healthy college eating habits

Healthy Food Habits for College Students

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Have you recently decided to enroll in college? The decision to continue your education can be equal parts exciting and terrifying, especially if you’re working full-time and have a family to support. Many people attending college find themselves perpetually exhausted from their busy schedules and lack of sleep. Those who manage to make the best of their time in college often do so in part because they maintain good habits, like staying organized and eating a healthy diet. While most people understand the importance of healthy eating, juggling schoolwork with other daily responsibilities can cause you to put a thoughtful approach to nutrition on the back burner. The constant lack of time paired with limited resources makes it easy for college students to eat food that is fast and requires minimal effort to make (or purchase from a drive thru window). A surprising number of students don’t realize there is a cause-and-effect relationship between healthy eating and academic performance. While eating healthy may not seem like a priority, it can give you the necessary energy needed to succeed during this crucial (and inordinately stressful) time in your life. Surviving on the high sodium and minimal nutritional value of TV dinners and fast food may hinder your ability to focus on schoolwork and cope with the stress of everyday life. If you’re like most people, you probably know that eating healthy is necessary for maintaining a healthy weight. Unless you exercise vigorously, eating fast food and sugar constantly can cause you to gain extra pounds and feel sluggish during the day. A nutrient-dense diet may also improve your overall cognitive function, which is vital during college. In other words, eating healthful food enhances your ability to think, learn, remember, problem solve and pay attention. The good news is you don’t have to spend a lot of money or countless hours in the kitchen to fuel your brain with healthful foods. There are several simple strategies you can implement to build healthy eating habits, even while attending college. Your meals should be a balance of protein (lean meat, fish, cottage cheese, eggs), complex carbs (whole wheat pasta, rice, sweet potatoes and other vegetables) and healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, peanut butter). A balanced diet can be a great source of energy and keep you from reaching for unhealthy snacks in between meals. If you’ve chosen to eliminate certain food groups from your diet, such as meat or dairy, it’s important to take supplements, like vitamins and minerals, to avoid nutritional deficiencies. These deficiencies may not only slow you down mentally but also weaken your immune system and ultimately lead to health problems. Most adults who eat a diverse diet of whole foods likely do not need supplements, but if you are cutting out entire food groups or you have certain risk factors (over the age of 50, are pregnant, or have certain medical conditions that affect digestion or your body’s ability to absorb nutrients) supplements may be appropriate. Make sure to talk with your doctor before beginning to take vitamin or mineral supplements. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water or even more if you exercise or have a physically demanding job–like nursing. Not drinking enough fluids can give you a headache and lead to dehydration. Consuming sugary foods and beverages makes your energy fluctuate. You may feel good at first, but once the “high” subsides, you could find yourself feeling sluggish and irritable. If you have a sweet tooth, try to replace candy bars and soda with fruit, and limit your daily sugar intake to no more than 25 grams. Snacking in between meals is not an entirely bad idea, as long as you indulge in healthful and nutritious foods. Nutritious snacks, like fresh fruit, string cheese, nuts and seeds, can boost your energy and focus and tide you over until your next meal. Start your day right by eating something nutritious, like eggs with whole wheat toast or oatmeal with fresh fruit and peanut butter. Eating a solid breakfast will boost your brainpower and keep you alert and productive until your next meal. At the accessible to students from all walks of life by offering flexible scheduling options, online courses and financial aid resources. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

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Financial Literacy– What Is It and How Can I Build It While in College?

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Financial literacy refers to learning and implementing a variety of financial skills that empower you to make responsible decisions with your money. At the core of financial literacy is an appreciation for the value of your hard-earned dollars and an understanding of the risk factors that can lead to the loss of the money you earn. Being financially literate allows people to use money as a tool for creating a better future for themselves and their family while resisting the urge for instant gratification. It also entails an understanding of the consequences of mismanaging money. If you’re like most college enrollees, you’re probably looking to go back to school to pursue a career that will both interests you and allow you to earn more money. While earning a college degree can open doors to many interesting and financially rewarding job opportunities, not knowing how to manage your finances can make your academic efforts futile or even counterproductive. When people don’t know how to manage their money, they typically end up wasting a lot of it on things they don’t need while neglecting to save for emergency expenses, college or retirement. Spending money on superfluous things you enjoy isn’t inherently bad. What gets people into trouble is usually financing nonessential purchases with credit and failing to pay them off, after which they can become buried in interest. Estimates suggest more than of Americans live paycheck to paycheck and have no money left over to save. Many people who live without a financial safety net are doing the best they can with the income they’re able to earn, but there’s also a large contingent of those who have made avoidable mistakes due to financial illiteracy. If you’re thinking about going to college or have already enrolled in a of your choice, congratulations! You have made the first step toward creating a better future for you and your loved ones. At this point it may be in your best interest to take stock of your financial situation so you have a clear plan on how to support yourself and your family while attending college. The financial skills you develop and hone during your academic journey, paired with your hard-earned degree, will help you achieve a secure and financially balanced future. As a college student, you will likely be responsible for paying for your education. Tuition can feel discouraging, which is why it’s useful to remind yourself that tuition is a financial investment, not a money-gobbling black hole. A clear-headed acknowledgement and understanding of the high cost of school is good in the sense that students who truly appreciate the gravity of this financial commitment are more likely to devote themselves to study. There are numerous institutions, companies and private parties donating money for education. Both grants and scholarships are considered educational gifts. The difference between the two is that grants are given based on financial need, while scholarships are usually awarded based on academic, athletic and artistic achievements. Many grants and scholarships have strict deadlines and are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis to applicants who meet the necessary requirements. Get in touch with your school’s to learn more about grant and scholarship offerings. Students who serve or have served in the military and their dependents are usually eligible for various as well as on-the-job training. Whether you’re a service member, veteran, military spouse or the child of a servicemember, you may have access to generous tuition assistance that can help pay for your education. Some employers offer employee tuition reimbursement, which means they help pay for some or all of your tuition costs. In many cases employees are reimbursed after they have paid for classes. There are usually certain stipulations. Your employer may only reimburse you if you’re pursuing a degree related to their industry. You might also be required to work for the company for a specific number of years after you graduate. Failure to do so may result in you needing to pay your employer back. While some companies do offer tuition reimbursement for altruistic reasons, there are also real financial benefits for them as well. For example, they can deduct a significant amount from their taxes for each employee they reimburse for continuing education. If you’re looking to pursue a career in a particular field, such as healthcare or education, consider working for a that will help you cover college education costs related to your area of study. Improving your financial literacy isn’t as hard as you might assume. It doesn’t require you take a lot of accounting or finance classes. There are countless free resources online that can help you make better financial decisions. At the St. Louis College of Health Careers in Missouri, we help students from all walks of life pursue a rewarding career in ever-growing healthcare fields. When you choose to study at SLCHC, not only are you getting an exceptional healthcare education, but we’ll also assist you with various financial aid options. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

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Choosing the College Major That Aligns with Your Career Goals

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Going to college and earning a degree can be a life-changing experience. You may have been told college is the path to a better life. While this is true, working toward a degree only makes sense if you have a clear vision as to how it will help you reach your future goals. This is where choosing the right major comes into play. Before you decide on a particular major or program, make sure it aligns with your interests, strengths and career goals. There’s a lot to think about before settling on a major, and the process can be overwhelming. A strong vision and plan of your academic path will help you be successful in college and after you graduate. A major is a subject you specialize in when you go to college or university. For example, people interested in becoming a mental health therapist may pursue a psychology major, while those wanting to become a nurse will choose nursing as their major. Once you decide on a major, you will be taking classes that teach you the skills you need to complete your degree and work in a given field. Colleges and universities offer a list of classes you must take and pass to fulfill the requirements of your major and earn your degree. These lists of classes are known as programs. For example, at St. Louis College of Health Careers, we offer a variety of to help you fulfill the requirements of your major and earn your degree. Consider a major that will genuinely interest you. If you’ve always thought about teaching and love interacting with children, perhaps pursuing a degree in elementary education is the right choice for you. Maybe you excel at multitasking and have excellent organizational skills. Why not let your managerial skills shine by becoming a ? Think about the things you’re good at. What’s something that comes easily to you? Maybe you’re good at caring for others or thrive in fast-paced environments. Often, people pursue degrees and occupations that pay well but aren’t a great fit for their abilities or predisposition. For instance, if you want to become a nurse but faint at the sight of blood, you will likely have a difficult time in nursing school. A person who wants to teach but has a fear of public speaking may become anxious and unhappy in their profession. Lastly, consider your career goals, such as salary expectations or your ideal work hours and work environment before deciding if the career you’re thinking about pursuing will be a good fit for you. It’s perfectly normal to have trouble deciding on a major. Sometimes knowing if a given major is the right choice for you requires gaining some first-hand insight. Consider volunteer work in a field you’re interested in to gain some hands-on experience. You can also talk to people working in fields that interest you about their personal experiences. If a particular major or program has caught your eye, think about reaching out to the Student services are an excellent source of information and can offer you plenty of insight and academic advice on the major you’re interested in studying. SLCHC’s academically challenging and hands-on programs provide a gateway into the world of healthcare. When you enroll in SLCHC, you become a member of an of like-minded people looking to grow both personally and professionally. To learn more about our diverse array of programs, call 866-529-2070 or .

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How to Mentally Prepare for College

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It’s official—you’ve registered for classes, paid your tuition fees and are ready to start college. Pursuing a college degree is an amazing opportunity to grow professionally and personally, but it can also be a challenging experience if you haven’t prepared yourself mentally for what lies ahead. While enrolling in classes and purchasing school supplies is a necessary step, you also need to have a solid game plan for not just surviving college but making the best of this crucial time in your life. The more prepared and organized you are, the easier the transition to college will be. Going to college while juggling other responsibilities can be stressful enough. Establishing unreasonable goals for yourself may be self-sabotaging. You can strive for success and personal growth without setting unreasonable expectations. Accept that transitioning to college may be a bumpy experience and will likely include plenty of ups and downs. Instead of aiming for straight As, set goals that are more realistic and useful. For example, during your first semester of college, focus on finding a pace that’s right for you. You may need to first learn how to navigate a learning platform if you choose to take online classes. Accept that those first few months of college may feel uncomfortable and embrace the transition. As time goes by, you’ll likely settle into your college routine and be able to pursue more ambitious academic goals. Whether you work full-time, have children or both, attending college often requires help and support from others. Things that you could handle by yourself before may need to be delegated to family members and friends. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need time to yourself for studying. Perhaps a parent, spouse or a good friend can help you care for your children, go grocery shopping or cook dinner. If you find yourself struggling mentally or academically, utilize your school’s resources. Schedule a session with a therapist or mentor. Reach out to a professor you trust for guidance or clarification on an assignment or topic you find confusing or unclear. Before you begin college, establish a sustainable routine. Block off a realistic amount of time for schoolwork and make it your top priority. Many people tend to leave schoolwork for the last minute. While procrastination may be tempting, it’ll likely leave you drowning in assignments and negatively affect your academic performance. By dedicating a couple of hours each day to studying, you’ll avoid the stress of having to turn in multiple assignments at the last minute. Dividing your study time equally during the week will give you more free time on the weekends to relax, exercise or spend quality time with your children. If you haven’t established healthy eating habits, starting college may be the ideal time to do so. Studying can take a significant toll on your brain, so make it a priority to nourish your mind with healthful foods. While eating junk food and skipping meals may have worked for you thus far, if you want to stay energized and focused on your studies, you’ll need to incorporate brain-boosting foods into your everyday diet, such as lean meats, yogurt, fish, eggs, fruits and vegetables. Avoid skipping meals, even when your schedule is tight, as failure to recharge may cause your energy level to plummet, which can negatively affect your focus and academic performance. Being consistently busy with school and work may cause you to stay up during the night doing things you enjoy, like watching movies, going out with friends or even just browsing social media. While the need to engage in the things you like after a busy day of work and studying is understandable, sacrificing sleep can increase your stress levels and make it unnecessarily difficult to manage multiple responsibilities. Allow your brain to recover from a busy day by getting at least seven hours of sleep. Getting plenty of sleep allows your brain to recharge and serve you well during this busy stage of your life. Students enrolled in our flexible and state-of-the-art to support them throughout their academic journey. To about SLCHC’s educational opportunities, call 866-529-2070.

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How to Overcome Distractions While Studying Online

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Online learning offers plenty of benefits. Also known as asynchronous learning, studying online allows you to complete schoolwork on your own schedule and at your own pace. These features are especially advantageous if you work full-time or have a family to care for. But the safety and comfort of your home, paired with easy access to your smart device and all the distractions on the internet, can potentially make remote coursework a lot less productive than taking classes in person. If you’re pursuing a college degree from home, it’s important to find ways to avoid various distractions, such as social media or conversations with family members, that can negatively affect your focus and productivity. Overcoming distractions doesn’t happen overnight, but if you establish some ground rules and commit to them, you’ll be able to maintain the focus and self-discipline needed to be academically successful. When you’re studying, writing a paper or taking a test, it’s important to find a quiet and private space that allows you to focus on the task at hand. If you choose to do schoolwork in the living room of your home, chances are you will keep getting distracted by family members or a loud television. If you cannot find a secluded space at home, consider going somewhere conducive to studying. For example, find a cozy coffee shop near you with access to Wi-Fi. You can also book a study room in your local library where you’re guaranteed to be free from disturbances and can focus on schoolwork. If you’re like most people, it’s possible you spend a lot of time on your phone. Many people have become addicted to their phones, engaging in activities like browsing social media and apps, watching videos on YouTube or messaging friends. If your phone use cuts into your limited study time, find a way to eliminate this distraction. You can simply turn off your phone or your phone’s notifications. Consider putting your phone away or moving it to a different room. If you’re studying at a library or coffee shop, leave your phone at home or in your car. Since taking online courses doesn’t require you to show up to a classroom at a fixed time, you’re pretty much free to create your own school schedule. While this comes easily to some, others may have a hard time prioritizing school and devoting time to studying. Establishing a consistent routine will help you limit distractions and increase your overall focus and productivity. You can also create a detailed plan of study which will help you avoid distractions and work more efficiently. For example, give yourself two hours every day to complete schoolwork, followed by an activity you enjoy, such as working out or walking your dog. Knowing you only have two hours to study and turn in any assignments will deter you from wasting precious time scrolling your phone or engaging in other distractions. Incorporating short breaks into your schedule is a crucial aspect of a good study routine. When you’re concentrating on schoolwork and staring at a screen for a prolonged period of time, your brain becomes tired and needs downtime to rest. By going for a short walk, exercising or grabbing a cup of your favorite coffee, you’re giving yourself time to recharge so you can return to your studies feeling refreshed and ready to focus again. At SLCHC, we welcome allows students to experience blended learning by completing a combination of online and in-person courses. Whether you’re interested in becoming a nurse, medical assistant or a physical therapy assistant, we have the right program and curriculum to help you reach your career goal. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .

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How to Research Colleges and Find the Right School for You

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If you’re fed up with low-paying, dead end jobs, you may be thinking about going back to school.  Today’s job market is filled with promising job opportunities, but many of them require a college degree. While pursuing higher education can be a challenging endeavor, research shows it’s often well worth it. For instance, in 2021 people with a bachelor’s degree earned an average of , while high school graduates made an average of $30,000 a year. Having a college degree can open doors to many interesting and financially attractive job opportunities. Luckily, colleges and universities aren’t just reserved for young high school graduates on the brink of adulthood. Anybody, regardless of their age and background, can better themselves by earning a college degree from an accredited institution of their choice. If you’re interested in a college degree, it’s important to understand your motives and consider several factors before making a decision on what, where and how to study. This is the most fundamentally important question you should answer, as it will help you determine if college is truly the right path for you. Going to school requires commitment and can be mentally, physically and financially demanding. If you’ve decided to go to college because of other people’s expectations, you might not find the dedication and perseverance necessary to complete your degree. On the other hand, if your desire to pursue a college degree comes from an intrinsic need to create a better future for yourself and your loved ones, more likely than not, college is the right choice for you. Other than an increase in pay, what else do you want to get out of your college degree? Think carefully about your interests and strengths. If you enjoy serving others, perhaps a career as a . Once you’ve figured out what interests you, research colleges and programs that align with your interests. Consider the post-graduation job outlook of the field you’re interested in studying. For instance, if your plan is to become a , research career outlooks to make sure you won’t have much trouble landing a job after you graduate. You don’t want to pursue a degree with a low employment rate or one that doesn’t offer an attractive salary. You may also want to consider acquiring skills that are projected to be in high demand within the next ten years. For example, employment of nurse practitioners is expected to grow . This means getting a degree in nursing will likely help you secure a steady and financially rewarding career in the healthcare field. When researching colleges and universities, consider only those that are accredited. An educational institution that is accredited has undergone a rigorous check by a credible authority recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation ensures the school you’re considering offers a legitimate education that meets the national standard of excellence. A degree from an unaccredited school might not be accepted by employers, certifying agencies that administer licensing tests or other schools you may want to transfer to in the future. Not every person has the free time and resources to attend in-person classes and experience campus life, especially working adults and those with families. If you have other obligations, going back to school may be a challenging undertaking. Luckily, many colleges offer flexible programs that allow busy students to complete schoolwork at their own pace and at the time of day that works best for them. If your schedule doesn’t allow you to attend in-person classes, look for programs that offer online courses, evening classes or a combination of both. If you’re thinking about a career in the healthcare field, explore the many accredited programs C has to offer. We provide state-of-the-art courses that combine theory with practice. At SLCHC, we want to make sure students from all walks of life have access to an , academically challenging education that equips them with the knowledge they need to thrive in modern healthcare workplaces. Browse our list of programs or call 866 529-2070 to learn more.

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What Type of Degree is Needed to Manage a Hospital or Medical Facility

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can help get your foot in the door. Those aspiring to work high-level positions with the most generous pay should consider pursuing a graduate degree in healthcare administration or business administration with an emphasis in healthcare management. As a healthcare administrator, your job is to manage daily operations within a healthcare facility. You’ll likely be given a plethora of administrative responsibilities and be expected to multitask in a fast-paced environment. The best healthcare administrators possess outstanding organizational skills, know how to budget large amounts of money and have excellent communication skills. They also need the capacity to lead and thrive in an ever-changing, fast-paced environment. A healthcare administrator is the heart of any healthcare organization. They ensure frontline workers can operate efficiently and have the necessary resources to provide the highest quality of care to patients. Healthcare administrators work behind the scenes and oversee facility operations. While healthcare administrators communicate with doctors, nurses and other staff, they’re rarely required to interact with patients. Due to their diverse array of daily responsibilities, healthcare administrators typically earn a generous salary and are likely to earn more as they acquire new skills and gain experience. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare administrators earn on average . Another benefit to pursuing a career in healthcare administration is job security stemming from the steady growth of job openings in the upcoming years. In fact, employment in the healthcare administration field is expected to grow by the year 2030. Do you possess the talents and desire to become a successful healthcare administrator? There’s no better time than now to earn a degree in healthcare administration and put your talents to work in a medical setting of your choice. Pursuing a degree in healthcare administration may be an ideal option for people who want to be involved with healthcare but have an aversion to blood or would prefer not to work directly with patients. This career path allows students to join a rapidly growing field with reliable job prospects without needing to pursue formal medical training. While many employers prefer to hire college graduates with a bachelor’s degree can still qualify you apply for numerous entry-level healthcare administration jobs. This option may be good if you’re on the fence about the healthcare administration career path or you want to get into the workplace as soon as possible. If you’re looking for a more specialized and in-depth program, a may the right choice for you. This degree can also propel you toward more advanced and financially rewarding positions within healthcare administration. Those who truly wish to stand out in their field should consider pursuing a graduate degree in healthcare administration, such as a . The program allows students to hone their leadership and problem-solving skills through rigorous coursework. Earning a graduate degree in healthcare administration can open many doors to the most advanced and financially lucrative career opportunities. Consider pursuing one of the accredited programs available at St. Louis College of Health Careers. Our accredited healthcare administration programs are available online, so you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home to immerse yourself in the coursework. Learn more about our diverse array of by visiting our website or calling 866-529-2070.

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Using Your Degree to Become a Traveling Nurse

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While a career in nursing can be rewarding both professionally and personally. It’s not uncommon for nurses to work several years in the same hospital or outpatient facility. People who thrive in consistent environments with clearly defined expectations may excel in those positions. However, others may find greater satisfaction from frequently changing their work environment or experiencing new challenges. If you’re someone with an adventurous spirit who loves to care for people, why not consider becoming a travelling nurse? Travel nurses fill a vital niche in the medical field. The heroic assistance they provided to understaffed facilities overwhelmed by COVID-19 cases was a recent example of just how valuable these healthcare professionals can be for patients.   Generally, a travelling nurse provides medical care to patients on various short-term assignments, which are offered to them by special staffing agencies. These assignments require moving to various locations and working in different hospitals and healthcare facilities. Each assignment typically lasts between eight and 26 weeks. Travel nurses play a critical role in filling in for permanent nurses whose life circumstances are preventing them from working. These circumstances include things like maternity leave, short or long-term disability and familial obligations. Travelling nurses may also play a key role in filling certain specialized nursing positions, especially when hiring the right permanent nurse requires a lot of time and effort.     There is no perfect job, and just like many other professions, travel nursing has its pros and cons. Of course, what one person considers a disadvantage may be a significant benefit to someone else. Deciding to work as a travel nurse should be a personal choice based on your unique needs and preferences. If you want the opportunity to explore different parts of the country, and sometimes even different parts of the world, a career in travel nursing may be right for you. You may also find it interesting to meet people from diverse backgrounds and learn new skills and practices from other healthcare professionals. One of the undisputed benefits of travel nursing is a potentially higher pay than the average nursing salary. It’s not uncommon for travel nurses to earn over a year, depending on their degree and experience. If you’re looking to save up a substantial amount of money and don’t mind living with family or friends in between your assignments, travel nursing may help you quickly achieve your financial goals. The most common disadvantages of travel nursing include being almost constantly away from family and friends, which may be especially problematic if you have children. Although many travel nurse agencies do provide benefits like health insurance and travel reimbursement, they may not be as comprehensive or flexible as the benefits offered by some permanent positions. Travel nurses may also need multiple state licenses to be eligible for certain assignments.   To become eligible for travel nursing you’ll need to earn your nursing degree and gain valuable work experience. Travel nurses must be registered nurses (RNs). To become one, you’ll have to earn either an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing. You’ll also need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses and apply for RN licensure in your state. Some agencies or healthcare facilities may want travel nursing candidates to have at least two years of hands-on experience through a stationary, full-time position, such as working in a hospital, nursing home or outpatient clinic.   If nursing sounds like an interesting career but you’re not ready to commit to years of coursework, consider earning a from St. Louis College of Health Careers. Our academically rigorous, hands-on program will prepare you for a rewarding entry-level nursing career and help you decide if becoming a registered nurse is something you aspire to do. For more information about our diverse catalog of .

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What Is a Simulation Lab and How Does It Enhance Learning Experiences

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Becoming a nurse requires a lot of hands-on training. Nursing students need to be prepared to deliver quality care to real-life patients once they enter the workforce. To do so, they must have the opportunity to practice what they learn, make mistakes and learn from them in a safe and supportive academic environment. To ensure nursing students gain as much practical knowledge and exposure to clinical situations as possible, many nursing schools provide their students with realistic clinical settings in the form of simulation labs. These simulation labs, also known as simulation centers, include realistic looking labs, simulation mannequins and medical equipment and technology, such as IV pumps, defibrillators and electronic health records. The labs are designed to resemble typical hospital settings, like emergency rooms, intensive care units, operating rooms and labor and delivery rooms. The experiential learning that happens in simulation labs prepares students for real-life nursing careers without exposing actual patients to the potentially harmful mistakes of students.   Participating in a nursing simulation lab requires much more than just showing up and taking part in a medical scenario. A typical simulation lab consists of three steps: .   Preparation is key to a successful simulation lab experience. Before attending lab practice, your instructor will likely give you a list of example patients with various medical conditions. These conditions may include things like respiratory distress, low blood sugar, cardiac arrest and opioid overdose. It’s the student’s responsibility to attend the simulation lab prepared. This means you’ll need to research each simulation patient’s condition and complete any assigned readings and tasks before the active participation step. Showing up unprepared will significantly diminish your learning experience and may negatively affect your academic performance.   This part requires your active participation in a simulation lab scenario. You’ll be asked to care for a “patient” showing symptoms of one or more of the conditions you were assigned by your instructor. You may be asked to work alone or with fellow students. The idea behind the simulation is to get you to think and act quickly and become accustomed to working in a high-pressure medical environment. Your instructor, who will be watching you from another location, can control what the “patient” says or how they respond to your questions, so you can never really know what to expect or how the scenario will play out. This allows your instructor to evaluate your nursing skills in real time and give you plenty of useful feedback afterward.   A simulation lab cannot be successful without a thorough debriefing session. Here, you’ll get to review the simulation performance of you and your classmates with your instructor and peers. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect on your decisions and actions, evaluate what went well and identify areas for improvement.   As a future nurse, participating in simulation labs is an invaluable learning experience. Research shows ing outcomes when there’s an abundance of practice involved, which a clinical simulation lab provides. SLCHC’s state-of-the-art provide nursing students an abundance of experiential learning to help them excel in their future medical careers. Our students get to polish their skills in a safe and academically nurturing environment alongside dedicated faculty and fellow students. To learn more about our or visit our St. Louis or Fenton campuses.

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What Is HIPAA and How Does it Impact Electronic Health Records

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HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Enacted in 1996, HIPAA is a federal law that protects the privacy and security of patient health information. This means whether your health information is stored in a paper record or an electronic record, it must be kept private and secure. Nowadays, most healthcare providers have ditched traditional paper records in favor of electronic health records (EHR). While there are several benefits to storing information electronically, there’s also plenty of room for breaches in security and privacy. To ensure HIPAA compliance, healthcare organizations must implement a variety of security methods to protect their patients’ health information, including passwords, PIN numbers, encryptions and logon and change audit reports.   Thanks to the introduction of electronic health records, healthcare professionals can easily store, update and share information about a patient’s health. The information can be accessed by doctors, nurses, lab technicians and pharmacists in real time, which makes it easier for patients to receive fast and accurate care. All this data is considered .   Organizations breaking HIPAA policies can suffer devastating consequences, such as hefty financial penalties of up to if the violation resulted from willful neglect.   While there’s plenty of room for HIPAA violations to occur, healthcare organizations and businesses can take several steps to enforce safe handling policies for confidential patient information. Businesses should strive to create comprehensive privacy policies and ensure each employee, regardless of their everyday responsibilities, receives proper HIPAA compliance training. Special attention should be given to administrative employees, such as medical billers and coders who manage patient electronic health records. These trainings should be delivered in a simple and straightforward manner, without overwhelming employees with legal jargon or unnecessary information.   Are you interested in being part of the ever-evolving healthcare administration field? A career in medical billing may be the right choice for you. As a medical biller, you’ll be responsible for effectively managing a variety of medical records. Medical billers are needed in all kinds of healthcare organizations, including hospitals, private practices and nursing facilities. Take the first step in your healthcare career by exploring SLCHS’s program. Our academically challenging coursework will give you a solid foundation and professional confidence to set your healthcare career in motion. To learn more about our programs, call 866-529-2070 or on our website.

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