Nurses Corner

 

 

Health Tips from Marie Golczewski, R. N.
Director - Mobile Medical Units

 

Think Before You Drink

Smarter Choices to Staying Hydrated in Summer
1. Water Unlimited - Add lemon or lime for flavor
2. Fat free or 1% milk instead of 2% or whole milk
3. Drink only 100% fruit juice instead of flavored drinks with added sugars - Limit juices to 4 oz. daily
4. Supers Sized drinks will give you Super Sized caloric and sugar intake
5. KICK THE HABIT

- Don't keep soft drinks in the house - they contain:
- 39 grams of sugar
- 140 calories per 12 oz.
- 34 mg. of caffeine

6. Drink alcohol in moderation - It contains hidden calories and no nutritional value
It's easy to gain weight in Summer - We ask ourselves why? "I'm not even eating!"
Drink lots of fluids - BUT beware of what you are drinking

ALL LIQUIDS ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL

READ LABELS

Travel Safely - Especially if You are on Medications

1. Take along copies of your prescriptions with the contact information of your doctor and pharmacist
2. Make sure you bring more than enough medication in case your trip is delayed
3. If you are traveling by car DO NOT leave medications in a HOT CAR, the drugs may lose their effectiveness
4. Cruising, flying to the islands, or enjoying the seashore - be sure to ask your doctor if the sun's rays will make your skin sensitive to any of your medications, increasing your chance of sunburn
When traveling by airplane there are additional steps to follow:
1. Medication should be in its original packaging and the name on the bottle should match the name on the flight ticket
2. Pack most of your medication in your carry-on in the event that checked luggage is delayed or lost - also cabin air temperature is controlled
3. Pack needles for injections into checked luggage if possible, or consult the TSA (Transportation Security Agency) for regulations
4. Declare all medications with TSA agents
5. Bring a letter from your doctor detailing your diagnosis and medications, especially if you are traveling to other countries
6. Traveling through multiple time zones - Work out a plan with your doctor for adjusting the time and dosage of medications - Important, especially for diabetics taking insulin
MOST IMPORTANT
Whether traveling by air or road - DO NOT SIT IN ONE POSITION for extended periods of time!!
When driving stop the car at least every 1 1/2 to 2 hours - take a break - walk - drink fluids
On an airplane be sure to get up often and walk the aisle - drink fluids
APPLY SUNSCREEN OFTEN - ENJOY YOUR TRIP!

STAY HEALTHY & HAVE A SAFE SUMMER!