Welcome back to our Blog.  Today I want to talk a little bit about keeping ourselves safe and warm in the winter.  First things first, I am a FLU shot advocate and have received my annual vaccine, how about you?  Are you for or against the FLU shot and if you don't mind telling me the reasons behind your choice.  Also, please visit the link below to find FLU resources from CDC.  Moving on!  Now that the holidays are over, now would be a great time to get certified in First Aid and CPR.   Do you know what to do for a cold emergency such as hypothermia and frostbite?   A low body temperature could cause a person to go into cardiac arrest and require CPR.  Although "Hands Only CPR" is widely promoted and can be performed by anyone, it does not offer the rescue breaths which are crucial to one's survival.  Learn to perform all the required components of effective CPR by taking a class at TrueCare.  You can contact me via the contact page, and please leave your thoughts here.  Dress warm!  Yes, layers it is, and when it's freezing cold, gloves, ear muffs, hats, warm socks and let's not forget the waterproof boots.   Unfortunately, not all of us are privileged to have the resources we need to stay warm in the winter.  Dropping off a blanket, socks, gloves, coats and hats at a homeless shelter or offering those items to a stranger on the street is also one of my suggestions for winter safety.    Make sure your vehicle is in good repair and ready for the winter demands.   Oil change, tire, radiator, washer fluid, lights, battery, windshield wipers, make sure all is well and fluids levels are appropriate.  We don't want to take any chances getting stranded in the COLD.  If all else fails, call a Minnesotan, they do it all the time.   Alright now, cuddle up and stay warm...

Yours Truly, 
Trinna #nursefrombirth

What an exciting time for everyone.  As much as we hate to admit it, I believe parents are more excited about the beginning of a new school year than the children.  Didn't even think about that when my own were school age, I guess I was too excited. Anyhoo, I was looking around for a few back to school tips to share with you, so I will sharing some of my favorites here. 
1.  Set Bedtimes - The back to school sleep schedule should have been initiated 1-2 weeks prior to the start of school.  Stick with the schedule, studies show that children who get the proper amount of sleep are more successful in learning and behavior vs those who are sleep deprived. 
2.  Calendar - Request a copy of your child's school calendar and review it with them regularly.  Noting special school events, no school and perhaps themed days. Your child will be informed of the school happenings, what a great way to learn to be part of a community. In addition, older children should have a planner/calendar.  Let them choose one they will love, if they pick it out they will be more likely to use it.  A family calendar is also suggested, to keep track of everyone's activities/commitments. 
3.  APPS - Being the tech savvy person I am :), I thought this tip to be one of my favorite, the apps.  there are a few great apps for helping your child keep their assignments organized like MyHomeWork, iHomework, both free.  
4.  TV Viewing - Be sure to stick to the rules about watching TV and only make exceptions when absolutely necessary.  Children will gain a better understanding about rules when parents are consistent in their enforcement.  TV should only be an option after homework is completed, and should consist of some educational content, especially for those in grade school. 
5.  Stay in contact with Teacher and attend Parent Teacher Conferences - Be sure the teacher knows important things about your child, health, likes, dislikes, things your child does well, things your child needs to work on, anything unusual happening at home etc. It is important that the teacher gains an understanding of who your child is and you are the expert at that.  During subsequent meetings, you want to follow up with your child's progress particularly in areas where a need has been identified and ask questions. 
     Well that's it for today folks.  Hope you are off to a great school year.  These were some of my favorites, please share some of your favorite back to school tips, apps, suggestions so we all benefit.  Until next time. 

#nursefrombirth

With temperatures reaching record highs in parts of the country, I thought I'd drop in with a few summer tips, from the NURSE. 
1.  STAY HYDRATED.  The body is constantly losing water, so replacing it is key to surviving the viscous summer heat.  Although there are differences in the suggested water intake, I find following the 8 x 8 rule simple and easy to remember.  At least 8, 8 ounce glasses of water per day, about a half gallon. 

2. REMEMBER THE ELDERLY.   Check on your elderly neighbors.  The elderly tend to have decreased perspiration, which is known to aid the body in cooling.  Without this assistance the elderly are more vulnerable to be victims of heat related emergencies.  So let's remember to keep our eyes and hearts open as we look out for our elderly. 

3.  CHOOSE COOLING MEALS.  This one may get me in trouble.  I know everyone loves a good home cooked meal, but this sweltering summer heat is not the ideal environment to turning on the stove.  Chose foods with lots of water content, such as raw vegetables and salads.  If you absolutely must have that HOT dinner, consider grilling instead. 

4.  STAY IN THE SHADE.  If we are going to be active in the outdoors during extreme heat waves, find a shady space to call your own.  I'd also suggest wearing a hat and limiting your time outside.  

Well that's it for today folks.  Enjoy this HEAT and stay safe. 

​#nursefrombirth  

Hello my friends, 
Trying to get consistent with this blog writing.  I will be posting weekly for now.  I am also starting to be more consistent with my Podcast on Anchor, more about that to follow.  For now, I found these great resources on CDC and they are free.  Various topics about healthcare, safety, etc. I hope you enjoy, I'm headed back over to order some things for my clients and students.  Thanks for stopping by.....Until next time. 

Just a few words to let everyone know what is happening at TrueCare.  Well we've been BUSY.  New services being offered.
1)  Advanced First Aid - prepares individuals to respond to and manage more complex issues than a basic first aid responder - great for healthcare and non-health care providers.  
2)  Child and Babysitting Safety - for ages 11-15 years old.  Teaches the basics of babysitting and also includes development of flyer, resume and business plan.  This is a two part class.  
3)  Instructor Development Course - this course will prepare and certify individuals to teach American Safety & Health Institute courses (must hold current certification in courses you wish to teach). 
COMING SOON
1)  Emergency Medical Response (EMS)-  results in certification as a Emergency Medical Responder (Fall 2018)

So, I've been busy.  New offerings monthly.  Also planning some nursing documentation courses SOON.  Details will follow.  Let me know what courses you would like to see offered,  and you will be entered to win a free class of your choosing  (value $75), one winner will be chosen monthly for the months of June, July and August.  You must have attended a class during the month of the drawing to be eligible.  Winner will be notified by the 10th of July, August and September and will be issued a payback for fees paid for class.  Winners will be announced on our social media pages.  Good Luck