Common Skin Rashes, and Pressure Ulcers

Common Skin Rashes

Whether it is used by patients or doctors, the word rash does not have an exact meaning or refer to a specific disease or kind of disorder. It's a general term that means an outbreak of bumps on the body that changes the way the skin looks and feels. Rashes can be localized to one area or else be widespread. The way people use this term, a rash can refer to many different skin conditions. Common categories of rash are

• Scaly patched of skin not produced by infection
• Scaly patches of skin produced by fungal or bacterial infection
• Red, itchy bumps or patches over the body, such as on the chest and back

Although rashes are seldom dangerous, self-diagnosis is not usually a good idea. Proper evaluation of a skin rash requires a visit to a doctor or other health-care professional.

 

Pressure Ulcers a.k.a. Bedsores

Pressure ulcers, commonly referred to as bedsores, are typically the result of pressure on small blood vessels that supply muscles, tissue and skin with essential nutrients. Often, this pressure occurs when a person is lying or sitting in one position for a prolonged period of time. The surface of the bed or chair presses against bones and compresses the blood vessels in the tissues in between. Deprived of nutrients, the tissues begin to die, resulting in ulceration.

Pressure ulcers can range in severity, but all must be attended to properly and promptly. People with pressure ulcers may experience pain and are at risk for infection. Those at greatest risk for developing ulcers have difficulty moving, impaired sensation and poor nutrition

For more tips, please visit http://drmilc.com/

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. The main cause of skin cancer is the sun. Sunlamps and tanning booths can also cause skin cancer. Anyone can get cancer, but people with fair skin that freckles easily are at greatest risk. Skin cancer may be cured if it is found before it spreads to other parts of the body.

There are three types of skin cancers. Two types, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, grow slowly and rarely spread to other parts of the body. These types of cancer are found mostly on parts of the skin exposed to the sun, like the head, face, neck, hands, and arms, but can happen anywhere on your body. The third and most dangerous type of skin cancer is melanoma. It is rarer than the other types, but can spread to other organs and be deadly.

Don't wait for the area to hurt.

Skin cancer isn't usually painful. See your doctor right away if you have any of these signs. Check your skin regularly, like once a month, for things that may be cancer. Look for changes such as a new growth, a sore that doesn't heal, or a bleeding mole. Also, check moles, birthmarks, or other parts of the skin for the

 

"ABCDE's." ABCDE stands for:

A = asymmetry (one half of the growth looks different from the other half)

B = borders that are irregular

C = color changes or more than one

color

D = diameter greater than the size of a pencil eraser

E = evolving, meaning changes in size, shape, symptoms (itching, tenderness), surface (especially bleeding), or shades of color.

Skin Care and Aging

Skin acts as a waterproof, insulating shield, guarding the body against extremes of temperature, damaging sunlight, and harmful chemicals. With age your skin changes and it becomes thinner, loses fat, and no longer looks as plump and smooth as it once did. Your veins and bones can be seen more easily. Scratches, cuts, or bumps can take longer to heal. Years of sun tanning or being out in the sunlight for a long time can lead to wrinkles, dryness, age spots, and even cancer. But there are thing you can do to help your skin.

 

Dry Skin and Itching

Many older people suffer from dry skin, often on their lower legs, elbows, and lower arms. Dry skin feels rough and scaly. There are many possible reasons for dry skin, such as:

 

• Not drinking enough liquids
• Staying out in the sun Being in very dry air
• Smoking
• Having stress
• Losing sweat and oil glands (common with age)

 

Dry skin also can be caused by health problems, such as diabetes or kidney disease. Using too much soap, antiperspirant, or perfume and taking hot baths will make dry skin worse. Because older people have thinner skin, scratching itches can cause bleeding that can lead to infection. Some medicines make the skin itchier. Itching can cause sleep problems. If your skin is very dry and itchy, see your doctor. Moisturizers like lo- tions, creams, or ointments can soothe dry, itchy skin. They should be used everyday. Try taking fewer baths and using milder soap to help your dry skin. Warm water is better than hot water for your skin. Some people find that a humidifier (an appliance that adds moisture to a room) helps.

Find more helpful tips at http://drmilc.com/

Getting Rid of Dry, Rough Feet

 

Dear Nurse, I'm tired of my rough dry feet. What can I do? Please HELP!

--Mr. Rough

Dry and scaly feet are a common problem. Feet are subjected to daily abuse, from undergoing the pressure from walking to being exposed to the elements. The best way to start this removal process is to soak your feet in warm water. Put a bit of mild soap in the water so you can clean your feet, and allow your feet to soak so the rough skin on your heels will soften up a bit. Once your feet are nice and soaked and soft, take out one foot from the foot bath, grab the file, and simply file the rough skin on your feet. Once you're finished filing your feet, take some heavy lotion and put it all over your feet. This will help the skin dry smoother, so rough skin won't be so quick to develop. Covering your feet with socks/footies (especially overnight) helps keep feet soft and hydrated. Another important factor is keeping your inside hydrated also. Lots of water. Items you can purchase to assist with this process include: pumas stone, callous re- mover, and any brand of baby gel or thick lubricant that is especially for feet. Another option that is always nice and relaxing are Pedicure. Note: Pedicures are not a "women only" thing. Enjoy your new set of feet

For more information please check out DRM International Learning Center

The Importance of Water

Did you know that your tissues and organs are mainly made up of water? Drinking a healthy amount of water is vital to your health. You can never imagine just by changing this simple step, you gain tremendous health bene- fits, and sometimes you can even throw away your migraine medicine or pain killer.

Before you can appreciate the benefits of water to your health, let's review the role of water in human body. The human body is anywhere from 55% to 78% water depending on body size. A rule of thumb, 2/3 of body is consists of water, and it is the main component of human body. Note the following: 75% of muscle, 22% of bone and 83% of blood consist of water. Every cell in your body needs water from head to toe. That is why it is so important to drink enough fluid. Take for example, brain consists of 90% of water, if you do not supply enough water to your body, your brain cannot function well, and you will get headache or migraine. Hence, next time, if you feel fatigue and headache, it may be the sign of dehydration.

Signs of Dehydration

• Dark Urine-Yellow or Orange in color

• Dry Skin

• Thirst

• Hunger

• Fatigue

 

From the DRM Archives. For more information like this, please visit http://drmilc.com/

 

DRM Employee Sportlight

This month, Genesis Home Healthcare Providers recognizes Amy Murphy for her outstanding and creative service to DRM International Learning Center (DRM ILC). Amy is ILC's School Administrator and Genesis Home Healthcare's Nursing Supervisor. Amy enjoys helping students through the learning process and becoming one step closer to entering the exciting field of healthcare. In addition, Amy is also a Certified Teacher in the State of Michigan. Her consistent passion to teach is shown in her interactive learning and creative teaching style.

Thanks Amy for your Awesome work!

 

Drm International Learning center provides students with the best CNA Training in Michigan

Finishing Strong

Have you every had the thought or feeling, "There isn't enough hours in the day?" If you have I'm sure you are not alone. Unfortunately we cant add hours to our day. We all are given 24 hours a day. The question is: How are you spending yours? Getting tasks completed is a matter of time management.

Learn the difference between urgent and important. The important tasks are the ones that lead you to your goals, and give you the most of the long term progress and rewards. Aim to do the important things first. Re- member the 80-20 rule: 80 percent of reward come from 20 percent of your efforts. Keep a time log if need. You will be surprised to see how you are currently managing your time and its increased productivity. The year isn't over. If you have some unfinished business/goals, you still have time to accomplish them. FINISH STRONG!

For more articles like this, check out DRM International Learning Center. DRM ILC is an educational facility that prepares students to take their state CNA exam and have a successful career in the burgoning elerly care areana. It specializes in helping students get their CNA Licenses.

Grattitude is Attitude

You likely say "thank you" several times a day - to the barista pouring your coffee, to the co-worker holding the elevator door or to the cashier handing you a receipt. But what does it mean to be truly thankful or to live a life of gratitude? Gratitude is an attitude - a sense or appreciation to the gifts in your life, from the basic comforts of a home to the people who are important to you .

Research shows that practicing gratitude can make you happier and healthier emotionally and physically. This happens in part because thankful people tend to take better care of themselves by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and seeking regular medical care. Expressing thankfulness also builds positive feelings that are supplied in part by oxytocin, a hormone that prompts feelings of goodwill, empathy and kindness.

In addition, a study conducted suggest that the positive personal attrib- utes linked to expressing gratitude may actually help prevent heart disease.

Researchers have also found that people who regularly express their feelings of gratitude tend to:

 

• Get more and better sleep at night
• Spend more time exercising
• Have fewer headaches, nausea, pain and other physical symptoms of illness
• Be more alert, attentive, enthusiastic and energetic
• Have greater resistance to illness
• Experience less stress
• Have a greater sense of well-being
• View life as pleasurable, interesting and exciting

 

If practicing gratitude doesn't come naturally to you start by calling a friend to express appreciation for your friendship, writing a short thank-you note or tak- ing a few minutes each night to reflect on the gifts in your life. Changing your behavior in this way can change your attitude and feelings!

For more articles like this, visit DRM International Learning Center and DRM Genesis Home Health Care

Shrink your waistline & Grow your family time.

There has been an increasing trend in the Unites States toward comsumerism, a trend that is reflected in more people eating out, and the use of convenience and functional foods. Fast-food restaurants have become very common. The growth and popularity of fast food has come to be known as the "McDonaldization" of America. In the United States, eating in these restaurants has decreased slightly among heavy users in the 18-34 age group, but has increased among other groups.

You may ask, How can these trends be reversed? One step is to start eating dinner at home. Saving money by NOT dining out has it's obvious advantages, but the are other noteworthy benefits of making the choice to cook at home are listed below.

 

1. Healthy Lifestyle- Overall cooking at home is much healthier than dining out. Food consumed at restaurants typically has a lot more calories and fatthan food you may prepare at home.

2. Lower Health Care Costs- Consumption of fatty and high caloric foods can lead to diabetes and heart disease, among other health issues. Eating healthy will save you a lot of money on healthcare related costs

3. Family Time- constantly on the run eating out contributes to losing quality time with loved ones.

4. Knowing What You Eat- For anyone with food allergies, worrying about whether food is accidentally cross contaminated would be a concern. Cooking your own food at home alleviates any doubts as to what your are truly eating.

5. Reducing Temptation- Anyone who desires to change their eating habits dread dining out with friends.

6. Increased Energy- Eating in allows you to plan out healthier meals. Buy healthy so you eat healthy! Focus especially on green vegetables for increased energy

For more information like this, go to http://www.drmgenesis.com/ and sign up for our newsletter. Also check out DRM ILC for information about CNA Training for Licensing

Back to the Basics

The joys of grilling, vacationing, spending time with family, going to amusement parks, beaches and relaxing provides a great feeling. Unfortunately, summer is coming to an end. It's time to get ready to turn the clocks back, refocus by developing and enforcing a daily regimen. The following tips will help the entire family maintain a healthy lifestyle.

 

Eat Healthy

• Eat a variety of fruits, vegetable and whole grains everyday

• Limit foods and drinks high in calories, sugar, salt, fat, and alcohol.

• Eat a balanced diet to help keep a healthy weight.

 

Be Active

• Be active for at least 2½ hours a week. Include activities that raise

your breathing and heart rates and that strengthen your muscles.

• Help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day. Include

activities that raise their breathing and heart rates and that strengthen their

muscles and bones.

 

 

Protect Yourself

• Wear helmets, seat belts, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

• Wash hands to stop the spread of germs.

• Avoid smoking and breathing other people's smoke.

• Be ready for emergencies. Make a supply kit. Make a plan. Be informed.

 

Manage Stress

• Balance work, home, and play.

• Get support from family and friends. • Stay positive.

• Take time to relax.

• Get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. • Get help or counseling if needed.

 

Get Check-Ups

• Ask your doctor or nurse how you can lower your chances for health prob-

lems based on your lifestyle and personal and family health histories.

• Find out what exams, tests, and shots you need and when to get them.

• See your doctor or nurse as often as he or she says to do so or her sooner if

you feel sick, have pain, notice changes, or have problems with medicine

 

Find more useful articles like this at DRM International Learning Center

 

Tips for Getting Rid of Stress

Who You Gonna Call?

Stress Busters!!

 

Here are a few simple things you can do to relieve stress in your life.

 

Simplify - Cut your "To-Do" List in half. Prioritize.

Give Away your Cape - If you have not figured it out by now you ARE NOT a super hero possessing super- natural capabilities. Surrender to limitations and conditions.

Laugh - Humor can heal; besides it's fun to do. When a person laughs the autonomic nervous system takes a break allowing the hear to relax. Laughter also boosts the immune system.

Stop Juggling - In today's society multi-tasking in inevitable; however your are not a circus performer. Once again prioritizing and time management is the key.

Think Globally - This doesn't mean take a oversees trip, although traveling can be relaxing. Compared to other problems in our world today like poverty, famine, and disease, the things we stress about can be pretty minor.

Shift your perspective. There can be worse scenarios so don't beat yourself up if you for get to complete a task.

 

Get more tips and information at DRM International Learning Center. DRM specializes in Home Health Care and CNA Certification Training

 

Back to Work Smiling

It's amazing how someone can put a smile on your face after a long, hard day at work. And, the last place you expect to be greeted with a smile is at a super store, especially by someone who should

be living happily in retirement. Some, however, take the new job of greeter very seriously...with a huge grin on their faces. They can make the stress and strain of a hec- tic day melt away like wax on a lit candle as they warmly welcome you into the bustle of places like Meijer and Walmart.

Often, you can walk into one of these mega shops and experience a respite from life's grind when they say, "Hello," and hand you a shop- ping cart or sales flyer. They seem to really mean it, and it's refreshing. Next time you're at Sam's Club or one of the other super stores, and the greeter welcomes you, take a moment to drink in the greeting and offer a smile in return

- From the DRM International Learn Center Archives

Working After Retirement

Have you given any thought to what you're going to do to oc- cupy your time once you retire from your primary occupation? Many people look forward to having an opportunity to retire, only to realize that they were really much happier when they were gainfully employed. More and more, retirees are choosing to pursue new occupations following retirement.

There are many reasons why retirees choose to go back into the work force. Many miss the mental stimulation of work responsi- bilities and contacts. It isn't unusual for retirees to spend a significant amount of traveling, golfing, and pursuing other hobbies only to find themselves bored and ready to go back to work. For some people, returning to work after retiring is a simple matter of financial ne- cessity. Others may be able to support themselves on their retirementincomes, but miss having additional disposable income to use for travel and other extras.

Most retirees don't want to return to the same highly stressful, full time occupations they left, but still find the idea of con- tinuing to work during their retirement years to be very appealing. The good news is that the workplace is welcoming retirees back into the fold with open arms. As employers are facing the impact of retiring baby boomers on the labor pool, they are thrilled by the increasing numbers of skilled, mature workers who are ready to come back to work.

Progressive employers are restructuring positions so they meet the needs of retirees who want to return to work. In many cases, companies are offering retirees part-time hours, flexible scheduling, job sharing, and even home based job opportunities. Many companies provide computer training and on the job mentoring programs for retirees interested in mastering new lines of work. These accommo- dations make going back to work feasible and appealing to retirees who want to keep working, but not at the same pace as they did during their younger years.

 

There are many opportunities in the modern workplace for individuals who want to enjoy the benefits of retirement and the rewards of continued employment at the same time. Going back to work after retiring offers an opportunity for retired individuals to apply what they know in a new occupation, as well as a chance to learn new skills. Seeking a post-retirement career is a terrific opportunity to stay active and continue to earn money doing work that you enjoy while also maintaining a flexible sched- ule and the freedom to pursue other interests

 

 - Mary G. White, M.A., SPHR is the Training Coordinator for Mobile Technical Institute & MTI Business Solutions (http://www.mobiletechwebsite.com), where she specializes in human resources, management, customer service, public relations, and marketing training. She teaches open enrollment classes for MTI, provides on-site corporate training, and fre- quently speaks at conferences and association meetings. She is also the author of 101 Press Release Tips in the LifeTips book series. In addition to training, MTI provides a variety of consulting services, including custom database development and website solutions.

 

Exerpt from DRM Newsletter - September 2008 - From the Archive

CNA Training Facility Announces Contest Winners

The contestant winners were announced for the 4th annual DRM International Learning Center (DRM) high school senior health care essay contest. 

Lansing Eastern High School senior, Victoria Churchill's essay entitled "Is There Really a Need for Healthcare" was selected the winner of the essay contest. As the first place winner, Churchill's prize is a full scholarship to DRM 's CNA training program valued at nearly $5k. Churchill wrote about how she plans on using a career in health care to make a difference.

In March, DRM International Center (www.drmilc.com) delivered full-ride scholarship information to school counseling offices in Ingham, Eaton and parts of Clinton counties. The mission of the scholarship opportunity is to inspire high school students that have been impacted in some way by health care related issues and want to make a difference in health care in their community.

Lansing Everitt's Harley Cook was named the second place winner. Her prize is a full scholarship to DRM's CNA training program valued at $1,223.The third place winner was Amelia Arreguin-Cisneros from Lansing Eastern. The senior will also receive a full scholarship to our CNA training program. All essays were judged based on understanding of the topic, style, writing, spelling and grammar. 

Jendayi Guy, the 2010 scholarship winner, explained that she felt the practical experience DRM ILC provided her an edge over other nursing students. "I didn't really know what my first steps should be and how I was going to get started. Winning the scholarship helped me to get going in the right direction," Guy said.

DRM International Learning Center graduates enjoy 98 percent placement rate in the healthcare industry. Located in Lansing, Michigan, DRM, a state licensed full service vocational school,  offers a dynamic three-tiered development program for individuals wanting to enter the healthcare professions. Programming includes basic home health aide training, advanced home health aide training, certified nurse assistant training, CNAplus™ training, CPR/First Aid training, and employability training. DRM serves the Lansing community. 

DRM's mission is to provide effective classroom instruction in high demand healthcare fields and community course that lead to sustainable employment and community service. 

If you would like more information on this topic, or to schedule a meeting with Kendra Valaquez, please call 517-882-3544 or e-mail Kendra at info@drmilc.com

March Newsletter

PO Box 331 Holt, MI 48842
(517)699-2099

Business.Schools.Government.

Speakers & Updates

www.holtalliance.org

2011 Board of Directors

Roger Donaldson—President
Pat Brown—Vice President
Trina Austin—Treasurer
Martin Neumann—Past President
John Bush—Director
John Hayhoe—Director
Shelley Slee—Director
Brian Templin—Director
Pastor Joe—Director

In this Issue

• Speaker announcements
• Upcoming meeting dates
• Noteworthy News
• Community Events

Holt Alliance would like to welcome
our new members who will be in-
ducted at our March meeting:

Wrigglesworth-Holt Education
Sandy Wrigglesworth
Hudson–
Brian Hudson David Chapman
Agency, Inc.
Stout–
Al Stout SSB Bank
Wheeler–
Meg Wheeler Union Bank
Brzozowski–
Kimberly Brzozowski Edward Jones

February Meeting: March 17, 2011
7:30am, Charlar Place, $6 break-
fast. Current members receive a
free breakfast for your first time
guest .

Featured Speaker: Susan Maples is
highly accomplished in the area of
cosmetic dentistry and adult recon-
structive dentistry.

Yet she will never out grow her love
for her younger patients.

When she’s not busy learning. Susan
teaches throughout the country in
area leadership and patient communi-
cations.

RSVP to: 699-5595 or

ShelleyCharlar@aol.com

Portfolio Days May 2, 3 , 5 and 6

More Information: Nick Johnson

(517) 694-4370 or NJohnson@hpsk12.net

Holt Alliance thanks Shanna Bryant
from Servpro for sharing what we
need to do in case of a disaster.

Future Meeting Dates:

March 17—Susan Maples
April 21—Goodwill Industries
May 19—Scholarships
June 16

Monthly Meetings are the 3rd Thursday of the
month, at Charlar Place, 4230 Charlar Drive,
Holt
Guest are welcome
The Board of Directors meet the 1st Thursday of
each month, 8:00am in the Holt Public Schools
Administration Office at the 9th Grade Building.
Members are welcome

There is an area for brochures and
event flyers at our meetings.
We encourage you to take advantage
of this opportunity to network.

President’s Corner

I appreciate the Boards confidence in
electing me President for this year. We
have a few activities on schedule and
looking to do more. This spring we will
once again be helping with the 9th grade
Portfolio days, helping our students learn
what business people are looking for in
our future employees and how to present
themselves better. We are working to
update our Directory to be placed around
the community to present our members
as supporters of the area. This Fall the
Holt Alliance will be hosting the Business
Expo in October, presenting our local
Businesses to the community and pro-
moting the idea of using our Holt-
Dimondale
Businesses.
I ask all members to communicate with
our Board, let us know what else the Holt
Alliance can do for you, and what you
expect from the Alliance. Ask a neighbor-
ing business member to come to our
meetings and to join us. We can do
more when we have more members to
help.

Your President for 2011

Roger Donaldson

Page 2

March 2011

Holt Alliance

Holt Alliance 2010 Members

Advanced Insurance Markets Ltd.
American Flooring, LLC
Barbara Byrum
Bikers Church
Blohm Creative Partners
Brower Food Products Inc
Capital Area District Library
Charlar Place, Banquets
Citizens Bank
Craig’s Auto Body Shop
Dart Bank
David Chapman Agency, Inc
Delhi Charter Township
Delhi Chiropratic, PLLC
Dimondale Nursing Care Center
Edward Jones –John Bush
Edward Jones—Kimberly Brzozowski
Fat Boy's Pizza
Genesis Home Healthcare Providers, LLC

Goodrich Optical, Inc.
Granger Construction Company
Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau
Hayhoe Asphalt Paving LLC
Holt Eye Care
Holt Family Dentistry
Holt Public Schools
Holt-Dimondale Agency, Inc.
Ingham County Sheriff
Innate Chiropractic Center
Kirk and Partners
Lumbertown
McGraw Law Firm PLC
Mid Michigan Business Solutions
Moore-Trosper Construction Co.
Neumann Law, P.C.
Oak Park YMCA
Orthopedic Rehab Specialists
Roger Donaldson, Architect

Royal Lawn Services Inc
Servpro of Lansing
SSB Bank
Steve Dougan – Plan Member Securities
Susan Maples DDS
Tim Hortons
Tom Trubac/State Farm
Union Bank
Vince Dragonetti
Volz Family Chiropratic
Sandy Wriggelsworth
William Wahl

Please make sure your Alliance Dues are
paid. We are planning on publishing a new
current directory of Holt Alliance members
soon.

The Holt Alliance wants to hear from YOU!

PLEASE TAKE THE SURVEY ATTACHED

TO THIS NEWSLETTER AND BRING IT TO

THE NEXT BREAKFAST

YOU WILL RECEIVE A FREE BREAKFAST

RogerAIA@comcast.net

Time Well Spent

Caregiver retreat

Noteworthy News & Community Events

Thursday, March 24, 2011

8am until 4pm

Eagle Eye Banquet Facility,
15500 Chandler Rd. in East
Lansing.

A day for Caregivers to

RELAX..RESTORE..REVEW...

Details: 517-515-2142

_________________________

Holt Community is Invited to Come Together for
Town hall meeting on Underage Drinking
Thursday, March 17th at 7:00 p.m.
Holt high School Theater
Please contact Angela Stepter at
astepter@aol.com or call Holt High School’s
517-699-
Principals office at 517-699-0294

See Attachment.

The MARCH Expo

Online Cake Ordering

Monday, March 21st

www.coldstonecakes.com

Kiwanis Paper Drive

on April 15th and 16th

Remember to think of Tim Hortons & Cold stone
Creamery for graduations, birthdays, weddings,
anniversaries, retirement, or any other event re-
quiring catering.

891-
Call Michele @888 891-2659 or email

Greaterlansingcater@gmail.com

Located in the plaza on the

corner of Holt and Aurelius.

Food Bank Distribution

April 16th at Holt Presbyterian

Located on the corner of Holt and Aurelius

Get your March on!

Charlar Place

March 19th 11:00—4:00

Proceeds go to Relay for Life
American Cancer Society

*Vendor Space available

$115.00 Includes space at
the Relay and a Cancer Fact
Sign with your Business Name

Details: 517-699-5595
_________________________

View our website at the link below!

DRM ILC - CNA Training in MI