishing your SMART goals is simpler than you think. Here are a few examples:

  • Call one nursing school admissions office and make an appointment – By May 2.
  • Make a list of questions for the admissions appointment – By May 4.
  • Attend my appointment – May 10.

Imagine you discovered you need four pre-requisite courses. The next set of SMART goals would look something like this:

  • Investigate online schools or community colleges – By May 15.
  • Sign up for at least one course – By May 29.
  • Take the course – a start date and end date for classes are built in for you by the college. You can then create the rest of these goals based on the school’s calendar.

You can continue your list from here putting in the tasks that you need to submit a competitive application. The critical factor is staying on track. Time slips away faster than you realize. More than any other reason contained in this article, failing to take the steps you need to get into school may be the top reason you don’t get into a program. But since you have total control over your activities, it’s a straightforward challenge to master. If necessary, ask friend or family member to keep you on task.

If you need a little more motivation, find some pictures of nurses. Hang one on your computer, in your car, or even on your refrigerator. Every time you glance at one, say, “That’s going to be me.” It may sound a little silly, but over time, it improves your perspective and keeps you going.

If you can stick with your plan and draw upon the courage and dedication it takes to be accepted into nursing school; then you can be confident you have the characteristics you need to become a licensed registered nurse.

Thank you for stopping by today.

If you want to become a nurse, you may be interested in the following nursing articles:
OR Nurses; A Podcast Interview
Associate Degree versus a Bachelor Degree in Registered Nursing

In the alternative, you may want to learn about these alternative allied health careers:
Becoming a Certified Phlebotomist
Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist

Want to beef up your nursing school application? Why not take a suturing or phlebotomy course from The Apprentice Doctor! It’s a fun and inexpensive way to demonstrate you have some of the practical skills used by nurses every day.

The Apprentice Doctor® Suturing Course and Kit is a resource that teaches you how to suture wounds. As a nurse, you’ll use this skill, so why not get started now? The kit contains everything you need to get started. Take a look at the video for a closer view of kit items.

The Apprentice Doctor® Phlebotomy Course and Kit is another handy resource at your fingertips. This kit teaches you how to confidently perform phlebotomy procedures. Drawing blood is another skill nurses use – and they have to be very good at it if they are to minimize discomfort to the patient. If you want to start your education in nursing, why not begin phlebotomy training right away? Take a quick look at the video to see all the items contained in the kit.

I really want to become a Doctor – Is there anything I can do straight away?

Check out the Foundation Medical Course on Apprentice Doctor Academy.

 

8 Medical Lab Technician Careers

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Provide indirect patient care and still be a vital member of a medical team

Story at a Glance

Many people in healthcare work behind the scenes. They like the idea of helping people, and want to work in the medical field. But they prefer work environments that are calm and quiet. A medical lab technician job may be just what you’re looking for. This article covers:

6 common characteristics signaling a healthcare technician job may be right for you.

8 indirect patient care careers.

  • Medical/Clinical Lab Technician
  • Cytogenetic Technician
  • Histotechnician
  • Pathology Assistant
  • Nuclear Medicine Technician
  • Anesthesia Technician
  • Radiation Protection Technician
  • Medical Equipment Repair Technician

The education and credentialing required for each.

 

 

 

medical lab technician

Are you interested in healthcare, but prefer working behind the scenes? We hear a lot about careers that provide direct patient care. But it may surprise you to learn there are indirect patient care medical careers available. These medical lab technician roles are important in field of medicine and today we’re going to give you a snapshot of eight of them.

  1. Medical/Clinical Laboratory Technician
  2. Cytogenetic Technician
  3. Histotechnician
  4. Pathologist Assistant
  5. Nuclear Medicine Technologist
  6. Anesthesia Technician
  7. Radiation Protection Technician
  8. Medical Equipment Repair Technician

6 characteristics signaling a healthcare technician job may be right for you

medical lab technician, introvertsAre you a little uncomfortable interacting with people all the time? Feeling drained of energy when talking with others without periods of quiet could mean you’re introverted. That means you need time away from lots of activity in order to recharge yourself. Extroverts, on the other hand, gain vitality from being around people. That’s how they rejuvenate themselves. The good news is that healthcare needs both types of personalities.

Even if you identify yourself as an introvert, you may still wonder if a laboratory-type job is right for you. If any characteristic of the following six sounds like you, it could be.

You enjoy science – The careers we’re reviewing in this article all have a basis in chemistry, biology, and physiology. If you enjoy science, chances are high you’ll be happy in at least one of these careers. Don’t worry if you didn’t like science in school. Interests change over time. All you need are a strong sense of curiosity and enjoyment in learning.

You attend to detail – You’ve probably worked with people who don’t pay attention to details. As a result, mistakes get made, and tasks have to be done again. But if you’re someone who is meticulous and precise in gathering particulars, then medical labs need you. Many of these indirect care careers have to analyze and compile data to help doctors diagnose and treat their patients.

You strive for consistency – If you agree that consistency in work can be reached through repetition and routine, then working in a lab may be perfect for you. If you’re someone who can repeat tasks and remain focused and careful, lab analysis and research positions are good options for you to investigate.

You prefer working with patients indirectly – As you may have guessed by now, you don’t have to be interacting with patients all day to make a difference in their lives. A career in a laboratory medicine allows you to play an integral role in the healthcare system without being center stage. Even if you sometimes have to draw blood, or provide instructions to people about what they need, the majority of your time will be spent in a non-chaotic, secluded work environment.

You desire job security – Allied health technician jobs are relatively secure and stable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), on average, jobs for medical technicians are projected to increase at a faster-than-average rate of 14% through 2026. A contributing factor for the growth is an aging population with ongoing medical issues.

You want to begin your career quickly – Many healthcare careers require an extensive education. Most medical lab technician training programs can be completed in two years or less. That means you’ll be in the field a lot sooner.

If any of these attributes describes you, then you may be someone who is well suited to laboratory and research work in healthcare.

8 medical lab technician careers

Of the following 8 careers, no one is more important than the other. Although some of the duties of each job may be similar, what is studied and researched is not. When sifting through the options, consider what appeals to you most.

Most of the careers fall in the category of Medical/Clinical Lab Technician (MLT), although there is also a job title specifically related to that. We’ll cover the general MLT first, then proceed to specific specialties within the medical lab technician field.

Medical/Clinical Lab Technician

medical lab technicianJob Responsibilities: Lab technicians, or MLTs, work with integrated systems and perform mechanical or diagnostic tests in medical laboratories. Some MLTs work independently while others prefer to work in companies where they’re part of more extensive teams of professionals.

Lab technicians perform a variety of tasks. Collecting samples, studying and performing tests on anything from bodily fluids to biopsies are only some of the functions you’ll perform. You’ll use a variety of equipment and software programs to conduct thorough and accurate tests. You’ll also be expected to record information you discover for review by doctors, physicians and scientists. Maintaining and sterilizing your lab equipment are also elements of the job.

From time to time you may be asked to acquire samples from patients, but won’t establish ongoing relationships them.

Lab technicians work in a variety of medical settings. Dental offices, clinics, and ophthalmic labs are only a few.

Education Required: For the most part, to become a technician, you’ll need an associate degree. If you aspire to become a technologist, you’ll have to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Both degree levels include coursework in biological sciences, lab management, chemistry, and statistics. Although there are short-term certificate programs available, you may discover an individual with more education is given preference by employers. Associate degree programs last 18-24 months. Bachelor degree programs require a four-year commitment.

Regardless of the educational path you select, you’ll learn how to use medical laboratory equipment and how to conduct data analysis. You’ll also explore content such as immune hematology and become proficient in studying biological samples.

Some ophthalmic and dental labs may be willing to provide on-the-job training. In those situations, you can get started with only a high school diploma. However, to be hired in a medical or clinical lab, you typically need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. The higher your level of education, the better your chances are of being hired.

Credentialing: Each state differs on the requirements for laboratory workers. You may be required to obtain a license, become certified, or to pursue some type of registration. Contact your local State Board of Health or Board of Occupational Licensing to find out your state’s criteria. You can also refer to the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science or the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.

Key Skills: To be a successful MLT, you must be able to:

  • Communicate accurately and efficiently.
  • Demonstrate solid analytical skills.
  • Focus on details.
  • Manage time effectively.
  • Operate independently.
  • Work with a team.

Cytogenetic Technician

cytogenetic technician, medical lab technician

Job responsibilities: A cytogenetic technician is a type of MLT who analyzes genetic elements inside cells. As a cytogenetic technician, you’ll analyze chromosomes and other genetic materials. You’ll also maintained detailed notes for each sample. This includes ensuring any sample is associated with the correct patient. Overall you’ll study cells at a microscopic level for signs of irregularities or disease. The work is completed in a medical facility or research institution, where there is a lab manager, and you’re a member of a cytogenetic team.

Education required: Generally, a bachelor’s degree in cytotechnology, biological science, or chemistry field is required. You’ll encounter topics such as cellular biology, biochemistry, and genetics. Most programs contain a clinical aspect where you’ll gain hands-on experience while working under the supervision of a qualified instructor. It is recommended you attend an accredited program. For more information on cytotechnology training programs, you can visit the American Society for Cytotechnology (ASCT).

Credentialing: Following graduation from an accredited program in cytotechnology and gaining experience in the field, candidates for credentialing may qualify to take one of the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Registry exams. Some states may require regional testing. Check your state for their criteria.

Key Skills: Successful cytogenetic technicians possess the following skills:

  • Ability to set up and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment.
  • Analytical or scientific competencies.
  • Proficiency in using a database and query software.
  • Project management.

Histotechnician

histotechnician, medical lab technicianJob Responsibilities: Professionals who study the minute structures of biological material and determine how they are structurally and functionally related are called histotechnicians. The field encompasses how biochemistry, molecular biology, and physiology interact with disease processes. Like other MLT specialties, you’ll be studying and analyzing samples and reporting data to researchers, doctors, and scientists.

Education Required: Initial preparation for a histotechnician begins in high school with a strong curriculum in biology, chemistry, math and computer science. The next step is attending an histotechnician associate degree program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). You may be able to attend a community college, or even a hospital training program. If possible, while you’re going to school, try to work part-time in a lab setting to gain experience. If you want to become a histotechnologist, you will need a bachelor degree.

Credentialing: Although certification is voluntary, many states require you to have a license. The American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (BOC) facilitates the exam. Since licensing requirements differ significantly from state to state, you’ll have to check your state for their criteria.

Key skills: Successful histotechnicians must be able to:

  • Analyze difficult problems.
  • Communicate effectively.
  • Gather samples.
  • Make sound decisions.
  • Manage time efficiently.
  • Manipulate small tools.
  • Meet deadlines.
  • Understand and perform tissue staining protocols.

Pathologist Assistant

pathology assistant, medical lab technicianJob responsibilities: First and foremost, a PA helps a pathologist prepare and diagnose tissue, blood and other specimens in a sterile laboratory. Depending upon the work environment, as a PA you might also examine corpses to determine a cause of death. Tasks could include collecting and dissecting postmortem specimens, conducting various tests on samples, taking diagnostic images, and recording your findings. From time-to-time some PAs may be asked to train colleagues or assist with autopsies, which does require some social interaction. However, most responsibilities are lab-based and can be performed independently.

Education required: Federal law requires PAs to have a minimum of an associate degree (American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants). You may choose to complete a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in the field. Most PA programs take about two years to complete. The curriculum consists of science courses like microbiology, genetics, and immunology. Students will also encounter pathology courses. Nearly all programs provide clinical experiences.

Credentialing: PAs may seek a three-year certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology. Some states require additional criteria and even state licensing before you can begin work. Check your state for details.

Key skills: Successful pathology assistants will demonstrate:

  • Active listening skills.
  • Analytical/scientific thinking capabilities.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Competency in information ordering (following rules or arranging data/actions in a specific order).
  • Proficiency in using information systems software.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

medical lab technician, nuclear medicine technologist

Job responsibilities: A nuclear medicine technologist performs imaging tests that help doctors identify abnormalities inside the body. The process involves giving patients small doses of radioactive materials and then using specialized equipment to record images of organs or other body parts where the substances localize. As a nuclear medicine technologist, you’ll have some interaction with patients when you explain procedures to them. You’ll also inspect equipment and possibly administer the radiopharmeceutial material, which is given orally, by injection, or through inhalation.

There are inherent risks in this job. You may be exposed to infectious diseases as well as to radiation. Consequently, you must take measures to protect yourself and be precise in following those protocols.

Education required: An associate or bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology is necessary to enter this field. If you already have a degree in a related science, you may be able to combine that with a 12-month certificate program and enter the profession a little faster. In addition to courses in anatomy and physiology, you’ll be in classes about nuclear physics and radiochemistry.

Credentialing: Many states require a license to practice. See the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging to find out if your state is one of them. You can also check with your state health department for current rules and regulations.

Two professional organizations, the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), offer voluntary certification. Some states that license nuclear medicine technologists will accept this certification. Others will require you to take an exam. Even states where certification isn’t needed, it is advantageous to have certification because it can improve your chances of being hired.

Key skills: Nuclear medicine technologists must possess the following skills:

  • Ability to work as a member of a team.
  • Attention to detail in data recording and observations.
  • Decision-making capabilities.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Technical know-how to operate complicated equipment.

Anesthesia Technician

anesthesia technician, medical lab technicianJob responsibilities: If you enjoy working with machinery, but also being a member of a care team with indirect responsibility for patients, then a career as an anesthesia technician may be right for you.

Professionals in this technical role contribute to safe anesthesia care by providing support to the anesthetist. This may include ensuring the anesthesia equipment is working properly, to assessing dosages of medications given to patients. As an anesthesia technician, you are part of a surgical team and will have some interaction with its members as well as with patients.

Education: A high school diploma is the minimum education required, although anesthesia technician degree programs are available. If you’re a high school student, focus on courses in math, science, and technology. Anesthesia technician degree programs will include curriculum topics like pharmacology and anesthesia equipment functionality. At least one year of experience in the field as an intern is recommended.

Credentialing: Although certification is voluntary, there is a national certification exam available that could increase your potential employment opportunities. The national exam is conducted by the American Society of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians (ASATT) and is the only one officially recognized. During your job search, ensure you have documentation of a basic life support certification since this is a requirement in any hiring situation.

Key Skills: To be successful as an anesthesia technician, you must:

  • Be comfortable working with computers, biomedical equipment, and anesthetic devices.
  • Communicate well.
  • Focus on details.
  • Problem solve.

Radiation Protection Technician

radiation protection technician, medical lab technicianJob Responsibilities: Although not specifically a medical lab job, radiation protection technicians provide a valuable service to overall public health. RPTs are also referred to as nuclear monitoring technicians or hazardous materials removal workers. As the titles imply, RPTs track radiation levels. They also expose leaks or potential hazards and then remove them. As an RPT you may even find yourself organizing evacuations of contaminated areas. The type and seriousness of the emergency determine the protocol followed. Some RPTS specialize in decontamination, emergency response or storage, and disposal. Or you’ll analyze environmental samples to determine levels of contamination.

There are risks involved in being an RPT. You may be exposed to contaminated material or radiation. Training programs provide extensive information on how to protect yourself, thereby minimizing your risk factors.

Education Requirements: Because there are specializations within the field of radiation protection, the type of training varies. Many positions require a certificate or associate’s degree in radiation safety or technology. Some employers may provide on-the-job training.
Formal programs are heavily based in math and science. You’ll also learn about radiation safety, contamination control, and radiological chemistry. The structure and nature of nuclear or power plant systems are generally included as part of the curriculum. There’s little doubt you’ll have lab and internship experiences along with the didactic portion of your studies.

Credentialing: The Occupational Health and Safety Organization (OSHA) is the federal entity that maintains and audits regulations concerning the safe removal of radiation and nuclear waste. As a result, professionals who work with and remove those products must undergo a mandatory 40-hour training course. You may also be required to complete three months of additional training through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This additional training provides information about the protective gear you’ll wear, the equipment you’ll use, and the materials you may encounter.

Key Skills: A successful radiation protection technician will demonstrate:

  • Attention to detail.
  • Calm demeanor in crisis situations.
  • Capability to work independently with accuracy and precision.
  • Communication skills.
  • Cooperative attitude in working with a team.
  • Critical and logical thinking.
  • High energy.
  • Mechanical aptitude.
  • Medical and anatomical competencies.
  • Time management efficiencies.

Medical Equipment Repair Technician

Job responsibilities: Although this technician job may feel non-medical, it is critically important to all medical facilities. When healthcare equipment breaks down, it must be repaired – and repaired quickly. If it doesn’t work correctly, a potentially severe illness or disease could be missed or misdiagnosed. So medical equipment repair technicians are vital members of all medical teams even though the care

provided to patients is indirect.

The duties of a medical equipment repair technician vary by type of equipment, but most repair technicians

install, clean, maintain and fix medical equipment. Within those primary tasks, you’ll keep detailed service records and be presented with the latest updates in equipment software. You may even learn how to use and install the newest equipment available on the market. Although the scope of this profession is outside of a medical laboratory, the work is independent and a few steps removed from excessive chaotic environments.

medical equipment repair technician, medical lab technician

Education required: Due to the sophistication of medical equipment, it’s best to obtain an associate’s degree in biomedical equipment technology. In this kind of a training program, you’ll learn hardware and software repair, electronics and physics. Because the equipment is designed to inspect the human body, you’ll also learn medical terminology and anatomy and physiology. Throughout a training program you’ll be exposed to a generous variety of medical equipment where you’ll learn to identify and correct mechanical problems. A bachelor’s program offers more in-depth content where you’ll encounter more complex and electronic-based medical equipment.

Credentialing: While registration, licensure, or certification isn’t mandatory, employability may be improved if you obtain certification through the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI). Three types of certification are available. A certified laboratory equipment specialist (CLES), a certified biomedical equipment technician (CBET), and a certified radiology equipment specialist (CRES).

Key Skills: A capable medical equipment repair technician must possess or acquire:

  • Comfort in working independently with minimal supervision.
  • Decision making capabilities.
  • Dexterity.
  • Mechanical, safety testing, and troubleshooting skills.
  • Precision in the work environment.
  • Problem solving competencies.
  • Stamina.
  • Strong communication style.
  • Time management efficiencies.

Conclusion

Each occupation listed provides a calm and quiet work environment. For individuals who gather energy in this type of setting, one of careers may be a perfect fit for you. Although all require small to moderate interactions with patients or colleagues, none of them provide direct patient care. Education requirements for most of them are minimal so that you can get into the field quickly.

Before making any final decision to obtain a certificate or degree, talk to a few people in the field. Find out what they like about their careers, and what some of the drawbacks are. Discussions like these will help you narrow your career choices so that you can make the one best suited to your interests and personality.

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