15 Habits that Will Totally Transform Your Productivity

People who manage to get a lot accomplished each day aren't super human, they've just mastered a few simple habits. Some may be easy to guess: Keep your desk organized and aim for around eight hours of sleep a night. But others, like taking a mid-day nap or complaining, might surprise you.

Here are 15 easy ways to make every day more productive:

1. Declutter your desk.

Messy work space:

Creativity may arise from chaos, but a litter-strewn office probably isn’t helping you get stuff done. "Attention is programmed to pick up what’s novel," says Josh Davis, director of research at the NeuroLeadership Institute and author of Two Awesome Hours. Visible files remind you of unfinished tasks. An unread book is temptation for procrastination. Even if you don’t think you’re noticing the disorder, it hurts your ability to focus.

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Storytelling Therapy: Between the Lines

From a young age, I was drawn to the power of stories. Between my obsession with the original Nancy Drew mysteries and my love for competing in storytelling contests, stories played a major role in my development.

Of course, stories aren’t just for kids. Storytelling can be engaging and even therapeutic for anyone, with significant benefits for seniors – particularly when the tales are personal.

The Power of Storytelling

“We know from research that narrating life stories can help older people resolve internal conflicts, overcome self-criticism, and improve their sense of self-worth,” says Dr. Karl Pillemer, Cornell University gerontologist and author of 30 Lessons for Loving: Advice from the Wisest Americans on Love, Relationships, and Marriage. “Particularly valuable are storytelling opportunities that allow for ‘integrative reminiscence,’ in which people tell stories about their lives that involve examining and coming to terms with issues in their past.”

Pillemer is referring to his work on The Legacy Project, in which seniors are invited to share their stories as well as their advice for younger people.

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How to get a job as a pharmacy tech

There are several avenues job-seeking pharmacy technicians can take, including advanced certification programs for technicians who want to specialize in an area, such as drug therapy, pharmacy law or medical distribution. Johnston says students contemplating pharmacy school should consider part-time careers as technicians. “Before they commit to a six-year college education program, it’s always a great opportunity to get some experience and make sure that is a career path that you are interested [in],” he says. “And it also provides a great job while you’re in school, so you’re studying and learning that material in a practical setting as well.”

Interview Questions Submitted by Real Pharmacy Techs:

 

“Tell me about a time you had to take a leadership position.” (CVS Health)

“Tell us about a time when you had to explain something complex to a customer.” (UnitedHealth Group)

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How to Get Involved: Childhood Cancer Month

Every year, thousands of children across America are diagnosed with cancer  an often life threatening illness that remains the leading cause of death by disease for children under the age of 15.  The causes of pediatric cancer are still largely unknown, and though new discoveries are resulting in new treatments, this heartbreaking disease continues to scar families and communities in ways that may never fully heal. 

 

This month, we remember the young lives taken too soon, stand with the families facing childhood cancer today, and rededicate ourselves to combating this terrible illness.

 

While much remains to be done, our Nation has come far in the fight to understand, treat, and control childhood cancer.  Thanks to ongoing advances in research and treatment, the 5 year survival rate for all childhood cancers has climbed from less than 50 percent to 80 percent over the past several decades. 

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Medical Transcriptionists: Flexible Schedules in the Healthcare Environment

Medical transcriptionists held about 84,100 jobs in 2012. The industries that employed the most medical transcriptionists in 2012 were as follows:

Hospitals; state, local, and private	34%
Offices of physicians	24
Administrative and support services	21

Most medical transcriptionists work for hospitals or in physicians' offices. Some work for companies that provide transcription services to healthcare establishments, and others are self-employed.
Many transcriptionists work from home offices, receiving dictation and submitting drafts electronically.

Work Schedules

Most medical transcriptionists work full time, although about one-third worked part time in 2012. Medical transcriptionists who work from home may work outside typical business hours or have some flexibility in determining their schedules.

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4 Health Breakfasts to Beat the Heat

I eat breakfast every day regardless of the time of year—breakfast provides me with a much-needed morning energy boost and keeps me focused. And research shows that regular breakfast eaters weigh less and have an easier time keeping weight off. (Who doesn’t love that?)

In the cooler months, I almost always eat a hearty, healthy bowl of oatmeal. But in the heat of summer the last thing I want is a steaming-hot breakfast. Luckily, there are plenty of refreshing breakfast options to help me beat the heat and start my day right. Here are my 4 favorite breakfast ideas to stay healthy and cool all summer long.

1. Smoothies
We don’t get into the triple-digit temperatures very often in Vermont, but it definitely gets hot enough to whip up a frozen treat in the morning.

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April's Reimbursement Winner for Kansas

Congratulations, Linda B.! 

Linda is our April Tuition Reimbursement Winner for Kansas! 

She will be getting a refund from us soon. You could be next!

"I have been a stay at home foster mom and wife. I decided to take a CNA course online and am now working as a CNA. Loved the classes and clinicals. I have worked at my own pace and have learned alot. I am so excited about being a winner and having my tuition reimbursed. I will be going through wecareonline for my next classes also."
- Linda

Students registered for a Nurse Aide course will automatically be placed in a monthly drawing to win reimbursement of their course tuition. The monthly drawings will choose one student to win a reimbursement.

If you want to know how to get in on this Click Here for more information.

Remember, before you can win, you have to register and pay for a Nurse Aide course - See our course catalog Click Here.

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Boost Your Self-image with 4 Easy Steps

Low self-esteem can negatively affect virtually every facet of your life, including your relationships, your job and your health. But you can take steps to boost your self-esteem, even if you've been harboring a poor opinion of yourself since childhood. Start with these four steps.

Step 1: Identify troubling conditions or situations

Think about the conditions or situations that seem to deflate your self-esteem. Common triggers might include:

• A business presentation
• A crisis at work or home
• A challenge with a spouse, loved one, co-worker or other close contact
• A change in life circumstances, such as a job loss or a child leaving home

Step 2: Become aware of thoughts and beliefs

Once you've identified troubling conditions or situations, pay attention to your thoughts about them. This includes your self-talk — what you tell yourself — and your interpretation of what the situation means.

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Celebrate World Health Day April 7

World Health Day is celebrated on 7 April every year to mark the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948. Each year a theme is selected that highlights a priority area of public health. The Day provides an opportunity for individuals in every community to get involved in activities that can lead to better health. The topic for 2014 is vector-borne diseases.

What are vectors and vector-borne diseases?

Vectors are organisms that transmit pathogens and parasites from one infected person (or animal) to another. Vector-borne diseases are illnesses caused by these pathogens and parasites in human populations. They are most commonly found in tropical areas and places where access to safe drinking-water and sanitation systems is problematic.

The most deadly vector-borne disease, malaria, caused an estimated 660 000 deaths in 2010. Most of these were African children.

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February Tuition Reimbursement Winner for South Dakota

Congratulations, Laura N.! 

Laura is our February Tuition Reimbursement Winner for South Dakota! 

They will be getting a check from us soon. You could be next!

"I have been married for 38 years to my wonderful husband; we have 2 fur babies, Sadie and Sarge. I have been working in health care for 14 years and I thoroughly enjoy it. I am ecstatic about being chosen to receive this reimbursement.

Thank You!" - Laura


Students registered for a Nurse Aide course will automatically be placed in a monthly drawing to win reimbursement of their course tuition. The monthly drawings will choose one student to win a reimbursement.

If you want to know how to get in on this Click Here for more information.

Remember, before you can win, you have to register and pay for a Nurse Aide course - See our course catalog Click Here.

Or go to our website Click Here.

Hepatitis C: How Many Americans are Affected?

A survey of U.S. households conducted between 2003 and 2010 revealed that approximately 2.7 million U.S. residents are infected with chronic hepatitis C virus, according to a new report.

This figure marks a decrease by about 500,000 cases identified by a similar analysis conducted between 1999 and 2000, according to the new report, which was published in the March 4, 2014 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Treatment can cure the disease and decrease risk for death, yet many persons infected with HCV do not know they have it, according to background information in the report. Currently more people in the U.S. die from HCV than from HIV infection. Knowledge of the number of people with HCV infection is critical for public health and policy planning.

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CNA's Tips and Timesavers

So, you’re brand new and a little nervous? Thats ok and natural. Being a CNA is a rewarding career, but there are LOTS to learn and lots of cover in those first few days at work! Don’t be surprised if you feel a bit overwhelmed and anxious. Someday–soon- you will be an “old pro” at this stuff. The first part of this is for the new CNA…

The Basics
I remember my first few weeks as a CNA- it was hard to get to know all the residents as well as staff as well as the facility policies and procedures. I was very overwhelmed and looking back now- there were certain things I should have done that would have made my life much easier then! Live and learn….

First, it is a good idea to bring a little notebook to work with you. In here you can write down info you need about everything from phone numbers to resident issues. Jotting down info is a way to remember it! At periodic times during the day check the little book to see if there are things you still need info about. When you think of questions and no one is around to answer them- write them down. Later you can refer back to the book.

Facility Rules/Employment Issues
OK, now onto more things every new CNA should be aware of. It’s always a good idea to know the facility policies and rules before we start a new job.

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Don't Hibernate - Staying Active in the Cold

It’s never too difficult to think of reasons to abandon your workout routine. This is especially true during the winter months, when the temperatures drop, the sky turns dark, and the wind seems to start pushing you back indoors to the warmth of your couch. Health experts urge, however, that exercise should be incorporated into your everyday routine, no matter the weather.   

“The advantages of regular exercise are too great to be put on hold when workouts become inconvenient, especially during colder months,” explains Dr. Joseph Giaimo, DO, an osteopathic board certified internal medicine physician. “People who exercise reduce their risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, certain cancers, diabetes and osteoporosis.”     

In addition to these benefits, Dr.Giaimo adds that exercising can help with the winter blues as well. “Regular workouts will improve your mood, increase your energy level and help you sleep better at night,” he says.

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10 Completely Creative Ways to Save Money

Why does it feel like everyone is broke this time of year? Is it because we just got done paying off the holiday bills? Or are we all really broke? Whatever the reason, now is as good a time as any to start saving money.

Oh, but you've tried that and it never works? Folks, I promise you that it's possible. If you really want to save money, you just have to be a little creative. Just check out these creative ideas that are guaranteed to keep the cash in your wallet:


1. Only run full loads. How many times do you run the dishwasher when there's still room for dishes or run the clothes washer for just a few towels? STOP doing that! Running full loads means running fewer loads overall -- saving you on your electric and water bills.

2. Use less. Whether it's the cleaning products you spray liberally on your kitchen counters or the coffee you load in the filter, try to use just a little bit less. You'll be surprised how it adds up ... and how much longer you'll be able to go before buying replacements.

3. Ask about sales. It's all well and good to read the sale circulars, but they only tell you what the sale is right now. If you're looking to make a big purchase, it's worth it to ask the salesman if they know of upcoming sales. One mom saved $300 on her laptop by going back the next day!

4. Pack lunch on weekends. We all know about packing lunch to take to work. But what about the weekends when you're running errands? You work up an appetite doing all that running, and it can be so tempting to just pop into the local pizza place for a slice ...

5. Save old clothes. Turn them into rags or napkins, and you will save a ton on paper towels and, well, napkins.

6. Become a swapper. Whether you throw a fashion swap for your girlfriends so you can all exchange the clothes you've gotten tired of or you trade babysitting services with another family in the neighborhood, it's the best way to get the things you need without spending a dime.

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We Care Online February Staff Highlight - Bonnie Henningson

This month we get to learn about Bonnie Henningson. 

Bonnie has been in the healthcare field for over 30 years.  Bonnie was attracted to healthcare by working as a volunteer EMT.  Bonnie’s mother was also a nurse.  She originally advised Bonnie not to become a nurse letting Bonnie know that the work was hard and the pay was low. 
 

Bonnie did not heed her mother’s advice and has gone on to possess multiple credentials in the healthcare field!  Bonnie has a Gerontological Nurse Certification through ANCC, and has is still CPHQ certified (Certified Professional of Healthcare Quality).  She has been licensed as a nursing home administrator and has taught CPR and EMT classes.  Bonnie has a master’s degree in Public Health with an emphasis on health care administration.  She has been a member of NAHQ (National Association of Healthcare Quality), NGNA (National Gerontological Nurse’s Association) and NNSDO (National Nursing Staff Development Organization).  Bonnie serves on a committee to revise the scope and standards for Gerontological nursing.   She has developed and delivered training for staff development coordinators and charge nurses and has presented training at national and state conventions on topics such as pain management. If there were a piece of advice Bonnie wishes someone had given her when she began her career she wishes they would have told her to get her BSN as soon as possible!

Bonnie is married and the Henningson’s have one son and one granddaughter.  They do not have any pets due to her husband’s allergies. When Bonnie is not working she likes to read, do crossword puzzles, garden, bake, take walks, do yoga, travel to parks and historic sites, play cards and do hospice volunteering.

Everyone at WeCareOnline plays an important role in helping students have the best online learning experience possible. Bonnie teaches Nursing Assistant and Medication Assistant for several states. Over the years Bonnie has witnessed many changes in the healthcare field.  Bonnie states that “Healthcare is a science and we need to be sure to recognize that the current standard of practice WILL change – new studies and research often prove what we once learned to be erroneous and one must do lots of reading to keep up with the changes.”

Cabin Fever Anyone?

Holidays can always be such a fun time of year, especially if you have school-age kids.

But let's be honest somewhere around the middle of the vacation it seems like the symptoms of cabin fever start to set in. Usually a little exercise, fresh air, and creativity are all the doctor would order.  Here's some ways to follow "doctor's orders":

1. Google: "Things to do in (fill in your city)" and see what you find.
You may be surprised at what there is to do right in your own back yard.

2. Go to the zoo.
Most areas have a zoo or aquarium or some kind of wildlife rescue area. (Ever wonder where they take celebrity tigers when they've gotten too old?)

3. Use where you live to your advantage.
If there is snow on the ground, get out in it! Bundle up and have an old-fashion snow ball fight with the forts and all! Or if your weather is mild, find a local park and organize a flag football game or a neighborhood Capture the Flag competition.

Whatever you choose to do, getting the energy out goes a long way to cure cabin fever.

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Day Care: Choosing a Good Center

What should I look for in a day care center?

Whether you are considering a commercial day care center or one in someone's home, you should check it out carefully. Ask questions of the staff. Talk to parents of other children at the day care center. Look over the center carefully. 

Ask about the child to staff ratio.

• How many children are there for each staff member? The fewer children each staff member is responsible for, the better. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a ratio of one staff person for 3 to 5 small children and one staff member for 7 to 10 older children.

Ask how the center cares for sick children.

• How is medicine given?
• How are parents told about illness among the children?
• When must children stay home because of illness?
• Does the center have a "sick room" for children with minor illnesses?

What are some signs that would tell me if there are problems?

• The staff fails to answer your questions and address your concerns.
• There is no way for parents to be involved in the day care practices.
• Your child tells you about problems or is not happy with his or her day care experience.
• Unexplained accidents happen more than once.

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How to Improve Success While Taking an Online Class

Just signed up for your first online class? Taking an online class can be a challenge especially if you are trying to balance it between work and family responsibilities. However, these three simple steps can help your success:

• Organization is key. Have a designated work area in your home where you can study, test, and prepare for your class. Once you have the course syllabus or due date sheet, write down everything that is due on a wall calendar. Seeing the visual every time you study will help with planning and reduce stress over forgetting assignments.

• Get on top of the game early. As much as possible try to get on top of your first few assignments early: class orientations, reading assignments, first quizzes. Getting a head of the game early will help set good habits and will help you from falling behind while you adjust to your new schedule.

• Establish open communication with the instructor. Establish good communication right away with your instructor. Send an introductory email before the class starts. Good communication early on can help you from feeling isolated later which can contribute to possibly dropping the class. It is especially important to ask questions when you have them and to use your instructor as a resource if you start to see slipping grades. Many online instructors are eager to help you find resources to improve study habits, find tutoring, etc. 

We Care Online offers a broad range of online medical classes and can prepare you for a career in everything from nursing to pharmacy.  Click here  for more information.

The Importance of a Good Night's Rest

Without enough sleep, we all become tall two-year-olds. ~JoJo Jensen, Dirt Farmer Wisdom, 2002

Practically no one would dispute the need for seven to eight hours of sleep a night; the reality however, is that the majority of us getting far less sleep than our bodies require.  What is happening is our biological needs are at odds with our schedules and all the added diversions such as watching television into the late hours of the night, surfing the internet and maintaining our social media contacts.   

The restorative and regenerative processes that occur during the time we sleep are numerous and range from the relaxation of muscles, increased blood flow to muscles and tissues, the release of growth hormones and  increased efficiency of the immune system.  Sleep in America polls conducted over the last several years by the National Sleep Foundation  reveal that 20% of Americans report that they get less than 6 hours of sleep on average, and the number of Americans that report that they get 8 hours of more has decreased.  The Center for Disease control has taken notice of this national trend and has declared that 30% of U.S. workers are not getting nearly enough sleep and in fact sleep 6 or fewer hours a day.  In addition, lack of sleep impacts the ability to learn and retain information. The Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School has a website with information specific to sleep, learning and memory  http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/matters/benefits-of-sleep/learning-memory  The problem is clearly not of one of not understanding the need for adequate rest, but to prioritize it in our lives.

For more ideas on how to get to sleep, and to sleep well visit: http://tjhealth.com/how-to-sleep-well//

For more information on topics related to sleep, including its relation to aging, Alzheimer’s and Dementia visit the National Sleep Foundation http://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/sleep-topics