Carolyn Cumper
Carolyn Cumper's career is a diverse and dynamic journey across continents and professions. Starting as a Woman Patrol Officer in the British South Africa Police Force in Rhodesia, she transitioned to the Special Branch and later to an administrative role in the Rhodesian Prime Minister's Department. After a stint in security and accounting for a multinational company, Carolyn moved to the UK in 1988, training as a Paediatric Nurse specializing in Palliative Care at the University of Portsmouth. In 2001, she emigrated to Australia, working as the Deputy Hospice Manager at Very Special Kids in Melbourne, a palliative care hospice. Carolyn's final career shift saw her leveraging her medical and commercial experience to contribute to the growth of Medshop, a business venture. Her journey, spanning from law enforcement to healthcare and business, showcases her adaptability and dedication to making a significant impact in various fields.
Latest Articles
October 16, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Nursing and Night Shift Sleep Schedule: Sleep Tips for Night Shift Workers
Nursing, especially in a hospital environment, is a 24-hour job. Night shift workers, such as nurses, are essential to providing round-the-clock care. However, working through the night goes against the body’s natural circadian rhythms. Our internal body clock is influenced by daylight and darkness, which makes us naturally tired at night and awake during the day. Night shift workers must combat these rhythms to stay alert and provide care, often leading to sleep deprivation, sleepiness during work, and difficulty getting enough hours of sleep during the day. Night shift workers face unique challenges in maintaining a healthy work schedule. Research shows that irregular sleep time and light exposure during the day can lead to long-term sleep issues. Additionally, rotating shifts or constantly changing from day shift to night shifts can make it harder to establish a good sleep pattern. Nurses, in particular, may become light sleepers and find it difficult to get enough sleep, even when they do manage to go to bed. Here are some practical tips to create the best sleep schedule and improve sleep hygiene for those working night shifts. 1. Find the Right Schedule for You Everyone's body reacts differently to shift work, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for night shift workers. Some may be able to sleep immediately after getting home, while others might need to delay their sleep time depending on family obligations or other factors. The key is to develop a sleep schedule that fits your work schedule and lifestyle. Example: A night shift worker with young children may need to sleep in two blocks – one nap after the shift and another during the day when the kids are at school. If you don’t have other responsibilities, try to get your daytime sleep in one consistent block of 7 to 9 hours. 2. Keep it Regular Consistency is critical for better sleep during shift work. Sticking to a regular sleep time, even on days off, can help you get into a natural rhythm. Night shift workers should aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep, just as those working during the day do. Try to go to bed at the same time every day, whether it’s early morning or afternoon after finishing your shift. Example: If your shift ends at 7 a.m., aim to be in bed by 8 a.m. every day and wake up around 3 p.m. to maintain a regular routine. 3. Go Dark Because night shift workers sleep during the day, managing light exposure is essential for regulating circadian rhythms. Consider wearing sunglasses on your way home to minimize light exposure, which signals the brain that it's time to wake up. Once home, make your sleep environment as dark as possible. Installing blackout curtains in your bedroom will block out sunlight and help you sleep longer. Using an eye mask can also further reduce light exposure. Example: Use blackout curtains, an eye mask, and earplugs to block out light and sound, creating the optimal sleep environment for daytime sleep. 4. Power Nap If you find yourself feeling tired during your shift, power naps can help rejuvenate you. A quick 20 to 30-minute nap before or during your shift can improve alertness and reduce sleepiness. Be careful not to nap too long, as falling into a deep sleep can make it harder to wake up and cause grogginess. Example: Take a power nap right before your shift and set an alarm for 20 minutes. For an extra energy boost, drink a cup of coffee right before napping—the caffeine will kick in as you wake up. 5. Keep Caffeine to a Minimum While many night shift workers rely on caffeine to stay alert, it’s important to limit your intake, especially toward the end of your shift. Too much caffeine can interfere with your ability to fall asleep when you get home. Example: Try to have your last caffeinated drink at least 4 to 6 hours before your sleep time to ensure it doesn’t disrupt your sleep schedule. 6. Use Earplugs Living in a noisy environment can make daytime sleep challenging. Night shift workers can improve their sleep hygiene by using earplugs or white noise machines to block out external sounds. This can prevent disruptions and improve overall sleep quality. Example: Use earplugs or download a white noise app to drown out daytime sounds, such as traffic or people talking, while you sleep. 7. Eat Well Eating well can make a significant difference in how you feel during your shift and how well you sleep after it. Avoid heavy, greasy meals close to sleep time, as these can interfere with digestion and make it harder to fall asleep. Instead, opt for light, balanced meals. Example: Eat a small meal that includes lean proteins and vegetables after your shift, and avoid sugary snacks, which can cause energy crashes. 8. Supplement Your Sleep Supplements such as melatonin can help regulate your body’s natural sleep cycle. Melatonin, a hormone your body produces naturally, signals your brain when it’s time to sleep. It can be especially helpful for night shift workers whose schedules are out of sync with natural light cycles. Other supplements, like magnesium and chamomile tea, may also help you relax and sleep better. Example: Take a small dose of melatonin (0.5 to 3 mg) an hour before your sleep time to help your body adjust to your work schedule. Sleep plays a critical role in overall health and wellbeing, especially for those in demanding professions like nursing. Night shift nurses, in particular, face unique challenges in maintaining a healthy sleep schedule. Ensuring good quality rest is essential for feeling rejuvenated and performing optimally, both at home and on the job. Alongside these sleep aids, it’s also important for nurses to invest in comfortable nursing scrubs, which can make long shifts more bearable and contribute to overall comfort and wellbeing. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
October 15, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Gloves and Masks — Who Should Wear Them and Why
Over the past few months, as the coronavirus crisis has unfolded around the globe, one usually uncontentious element of viral protection has become highly controversial. The subject of personal protective equipment (PPE), in particular masks, gloves, gowns, and face shields in healthcare settings, is now hotly debated by health authorities, hospitals, medical professionals, and politicians alike. No one seems able to come to a definitive conclusion on who should wear them and for which reasons. Today, depending on your particular location, you might be mandated by law to wear masks whenever you leave the house. On the other hand, in certain places, you might be advised not to purchase PPE in order to ensure healthcare facilities do not run short of stock. People are confused, and with good reason. So, who should wear PPE? And what is the current guidance for Australia? Here, we take a look at the subject of personal protective equipment in healthcare and why there is so much confusion on when and where it should be used. Who Should Wear Masks? There are a number of issues surrounding the subject of protective masks, and to make matters more complicated, two of the most recognisable global health bodies, the WHO and the CDC, disagree. The WHO currently states that: “If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with COVID-19.” and that you should “wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.” However, the CDC has recently revised its guidance on mask wearing, now suggesting: “…wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.” Among the reasons for the conflicting advice, from both these two bodies and various other outlets, is the types of mask used and their efficacy. The use of N95 respirators is now widely recommended for healthcare workers in high-risk environments, with proper fit testing and fit checking required to ensure a tight seal, as these masks are proven to protect against airborne particles. Fit tests should be performed yearly or when facial features change. Additionally, when it comes to more advanced masks such as N95 respirators used in healthcare, not only are fit tests required to ensure a proper seal is formed, but supply/demand issues mean that this type of mask should be reserved for healthcare professionals. The use of PPE such as safety face shields may be seen in supermarkets and other customer-facing environments, such as pharmacies, but again, these should be reserved for frontline and healthcare workers. Currently, there is no official guidance from the Australian government on wearing masks in public, however, this doesn’t rule out a u-turn in the coming weeks, with many other countries changing their advice as the crisis grows. If you want to err on the side of caution, then you can make a perfectly serviceable mask at home, or purchase one here. Who Should Wear Gloves? When it comes to protective gloves, the advice is a little clearer. Gloves do not, and never should, replace comprehensive hand hygiene. In fact, in most cases, washing your hands regularly and thoroughly is preferable to wearing any kind of sanitary glove, since wearing them may lead to people becoming less prudent with hand hygiene. In hospitals and healthcare environments, gloves are used for specific purposes and then disposed of immediately. The potential for the misuse of gloves by the general public, is one of the reasons that they are unlikely to be mandatory, and over reliance on this type of PPE can lead to shortages elsewhere. Exceptions include those in food preparation, or for anyone who has any kind of open wound. Again, there is no advice from the Australian government on glove wearing outside of the healthcare sector, and stockpiling gloves could have a knock-on effect on the healthcare sector’s ability to effectively equip those most at risk. The bottom line is, unless you are obligated to wear masks and gloves by law or according to health & safety advice, then its probably better not to. However, for more information on whether this advice changes in Australia, stay tuned to the Medshop blog. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
October 14, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
How to Become a Nurse in Australia
Nurses are some of the hardest-working people in Australia – and with hard work comes a fantastic sense of fulfilment. Nurses are in high demand across Australia’s health service right now. Between 2028 and 2033, there’s set to be 80,500 new job openings for registered nurses. That’s an increase of 24.5% over a space of five years! Whether you’re based in NSW, Queensland, or Sydney, in this guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know about how to become a nurse in Australia. We’ll explore study routes, experience you’ll need to gain, and which career routes are open to you once you graduate. How to Become a Nurse Before studying to become a nurse in Australia, it’s worth knowing the difference between an EN (an enrolled nurse) and an RN (a registered nurse). Enrolled nurses typically work with RNs in support roles. They’re responsible for planning and administering patient care, but are supervised by RNs with Bachelor of Nursing degrees. Unlike RNs, you need a Diploma of Nursing to become an EN. Registered nurses make up most of the nursing workforce in Australia. They’re high qualified healthcare professionals who might specialise in a specific area, such as geriatric or pediatric care. They can lead teams in unit manager capacities and often hold the most responsibility in specific departments. One of the most appealing reasons to become an RN is the impressive salary range. According to data published by Talent.com, the average RN receives a salary of around $83,700 per year. That goes as low as $78,000, and as high as $109,000! To become an EN, you’ll need to: Obtain background checks (so you can work with children and vulnerable people) Study your Diploma of Nursing Register with the AHPRA, or Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency If you want to study further, enrol for a Bachelor of Nursing The route to becoming an RN is a little more involved – which is why we’ve fleshed out the process in a few steps below. 1. Complete a Bachelor of Nursing at University The Bachelor of Nursing is the standard degree you’ll need to complete to become a registered nurse in Australia. Specifically, you’ll learn about pharmacology, anatomy, surgery, and physiology – with some secondary education in mental health, pediatric care, and more. Entry requirements for this type of bachelor degree might vary depending on where you study nursing. However, strong grades in science subjects are always a good starting point. You can study for English language BN nursing courses at any of the following accredited universities in Australia: Deakin University Griffith University Monash University RMIT University The University of Adelaide The University of Melbourne The University of Queensland The University of Sydney University of Technology in Sydney The University of Wollongong Of these establishments, Times Higher Education ranks Melbourne, Monash, and Sydney as the best for people studying to get into healthcare and medicine careers. This is based on a complex methodology – but it’s also worth listening to what students have to say. For example, Deakin University is one of the highest-rated in our list according to students, largely for the quality of course materials and support available. Many of the clients we’ve supported over the years have started searching for courses using ActiveStudy, which helps align you to degrees and universities with simple assessments. I honestly recommend it if you’re unsure of where to start. You can usually expect a BN degree to take up to three years. By comparison, it takes two years, on average, to obtain a Diploma of Nursing. Before applying for a BN, do also make sure you’re cleared with a Working With Children Check and a Police Check. You should also complete a full adult vaccination program. This is important simply because you’ll be working with vulnerable people in critical health care settings. 2. Gain Clinical Experience Clinical experience in nursing helps you to put your theory training into practice with a leading clinic or healthcare provider. Many leading universities will offer clinical placements as part of your BN program. Clinical experience as part of your BN will also give your tutors a chance to see how you perform in a physical setting. It’s a great opportunity for educators to help steer you in the right direction, and for you to ask questions about your practice. Gaining this type of experience also helps to give you confidence when you’re working in the real world. Most of the nurses we’ve helped to support over the years swear by their clinical work experience – it’s a rite of passage in many ways, too. If you already have a good idea of what you’d like to specialise in when you enter public health for real, consider looking for placements in specific areas. For example, you could gain experience at a community health centre, at aged care facilities, or in a clinical practice specifically for antenatal and postnatal care. Many people I’ve supported over the years have highly recommended looking for courses that specifically mention placements. I happen to agree – after all, hunting around for opportunities isn’t easy when you’re studying full-time. 3. Register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) After graduation, it’s time to actually register as a nurse! To do this, you’ll need to apply via the AHPRA, or the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. The AHPRA ensures that people employed in clinics and healthcare settings are legally allowed to do so – and that they have the requisite experience and qualifications to care for others. It’s important to re-register once a year to refresh your membership. From there, you’re fully registered and almost ready to start working as a nurse anywhere in Australia. 4. Maintain Continuing Professional Development with NMBA After registering with AHPRA, you also need to sign up with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, or the NMBA. The NMBA adds an extra layer of protection for the public. Register and pass checks applied by their board, and you will be fully cleared and ready to start working as a nurse. However, you might want to start thinking about further professional development. Do you want to continue working as an RN, or would you like to develop as a midwife, a mental health nurse, or as an oncology or end-of-life specialist? There will be plenty of opportunities to explore different nursing specialties once you find your first working placement. Take your time to reach out for advice and guidance on tertiary Australian nursing qualification paths. There are plenty of postgraduate degrees and opportunities available for qualified nurses to study while they work full-time. If you gain a Master of Nursing degree, you could end up leading or teaching a team of your own. Nursing Careers and Job Roles Once you graduate from a nursing degree and gain experience, there’s a world of opportunities. Some of our clients work in nursing specialities as broad as midwifery, aged care, and mental health. We even offer support if you’re working as a nurse educator! Here are some of the most rewarding nursing care roles and career opportunities available to you across Australia. Remember, too, that the average nurse salary for each role may vary. Registered Nurse (RN) Registered nurses, or RNs, are fully qualified health practitioners. They typically take full accountability during patient care, which typically means monitoring their health and providing medication. Some RNs even measure teams and units of their own. Nurse Practitioner (NP) Nurse practitioners, or NPs, are RNs with additional qualifications and experience. They typically have Master’s degrees and are considered the most senior nurses in their departments. The title “Nurse Practitioner” is authorised by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. Enrolled Nurse (EN) Enrolled nurses, or ENs, help to plan and carry out care for patients across all age groups. However, they act secondary to RNs, who supervise their activities. ENs frequently make up nursing teams headed by RNs. Pediatric Nurse Pediatric nurses specialise in caring for children. They liaise with families, offer pastoral care to young people, and ensure babies and children in hospital settings receive the diagnostics and medicine they require. Midwife Midwives specifically assist pregnant and nursing mothers. They support women through their pregnancies, providing checkups at-home and in clinics, assist with birth plans, offer dietary and general advice, and support births. They also keep regular checkups with mothers after delivery. Clinical Nurse Specialist Clinical nurse specialists are high-level healthcare operatives who frequently support the work of junior nurses in their teams. They carry out detailed patient assessments and help to develop treatment plans. These specialists also develop lesson plans and education materials. Mental Health Nurse Mental health nurses provide a range of care for people who are experiencing mental illness. They can help to diagnose conditions, promote healthy practices, and develop care plans. They can also intervene in specific cases and work to prevent mental and physical episodes. Conclusion The nursing profession might have its challenges, but it remains one of the most rewarding career paths available across Australia. Regardless of where your graduate certificate and nursing career take you, remember you always have an ally in MedShop. We’re here to offer you all the clinical supplies you need through university and beyond – into postgraduate study and the workforce. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
October 08, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Smart Fobs – The Future of the Humble Nurses Watch
For generations, nurses have relied on simple, yet effective tools to help them care for their patients. Among these tools, the fob watch has remained a constant, pinned to uniforms and used to keep track of vital signs, medication schedules, and critical patient care tasks. While the healthcare industry has progressed in leaps and bounds over the course of the past two centuries, the nurses fob watch remains pretty much as it was. Sure, we’ve moved from analogue to digital in some cases, and new materials such as silicone have replaced metal and leather, but on the face of it, the fob watch is essentially the same piece of equipment it always has been. As we move deeper into the 21st century, new innovations like smartwatches are poised to transform this humble timepiece, offering nurses unprecedented access to real-time data and enhanced functionality. In this article, we explore the past, present, and future of nurses' watches and how cutting-edge technology could revolutionize the way healthcare professionals work. Here then, we take a look at what the future might look like for nurses watches and how intelligent tech might change the face of nursing forever. Smartwatches and Healthcare Smartwatches are at the very cutting edge of the technological curve. As microchips and circuitry have become ever smaller, the development of miniaturised computers that can be worn on the wrist is like something out of a science fiction novel. They feature all kinds of sensors and instruments that can measure, time, control, and record both digital and real-world events. What’s more, once part of a larger system, smartwatches can ensure that nurses and other hospital staff are connected at all times, increasing efficiency in hospitals and clinics. The healthcare applications are numerous and exciting for many in the industry, however, there is still a long way to go before they are seen as standard equipment for nurses. Here are just a few of the ways that smartwatches may be used in the future: Notification Systems — Smartwatches can be used for instant notifications from both medical staff and patients. Whether it’s messages regarding staffing problems or notifications when a patient requires medication, receiving the information directly on your wrist can save time and help nurses to be more efficient. Messaging Systems — Pagers are widely disliked by healthcare workers since messages often get lost. Of course, smartphones have gone some way to solving this problem, however, they can be awkward and unwieldly when on the job. Like smartphones, smartwatches also provide an archived record of all messages sent ensuring increased responsibility for all staff. Patient Updates — Accessing patient updates and other critical information on a personal device that’s conveniently accessible is ideal. Smartwatches can send all the information nurses require instantly, with accurate, real-time updates on patient records always available. Vital Signs Monitoring — Smartwatches may have a role to play in the monitoring of patient’s vital signs and threshold alarms. If a patient’s condition changes, real-time notifications can be sent directly to the device. Task Management — Managing day-to-day tasks is always challenging for busy nurses. Smartwatches can streamline the process by providing timely notifications of when tasks need to be completed. They can also monitor tasks completed and provide an overview of working processes on any given day. Voice Control — Removing the need to complete calculations or enter data using your hands is a great way to maintain hygiene standards and improve efficiency through hands-free operation. Instant Access to a World of Knowledge — Of course, smartwatches are connected to the Internet, and having improved access to both general knowledge and hospital or clinic materials ensures everyone is on the same page. Smartwatches and Nurses It’s true that the many benefits of smartwatches for nurses are generally directed towards providing better care for patients and increasing productivity in the workplace. However, they also offer benefits to the individual through a variety of health and wellbeing orientated features. Almost all smartwatches today provide monitoring and recording of heart rate, blood pressure, and steps walked, alongside a huge range of apps that encourage mindfulness and other wellbeing-based activities to help support nurses through particularly stressful days. Smart Fobs and the Future Today’s smartwatches have so much great technology packed inside their tiny form factors that it’s difficult not to fall in love with them. However, there remains one issue that is hindering mass adoption for nurses and hospitals in general—they must be worn on the wrist for many of the features to work effectively. This, of course, can be problematic when some clinical hygiene standards dictate that nothing must be worn below the elbow. However, innovation never stands still, and today, smart fobs for nurses are beginning to make waves. Most recently, as part of the 2018 Young Entrepreneur Program 2018, nursing student Jordan Kidd has designed a silicone fob that provides easy access to Apple Watches. The fob can be used as a standalone piece, or in conjunction with a standard strap for the best of both worlds. In the future, Jordan hopes to develop a referencing app that will allow access to useful information such as vital sign ranges, electrolyte levels, and drug calculation formulas to ensure the smart fob is equally as effective as its wrist-worn counterpart. As healthcare continues to advance, so too will the tools that nurses and other medical professionals use in their daily work. While the traditional fob watch remains a beloved and practical accessory, the rise of smartwatches and other wearable technologies is paving the way for new innovations in the medical field. Whether it’s improving patient care through real-time updates or enhancing personal wellbeing, the future of nurses' watches looks promising. For a deeper dive into some of the best watches currently available for nurses and medical professionals, check out this comprehensive guide here. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
September 24, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
The Future of Nursing: Robot Nurses, AI, and Automation in Healthcare
Now that the holiday madness is well and truly behind us, and the dawn of a new decade is slowly making itself felt, it seems like as good a time as any to consider what the future holds for the nursing practice. We’re moving ever deeper into the 21st century, and for the sci-fi fans of the world, that means the robot apocalypse is drawing closer by the day. All jokes aside, however, the latest push for increased automation, alongside developments in artificial intelligence and medical robots, reveals something peculiar about our obsession with technology. Across a whole range of industries, it seems we’re engineering ourselves out of a job, and the question is not IF robots will take part or all of any specific position, but WHEN. Technology is primarily designed to make people’s lives easier, however, we’re increasingly removing the “human” from the equation entirely, and the fear surrounding a less human approach within the healthcare setting is particularly palpable. So, if the rise of the healthcare robot is inevitable, where does that leave human nurses? And to what extent will AI nurses or other technologies render human contact obsolete? Here, we take a look at what the future of the nursing profession holds as increasing automation and robotic tech begin to be the norm. What Is a Robot Nurse? A robot nurse refers to an automated machine designed to assist or complement healthcare workers in a healthcare setting. These robots are equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced robotics to perform certain nursing care tasks, easing the workload on human nurses. While they are still in their early stages, robot nurses are poised to transform the future of patient care by handling repetitive tasks, assisting in diagnostics, and improving overall efficiency in healthcare facilities. Purpose of Robot Nurses The primary purpose of robot nurses is to support human nurses by handling routine tasks such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with elderly care, managing patient data, and delivering medical supplies. This allows nurses to focus on more complex tasks that require critical thinking, human interaction, and compassion, which are vital for effective nursing care. Robot Nurse Tasks Robot nurses can perform a variety of tasks that reduce the workload on healthcare workers and enhance the patient experience. Some key tasks include: Monitoring vital signs like blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. Assisting in lifting and moving patients, reducing the physical strain on human nurses. Managing medication deliveries and other routine tasks. Collecting patient data for further analysis, potentially improving diagnostics. Scheduling appointments and managing administrative duties in healthcare facilities. Robotic Nurses, Automation, and Advancing AI Believe it or not, there are already a few basic assistive robots in Japan going about their business! However, while these may be an indicator of what is to come, there’s little question over whether these supplemental robots can replace human nurses for the time being. Today, medical robots are much more likely to take charge of heavy lifting here and there or offer simple scheduling and appointment-making functionality. However, the question remains as to where we draw the line on the types of functions a healthcare robot should fulfill. Most people today will enter their healthcare facilities and instantly engage with a computer to register their attendance. Before that, they may make appointments through an app or online, and after, results are automatically sent to their phone or email. It makes sense that these basic functions are fully autonomous, ensuring real healthcare workers spend less time on admin and more with their patients. What is perhaps less clear is the role AI nurses will take as the technology continues to progress. Will AI nurses/doctors, combined with robotic technology, begin to identify health issues and make the requisite tests automatically? Or will AI even begin to predict a patient’s potential and future health simply by analyzing profiles? In truth, there are still plenty of speculative ideas surrounding advancing AI technology, but until real-world use cases are proposed, this kind of tech is unlikely to change the industry in the near future. How Robot Nurses Can Benefit the Future of Health Care The rise of assistive robots presents many opportunities for improving patient care. These robots could handle routine tasks, freeing up healthcare workers to focus on more complex or emotionally demanding aspects of nursing care. As AI improves, robots may assist in elderly care, offering constant monitoring and companionship, which could help reduce decision-making fatigue and errors in diagnostics. Robot Nurses and Nurse Burnout Prevention One of the critical issues facing the healthcare industry, especially following the pandemic, is healthcare worker burnout. Assistive robots and AI technology could alleviate some of the workload, handling time-consuming tasks like data entry, patient monitoring, and even basic diagnostics, allowing nurses to focus more on direct patient interaction and advanced nursing care. Challenges to Robot Nurse Integration While there are clear benefits, integrating medical robots into the healthcare setting comes with challenges. Resistance from healthcare workers, the complexity of implementing new algorithms, and concerns about losing the "human touch" in patient care are significant barriers. Overcoming these challenges will be critical to ensuring that human nurses and robots work in harmony. Conclusion — Nurse Robots are Coming but Your Job is Safe While there are multiple avenues to explore in the case of robotic nursing, the technology and its adoption within the healthcare setting are still in their infancy. From both a patient and a professional perspective, there are also other considerations that go beyond the time and cost efficiencies that tech is predicted to bring. People are still concerned that human connection remains an integral part of 21st-century nursing care, and there’s little point in arguing that nurses or other healthcare professionals can be replaced in this respect. So, can human nurses be replaced by robots in the future? In some respects, yes, however, this is more likely to be in areas of administration or labor rather than in aspects of patient care—at least for now. Robots and automated tech will essentially just be another tool for nurses to bring increased efficiency to their jobs, and while there are many exciting developments coming out of the healthcare tech industry, including those that make nurses' jobs easier, it’s probably safe to say that you won’t be out of a job anytime soon. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
September 18, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Your Guide to Scrubs Hats
For many healthcare professionals, a scrub hat is an integral part of the work uniform. An important way of maintaining hygiene in the operating room and other sterile areas, scrub hats are worn by surgeons, scrub nurses and other medical workers who want to protect their patients from potential infection. Throughout my career, from being a Pediatric Nurse in the UK to serving as a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia, I've seen firsthand the vital role that scrub caps play in maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring patient safety. Why Doctors Wear Scrub Caps Doctors and nurses who work in sterile areas, like operating theatres, are often required to wear scrub caps. Like a face mask, gown, surgical gloves and other PPE, scrub hats help to prevent cross-contamination and keep the area clean and safe. A medical professional working in a sterile environment will be required to wear a scrub hat whether they have short hair, thick hair or virtually no hair at all. This is because hair is packed full of bacteria, even when it’s washed on a regular basis. The human scalp contains around 4,838 core bacteria and 1,220 transient bacteria. This bacteria can be transferred to other surfaces when hairs fall out. In most cases, the bacteria will be harmless. However, if it falls into an open wound during an operation, it could put patients at serious risk of infection. The Purpose of a Scrubs Hat The purpose of a scrub hat is to prevent hair, and the bacteria it contains, from contaminating sterile spaces and causing infection. We lose around 100 hairs from our scalps every single day. Every one of these hairs carries bacteria. Wearing a surgical scrub cap in sterile areas, and when treating vulnerable patients, will help to stop these hairs causing infection. It will also help to keep the operating room clean, tidy and germ-free. Another benefit of wearing a scrub hat is that it keeps hair tucked back and out of the way. This can minimise distractions in the operating room, make medical professionals feel more comfortable and prevent doctors and nurses from touching their hair and contaminating their hands. Choosing the Right Size Choosing the right size scrub cap is essential for ensuring a snug fit, which is key to both comfort and infection control. A well-fitting scrub cap should contain hair completely, preventing hair particles from escaping and potentially contaminating the sterile field. The cap should fit snugly around the forehead and the nape of your neck to ensure that no stray hairs can escape. If you have longer or thicker hair, a bouffant or ponytail scrub cap with an elasticated back may offer a more secure fit. Selecting a cap that is too tight can cause discomfort, particularly during long shifts. On the other hand, a cap that is too loose may not provide adequate protection. During my time in the UK and Australia, I’ve found that the right fit not only ensures safety but also contributes to a more focused and effective performance in demanding environments. Importance of Wearing a Scrub Cap Wearing a scrub cap is more than just a hygiene measure; it is a key part of infection control protocols. Scrub caps act as a barrier, preventing potential contaminants like hair and sweat from entering the sterile environment. As someone who has worked in various healthcare settings, I've witnessed how scrub cap protocols have evolved to meet stringent cleanliness standards, including the use of antimicrobial materials to minimize the buildup of bacteria. Scrub caps also support the professionalism and neat appearance of healthcare providers. In my experience, patients and their families often associate a clean and tidy uniform, including the scrub cap, with competence and care. It reinforces the idea that healthcare professionals are taking all necessary precautions to ensure patient safety. Placing and Adjusting the Scrub Cap Correctly placing and adjusting the scrub cap is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step process: Tilt Your Head Forward: Start by tilting your head forward to gather your hair into the cap. This technique helps contain all hair strands, ensuring a secure fit. Secure the Cap: Place the cap over your head, ensuring that it covers your hairline, forehead, and the nape of your neck. The elasticated back should sit comfortably to provide a snug fit. Adjust Ties and Knot: If your scrub cap has ties, adjust them around the back of your head, securing them with a secure knot. Make sure the cap feels snug but not too tight, to avoid discomfort during long hours of wear. Check the Fit: Make sure that no stray hairs are sticking out. Adjust the cap as needed to maintain a tight seal around the edges, especially around the ears and forehead. In my various roles, I've learned that correct placement and adjustment of the scrub cap can make a significant difference in infection control and personal comfort during shifts. Different Types of Scrub Hats There are several types of scrub caps to suit different hair types and preferences: Ponytail Scrub Cap: Ideal for those with longer hair, these caps have an opening at the back to keep long hair in place, often featuring a large pouch. Bouffant Scrub Cap: Offers even more space than ponytail caps, making them suitable for those with thick or voluminous hair. Pixie Scrub Cap: A closer fit, perfect for shorter hair, providing a neat appearance while ensuring a snug fit. Maintaining Your Scrub Cap To maintain the cap’s fabric integrity and ensure longevity, frequent washing is essential. Handle with care, following the manufacturer's washing instructions to preserve antimicrobial properties and ensure thorough cleaning. Disposable caps are also an option for single-use needs, providing an extra layer of infection control. The Colours of Scrubs Hats Like scrubs themselves, scrubs hats come in a great choice of shades. A lot of medical professionals opt for solid colours like blue, pink and purple. This is a good option if you want your scrub hat to match the rest of your work uniform. If you want something a little different, why not choose a scrub hat with a pattern? A great pattern like flowers, cartoon characters or geometric shapes can brighten up your local hospital or paediatric ward and help you to stand out from the crowd. You can find a scrub hat pattern that suits you by looking through our eye-catching collection. Alternatively, you can customise your hat yourself using a printable pattern or an embroidered scrub cap pattern. If you’re feeling creative and are handy with a sewing machine, you could follow a step by step sewing tutorial or free sewing pattern to make a scrub hat that’s totally unique to you. Find a cap sewing pattern online or take a look at Etsy for a choice of pre-customised hats. Frequently Asked Questions What is The Difference Between a Scrub Hat and a Surgeon's Cap? A scrub hat and a surgeon’s cap are essentially the same thing. Both are designed to keep hair in place and out the wearer’s face. Scrubs hats that are specifically used for surgery may be kept in sterile packaging until they’re required, whereas those worn by non-surgical medical staff are commonly kept with other scrubs tops and bottoms. Can Any Nurse Wear a Scrub Cap? Generally, scrubs hats are worn by nurses who work in operating theatres as well as those who care for vulnerable or immuno-supressed patients. If you don’t work in one of these environments but still want to wear a nurse cap, talk to your manager or the person in charge of uniforms. How Should a Scrub Cap Fit Your Hair? The purpose of a scrub hat is to stop falling hair from contaminating the surrounding area and putting patients at risk. So, it’s important that your scrub hat fits snugly around the front and back of your head, while leaving plenty of room for your hair to fit comfortably inside. If you have a lot of hair, a bouffant or ponytail style scrub hat will probably suit you best. Scrub hats are an integral part of many scrubs uniforms. Learn more, and find the best scrub hat for your look, by exploring our collection today. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
September 18, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Which Nursing Speciality Should I Choose?
Nursing is an important, highly skilled career that requires a huge amount of dedication, hard work and commitment. A lot of people are drawn to nursing because they want to help others, work as part of a team and do a job that really makes a difference. What many entering the profession don’t realise is that there’s a large amount of variation within the world of nursing. From school nurses to paediatric nurses and ED nurses to home help, nurses take on a wide variety of roles and specialities. If you’re just starting out on your nursing journey, you may well be thinking about which nursing speciality is right for you. As this will have a huge impact on your future career, it’s important to get the choice just right. To help you whittle down the options and find your perfect role, we’re looking at some of the different speciality nursing jobs you have to choose from. What to Consider When Choosing a Nursing Speciality Deciding which avenue you want to follow isn’t always easy. Different specialities offer different working environments, challenges and even salaries. If you’re struggling to decide which type of speciality nursing to pursue, here are some of the most important things to consider before making your choice. Interests Start by thinking about which areas of medicine you’re most interested in. If you love working with children, you could choose to become a paediatric nurse. If you enjoy being in a fast-paced and a varied environment, you could become an emergency or critical care nurse. While, if you enjoy a slower pace and find satisfaction in getting to know your patients, you could go into speciality nursing home care. Training Although some specialities, like elderly care, are entry level positions, others require extra training and speciality nursing certifications. If you’re currently working as a nurse and want to transition to speciality practice nursing programs in order to advance your career, you’ll need to find out what training is available in your area. Speak to speciality nursing organizations to learn which courses are available near you and what nursing speciality certification you’ll need for your dream job. It’s important to remember that these extra speciality nursing courses can add a significant amount onto the time and cost of your professional training. This could mean it takes longer for you to start earning a salary and will probably add to your student debt. You’ll need to weigh this up when deciding if a speciality is the right choice for you. Location As the name suggests, specialty jobs are often only available in certain locations. For example, if you want to work as an emergency department nurse, you’ll need to be within commuting distance of a hospital that takes urgent cases. And if you want to work as an elderly care nurse, you’ll need to be within easy reach of a nursing home or supported living accommodation. If you’re not able to relocate for work, you may be limited to jobs available in your local area. Talk to nearby hospitals and medical centres to find out which specialities are on offer near you. Working Hours Because many patients need care around the clock, a lot of nurses are required to work shifts. While shifts suit some people, they’re not for everyone and can be difficult for people with young children and other commitments. If you’d rather work a 9 to 5, you might find a job in a clinic or doctor’s surgery is better suited to your lifestyle. Job Pace When choosing a speciality in nursing, it’s a good idea to think about the environment you want to spend your working life in. Different specialities, while often equally challenging, can be very differently paced. For example, if you’re a school nurse, you’ll probably be dealing with trips, falls and slips and should have a relatively low-key working day. While if you’re a critical care nurse, or if you work in an emergency department, your work is likely to be fast-paced, high-stress and unpredictable. If you’re the sort of person who thrives on adrenaline, a high-octane speciality could be the perfect choice. However, if you know you work better in a calmer, quieter environment, a more tranquil speciality could suit you better. Patient Engagement Although every nursing speciality is patient-focused, the amount you actually get to interact with the people you care for can vary significantly between jobs. Critical care nurses for example often work with people who are unconscious or hooked up to ventilators, while nurses working in an emergency department might only see their patients when they’re being treated for serious injuries. These patients are often then transferred to other parts of the hospital for further care. On the other hand, paediatric nurses and elderly care nurses often have the time to work closely with their patients and to build a relationship with the people they care for. If you like the idea of getting to know your patients, a job with higher levels of patient engagement could be the perfect speciality for you. Seven Popular Nursing Specialties in Australia Pediatric Nurse Pediatric nurses specialize in the care of children from infancy through adolescence. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and schools, providing medical care, administering vaccinations, and supporting families. This specialty requires excellent communication skills and a compassionate approach to help children and their families during difficult times. Nurse Practitioner (NP) Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide high-level medical care, often serving as primary care providers. NPs in Australia are trained to perform diagnostic tests, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications. This specialty is ideal for those looking to take on a more advanced role in patient care, with opportunities to specialize further in areas like family practice, women's health, or mental health. Mental Health Nurse Mental health nurses specialize in caring for patients with psychiatric disorders. They work in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, providing support, therapy, and interventions to patients experiencing mental health challenges. This specialty requires strong interpersonal skills, patience, and a deep understanding of mental health conditions. Mental health nurses play a crucial role in developing treatment plans and offering long-term support to their patients. Oncology Nurse Oncology nurses care for patients undergoing cancer treatment. They provide support throughout the journey, from diagnosis to treatment and palliative care. Oncology nurses must be skilled in administering chemotherapy, managing side effects, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse ICU nurses specialize in caring for patients with life-threatening conditions, often in critical care units. They are responsible for monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and coordinating with healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care. This specialty is fast-paced and requires a high level of technical skill, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Nurse Midwife Nurse midwives provide care to women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They offer prenatal care, assist during labor and delivery, and provide postnatal support to mothers and newborns. Nurse midwives also focus on women's health, offering services like gynecological exams, family planning, and reproductive health education. This specialty requires a strong foundation in both nursing and obstetrics, with a focus on providing holistic and patient-centered care. Perioperative Nurse Perioperative nurses, also known as surgical nurses, work in operating rooms and assist with surgical procedures. They play a crucial role in preparing patients for surgery, assisting during the operation, and providing post-surgical care. This specialty requires advanced knowledge of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and the ability to respond quickly in critical situations. Perioperative nurses are integral to ensuring the safety and well-being of patients throughout the surgical process. Choosing Your Path in Nursing A nursing career can lead to a variety of fulfilling roles, each with its unique challenges and rewards. As you consider your future in nursing, think about where your passions lie, what type of training you are willing to undertake, and how each specialty aligns with your lifestyle and career goals. Nurses fulfill a diverse array of crucial roles in the medical and caregiving professions. As you train for a career in nursing, dedicating time and consideration to your future path will assist you in choosing the specialty that best suits your aspirations. This includes not only understanding the different nursing roles but also the importance of appropriate attire, such as nursing scrubs, which are essential for both comfort and professionalism in various healthcare settings. To discover more about your options and to explore our extensive range of nursing supplies, including high-quality scrubs, please browse our collection or contact a member of our team today. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
August 12, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
What do Vets Wear: Workwear Overview
In the vast world of medical care, veterinarians have many unique challenges. For starters, their patients can’t speak, so figuring out what’s wrong takes a special level of skill. Finding the proper attire that can get you safely and comfortably through the day should be the least of your worries. Much like healthcare professionals who treat humans, veterinary medicine professionals need a versatile work uniform that is easy to clean, protective, and comfortable. In some areas, vets have to meet certain regulatory requirements with their workwear. In an average day, veterinarians wear any or all of the following: Vet scrubs Lab coat Undershirts with long sleeves Closed-toed shoes or boots Khakis Coveralls Personal protective equipment(PPE) like masks, safety glasses, and gloves Gloves and sleeves that protect against bites While figuring out exactly what vets wear and how to choose from all your options may be overwhelming, we’re here to help. Below, we’re going to discuss the different elements of veterinarian uniforms, the features that make certain scrubs ideal for vets, and some of the most important criteria to consider when choosing your attire. What Do Veterinarians Wear? Depending on the day, the veterinary clinic’s dress code, and the tasks a DVM (doctor of veterinary medicine) or veterinary technician might perform, there can be a lot of variance in the standard veterinary uniform. While it’s generally expected for vets and vet techs to have a professional appearance, that can look different for everyone. For example, if a veterinary professional expects to spend their day meeting with pet owners to do consultatilons, but they won’t be coming into contact with hazards like body fluids or other messes, they may opt for a business casual outfit. This means a dress shirt, a pair of khakis, and a white coat is all they need. Large animal veterinarians who work out in the field need more practical clothing. If you know you’ll be in a situation where you could get messy, a scrub top, scrub pants, and a well-stocked supply of PPE is probably in order. You’ll probably also need sturdy boots, long sleeved undershirts, and a coat for warmth. Small animal vets in a clinical setting are likely going to wear scrubs, too, as well as PPE. PPE in veterinary practice is a little different than other medical fields. If you’re performing surgery, taking X-rays, or procedures, your PPE and the right pair of scrubs are going to be extremely important. Masks, eye protection, gloves, and scrubs made from materials that wick moisture and keep fluids away from the skin are all great options. What Type of Scrubs Do Vets Wear? Like they are for most medical professionals, scrubs are the gold standard in professional clothing. Functionality is the most important element for vets’ scrubs, but that doesn’t mean fashion isn’t a consideration! Vets have special needs to think about with their scrubs. No one wants to be covered in animal hair all day long, so fabrics that are resistant to long hair are highly popular with vets. Cherokee Workwear scrubs are a great choice for veterinary professionals because of their comfortable polyester and cotton blend, versatile pockets, and durability. They’re also easy to clean, which is a huge plus for anyone working with animals all day. Important Things to Consider when Selecting Veterinarians Attire All medical professionals put a lot of thought into their workwear, but veterinarians have unique concerns to keep in mind. Some of those include: Safety When your job is to interact with creatures that have the ability to scratch and bite you, your safety is a priority! That’s why protective equipment is so important for veterinary professionals. Hygiene All healthcare workers have to worry about hygiene. Coming into contact with body fluids on a regular basis increases the risk of contracting and spreading infection. Wearing clothing like scrubs that protect the skin, as well as masks, gowns, goggles, and gloves, can keep you clean and free from infection. Safety and Protection The importance of PPE cannot be overstated. Veterinary medicine is unpredictable and often messy. We recommend keeping a quality pair of safety glasses nearby to protect your eyes, as well as plenty of disposable gloves and masks! Comfort and Climate Suitability Whether you work outside in the field under extreme temperatures or in an air-conditioned clinic, you want to make sure your scrubs can keep you comfortable all day. Don’t be afraid to layer your uniform to enhance your comfort, and consider scrubs like the Cherokee Inifinity collection, which is widely praised for its cool and comfortable fit. Conclusion You may still be a student in vet school, a vet tech working in a clinic, or a tenured veterinary oncology specialist. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, you know that your uniform plays a big part in your comfort and success at work. Luckily, there are plenty of options that will serve you well throughout your entire career, ensuring you and your furry patients are well taken care of. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
August 19, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
Are Scrubs Tax Deductible? What You Need to Know
When filing taxes for the first time after starting a career in healthcare, many doctors, nurses, and other professionals wonder if the money they spent on scrubs is tax deductible. The short answer is yes, in most cases in Australia, you can deduct the cost of buying your scrubs from your taxable income! This is great news for healthcare workers who invest a lot of money into their work uniforms. Here, we’ll discuss the specific situations in which you can deduct your scrubs on your taxes, how to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, and how to go about deducing scrubs at tax time. We’ll also talk a bit about other items you may be able to deduct, and what things will have to be left off your tax return. Are Scrubs Tax Deductible? Yes! Australian tax laws allow certain tax deductions relating to work uniforms if they meet the government’s criteria. The ATO (Australian Taxation Office) sets out rules for what work-related expenses can be deducted, and we’ve broken that down here to help healthcare professionals understand how that relates to you. In general, occupation-specific clothing and protective equipment are tax deductible. While you may wear items of clothing other than scrubs at work, like socks or long-sleeved T-shirts under your scrub top, those items don’t qualify as clothing deductions because they can be worn anywhere. But since scrubs are distinctive uniforms for healthcare workers, they can be deducted at tax time. You can even deduct bills related to having your scrubs cleaned, such as dry cleaning expenses! Criteria for Deducting Scrubs At the end of each financial year, taxpayers around the country will review all of their income and expenses throughout the year as they prepare their tax returns. For some lucky professionals, work-related clothing expenses can be deducted from taxable income, reducing your income tax bill. However, the ATO has very specific criteria for what can be deducted, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with those rules before filing your taxes. The general rule is that compulsory work uniforms, including occupation-specific and protective clothing, can be deducted, but non-compulsory uniforms and conventional clothing cannot – even if that conventional clothing is worn at work. When determining if your work uniform qualifies as a tax deduction, these are the criteria that must be met: The clothing must identify you as a specific type of professional. Since scrubs identify medical professionals, they meet this criteria! If it is protective clothing, it must be designed specifically to provide protection and actually function as a protective item. Items like non-slip nursing shoes, steel-capped boots, and safety glasses qualify here. The clothing must be part of a compulsory work uniform. If your employer requires you to wear scrubs, those can be deducted. But other parts of your clothing that are not specifically required, like socks and underclothes, are not deductible in most cases. How to Claim Scrubs on Taxes In order to deduct expenses for your scrubs and other qualified clothing, you need to make sure to keep detailed records throughout the year of everything you spent. The ATO can require proof of what you spent on the deducted items, so be sure to keep receipts. Other Tax Deductible Uniform Expenses Medical professionals will be happy to know that in addition to deducting the costs of purchasing their scrubs, you can also deduct expenses related to having them professionally cleaned and cared for! This includes: Laundry expenses Dry cleaning Ironing Additionally, if any part of a non-compulsory uniform is encouraged by the employer and registered with the ATO’s Register of Approved Occupational Clothing, the cost of that item can be deducted as well. Your employer may register certain articles like lab coats with the company logo. You can also deduct certain other expenses, like certain overtime meals, your annual registration fees, and equipment like stethoscopes, so keep those receipts, too! What You Can't Deduct in Taxes There are a number of items that cannot be deducted, including (but not limited to): Socks, underwear, and underclothes (even if you only bought that white shirt to wear under your scrubs, it can’t be deducted) Clothing you bought to comply with your workplace’s dress code, even if it has the employer’s logo(unless it is on the Register of Approved Occupational Clothing) Non-compulsory work uniform items Laundry expenses that were reimbursed by your employer. Laundry claims are only valid if you paid for it and did not receive a reimbursement. Uniform items purchased by or reimbursed by your employer Conclusion As a medical professional, the work you do is difficult and often complicated. Thankfully, your taxes don’t have to be. Hopefully, our guide and tax tips will help you get the deductions you’re entitled to as you navigate the filing process. We always recommend reaching out to a professional tax agent if you have specific questions about your individual situation, tax refund, or income tax. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
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