If you are an employer of safety-sensitive transportation employees, then you already know that you are responsible to drug testing your employees. You need to implement DOT workplace drug and alcohol programs with provisions for clear policies, training and education, drug testing, and referral for evaluation and treatment. DOT employers must follow 49 CFR Part 40 and DOT regulations. Examples of DOT employers are the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Federal Railroad Administration, Federal Transit Administration, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the United States Coast Guard.

The DOT states in their Best Practices for DOT Random Drug and Alcohol Testing report that random testing is the “best tool employers have for deterring drug and alcohol use in the workplace.” This is because it reduces employer liability, is fair, prevents injuries and saves lives, allows employers to identify those who use illegal substances and to point them towards treatment programs, and it provides an employee with an excuse not to use drugs because their employer requires drug testing.

Each DOT agency determines how often employees in their category should be tested. If an agency mandates that 40% of employees be tested, then 40 out of 100 workers are randomly chosen for testing. To ensure that those who will be tested are actually chosen randomly, the DOT recommends that a random-number table or computer-based random number generator that’s traceable to a specific employee be used. In the railroad industry, employees are commonly chosen by their train number. If a train is picked, any covered employee working on that train on a specific day would be chosen for testing.

It is recommended that employees be selected and tested at least four times each year, and even more is acceptable. The less people who know about the testing, the better the chances are that the test will be random. This helps keep the surprise element to who will be tested. Employees must report to the testing site immediately after being told that they were selected. There are not to do any more work until the test has been completed.

When you follow the testing standards set forth by the DOT, you are helping maintain the safety of those who depend on your workers for safe transportation.

Drugs can work very well for many people with epilepsy, which allows them to lead full and normal life. Other, easier to find resources, either because of side effects or simply because it does not work. While many take drugs to be effective, it is a fact that 20-30 percent of people with epilepsy do not respond well to drug therapy. If medication does not prove effective, your doctor may try a higher dose or different medicine or combination of two medicines.

Very rare fight epileptic drugs may lead to more frequent seizures. If this happens your doctor may check the diagnosis. Doctors usually start patients with epilepsy off the lowest dose of anti-epileptic, and then build it to reduce the side effects. What you need depends on various factors such as building and body, to influence how your body processes the medicine and how easy you are to treat epilepsy.

Too high a dose can cause toxicity. Symptoms of poisoning range from drug treatment. If a person gets too much phenytoin, they often become very unstable and may have more frequent seizures. Carbamazepine toxicity usually begins with double vision and drowsi

There are many reasons why U.S. organizations, companies and schools test for alcohol abuse. According to National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), nearly 51.6 percent of Americans aged 12 or older reported being current drinkers of alcohol in the 2008. Because of the rampant alcoholism and its negative effects, many companies, institutions, and organizations are implementing random alcohol testing and screening. As a result, there is an increasing demand for more effective testing and detection methods. The common methods of alcohol testing are breathalyzer test and saliva test, in which specimen samples are collected quickly and easily unlike in urine and blood tests.

Breathalyzer test:
Breath analysis is the common method of testing for blood-alcohol content by law enforcement department. Breathalyzer device is used to estimate the blood alcohol content (BAC) in a breath sample. It is also commonly used at homes, schools, workplaces apart from law enforcement. Employers use breathalyzers to check the blood alcohol level in employees to ensure workplace is safe. If one wants to do an alcohol abuse test in a zippy, breathalyzer is the suitable option.

Saliva test:
Saliva test detects the presence of alcohol in the saliva sample, which is relatively a good approximation of blood alcohol content. The concentration of alcohol in saliva is very likely to be similar to the blood alcohol content that is present in the blood. As a result, saliva tests are preferred to blood alcohol tests as it avoids the hassle related to blood sample collection and also comparatively cheaper.

Saliva testing method is becoming popular among the organizations and companies, as they can have the sample for further evidence unlike in breathalyzer. Saliva samples can be acquired under direct supervision with a minimal risk of tampering in almost any environment.

Today, alcohol testing plays a major role in eliminating or significantly reducing student alcohol abuse, preventing alcohol-related highway fatalities, tracking alcohol abusers at workplace to provide safe work environment. The information will help you to find the ideal method of alcohol testing if you need to test easily and effortlessly.

Face it, truck driving school is not cheap and it can be hard to manage the financial burden of truck driving school if you have not been saving up for the financial expense. If you dream of being an owner operator on the open highways of this greatest nation on God’s green earth, listen up, we have some essential tips that may help you accomplish your truck driver training requirements without draining your bank account.

Research and locate progressive trucking companies.

Recent statistics indicate that the over the road truck driver shortage is close to 80,000 in this country alone. One way to get the training you need without having to take out a second mortgage on you home is to go with Carrier Sponsored Training. Other than a clean driving record and no felony convictions during the last year, most trucking companies require little to no experience, no tuition down payments and fast turnaround time for getting your license. Just make sure you get all of the basics you need to safely operate the vehicle on the open road.

Tuition reimbursements are common throughout the trucking industry.

Other training facilities offer tuition reimbursements plans through the carrier company provided you work for them at least a year after completion of training. This is a good option since you are guaranteed a position after graduation and will get your tuition reimbursed in the process. These schools may have some stricter requirements like background checks, the ability to pass a DOT physical and drug test, as well as having no felony convictions in the last seven years or currently being on parole.

Look for truck driving schools and trucking companies that make safety a priority.

Safety is top priority for first rate truck driving schools and trucking companies. If safety training is a major part of the truck driving school’s curriculum and is mentioned multiple times during your interview, rest assured that you are in the right place. You want to make sure the training you receive will keep you (and others) safe on the road.

Regardless of what route your choose to finance your truck driving education, do your research and make sure you are comfortable with the terms – i.e. job placement in lieu of tuition, carrier sponsored training, etc. We encourage you to talk to at least 3-5 truck driving schools, check graduate references and speak to the truck driving school career counseling department before you make your final decision.

Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition amongst dogs, affecting an estimated 5% of the canine population. A dog with epilepsy will begin to display symptoms between the age of 1 and 5 years. Epilepsy is a condition that causes the sufferer to experience seizures, which have no physical cause. It is believed to have genetic roots and is, therefore, particularly prevalent in some breeds such as the golden retriever and Labrador.

Of course, seizures can be indicative of a more serious condition such as a brain tumor or infection. Additionally, there is no test to confirm epilepsy. Subsequently, it is typically diagnosed after other possibilities have been discounted.

As with human epilepsy, canine epilepsy cannot be cured. However, owners can take measures to reduce the severity and frequency of a dog’s seizures. There are many opinions over the best way to manage canine epilepsy. Therefore, it is wise for owners to familiarize themselves with the treatment options and make a decision based on their dog’s specific symptoms.

Treatment

In many cases of mild to moderate epilepsy, owners may decide not to place their dog on medication. Mild or moderate seizures are typically harmless to the dog. Although seizures may appear distressing, the dog will recover quickly and have no memory of the incident. This, coupled with the side effects caused by some drugs, leads many owners to decline medication.

On the other hand, severe or cluster seizures can be more serious and in some cases life threatening. In this instance, the danger of the seizures will need to be balanced by potential side effects of medication. Although cessation of seizures is impossible, a dog’s epileptic fits and chances of brain damage or death should be dramatically reduced by available medication.

Some people believe that it is wise to treat a dog’s epilepsy as early as possible, even if the symptoms are relatively mild, to prevent kindling. Kindling is a theory, which states that if left untreated seizures worsen over time. Therefore, early treatment will reduce the number of epileptic fits and, subsequently, the severity of seizures over a dog’s lifetime.

Currently, there are many available drugs, including Phenobarbital and potassium bromide. Potassium bromide is believed to have relatively few side effects and has been used to control epilepsy in humans for over a hundred years. Phenobarbital is thought to offer better seizure management. However, it can cause liver damage, so it is imperative that a dog on this medication be checked every six months.

If you do choose to place your dog on anti-seizure medication, it is essential that you do not suddenly stop the medication. Instead, the drug should be gradually decreased over a matter of months. Additionally, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a vet.

Coping with a Seizure

Dogs’ seizures are very similar to that of humans. Therefore, the same rules apply: never move the dog (unless their location places them in immediate danger), do not try to restrain their movements.

Not all dogs experience seizures in the same way. For example, ‘absent seizures’ do not involve muscle convulsions; instead, the dog will be awake, but entirely unresponsive. Another common seizure is known as the ‘fly bite’ seizure, which causes the dog to bite the air around it. If your dog has epilepsy, it is a good idea to become familiar with its particular type of seizures and their severity. Any alterations should be cause for consultation with your veterinarian.

After a seizure, you should try to reassure your dog and keep him, or her, comfortable. Your dog will notice your stress, so it is crucial to remain calm. It is also advisable to check your dog’s temperature, as seizures can cause overheating. Additionally, your dog is likely to have experienced a drop in blood sugar. Therefore, some owners choose to offer their dog some vanilla ice cream to boost sugar and cool body temperature.

Here are two of the most frequently asked questions about the flu; Simply the symptoms and treatment. Arm yourself with knowledge!

What are the symptoms of the flu?

The signs and symptoms of influenza can start randomly after one to four days of incubation. Barring chills in some cases, the first noticeable symptom is a sudden, high temperature, generally 100-103 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not uncommon for the fever to be so debilitating that people are confined to bed for several days. Other symptoms of influenza may include;

-Headache
-Cough
-Nasal Congestion
-Sore Throat
-Fatigue
-Irritated Eyes
-Aches and pains
-Reddened eyes, mouth, throat, nose and skin

Note that gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may appear in children, but are uncommon in adults.

How is the flu treated?

The most important treatment is also the simplest; keep your immune system strong. You can do this by staying at home and getting plenty of rest. Staying at home will also prevent you from spreading the flu to others. Drink plenty of fluids, namely water, tea, or soup. Avoid caffeinated drinks as they can make you dehydrated.

Medications such as Advil or Tylenol are very important, as they can relieve headaches and reduce fever. This is very important if you want to be able to sleep through the worst of it! Cough medicine and nasal decongestants can be used for general symptomatic relief.

The swine flu itself can be treated with the Relenza and Tamiflu antiviral drugs, although in a healthy adult, the immune system alone is usually enough to fight off the virus.

-Tamiflu, or Oseltamivir, is used to slow the spread of the inluenza virus in the body. Tarmiflu breaks the ties between the influenza virus and the host cell on which it is reproducing. It is taken orally through capsules.

-Relenza, or Zanamivir, is a neuraminidase inhibitor used to treat influenza A and B. As a neuramindase inhibitar it prevents the influenza virus from budding from reproducing. Relenza is an inhalant.

For more frequently asked questions on the flu check out Flu Frequently Asked Questions. Prevent yourself from getting sick this flu season!

Chronic lumbar strain, also known as back strain, is the most common type of back injury, usually caused by straining the muscles, tendons or ligaments along your spine. It is by far the leading cause of low back pain in the United States and can be the result of incorrect posture and poor technique when picking things up, especially heavy objects.

It can cause severe pain, obstructing an individual’s ability to perform normal activities and can be temporarily debilitating. For example, muscle spasms from a simple back strain can cause excruciating lower back pain that can make it difficult to walk or even stand.

Injuries to the spine, neck and/or back should never be ignored; after all, what begins as a minor strain can quickly turn into a chronic back injury if not properly treated. Most episodes of back injury can be successfully treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, naproxyn, and/or acetaminophen (tylenol), with ice packs for 24 hours, followed by heat therapy.

A mobility exercise program can be used to strengthen the core muscles (abdominal and back) to prevent the re-occurrence of back injury or strain. If lifting heavy objects is something you must do, back injury can be eliminated by stooping down with trunk upright, and accomplishing the lift by putting the greatest strain on the muscles of the legs and thighs. By applying ergonomic principles to work station design, equipment and worker movements, back injuries can be virtually eliminated in the workplace. Proper posture habits are another way to help prevent back injuries from re-occurring.

Regardless of your goals and methods for your back exercise program, you should use caution, as even a minor back strain can be painful and prevent you from being very active until it heals. Mild back strain is an inconvenience that can take up to two weeks to heal. Moderate to severe back strain is painful and can take as long as 6 weeks to heal.

Discomfort from the lower back is quite typical amongst mature people, and it is typically brought on by muscle injuries or even tension. Repetitive or even ongoing lumbar pain isn’t hazardous or even unexpected, and remedy will help you remain productive. Possessing lower back discomfort isn’t an illness, but it’s an indicator that may happen via number of other steps. Probably the most typical lower back pain or lumbar pain causes tend to be bad posture, being obese, issues with spine plus some illnesses for instance osteoarthritis as well as brittle bones.

Several Workout routines for Lower back Pain

Generally there are usually couple of workouts which are useful to reduce the lower lumbar pain, avoid the re-injury to your backside, assist in quicker recuperation minimizing the chance of impairment brought on by the back pain. Nevertheless, before you begin any kind of workouts for lower back pain, consider your own physician’s guidance. It’s not necessary any kind of specific gear to execute these types of workouts for back pain, and these are very easy to perform.

One of several excellent workouts for lower back pain would be to lay flat on your back, in addition to bring your chin to one’s own torso. Simultaneously, embrace the knees to your upper body plus hang on to for 15 seconds. One more workout is for you to lay down on your own abdomen, plus make use of your hands for you to press top of the entire body from the ground. You have to allow your own back loosen up and drop, plus maintain for five seconds.

It’s very advantageous to do swimming, jogging as well as riding a bicycle for 20-30 minutes, 3 times per week. Stay away from any kind of physical exercise that needs rotating the hip, or even any kind of bouncy or even rapid motion. In case you currently are afflicted by lower back pain, refrain from laying all the way down on your own abdomen plus raising both of legs jointly.

Cat and cow is an extremely efficient physical exercise for lower back pain. You have to get straight down on both hands as well as knees, together with your back parallel towards the ground. The hips plus shoulder ought to be rectangular. Lower the face towards ground whilst arching the back up-wards to do the cat, and also without halting, raise your face upwards whilst sinking the back so the stomach dangles down in order to execute the cow. Side plank is an additional efficient physical exercise for lower back pain, in which you have to lay down your side. Rest the body weight on your left elbow, as well as sides of your legs. At this point, raise your entire body, however ensure that you keep the backbone in a straight line, as well as raise your sides from the ground. Your body ought to now be relaxing on your own hands, elbow, lower arm as well as legs. Gradually, lower the entire body towards the commencing posture. Do it again couple of times.

In the event that you have lumbar pain, stay clear of leg-lifts, motorcycle racing, dead lifts, golfing, windsurfing, in-line skating, practicing tennis, soccer, basketball as well as racquetball.

Most people may not realize that a maladjusted spine can be the source of many other physical ailments that may seem unrelated. Believe it or not, anything from suspected allergies to frequent recurring colds can be caused by subluxations. Although alternative medicine can be downplayed or even condemned by mainstream medicine, millions of satisfied patients who lead productive and pain free lives testify to the success of chiropractic treatments. Those wishing to find a chiropractor and live under the care and guidance of a licensed chiropractor will discover the benefits that will ensue. In addition to relief for common back and neck pain, chiropractic care can yield better sleep, fewer seasonal illnesses, and better concentration.

Sleep is the primary way the human body can restore itself through cell turnover and optimal brain function. However, when sleep is frequently disrupted or a person cannot sleep for more than a few short hours, every body system will be negatively affected. When spinal problems are restored to normal, many people report a marked improvement in their quality and quantity of sleep. In addition, chiropractors can also help with proper sleep positioning and will be able to recommend mattresses or pillows that will help.

When abnormal pressure is placed on nerves around the spinal column due to vertebral subluxations, the immune system cannot respond as it should when bacteria or viruses invade. When the spine is put back into alignment, the nerves return to their prior sensitivity and the immune system is once again able to function properly. As many as 85% of people receiving chiropractic care report far fewer illnesses such as colds or influenza than the general population.

The body is a miraculous, fine tuned instrument in which body systems communicate and work together in harmony. Even though as people age, one or more systems begin to experience problems; the body is remarkably resilient and able to continue functioning. However, chiropractors believe that there is no need to accept declining memory, concentration, loss of flexibility, or other age related issues. Proper alignment allows the body’s communication systems to be opened, thus, relieving problematic symptoms such as lack of focus or concentration.

Unless you live under a rock you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Thanks to the efforts of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) campaign pink is the new color for fall. Everywhere you look buildings are sporting neon pink ribbons, billboards are plastered with motivating messages and seas of pink are racing around major cities nationwide. But with all this awareness there is also a flood of contradicting information for women to sort through.

To Mammogram or Not:

Trust me, no one wants to subject themselves to a mammogram but we do it because we know that early detection is so very important in fighting this disease. Breast cancer treatment is usually less aggressive and better tolerated when the disease is detected early. But, now we are getting mixed messages that maybe we don’t need to be rushing to the imaging suites to get our annual mammograms at the age of 40, but rather we should delay this until 50.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force’s (USPSTF) recent recommendations on mammograms have created quite a bit of confusion. The USPSTF recommends biennial screening mammography for women aged 50 – 74 and recommends against teaching Breast Self-Examination (BSE). So what’s a girl to do?

Three leading groups in breast cancer research, treatment and awareness have responded to the USPSTF mammography recommendations:

American Cancer Society: Still recommends that all women over the age of 40 receive a mammogram annually.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Recommends that physician fellows continue to follow current guidelines and advise mammography screening for patients aged 40 and older.

Susan G. Komen: “Susan G. Komen for the Cure wants to eliminate any impediments to regular mammography screening for women age 40 and older. While there is no question that mammograms save lives for women over 50 and women 40-49, there is enough uncertainty about the age at which mammography should begin and the frequency of screening that we would not want to see a change in policy for screening mammography at this time.”

Is a Breast Self Examination (BSE) still recommended?

A monthly BSE has been recommended since 1993; however more than 30 nonrandomized trails have produced conflicting results about the efficacy, sensitivity and specificity of the practice. The BSE must be done with some level of skill and the current consensus is that BSE should be used in combination with other breast cancer screening modalities such as a Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) and mammography. A CBE is similar to a BSE but a trained healthcare provider such as your doctor or nurse conducts it.

If you chose to do a monthly BSE you should have your doctor or nurse check your method to make sure you are doing it right. The biggest benefit of doing a regular BSE is that you know how your breasts normally look and feel so you can more easily notice any changes. The most important thing is to contact your physician ASAP if you notice any changes in your breasts.

The American Cancer Society and other women’s health organizations still see merit in the monthly BSE and continue to recommend it’s practice. Save the Ta-Ta’s is an organization committed to raising awareness and providing fun products such as Boob Lube to promote and encourage breast self-examinations. 25% of proceeds go to breast cancer awareness and research.

Where to Get Free or Low Cost Mammograms and Breast Cancer Screening:

Contact The American Cancer Society or call 1-800-227-2345 to find the nearest free or low cost mammogram.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also gives free and low cost mammograms.
Go to the Susan G Komen Foundation website to find your local chapter or call 1-877-465-6636
For additional local options contact The YMCA and Planned Parenthood in your area.

If you need help finding a physician or hospital imaging service in your area download the free iPhone app iTriage from iTunes or check out iTriageHealth.com for provider listings in your area.