Does The Big Game Come With A Big Risk?

/in ,

Football Season is in full swing, with the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers facing-off for a chance to be this year’s NFL Champions. Emotions are at an all-time high, and anything is possible. Regardless of which team we support, the uncertainty keeps us on the edge of our seat, our hearts pounding with adrenaline until the final seconds.

So, what exactly happens to our body during the most stressful moments that have and will come to define sports history?

According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, research found that viewing a stressful soccer match more than doubles the risk of having a minor cardiovascular event. Some fans have a very emotional response to an intense game that triggers their fight-or-flight. This can increase heart rate, blood pressure, cause narrowing of blood vessels and sometimes arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythm. According to NOAH provider Nicole James, FNP-C, this is a “completely normal” response as adrenal glands release hormones that increase blood pressure and heart rate. Increased heart rate and blood pressure requires extra workload on the heart and those individuals with preexisting heart conditions, such as heart disease or coronary artery disease, may experience more significant symptoms when they’re excited or nervous at a sporting event.

Furthermore, a study from the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that while tuning into a hockey game, TV viewers’ heart rates increased by an average of 75%, and game attendees’ heart rates increased by 110%, the equivalent to heart rate seen during moderate-to-vigorous exercise.

However, most individuals watching sports are just fine. Dr. Robert Kloner, director of cardiovascular research at Huntington Medical Research suggests being aware of symptoms of chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, palpitations, feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness, or passing out during the big game.

Despite the minimal risks, watching sports allows us to escape real life stressors and connect with a like-minded community. Doing so allows us to experience a collective glory when our team does well and gives us hope for better even when they don’t. Game on!

Advice to Living a Heart-Healthy Life

/in , ,

February is American Heart Month, so let’s raise awareness and support for heart health in the fight against heart disease!

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the number one killer in the United States, and it is the leading cause of death worldwide. There are many risk factors that impact your chances of having heart disease. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that preventing heart disease starts with knowing what your risk factors are and what you can do to lower them.

Some risk factors for heart disease include:

  • high blood pressure
  • high blood cholesterol
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  • smoking
  • lack of physical activity
  • unhealthy eating behaviors

These risk factors can be managed or changed. Some risk factors that cannot be changed include age, sex, and family history of heart disease.

If you have any questions or concerns about potential risk factors, please check with your NOAH healthcare provider!

Nutrition can impact your heart health

Heart disease is often preventable when people make healthy changes, including diet and how much activity or exercise they get. Living a heart-healthy life means knowing your risk factors and making good choices to protect your heart and stay healthy. Here are some heart-healthy nutrition and exercise tips:

  • Choose heart-healthy foods and eat a diet that is balanced with whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and lean protein sources.
    • Try to have at least half of your grain intake come from whole grains such as 100% whole wheat bread, oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa.
    • Aim for 1-2 cups of fruit daily
    • Aim for 1-3 cups of vegetables daily
  • Choose fat-free or low-fat dairy products when having milk, cheese, or yogurt.

Foods to enjoy

  • Lean meats such as 95% lean ground beef or pork tenderloin, or skinless chicken or turkey (limit red meats to one time per week)
    • Fish such as salmon and tuna (try to eat fish as least once per week)
    • Eggs
    • Nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, edamame
    • Legumes such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas
  • Incorporate foods that are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (good fats):
    • Olive oil or avocado oil
    • Fish and seafood
    • Nuts and seeds
    • Nut and seed butters
    • Avocados

Foods to limit

  • Limit high sodium foods. Adults and children 14+ should eat less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily.
    • Read food labels and choose foods that are lower in sodium. Look for low sodium, reduced sodium, or no salt added on the food label.
    • Choose fresh, whole foods whenever possible and try to avoid processed foods such as frozen meals.
    • Avoid the saltshaker and flavor foods with herbs and spices instead.
  • Limit saturated fats.
    • Saturated fat is usually found in animal-based proteins such as fatty beef, pork, and chicken skin.
    • It is also found in full-fat dairy products such as whole milk.
    • Butter, lard, coconut and palm oils also contain saturated fats (replace with olive oil).
  • Avoid trans fats.
    • Trans fats can be found in margarine, shortening, processed sweets, baked goods, and some fried foods.
    • Avoid foods with “partially hydrogenated oil” on the ingredient list such as cookies, pastries, baked goods, biscuits, crackers, and frozen dinners.
  • Limit foods that are high in added sugars
    • Sugar-sweetened drinks such as soda, fruit juice, sweetened coffees, and energy drinks
    • Sweets and desserts
  • Limit Alcohol

Registered Dietitian Nutritionists provide nutritional care and guidance for patients with nutrition-related conditions like diabetes and pre-diabetes, cardiovascular disease, weight management, digestive issues, food allergies, and more.

If you have any nutrition questions or need help developing a heart healthy diet plan, please reach out to one of the dietitians here at NOAH and make an appointment today!

The Importance of Well-Child Checks

/in

Well-child checks or well-child visits are crucial for healthy development among children. These specific examinations are designed to monitor a child’s growth, development, and overall well-being and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics at one, two, four, six, nine, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months followed by yearly visits through age 21. These preventive visits are usually not combined with another type of visit to allow plenty of time for reviewing topics like:

Monitoring Growth and Development

Your healthcare provider will asses your child’s physical growth, motor skills, cognitive development, and language abilities. By tracking these milestones, doctors can identify any issues early on.

Vaccinations and Immunizations

Vaccines and immunizations are often administered during these appointments, to ensure that your child is up-to-date to protect from preventable diseases.

Nutritional Guidance

Your provider may also offer guidance on nutrition practices, such as the introduction of solid foods and maintaining a balanced diet.

Behavioral and Emotional Well-Being

Your healthcare provider will inquire about your child’s behavior, emotions, and social interactions. Identifying any signs of developmental or behavioral concerns allows for early intervention and support.

Parental Guidance and Education

Well-child checks provide an opportunity for parents to ask questions, seek guidance, and receive education on how to best support the growth of their child.

Why Well-Child Checks Matter

Well-child checks play a crucial role in early detection of potential health or developmental concerns, allowing for intervention and treatment. Additionally, these routine examinations build a relationship between the child, parents, and healthcare provider, establishing a medical home that provides consistent care.

Keeping vaccinations current and addressing health and developmental issues help to diminish the risk of specific diseases and illness. Lastly, parents benefit from valuable support and education, empowering them to make well-informed decisions regarding their child’s health and well-being.

Request a well-child check appointment with a NOAH provider here.

La importancia de los controles de niño sano

Los controles o visitas de rutina son cruciales para el desarrollo saludable de los niños. Estos exámenes específicos están diseñados para monitorear el crecimiento, el desarrollo y el bienestar general de un niño y son recomendados por la Academia Estadounidense de Pediatría al uno, dos, cuatro, seis, nueve, 12, 15, 18, 24 y 30 meses, seguidos de visitas anuales hasta los 21 años. Por lo general, estas visitas preventivas no se combinan con otro tipo de visita para tener suficiente tiempo para revisar temas como:

Seguimiento del crecimiento y el desarrollo

Su proveedor de atención médica evaluará el crecimiento físico, las habilidades motoras, el desarrollo cognitivo y las habilidades del lenguaje de su hijo. Mediante el seguimiento de estos hitos, los médicos pueden identificar cualquier problema desde el principio.

Vacunas e inmunizaciones

Las vacunas y las vacunas a menudo se administran durante estas citas, para asegurar que su hijo esté actualizado para protegerse de enfermedades prevenibles.

Orientación nutricional

Su proveedor también puede ofrecer orientación sobre las prácticas de nutrición, como la introducción de alimentos sólidos y el mantenimiento de una dieta equilibrada.

Bienestar conductual y emocional

Su proveedor de atención médica le preguntará sobre el comportamiento, las emociones y las interacciones sociales de su hijo. La identificación de cualquier signo de problemas de desarrollo o de comportamiento permite la intervención temprana y el apoyo.

Orientación y educación de los padres

Los chequeos para niños bien proveen una oportunidad para que los padres hagan preguntas, busquen orientación y reciban educación sobre cómo apoyar mejor el crecimiento de su hijo.

Por qué importan los cheques de bienestar infantil

Los controles de niño sano desempeñan un papel crucial en la detección temprana de posibles problemas de salud o desarrollo, lo que permite la intervención y el tratamiento. Además, estos exámenes de rutina construyen una relación entre el niño, los padres y el proveedor de atención médica, estableciendo un hogar médico que brinda atención constante.

Mantener las vacunas al día y abordar los problemas de salud y desarrollo ayuda a disminuir el riesgo de enfermedades y enfermedades específicas. Por último, los padres se benefician de un valioso apoyo y educación, lo que les permite tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la salud y el bienestar de sus hijos.

Solicite una cita de cheque para niños sanos con un proveedor de NOAH aquí.

Save the Date for NOAHfest!

/in

The much-anticipated NOAHfest is making a comeback!

In 2023, NOAH hosted its inaugural NOAHfest, a huge success that brought together over 200 friends and family members of NOAH to celebrate the inauguration of the new Cholla Health Center. The overwhelmingly positive feedback we received inspired us to bring this joyous event back for a second edition in 2024!

Get ready to save the date for the upcoming second NOAHfest Carnival and Health Fair at our Cholla Health Center on Saturday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This vibrant community affair is free and open to all, featuring an array of engaging activities that’s guaranteed to bring fun to the whole family. Including inflatable and tabletop games, arts and crafts, giveaways, interactive photo opportunities, and much more!

Plus, all attendees who complete a visit to our health care screening stations during the event will be rewarded with a special gift – an adult and/or child NOAH family resource kit. These kits are stocked with essential supplies and treats to enhance the health and well-being of both you and your loved ones.

This is an event you won’t want to miss!

Nurture Your Well-Being in 2024

/in

As we step into the promising year of 2024, there’s no better time to prioritize your well-being. At NOAH, we understand that a healthy life encompasses not just physical health, but also emotional and mental wellness. Let’s explore how NOAH’s healthcare services can lead you on a path of self-care and well-being in the upcoming year. 

Community Resources

Begin your well-being journey by utilizing the services offered by our community resources team. Our dedicated specialists assist you in enrolling in programs like AHCCCS Medical Assistance, the NOAH Discount Program, SNAP, KidsCare, Health Insurance Marketplace, TANF, and the Medicare Savings Program. Building this foundation ensures that you have the support needed for a healthy lifestyle.

Counseling

In 2024, prioritize your emotional health with NOAH’s counseling services. Whether you’re navigating life transitions, dealing with anxiety or depression, or seeking support for family challenges, our counselors are here to guide you. Take steps towards emotional resilience, make healthier lifestyle changes, cope with grief, and rediscover a life that is meaningful to you.

Dental

Kickstart the new year with a radiant smile by prioritizing your dental health. NOAH’s dental team is dedicated to creating a comfortable environment for preventive, emergency, and restorative treatments. For children, our focus on dental education and prevention ensures a foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.

Family and Internal Medicine

Your journey to well-being involves comprehensive care for every age group. NOAH’s family medicine services cater to infants, children, adults, and seniors. Our team, including family practice physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, are committed to addressing diverse healthcare needs. For adults, our internal medicine staff offers expert care for both acute illnesses and chronic conditions.

Nutrition

Focus on your nutrition in the new year. NOAH’s nutrition services, led by registered dietitians, provide comprehensive care for nutrition-related conditions. Whether it’s managing diabetes, cardiovascular health, weight, or addressing general nutrition concerns, our services guide you towards a balanced and nourishing lifestyle. Referrals are accepted from physicians, physician assistants, and other qualified health care professionals. 

Pediatrics

Ensuring the year-round well-being of your children is essential for parents. NOAH offers a range of pediatric services, from well-child visits to vaccinations and acute care. Our pediatric providers work with parents to choose the best path for their child’s overall health and wellness.

Pharmacy

Simplify your healthcare journey by utilizing NOAH’s full-service pharmacy. Open to both NOAH patients and community members, our pharmacy services enhance our integrated model of care. With our pharmacy, conveniently access medications and facilitate communication throughout your treatment process.

Psychiatry

Prioritize mental wellness in the new year with NOAH’s psychiatry services. Our specialized providers focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. By addressing both mental and physical aspects, our psychiatric services empower you to live a healthier and happier life.

As you embark on the journey of 2024, let NOAH be your partner in nurturing your well-being. Our healthcare services are designed to support your well-being every step of the way. Take intentional steps towards self-care, and let the new year be a chapter of well-being, growth, and flourishing health.

For more information, click on the service links above or request an appointment here.

Tis’ the Season – When is a Cold Not a Cold?

/in , ,

By Dr. Patty Avila, Pediatrician

It is that time of year again!  The busy time of year when everyone is preparing for the holidays is also when children are getting more colds and other respiratory illnesses.  These are the most common type of illness that children will see their doctor for, and it is important to recognize when to worry or not.  Most of these will be simple colds and resolve on their own, but there are some that can be serious.

The Common Cold; also called an Upper Respiratory Infection.

The common cold is caused by several different viruses and is the most common of all the respiratory illnesses. In the 1st 2 years most children will have about 3 to 5 colds per year. Older school age children and children in daycare can get sick even more often, because they are exposed to others.  Fortunately, most of these are just colds and will go away on their own and not lead to anything worse. 

Symptoms of the Common Cold:

  • Low fevers (101-102 degrees F).
  • Runny nose, nasal congestion comma and sneezing.
  • Sore throat.
  • Cough.
  • Not eating well.
  • Fussiness.

Most children will be better after 7 to 10 days of illness, but some may take up to 10 to 14 days to get better.

When to worry with the common cold:

Most children will not need to see their doctor with a common cold or upper respiratory infection. Infants younger than 3 months should see their pediatrician because they are at higher risk of getting very sick. 

See your doctor immediately if your child or infant is having:

  • Trouble breathing or fast breathing – using their muscles in between their ribs to breathe or the openings of the nose get larger with every breath.
  • Nails or lips turn blue.
  • The symptoms are lasting longer than 10 to 14 days.
  • Dehydration or not drinking well and not urinating well.
  • Child/infant is too sleepy or very fussy and not consolable.
  • Ear pain or any other concerns for child/infant not improving or getting worse.

Antibiotics do not treat the common cold since it is caused by a virus. 

Supportive care includes:

  • Increased fluids.
  • Use of pain/fever medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
  • Nasal saline with suctioning for congestion.
  • Honey for cough in a child OLDER than 1 year (NEVER given an infant <1 year of age honey).
  • Use of a humidifier may provide relief. 

The Flu; sometimes called Influenza.

The flu is also caused by respiratory viruses called influenza and can present very similar to the common cold.  Children with the flu feel much worse and are sicker than with the common cold.  The flu can have very serious complications including need for hospitalization and sometimes death.   

Symptoms of the Flu:

  • Rapid onset of high Fevers (above 101 degrees F), chills.
  • Headaches, body aches.
  • Runny nose, nasal congestion.
  • Chest pain and cough.
  • Sore throat.
  • Poor appetite.
  • Feeling tired and weak.

Most children will get better after 2 weeks. Fevers from the flu can last up to 5 to 7 days. 

See your doctor immediately if your child or infant is having:

  • Trouble breathing or fast breathing – using their muscles in between their ribs to breathe or the openings of the nose get larger with every breath.
  • Nails or lips turn blue. 
  • Dehydration or not drinking well and not urinating well.
  • Child/infant is too sleepy or very fussy and not consolable.
  • Ear pain or any other concerns for child/infant not improving or getting worse.

Young children and infants as well as children with high-risk medical conditions should see their pediatrician as soon as possible. These high-risk medical conditions include:

  • Heart defects.
  • Chronic lung issues.
  • Asthma.
  • Low immune system.
  • Diabetes.
  • Cancers. 

Supportive care includes:

  • Increased fluids.
  • Use of pain/fever medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
  • Nasal saline with suctioning for congestion.
  • Honey for cough in a child OLDER than 1 year (NEVER given an infant <1 year of age honey).
  • Use of humidifier may provide relief. 

Outside of supportive care, there is an antiviral medication called Tamiflu which may be indicated and started if the flu is diagnosed within the first one to 2 days.

Bronchiolitis.

Bronchiolitis is another respiratory illness that can be commonly seen during the winter months.  There are several viruses that can cause this illness but RSV, also known as Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is the most common.  RSV is an infection that will affect almost all children at least once before they turn 2 years old.  It usually starts as a cold and is followed by lower respiratory symptoms around 3 to 5 days of the illness.  For some children the illness can be severe, especially younger infants, preemies, and those with heart or lung defects.   

Symptoms of Bronchiolitis:

  • Cold symptoms with fevers, runny nose, nasal congestion, and cough.
  • Fussiness.
  • Poor Feeding.
  • Wheezing.
  • Difficulty breathing.

See your doctor immediately if your child or infant is having:

  • Trouble breathing or fast breathing – using their muscles in between their ribs to breathe or the openings of the nose get larger with every breath.
  • Nails or lips turn blue. 
  • Dehydration or not drinking well and not urinating well.
  • Child/infant is too sleepy or very fussy and not consolable.
  • Ear pain or any other concerns for child/infant not improving or getting worse.

Supportive care includes:

  • Increase fluids.
  • Use of pain/fever medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
  • Nasal saline with suctioning for congestion.
  • Honey for cough in a child OLDER than 1 year (NEVER given an infant <1 year of age honey).
  • Use of humidifier may provide relief. 

For infants who are high risk there is an injection that is given monthly during the winter months called Synagis that can decrease the risk of severe RSV infection. 

Croup.

Croup is a common respiratory illness during the Fall and Winter months and is usually seen in infants and young children – children younger than 5 year of age.  It is caused by several different viruses including the flu virus and some cold viruses.  The illness is characterized by swelling of the upper airways including the voice box (larynx) and the windpipe (trachea). Symptoms from Croup are usually worse at the beginning of the illness. 

Symptoms of Croup:

  • Fevers which can be low grade or high.
  • Cold symptoms with runny nose and nasal congestion.
  • Hoarseness of voice.
  • Barky or “seal like” cough.
  • Noisy breathing when breathing in – stridor.

The swelling of the airway can sometimes be severe and need immediate medical attention.

See your doctor immediately if your child or infant is having:

  • Trouble breathing – struggles to catch their breath.
  • Noisy breathing that is getting louder and child/infant appears to struggle to breathe.
  • Cannot talk because of difficulty breathing.
  • Lips/mouth or nails turn blue.
  • Drooling and not able to swallow saliva.
  • Dehydration or not drinking well and not urinating well.
  • Child/infant is too sleepy or very fussy and not consolable.

Steroids can decrease the swelling and can be given by mouth, injection, or in a breathing treatment.  If given early can help decrease the need for hospitalization and improve breathing.  There are breathing treatments with epinephrine that can be given as well in severe cases, but these will require careful observation in the Emergency Department or Hospital setting.

Use of cold moist air can help improve mild symptoms as well and can be used at home with a cool mist humidifier.

PREVENTION TIPS

  • For all respiratory infections, the best form of prevention is to avoid exposing infants/young children to people who are sick or crowded situations. 
  • Breastfeeding infants as long as possible (at least 6-12 months) is also an important way to help prevent and fight infections because breastmilk provides antibodies. 
  • Practicing and teaching children good hand hygiene is key.
  • Use soap and water and scrub for at least 20 seconds (singing the ABCs).  Another option is the use of an alcohol-based hand rub if hands are not visibly soiled. 
  • Teach children to cover their coughs and sneezes properly by using a tissue or coughing in their arm rather their hands. 
  • Keep children home from daycare or school when they are sick to avoid spreading the illness. 
  • Eating a healthy balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables can help boost the immune system and help decrease the chances of getting sick.   

At NOAH, we’re here for you. If you have any questions for your child’s pediatrician, give us a call at 480-882-4545. You can also send a message to your pediatrician via your child’s MyChart account.

Skin Care Tips for Teens

/in , ,

By Dr. Deborah Bauer, MD

“Adolescence can be a tough time – especially on your teen’s skin! Almost 8 out of 10 teenagers will have acne at some point,” says Dr. Deborah Bauer, Pediatrician. This is because the changing hormones cause an increase in oil production and can lead to clogged pores. This can happen all over your child’s body, not just their face. And while acne isn’t dangerous for their health, it can cause scars and decrease their self-esteem.

Here are a few pointers for home care of your teen’s skin:

  • Keep it clean: They should wash their face with warm water and a gentle cleanser twice per day. CeraVe, Cetaphil and Dove make reasonably-priced and effective cleansers.
  • Be gentle: Harsh scrubbing or rough washcloths are not recommended. Your teen should be using just their hands to gently rub in the cleanser and rinse off.  Very hot water or very cold water should not be used.
  • Stick to the routine: Oily skin and acne can last for months or years, so it’s important to have a good skin routine to minimize the effects. Remind your teen to always remove make-up before sleeping.  And change sheets and pillowcases frequently.
  • Don’t pop pimples: Although it’s tempting, squeezing pimples will only make things worse. Not only will they introduce more oil onto their skin from their hands, but this will probably push the oil deeper into the skin and cause inflammation and swelling.
  • Keep moisturizing: Drying out their face can actually lead to more acne because their body will try to produce even more oils to keep their face from being so dry. Make sure the moisturizer bottle says “oil free” or “noncomedogenic” on it so it doesn’t clog their pores more.
  • Use sun block: This is important for every child, but especially for those with acne. The sun’s rays can irritate skin and make acne and scars much, much worse. Make sure the sunscreen is at least SPF 15.

Some kids even need prescription medication to help manage acne, and our NOAH Pediatricians are here to help with that too!

For more information about taking care of your skin, visit the American Academy of Dermatology: www.aad.org.

Tips to Treat Nosebleeds in Children by Dr. Debbie Bauer, Pediatrician

/in , ,

“Nosebleeds are very common in children, especially during these winter months,” says Debbie Bauer, Pediatrician. The dry air from outside combined with the dry air from heaters inside can make the skin inside the nose more fragile and sensitive. This is one of the most common reasons children get nosebleeds. Some children also get nosebleeds from picking their nose, from sniffling too much from allergies/colds, or of course from being hit in the nose.

Learn what to do if your child has a nosebleed and when to get help from a doctor below. Also, check out our tips on how to prevent nosebleeds from coming back!

What should you do if your child has a nosebleed?

– First, don’t panic! Nosebleeds are rarely serious. Your child will have an easier time following your instructions if you remain calm.

– Have your child sit down and put their head slightly forward, NEVER have them tilt their head backwards.

– Put firm pressure on either side of their nose with your fingers and hold it there for 10 minutes.

– After 10 minutes, check to see if the bleeding stopped. If it hasn’t, hold firm pressure again for 10 more minutes.

– When bleeding has stopped, gently clean blood off their face with water but do not put anything in their nose or have them forcefully blow their nose.

When should you get help from a doctor?

– If your child has a nosebleed for more than 20 minutes without stopping.

– If your child looks very pale, weak or sweaty.

– If you see blood in your child’s urine or stool.

– If your child has strange, unexplained bruises.

– If frequent nosebleeds are concerning you.

How can you prevent nosebleeds?

– You can use a saline nasal spray to keep their nose from getting dry.

– You can use a humidifier in their room.

– You can apply a small amount of Vaseline inside their nose carefully with a Q-tip.

– If your child picks their nose, keep their fingernails trimmed short.

At NOAH, we’re here for you. If you have any questions for your child’s pediatrician, give us a call at 480-882-4545. You can also send a message to your pediatrician via your child’s MyChart account.

Healthy Holiday Hosting Tips

/in

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and gathering with loved ones. As you prepare to host friends and family, it’s essential to prioritize health and safety. By following some key tips on food hygiene, kitchen cleanliness, and overall sanitation, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. Here are some healthy hosting tips to ensure a worry-free holiday celebration.

Preparing Your Kitchen

Ensure a clean and sanitized kitchen by using hot water and soap to clean various surfaces and utensils such as the sink, counters, cutting boards, pans, knives, and thermometers. For an extra layer of cleanliness, consider sanitizing countertops and cutting boards using a diluted bleach solution. If instructions are not available, leave the diluted bleach solution on the surface for at least 1 minute before removing or wiping.

Keep an ample supply of clean cloth towels or paper towels within reach for both meal preparation and clean-up. If you opt for cloth towels, wash them frequently using the hot cycle of your washing machine.

Food Hygiene

Maintain food hygiene by practicing proper separation of raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. When preparing various items, such as a roast and raw veggies for a dip platter, keep raw meat from coming into contact with ready-to-eat foods. Additionally, avoid consuming raw dough or batter containing flour or eggs, and cook foods thoroughly to reach safe minimum internal temperatures. Check out this food temperature chart for guidelines on how to properly cook raw meat, poultry, and other foods.

Place Hand Sanitizer at Key Locations

Encourage good hand hygiene by strategically placing hand sanitizer at key locations throughout your home. Consider positioning hand sanitizer stations near the entrance, in the kitchen, and near the dining area. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of germs spreading.

Clean and Restock the Restroom

Maintaining a well-kept restroom is crucial for guest comfort and hygiene. Follow these steps to ensure a clean and welcoming restroom environment:

  • Regularly clean and disinfect all bathroom surfaces, including sinks, countertops, and doorknobs
  • Provide ample soap, disposable hand towels, or paper towels, for proper hand hygiene
  • Check and restock essential supplies before guests arrive

The Two-Hour Rule

Follow the two-hour rule for food safety. Chill leftovers within two hours of cooking, and toss out any items that have been on the table for longer than two hours. Avoid leaving perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, eggs, and casseroles, in the Danger Zone (between 40 and 140 °F) for over two hours, as this is where bacteria multiply rapidly. Ready-to-eat items like cookies, crackers, bread, and whole fruit are exceptions to the danger zone.

Post-Party Cleanup

Don’t feel pressured to complete all party cleanup in one night. Instead, gather and centralize items in one place for easier management. Perform spot checks on carpets and furniture for immediate stain attention. Once organized, allow yourself to rest and approach the remaining cleanup with a fresh perspective the next day.

Following these guidelines will not only ensure the well-being of your guests, but also add to a joyous and worry-free gathering. Make sure to schedule an appointment with your NOAH provider for COVID and flu vaccinations to safeguard your well-being during the holiday season.

Diabetic Travel Tips

/in ,


Read more