Ways to Save Business Travelers Time

What an exciting time in our global economy! Changes are happening rapidly every day.

The U. S. Government has five programs to save Business and Frequent travelers time. We all know time equals money.

On Oct. 4, 2011 the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency, CBP.gov have teamed up for this Homeland Security Initiative, launching a pilot programs expediting the screening of U.S. Citizens who are traveling.

Here is the list of programs. Posting a blog on each program. I really think you will like this!

1. TSA Trusted Traveler

Also called TSA PreCheck. I like the name Trusted Traveler better.

The CBP has partnered with TSA on this Department of Homeland Security initiative,
designed to help TSA focus resources on higher-risk and unknown passengers while
expediting the process for lower-risk and known passengers.

U.S. citizens who are members of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI.

Trusted Traveler programs are eligible to participate in the TSA pilot.

According to the American Association of Airport Executives an article in Airport Magazine stated the program is set for 2nd quarter of 2012 to roll out in LAX, Las Vegas International airport and Minneapolis - St. Paul International airport.

This program Began at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport, Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport, and Miami International Airport.

I am sure that was a HUGE undertaking, based on the size of the initial four airports.


Business travelers are impressed with
the respect the new program "Trusted Traveler"
offers the frequent traveler.


Safe and healthy travels,

Nurse G

The 2012 Olympic Safety Awards for the design and construction of the Olympic stadium.
Brian Nimick, the Chief Executive of the British Safety Council oversaw the Olympic Delivery Authority Awards. ( ODA )Judged by the British Safety Council.

The focus on safety and health before the Olympics is important for a successful event.
As travelers heading to the Olympics, the preparation and awards encouraged employees to pay attention to safety details.


Some of the awards given for 2012 Construction for the Olympic Village;

1. Worker of the Year Award was presented to Huw Preece working on the primary foul drainage and pumping station.

2. Supervisor of the Year Award was presented to Sean Melody from the structures, bridges and highways construction team.

3. The Environmental individual performance Award was presented to Andy Bassett from the Aquatics Centre construction team.

4. Manager of the Year Award was presented to Thomas Faulkner from the structures, bridges and highways team.

5. The Commitment to Exemplar Performance was awarded to Team Stadium for their work on the construction of the Olympic Stadium.

6. The Project Performance Award was presented to the ‘Park Health’ occupational healthcare team based on site.

7. The Environmental Project Performance Award was presented to the construction team for the Weymouth and Portland sailing facilities.

The Team Training Award was presented to the Enabling Works team for their work on the north of the Olympic Park.

The Zero Tolerance – Workforce Engagement Award was presented to the Olympic Village team.

10. The Lessons Learned Award was presented to the Enabling Works team.




To view the Olympic Torch route:

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Keep Yourself Safe When Traveling

Before traveling to a foreign country, consider getting your prescription and over the counter medications for travel filled in your home country.
Beware of counterfeit medicines. Some of these medications are produced with counterfeit intent, but most of these medications from foreign countries may have sub standard manufacturing.

http://www.voanews.com/content/un-calls-for-unity-in-fight-against-drug-resistant-malaria/1363767.html

Association South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Being asked to support UN in efforts to slow the spread of drug resistant malaria, especially along the borders of Cambodia and Burma.

UN Roll Back Malaria Partnership (RBM)

Malaria threatens 2.3 billion people in countries across Asia Pacific region.. IN 2010 the Asia Pacific region had 28 million reported cases of malaria with over 38,00 lives lost.

Scientists are blaming use of single use drugs and sales of counterfeit medication as reasons for growing resistance.

A recent report by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) stated an analysis of medications for anti malarial collected in Sub-Saharan Africa discovered 35 medications failed standards due to poor manufacturing and another 20 percent failed because they were bogus.

Which could mean up to 1/3 of malaria medication is potentially counterfeit.

Article in BBC news online, health editor Michelle Roberts
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-18147085

She does note that mortality due to malaria has fallen more than 25% globally since 2000, 33% in the World Health Organization African Region.

http://www.rbm.who.int/keyfacts.html

Mysterious Illness in Cambodia

An article in Chicago Tribune
by Rosemarie Francisco
http://www.chicagotribune.com/health/sns-rt-us-cambodia-diseasebre8620dg-20120703,0,1069237.story

An Investigation by World Health Organization (WHO) into an unknown disease that has killed at least 60 children under age 7 since April of 2012. Mostly occurring in Southern Cambodia.

Symptoms of high fever, swelling around the brain and respiratory symptoms, the children deteriorate due to difficulty breathing. Symptoms usually related to pneumonia.

The WHO is working with the Cambodia Ministry of Health and other countries to find the cause and source of this disease. The WHO must continue to research the disease
to determine the cause.

Readers planning to travel to Camodia or South Vietnam can help protect themselves with frequent hand washing, using soap and hot water and using sanitary hand wipes
for wiping down surfaces in hotel room and other frequently touched areas, like airline seat trays and door handles.

Drink water only from sealed water bottles or travel with a water bottle & water filter system. Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables, eating them only steamed or cooked.

Because the majority of these cases are in children under age 11, pay close attention to any fever or change in mental status if traveling to this region with small children.

Seek medical attention as soon as possible if any of these symptoms occur.

Safe travels,

Nurse G

Sandcastle Built for Olympics Then Destroyed

London 2012 -A Sandcastle marking 100 days before the official start of the Summer Olympics was demolished for health and safety reasons only hours after it was completed.
An article in the UK Telegraph, written by Donna Bowater, describes the ginormous 13 feet wide by 6 and 1/2 feet high announcing “100 days to go” was demolished to prevent injuries to visitors. Especially the risk of the structure falling on any children.

The purpose of the sandcastle was to create photo opportunities to mark 100 days before the start of the Summer Olympics.

The cost of the sandcastle was £5,000 or about $7,764 USD.
Demolishing the sandcastle was part of the plan to ensure safety.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/news/9211627/London-2012-Olympics-sandcastle-knocked-down-over-he

To view the Olympic torch route:

http://www.london2012.com/torch-relay/

11 symptoms to watch for after traveling Stage 4: Four Steps Travel Health Guarding Your Health

This is part four on a series of the four steps to Travel Health. The First Step is Preparation and Pre travel the Second Step is The Third Step is Travel and health during travel The fourth Step is post travel health. Upon return from your travel destination, see your doctor if you are not feeling well or having any type of symptom that might be out of the norm for the typical "Airplane Cold" , See your doctor or health care provider. The World Health Organization has completed research stating most travelers do not realize that symptoms from contracting a travel illness can show up as late as 12 to 18 months later. A few travel illness symptoms may include;

1. Upset stomach or stomach problems that will not resolve.
2. Cramping in your muscles
3. Rash or skin irritation
4. Headache
5. Fever - low fever or high fever
6. Feeling tired or a generalized "sick with aches and pains."
7. Watery or bloody diarrhea. Described by medical professionals as "rice-water" diarrhea because of the way it looks.
8. Unexplained weight loss
9. Redness or swelling of eyelid or around your eyes.
10. Nausea & Vomiting
11. Joint pain
12. Pain around your eyes
13. Your experiencing a sore throat
14. Loss of Appetite
15. Difficulty swallowing
16. Unexplained Hoarseness in your voice
17. Tightening of your jaw muscles
18. Parkinson symptoms or uncontrolled shaking
19. Seizures
20. Backache
21. Chills
22. Unexplained Fatigue
23. Weakness
24. Bleeding
25. Yellowing of the whites of eyes.

If you experience any of the above symptoms after traveling abroad, please see your medical physician.
Stay Healthy,
Nurse G

Copyright Nurse Guardian,pllc 2011-2016,

Make your personal travel health routine habit Travel Health; Four Steps for Guarding your Health- Step 3

Article 3 of 4 Travel Health stages; Four Stages to protect your health during travel
Stage Three; Make Your Personal Health Travel routine and Strategies a Habit.
Using your favorite travel health products and prevention before, during and after your flight is important to support your health and increase your comfort. Frequently washing your hands may help prevent catching the dreaded "airplane cold."
Make a habit of wiping down surfaces when first sitting down on an airline flight, or other travel transportation. Using handiwipes that kill bacteria.

When you arrive in your hotel room the following strategies could be added to your health routine and may help support your health,
preventing travel illness. Carry a My Travel Health Kit®. A convenient travel kit designed by a Registered Nurse, full of FDA Approved Over-the-Counter medications for illness. or

If you decide to put together your own comfort medication kit, then here is a list of medications that can be purchased over the counter and what the medications are used for when not feeling well.
Medicine

ACHES & PAINS, FEVER, HEADACHES
Acetaminophen
Temporary relief of pain, Headaches, Fever reducer

Ibuprofin
Temporary relief of Pain, Headaches Fever reducer

Tri-Buffered Aspirin
Temporary Pain, Headache, Prevention

COLD, FLU & COUGH
Sinus Decongestant
Temporary relief of sinus congestion & pressure
Diphenhydramine
Temporary relief of Allergy
STOMACH UPSET AILMENTS
Aluminum hydroxide
Cherry flavored Temporary relief of acid indigestion, sour stomach,
Magnesium hydroxide
cherry flavored Temporary relief of acid indigestion, sour stomach

TOPICAL &PREVENTION
Triple Antibiotic Ointment
Temporary relief of minor cuts & scrapes
Hydrocortisone Cream 1% Temporary relief of itching associated with minor skin irritations like bug bites or rashes.
Moleskin Temporary relief of pre or post blisters on feet

Good for you for taking steps to prevent illness. Keep up the good habits! Thanks for reading Nurse Guardian Blog. Feedback is always welcome. Stay Healthy, Nurse G Copyright Nurse Guardian,pllc. Use with Permission.

Worth it's weight in gold - testimony

Healthy Traveling is not all doom and gloom. One of my customers told me about a recent trip to Italy. She came down with a cold after her third day. She was super excited because this was her first trip to Europe. She sent me an email after her trip telling me she used most of the medication for a cold in the kit. She used all of the cough drops as she was traveling with a coordinated tour group and did not wish to cough on the bus. So grateful she had the kit with her instead of having to locate a pharmacy for her needs. Nurse G has created a travel kit that is packed full of every day items, things that are worth their weight in gold the minute you need them. All at your fingertips. Think of travel health and your travel health preparations like a warm up to your exercise routine. The world is an amazing and exiting place to explore all the wonders, even during business travel. During business travel one can meet people from all parts of the globe and gain exposure to all types of cultures. Like any balanced exercise routine or sport, warm up before the workout or you might pull or damage a muscle. Before any travel, prepare yourself with a medical and safety warm up, like warming up your muscles before exercise. Traveling with My Travel Health Kit® may help prevent travel illness. Traveling is a great experience to meet other cultures, people and see some beautiful wonders on our planet. See my next article on 4 stages for healthy travel. Enjoy your travels and Stay Healthy. Nurse G Copyright Nurse Guardian,pllc. Use With Permission

How my immune system keeps me healthy

Your immune system is your protection against bacteria, viruses and illness. Your immune system soldiers are slow to prepare for battle and need about a month to build forts and practice with the vaccines. This practice of your immune system's soldiers are prepared for any larger battle and can create a strong defense strategy during your travels. You may want to plan a visit to your travel medicine provider at least one month before your departure. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDCP) vaccinations take up to TWO WEEKS or longer to become effective. An early visit to your travel medical provider gives your body time to ally with the vaccinations you receive and build protection. Vaccines for travel are divided into three categories: Routine, Recommended, and Required. A medical travel provider will help you figure out which vaccinations based on travel destination and other factors. Even if you have less than 4 weeks before departure, You may still benefit from shots, which medical professionals call immunizations. You may also benefit from Prescription medication and information about how to protect yourself from illness and injury while traveling. Support your troops! You can download an adult immunization record card at www.immunize.org/adultizcards/adultizcard.pdf Nurse G Copyright Nurse Guardian, pllc 2011-2014. May be used with permission from author.

Save Time at the Airport with PRE CHECK

I wrote about Time Saving tips for frequent travelers. TSA now has a Trusted Traveler program. A Few additional time saving Travel programs introduced by the TSA; Pre Check- sign up on the TSA website. SA Pre✓™ Application Process The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is announcing plans to implement a TSA Pre✓™ application process. The TSA Pre✓™ fee-based application process will allow U.S. citizens the opportunity to apply for expedited screening without a passport. When available, the application will be a two-step process: Fill out an online application. Verify identity and provide fingerprints at a TSA Pre✓™ enrollment center. Applicants may pay the anticipated $85 enrollment fee online, or at an enrollment center. There is a five-year term of eligibility, after which members will need to re-apply. TSA expects the vetting process to take approximately 2-3 weeks. A U.S. passport is not required to enroll. The first two enrollment locations, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Indianapolis International Airport (IND), will open in fall 2013 with plans to expand to additional enrollment sites nationwide. Applicants receive a confirmation letter via U.S. mail. Approved applicants are issued a ‘Known Traveler Number’ to be used when booking travel. Passengers enter their Known Traveler Number (KTN) in the ‘Known Traveler Field’ when booking their travel reservations. Passengers may also enter their KTN to their frequent flyer airline profiles, where it is stored for future reservations. Current TSA Pre✓™ participants, including those eligible via a CBP Trusted Traveler Program such as Global Entry, will continue to receive TSA Pre✓™ eligibility. Participants who opted-in through their airline frequent flyer program may want to consider applying for TSA Pre✓™, as they are more likely to be selected for TSA Pre✓™ expedited screening more often if they are vetted via the TSA Pre✓™ application process. Enrollment locations, contact information and hours of operation will be available fall 2013. http://www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheck/tsa-precheck-application-process The link to the website for the programs. Remember to get immunizations before travel and carry a My Travel Health Kit® to avoid the hunt for foreign pharmacies. Healthy Travels, Nurse G

Don't Let the Bedbugs Bite!

A bedbug link to share with readers. This article covers information on bedbugs and Bed bugs are an increasing problem, not only for hotels, but in every major city in the United States. Currently, the CDC and other health organizations are stating that bed bug bites are not carrying any illness for humans, but I would much rather not be bitten at all.

what to look for in a hotel room to identify bed bugs are present. http://thedailynewsonline.com/lifestyles/article_dabb8ad5-a431-5786-8893-a9482c73a41e.html Don't let the bed bugs bite! Healthy Travels, Nurse G Copyright Nurse Guardian,pllc. Use with Permission.

Protection from Measles When Traveling

What can I do to protect myself from Measles on my international business travel? Protect yourself and your family by keeping your immunizations up to date. Traveling with a current copy of your immunizations. If you are unable to find a copy of your childhood immunizations, ask your health care provider about a vaccination schedule. Be up to date with your vaccinations before you travel. Any one of the following is evidence of measles immunity for international travelers: A.) birth before 1957. B.) Copy of childhood vaccine record showing documented injection of 2 doses of live measles virus vaccine (MMR, MMRV). C.) Current copy of documented injection of recent Measles vaccination. Especially if no childhood vaccination record is locatable. D.) Proof of immunity, a laboratory blood test for Measles titer. E.) Documentation of physician-diagnosed measles. Healthy Travels, Nurse G

Travel Health; Four Simple Stages for Guarding your Health

This is one(1) of 4 posts on 4 simple stages of travel health. Easy ways to prepare for your travel to remain as healthy as possible. Stage one Pre Travel; A dear friend of mine returned from a business trip in Central America. When he returned, he thought he had just a touch of stomach flu. Waiting a week before seeing his physician due to his progressed symptoms. His doctor ran a few "travel health " tests and my friend was diagnosed with parasites in his liver. Luckily or unluckily, the physician had diagnosed this parasite in other travelers. His physician said they were lucky to catch it early. My friend made a full recovery. Stage one Pre Travel; Emergency Communications Before your departure, purchase two USB drives. Download your medical information and travel contact information on both drives. Leave one USB drive with your emergency contact person. Keep the other USB drive with you when you travel, for easy access to your medical information and in case of a medical emergency. Leave as much information you feel comfortable giving to your emergency contact but try to list multiple ways of contacting you. Store the following information on two USB drives; A. A copy of your medical records, a current list of immunizations, copy of your travel insurance policy, physician name and contact number, a list of your medication and medication prescription information including pharmacy and prescription number as well as your personal medical insurance information. Remember to update annually or as your personal medical information changes. B. Your travel contact information including the name and contact number of your of hotel(s), your flight information and travel itinerary, email address and the contact of a local manager or team leader at work. If possible, include a contact person at the company you are doing business with in the destination country and the contact of a coworker traveling with you. Update your emergency contact information with your Human Resource Department. Look for part two Travel Health 4 Stages to protect your health. http://nurseguardian.wordpress.com/2011/12/07/part-ii-travel…ct-your-health/

As an Occupational Health Nurse Manager, I experienced a scare with an employee. One of the nurses I managed became sick recently and I was unable to find her. This nurse had a stellar record of attendance and communication skills. I worried something awful had happened. She had graciously invited my family to a party she was hosting and I happened to have her husbands cell phone number. I was finally able to get hold of the husband, who did not know she was not at work. He was able to track her down and contacted me with the update, she was in the Emergency Room at the local hospital. A recent survey published in Business Travel News addressed Crisis Management. They further identified by the survey the "primary source of employee location and contact information in an emergency". The one page graph did not expand on emergency type or situation. It did not identify disasters. Tools used for company provided emergency assistance program primary sources were email 43% and phone call in person 37%. Tools for company provided traveler/ crisis alerts: Primary sources were email (63%) and internet site(31%). How would your company contact you if there was an emergency back home? How would your company contact you if you had an emergency overseas? As an Occupational Health Nurse we have prepared over 100 business travelers a month with health and safety preparation before business travel. Here are some tips to prepare for quick communication during business travel; Internal in your company; Check with Human Resources and update your emergency contact numbers. After the nurse became sick, I placed that communication must at the top of my priority list for the team of nurses I managed. I encouraged them to update emergency contacts annually. Working with the larger corporations, much of this information is available on the company's home page. The nurses could update their emergency contacts from their computer. Learn policies and procedures for injury or illness at work. The E H&S team or Human Resources can guide that information. Talk to your family or emergency contacts about your emergency plan at work. Let them know what hospital you expect to be transported to, the location of your insurance card and who else to contact for you, if you are unable to make phone calls at the time of the emergency. Prepare for the worst, expect the best. Look for my next article Business overseas Emergency planning

Protect Yourself From Recent Outbreak of Measles in Europe

Following three years of low Measles incidence from 2007-2009, a sharp increase of reported Measles cases occurred in late 2009, increasing in 2010. As of 2011 the European region is reporting 21,700 cases. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus. Efforts being taken in the European Region to achieve the Elimination Target of Measles by 2015. France is the country with the highest rate of Measles; around 14,000 cases since October 2011. Cases of Measles predominantly occurred in children and young adults with no immunization history, or questionable history of immunization. In the United States, according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) which has received a total of 156 confirmed cases of Measles, the highest reported cases since 1996. The number of deaths totals 9 from Measles in 2011 in the following countries; France - 6, has the largest number of deaths. Stay Healthy! Nurse G

Measles on the Increase- What the Heck ARE Measles?

What are Measles? With modern medicine and our current vaccinations in the United States, most people may have never seen a case of Measles. According to Pubmed health, Measles are a highly contagious, respiratory virus, spread by contact with droplets from an infected person. Measles can be spread from the coughing or sneezing of an infected person. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002536/ Symptoms of the Measles are fever, runny nose, cough and rash. Other symptoms may include; Muscle pain, Rash, Tiny white spots in the mouth Light sensitivity Runny Nose Sore Throat Cough In response to measles outbreaks, according to WHO World Health Organization as of December 2011, states increasing and immunization advocacy. Recommendations for adjusting the immunization schedule based on a per country decision. Thousands of hospitalizations related to the European Region Measles outbreak, along with the potentially preventable deaths. The CDC, recommends the vaccination MMR which covers Measles, Mumps and Rubella. Check with your medical provider before receiving vaccinations for travel health. the CDC recommends following ADULT schedule for Measles between the ages of 19 and 49 one or two doses. Adults that are over the age of 50, one dose of MMR. Note: The Adult vaccination schedule is not a schedule for children. For more information on the ADULT vaccination schedule visit this link : http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/downloads/adult/adult-schedule.pdf

Part 2: Travel Health Four Simple Stages for Guarding Your Health

Travel Health Stage 2 (of 4) Medical Protection; Steps to take before travel. See Stage one in article link below; Stage 2 Medical Protection; Steps to take before travel; Check with your medical health provider about travel immunizations and current disease outbreaks in your country of destination. The best time to meet with your medical provider is two to three weeks before departure. If you require immunizations, this gives your body time to create antibodies. Discuss the options of additional prescription medication for travel. Start a course of probiotics. Not Antibiotics, PRObiotics! Similar to a good quality yogurt, that protects digestive health, but turbocharged. Take probiotic supplements to enhance your digestive system's Guard bacteria. That is, good bacteria that aids with digestive health. Research show that probiotics support digestive health against the dreaded Traveler's Diarrhea. If you happen to get Travelers Diarrhea(TD), research also show that with consistent use of probiotics, the course of TD illness may not last as long One Week before departure A. Get prescriptions from travel health care provider filled. B, If possible, get personal prescriptions filled so that you have enough medication to cover your travel dates. Bring a few extra pills in the event of any travel delays. C. Pack your prescriptions. Just a friendly reminder! D. Pack a My Travel Health Kit® Stocked with over-the-counter medications you may need during travel. If you don't have time and don't want to struggle with the challenge of packing your own travel health kit, order one from us. Available now at or you can check out; We customize your kit with FDA approved over-the-counter medications for temporary relief of symptoms like colds & cough, aches and pains and stomach distress. Also included are necessary first aid topical items. Copyright Nurse Guardian,pllc 2011-2014. May be reproduced with permission from author.

Get up to date Travel Alert Information in a Free Email I of 2

Adding yet another helpful pre travel task is signing up for Travel Alert Information.

Two U.S. Government websites offer super duper helpful information on travel alerts.

The U.S. State department has an email sign up under their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.



Be sure and confirm the email from the STEP travel alert sign up. My Macbook sloooweed waayy doowwn waiting for the confirmation connection to the U.S. State Dept website.

The U.S. State Department covers alerts for safety, weather, abductions and other crimes of foreign countries or you can quickly search for a specific country.

FAQ about STEP program

Answering FAQ about an evacuation.



This link is information on over seas crime. Procedures if you are a victim.



Part two covers the second government website for travel health resources.



Nurse G

Hand washing 5 Easy Steps May Prevent Flu or Travel Illness (kids)

Fight the Flu Virus with these 5 Hand washing steps. My son came down the hall with a red bandana on his head waving a plastic sword. “Aarrggh!” he shouted. “Would you play pirates with me mom?” As I picked up a broom to use the handle as my sword for the pirates duel, it made me think about how parents must protect their children during flu season like pirates protect their treasure. When Fighting the Flu or Influenza Virus this season here are some easy tips protect your family and what to do if you or someone in your family does get the Flu or the Influenza A H1N1, Influenza A H3N2, this season. The CDC , Center for Disease Control, has characterized 61 influenza viruses [nine 2009 influenza A (H1N1), 42 influenza A (H3N2) viruses, and 10 influenza B viruses] collected by U.S. laboratories since October 1, 2011. Courtesy of the CDC. The first step in protecting your family is hand washing. Hand washing is THE best way to prevent the spread of viruses. Considering what children touch during the day, teach them the steps to thorough hand washing. They can continue to use this technique even when they are at school. Teach your family members the 5 steps to good hand washing; First : Turn on the water and wet your hands, front and back. Make the water as hot as possible, being careful not too hot for young hands. Second: Soap your hands making a spider shape with your fingers intertwining each other. This allows the soap to cover all surfaces of the hands. Third: Scrub the soap on your hands for at least 20-30 seconds. The nature of germs is that they are sticky. Soap creates a slippery surface, the scrubbing loosens the sticky germs. Twenty seconds may seem like a long time for a child. During those twenty seconds, encourage the singing of “Happy Birthday” or another Nursery Rhyme. Once the 20 seconds is up, complete the 4th and 5th steps. Fourth: rinse off the soap pointing fingers down to the bottom of the sink. Remind your child not to touch the sides or bottom of the sink. Fifth: With the water still running, the last step is the" two towel step." Dry your hands with a paper towel. Throw the paper towel in the trash. Next, grab a second paper towel and turn off the running water with the dry towel. Toss the second paper towel in the trash. Turning the water off with a clean paper towel will further decrease the spread of germs. When soap and water is not readily available, give your child liquid hand sanitizer to use at school. The liquid hand sanitizer never replaces good hand washing, but can kill germs in between hand washing. Having clean hands and clean surfaces around the home decreases the spread of germs. Buy a disinfectant spray that states it will kill Influenza germs. Spray surfaces around your home that your family frequently touches ; the door knobs, the refrigerator door handle, sinks and kitchen counter tops and toys. Keeping the home, or "pirate ship" disinfected may help the family to stay afloat on the high seas of health, keeping your pirates at their posts like school or work. Disinfectant spray may not protect you from getting the flu, but it may help prevent the flu in your home this season. “ Gotcha’ Mom!” my son shouted as he jabbed his red plastic sword between my arm and my side. We flopped down on the couch laughing. The steps outlined are like sword of prevention from the Flu Virus, steps to protect our little treasures.

Quick Tips for Traveling With Your Prescription Medication

A traveler going abroad with a preexisting medical problem should carry a letter from the attending physician, describing the medical condition and any prescription medications. Any medications being carried overseas should be left in their original containers and be clearly labeled.

The original prescription bottle with label should include;

A. Name of patient, either yourself of whomever you are traveling with.
B. Prescribing physicians name and contact phone information
C. Pharmacy filling prescription
D. Directions for medication
E. Quantity of full prescription
F. Generic name of medication


Some Foreign countries require documentation from your doctor for prescriptions that are controlled substances or class C prescriptions, in the U. S.

Examples of a class C prescription are pain medicine, such as Percocet or Codeine and anti anxiety medication,such as Ativan or Valium. Examples like these medications MAY or MAY NOT be considered illegal narcotics in a foreign country.

The United States Government as well as most other major countries governments have
resources or websites for travel tips.

This link for travel tips from the U.S. State Department.



List of Foreign Consulate to contact before travel with prescription medications. Travelers should check with the foreign embassy of the country they are visiting to make sure any required medications are not considered to be illegal narcotics.



One way to identify if your medication prescription is a controlled substance;

Ask yourself this question; Do I have to go to the pharmacy with a new prescription each time I get this medication filled?

If your prescription has refills listed in the bottom right hand corner of the prescription bottle, your medication is probably not a controlled medication. If you are still not sure, check with the prescribing doctor or pharmacist.

Remember to carry this documentation with you.


Healthy Travels,

Nurse G

3 Easy Steps to signing up for Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The U.S. State Department has created as part of their travel safe and healthy website a program called Smart Traveler Enrollment Program or STEP.
I would have called it the Smart Traveler Emergency Program. Because the purpose of the program is to assist U.S. Citizens caught in a disaster or emergency situation abroad. It is a bit tricky to register so I will share with you my experience.

This program is for short term international travel or for U.S. Citizens taking up residence in a foreign country, which is pretty cool.

This is the registration link;



Keep these number handy when traveling;

CONTACT OVERSEAS CITIZENS SERVICES:
From within the U.S. 1-888-407-4747
From outside the U.S. 1-202-501-4444

To register for the STEP program, click on the link above.
The trick is to register about a week at the most two weeks before your departure date.
Information of your travel will then stay fresh in the mind of the STEP computer program. I make that suggestion because I found it easier to organize my list of pre- travel reminders that way.

To give feedback on this program contact- CAIBRS@state.gov. Don't contact me about this, there is not really much I can do, except voice my opinion by blogging.

Create an account and password, the usual stuff.

Site has a template for sending travel groups information in to the STEP program.
Next register your travel information. Here is a list of information you will need;

Itinerary, including:
Destination country
Arrival dates
Departure dates
purpose of travel
Personal Contact information.
Closest US Embassy to destination country.

Link to a list of U.S. Embassies World Wide.


Then register your personal information

What I did not see on the registration is an " Emergency contact" number or next of Kin or anything like that. So keep your cell phones charged up when traveling. I am unsettled by lack of a loved ones emergency contact information.

Healthy and safe travels,

Nurse G

UPDATED: 6 Tips for Healthy Travel

Travel Healthy with these 6 travel tips:

My first post was me making a transition from Wordpress back to blogger.
I fixed the spacing and I am so glad you came back to read this post.

Just for being a good sport about my being human and all, I have added an additional two travel tips for you. So this article is 8 tips for the price of 6!

I love a good deal- don't you?

1. Carry an updated copy your travel immunization records and leave a copy at home with a loved one. Iphone apps are available for storing your medical information or you can store a copy of your travel immunizations on a USB drive.

2. Check with your medical insurance company and check travel health coverage. More than likely, they offer little or no coverage for travel out side of the United States.

3. Travel Medical Insurance is a MUST. It is not the same as your medical insurance.I have heard more than one story in this past week about travelers using their travel medical insurance.

4. If your flight is over 5 hours, be aware there is a risk for DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) or blood clot in the leg, which could easily travel to the lungs and cause major medical problems, or death.

You may be at risk for a blood clot especially with the following;

A. Recent surgery.
B. Been diagnosed with DVT in the past.
C. Blood clotting problems.
D. A smoker

If you are at risk be sure to take frequent stretch/ walking brakes on the plane and at the airport. Talk to your doctor about additional precautions to take before and during travel.

5. If you happen to become sick during travel, you can contact the local US Embassy or Consulate if you need further assistance. The number is 1-888-407-4747 if calling from the U.S. or Canada.

6. Pack a Travel Health Kit. If you don't have time to pack a kit or find the cost of purchasing separate bottles of medication daunting. We offer My Travel Health Kit® which includes all of the following items.

A travel health kit needs to include the following over-the-counter medical and prevention items;
A. Pain relief
B. Motion sickness
C. Anti-Acids
D. Bandaids
E. Aspirin
F. Sun Screen
G. Insect Repellant
H. Travelers Diarrhea relief
I. Sleeping Aid
J. Sinus tabs
K. Cold medicine
L. Cough drops
M. Allergy relief
N. lip balm
O. Antibiotic ointment
P. Anti-fungal cream
Q. Condoms

tip 6.5
Also pack a water bottle with a micro filter, to protect yourself from travelers diarrhea.

7. If you wear eyeglasses, take an extra pair with you. Pack medicines and extra eyeglasses in your hand luggage so they will be available in case your checked luggage is lost. To be extra secure, pack a backup supply of medicines and an additional pair of eyeglasses in your checked luggage.

8. If you have allergies, reactions to any medications, foods, or insect bites, or medical problems, wear a “medical alert” bracelet or necklace. You may also wish to carry a letter from your physician explaining required treatment should you become ill potentially and cannot communicate.

Healthy Travels,

I really gave you 8.5 for the price of six! Thanks for reading this blog, I have much, much more information to share on travel health and look forward to hearing from you.

Nurse G

One Quick and Easy Travel Emergency Resource

Protect your self and your family with a resource that will get you in touch in an emergency during your travels. The US has a program called STEP at the US State Department website. Before you travel, register your dates of travel and travel destination easily and quickly on their website. If an emergency occurs at home, or in your country of destination, your forethought of registering on this sight may save a life. Plan for an emergency and yes travel insurance is a must. One gorgeous app for the iphone is Travel Emergency, created by Patients Beyond Borders, pbb. It is a locator tool for medical help & emergency medical help. Not that you will need to use it! We will be posting information about other free iphone apps for travel soon. Remember to register your trip with the UK Government LOCATE program, a free service that allows for efficiency of locating you in an emergency. Enjoy your trip and healthy travels. I love to hear from readers, Please post how your travel adventure turns out! Nurse G Copyright Nurse Guardian, pllc 2011-2014. May be used with permission from author.

Bed Bug Website

As travelers vacation this summer season, check out this website for reporting and viewing sightings of bed bugs in hotels. If you choose to find accommodations with the local Marriott instead of family, keep this website in mind. www.bedbugregistry.com. With over 20,000 reports covering 12,000 locations. Reflects North America and The United Kingdom. The web site coordinators state that bed bug sightings reported on their website are not able to be validated. If you sight a bed bug in a hotel room, report it to the front desk and request another room. Much better to communicate your observant findings so the hotel can take measures to fix the problem. Read the previously posted article on bed bugs in hotel rooms full of great advice. Thanks for reading ! Healthy Travels Nurse G Copyright Nurseguardian.com, mytravelhealthkit.com. Use with Permission.

Quick Access Airport Wait Times for Smoother Travel

If you happen to travel more by commercial airlines, this link posts upcoming WAIT TIMES at the airports. http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/wait_times/ This is how I would recommend using this information for airline travel; During busy travel seasons, like Thanksgiving, review these wait time statistics. One great feature is the wait times listed by hour increments. So, if you are planning to purchase an airline ticket and want to move quickly or as quick as possible through airport security, then review these wait times for each US commercial airport. You can also find the following; Seasonal wait times Date range for historical data Information from 2006 - current Cross reference search by Airport Cross reference search by Terminal Cross reference search by Concourse US Border wait times are available as well! http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/wait_times/ Healthy and safe travels, Nurse G

Travel Quickly Through TSA With SENTRI Card

SENTRI is a new program designed by the US Government to decrease time for travelers at the boarders. SENTRI stands for Secure Electronic Network for Travel Rapid Inspection. Designed for vehicles traveling across the U. S. Borders. If you travel by commercial airline, the first two articles of this series cover more information. Accomplished through; The RFID cards contain a file number that is read upon arrival. The file number triggers the participant’s data to be brought up on the CBP Officer’s screen. The data is verified by the CBP Officer and the traveler is released or referred for additional inspections The link for registration; http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/trusted_traveler/sentri/ This program is for pre-approved, low risk travelers who apply for the program and voluntarily undergo a background check and personal interview. Applicants may not qualify for participation in the SENTRI program if they: Provide false or incomplete information on the application; Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges to include outstanding warrants; Have been found in violation of any customs, immigration, or agriculture regulations or laws in any country; Are subjects of an ongoing investigation by any federal, state, or local law enforcement agency; Are inadmissible to the United States under immigration regulation, including applicants with approved waivers of inadmissibility or parole documentation; Cannot satisfy CBP of their low risk status or meet other program requirements. Once an applicant is approved they are issued a Radio Frequency Identification Document (RFID) that will identify their record and status in the CBP database upon arrival at the U.S. port of entry. A sticker decal is also issued to the applicant’s vehicle or motorcycle. SENTRI users have access to specific, dedicated primary lanes into the United States. Please ensure the exact documents you provided during the online application are those presented at the time of interview. Originals of evidence of citizenship that you listed on your application If not a U.S. citizen, originals of evidence of immigration admissibility to the U.S., that you listed on your application. Valid drivers license (or state identification) issued in state where applicant lives. Vehicle registration and evidence of US automobile insurance by a company authorized to write automobile insurance in the US. If the vehicle is not registered in the name of the applicant, a notarized letter authorizing its use by the applicant is required. A company vehicle requires written authorization on company letterhead. Evidence of employment or financial support. (For instance, most recent years tax return, pay receipt, or direct deposit salary statement. Those self-employed must present a business license, current tax information and bank statement) Evidence of residence, (Mortgage or rent payment receipts) During the Interview, information provided on the application will be verified and upon acceptance, CBP will: Take a photograph of applicant for identification card purposes Take applicant’s fingerprint Provide terms and conditions of the program Answer any questions the applicant may have Issue an RFID enabled identification document Required Fees Application Fee: $25.00 per person (or a maximum of $50.00 total for husband, wife and minor children) Fingerprint Fee: $17.25 (applicants 14 years and older) System Costs Fee: $80.00 per person (or a maximum of $160.00 total for a husband, wife and minor children) Total Fee: $122.25 per person Safe and healthy travels. Nurse G

When I read about these new programs rolled out in October of 2011, I just had to pass this on to Nurse G's readers! Link to article of programs for business travelers. On Oct. 4, 2011 the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) launched an expedited screening pilot program designed to help TSA focus resources on higher-risk and unknown passengers while expediting the process for lower-risk and known passengers. The first program is called PreCheck or Trusted Traveler. Next program is called NEXUS Odd, there is no explanation for the name. NEXUS is a bi-national cooperative effort, partnering Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The NEXUS program provides expedited processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers by United States and Canadian officials at dedicated processing lanes at designated northern border ports of entry, at NEXUS kiosks at Canadian airports where preclearance is available, and at marine reporting locations. Here's the high-tech part; travelers are issued a radio frequency ID card with their photo. That part most of us are used to, traveling with ID. The radio frequency is probably like the quick pass for paying by credit at the gas stations. This program offers iris scanning. That is pretty cool. I'll explain iris scanning shortly. link to NEXUS fact sheet; Healthy travels remember to pack My Travel Health Kit and your prescriptions. Thanks for reading! Nurse G

U.S Airports BusinessTraveler Iris Scanning Quick Facts

New programs to save business travelers time getting though airport include an iris scan. Here is what you need to know. The iris of the eye is photographed, not really scanned and 260 points of reference are used for identification. Top fingerprinting techniques use only 60 to 70 points of reference. When your iris is photographed, it takes a few seconds and you will not feel anything. You may experience a low level of light from the camera, but not a bright flash like a camera or light used during an eye exam. The program is really an iris recognition tool. Less invasive than a retina scan. The retina is the "mirror" at the back of the eyeball which transmits viewed images to the brain. No two iris blue prints are identical, not even for identical twins or triplets. Only travelers name and travel information is connected with iris scan, no personal identification number like social security are stored with this program. Contracted manufacturer of this technology, Iris Scan Inc. contracts with made customer assurances that travelers stored data is not shared with other organizations. Neither Glasses nor contact lenses interfere with the iris recognition program. Eye surgery such as corneal transplants or cataract surgery do not interfere. Even a blind person can participate, their iris can still be scanned. The camera may be set anywhere near your eye from four inches to forty inches. Iris Recognition Tech Facts: Operating systems compatibility: DOS and Windows (NT/95) Average identification speed (database of 100,000 IrisCode records): one to two seconds Probability of two irises producing exactly the same code: 1 in 10 to the 78th power IrisCode record size: 512 bytes Source - IrisScan Inc. If you have been lucky enough to try this out, write Nurse G and tell me about your opinion.

One Quick and Easy Travel Emergency Resource

Protect your self and your family with a travel resource that will help get you in touch with loved ones during an emergency / disaster during your travels.

The US has a program called The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program -STEP at the US State Department website;



It is a bit tricky to sign up for the program, but I will cover that information in the article STEPS to Registering for U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

Before you travel, register your dates of travel and travel destination easily and quickly on their website. You will receive travel ALERTS and travel WARNINGS.

What's in it for me you ask?

Then, if an emergency occurs at home, or in your country of destination, your forethought of registering your contact information may save your life. The only down side, i suppose is that the U.S Government can find you and knows where you are traveling. The upside is, you don't have to stress about finding a working phone during a national disaster, the staff in the STEP program will be reaching out to you.

After the earthquake in Haiti, the STEP program evacuated over 16,700 U.S. citizens and family members. During the civil unrest in Lebanon in 2006 STEP assisted nearly 15,000 U.S. citizens and family members, and in 2004 STEP helped thousands more during the tsunami.
Considering these examples, I would be OK signing up for the STEP program.

If you are from the UK, Remember to register your trip with the UK Government LOCATE program, a free service that allows for efficiency of locating you in an emergency.


Enjoy your trip and healthy travels!

I love to hear from readers, Please post how your travel adventure turns out!

Nurse G

Copyright Nurse Guardian, pllc 2011-2014. May be used with permission from author.

3 steps to a Business Travel Emergency Plan

A graph recently published in Business Travel News shows a gap in travel management and employees emergency communication. For more information on the BTN graph, see http://nurseguardian.wordpress.com/2011/12/05/business-traveler-emergency/ The first article we wrote focused on employee emergencies in the workplace. We are reminding Business travelers to have their own emergency plan. Business Travel - make this part of your pre travel planning. Another article will cover the benefits of Travel Insurance, this article covers thee quick planning steps to protect you and your family. Leave a copy of everything you carry in your wallet with your emergency contact person. Everything. Insurance card included. No, you don't have to photocopy your money. Leave a copy of your passport, your flight information and your hotel contact information and a phone contact of a coworker you are traveling with. Make a copy of your medical prescriptions, including prescription # and name of prescribing physician. If medications get lost in your checked bag or something happens to them, you have a back up plan. note: before taking certain medications into overseas countries, check with the American Embassy about that countries medication laws. Some class C or controlled substances may or may not be allowed. Carry copy of your immunizations and your medical record with you when traveling. Ok, Maybe that is 4. Thanks for reading our blog. Safe travels, Nurse Guardian Good for you for Planning Smart!

Traveling? Get Your Travel Health Report

Contact us for a customized travel health report based on your travel destination. For a limited time, send us your travel destination and we will send you a travel health report with the following information; Suggestions on travel health items, current disease outbreaks, precautions, emergency contact information and suggested immunizations. Nurse Guardian Travel Health Report will help prepare you protect your health against unwanted travel illness. Contact us at nurse@nurseguardian.com. Limited time offer of $69.99 per Travel Health Report. Include Travel Destination or up to three destinations,Dates of Travel and travel health questions. As an added bonus, we will include a 10% discount off My Travel Health Kit® and travel health products. We look forward to taking care of your travel health! Nurse Guardian, pllc Copyright Nurse Guardian, pllc 2011-2014. May be used with permission from author.

Drugcite.com for medication side effects and statistics

I found this website Drugcite.com. It is a fascinating resource for checking medication side effects. The site is user-friendly and easy to navigate. We typed in the Influenza vaccination. Results of side effects reported to the FDA reflected the two major side effects reported during the 2010 flu vaccination season were respiratory and epidermal/ dermal conditions. Epidermal/ dermal basically means it is related to the skin. Click on the epidermal and the statistics are further broken down into subcategories, like rash and redness at site. Just be aware that the side effects are listed in medical terms. I would offer the suggestion that Drugcite.com place a medical dictionary in their tools category. The neat thing is that this site lists the dates of the side effects reported, whether reported by male or female and how many people reported this side effect. Cool. Check out their phone app. We are curious if any of you have tried the app yet. Happy side effect hunting. Great job drugcite.com! Nurse Guardian Copyright Nurse Guardian, pllc 2011-2014. May be used with permission from author.

American Nurses Association of NCSBN

ANA and NCSBN Unite to Provide Guidelines on Social Media and Networking for Nurses


https://www.ncsbn.org/2927.htm


Great information to keep in mind after a frustrating day at work.

Guidelines for Nurses using Social Media

Happy New Year

This link is a guideline for nurses to use when posting on social media sites.

Written by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing ( NCSBN )


https://www.ncsbn.org/Social_Media.pdf

Endorsed by the ANA