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Category: Holistic Nursing Articles

Holistic Certifications

By wholenurse, July 18, 2009

Find Holistic Certifications in the United States and Canada. Seeking healing arts schools that offer holistic certifications? Programs that offer holistic certifications are commonly provided through alternative, complementary, holistic and natural colleges, schools and universities. Holistic certifications ensure that persons have attained vital skills and education to competently perform his or her job in respective holistic fields.

Holistic certifications help individuals to advance careers, attain more knowledge and/or needed skills in several areas of holistic fields; and assist individuals in staying up to date in today’s holistic healthcare markets.

There are many holistic certifications available. Many students may opt to achieve holistic certifications in the following fields of study:

  • Acupressure;
  • Alternative healthcare & wellness;
  • Chinese medicine;
  • Colon therapy;
  • Complementary medicine;
  • Healing arts;
  • Herbal medicine;
  • Holistic health;
  • Holistic nursing, nutrition and wellness;
  • Holistic skincare;
  • Hydrotherapy;
  • Hypnosis & hypnotherapy;
  • Imagery;
  • Metaphysical & spiritual counseling;
  • Naturopathic medicine;
  • Reflexology; and
  • Yoga.
  • Educational opportunities in holistic certifications are extended to both high school graduates and professional students, (depending on course prerequisites), who are seeking to expand their knowledge and career qualifications.

    To learn more about holistic certifications, or if you are interested in finding training or a school near you that offers holistic certifications, please feel free to peruse our Healing Arts Schools’ directory at Holistic Junction today.

    Find your dream job! Let education within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.

    Holistic Certifications

    © Copyright 2007

    The CollegeBound Network

    All Rights Reserved

    NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.

    Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Healing Arts Schools, Holistic Schools, and other Alternative Healing Schools.

    Holistic Healing Classes: Subjects of Study

    By wholenurse, July 16, 2009

    Find Holistic Healing Classes in the United States and Canada. Individuals who are searching for innovative fields of study and would like to learn about holistic and alternative healthcare modalities will find that enrolling in one of numerous holistic healing classes can help them explore both ancient and novel healing arts.

    Today, holistic healing classes are offered in simple learning platforms such as holistic seminars, workshops and in public community centers. As well, holistic healing classes may be more comprehensive in nature and integrated into certificate, degree and continuing education programs.

    Students who desire to become holistic health practitioners can take holistic healing classes in healing alternatives, wellness and detoxification, energy medicine, mind-body-spirit medicine, and introductory Chinese herbal medicine. Others may elect to pursue holistic healing classes to become a spiritual healer. Certificate courses in this particular field of study involve studies in theology, prayer, mantra and meditation, spirituality, and other metaphysical subject matter.

    Holistic healing classes in acupuncture may lead to a diploma, certificate or degree. Depending on the alternative health school in which you enroll, there are various holistic healing classes that are drawn from Oriental medicine philosophy and practices. While some holistic healing classes may be more geared toward needless techniques, such as acupressure, moxibustion, cupping and Chinese medical massage, other courses may involve more in-depth instruction in Tai Chi, Qi gong, acupuncture needling methods, TCM, herbal medicine, Chinese medical terminology and more.

    A number of holistic healing classes entail studies in holistic divinity, animal healing, shamanic journeys, reiki, nutrition and supplements, essential oils, flower remedies, herbology, hypnotherapy, iridology, among others. In addition, there are very popular holistic healing classes that are centered on massage therapy. In these courses of study, students are taught about anatomy, kinesiology, physiology, and range of motion. Massage modalities that are offered through holistic healing classes encompass training in acupressure, deep tissue massage, sports massage, Swedish massage, touch therapy, medical massage, trigger point and countless other methodologies.

    If earning your associates, bachelors, masters or doctorate is important to you then there are a number of holistic healing classes that are more advanced and comprehensive in nature. These holistic healing classes typically include practical and clinical instruction in chiropractic, naturopathy, Oriental medicine, orthomolecular medicine, and anti-aging and preventive medicine. In addition, professionals who have already attained some level of medical education will find that there are holistic healing classes in holistic nursing, holistic veterinarian and holistic M.D. programs.

    There are several more holistic healing classes from which one can choose: some lesser known studies may include apitherapy (Bee products’ therapy), animal therapy, bioenergetics, phytotherapy, naprapathy, Feldenkrais, Feng Shui, polarity therapy and many more.

    If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding holistic healing classes, let career training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.

    Holistic Healing Classes: Subjects of Study

    © Copyright 2007

    The CollegeBound Network

    All Rights Reserved

    NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.

    Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Holistic Healing Classes, Holistic Schools, and other Natural Health Schools.

    A Variety of Nursing Careers in the Medical Field

    By wholenurse, July 15, 2009

    A nursing career is probably the most humane profession of all. When a patient is sick or inured, and has to be hospitalized, nurses take care of them.


    When a nursing career is chosen, right away it is taught that nurses have so many duties to perform in a day; often their shifts extend up to twelve or fourteen hours. They take patient histories, and record symptoms. A nurse changes the bed linen and reports to the doctor anything that occurs with the patient.


    Nurses administer medication and some types of tests, operate medical equipment, bathe patients when needed, update charts, and sometimes just hold the patients hand and talk to them.


    A nursing career takes a special kind of person. Someone who is above all compassionate. When someone is sick or injured, they are scared to be in a hospital. A smiling face and reassuring voice does wonders for a patient.


    Nurses are there for the families of the sick or injured, instructing them what to do when the patient is to go home. Nurses are the emotional backbone of any hospital or medical facility.


    When a nursing career is chosen, a specialty field must be chosen also. There are many different fields to choose from. Some nurses are trained in grief counseling, others promote the importance of health through holding clinics and instructing new mothers or the general public on the warning signs of illness and what they should do in case of emergency, a nurse can choose more than one specialty; a nurse can choose to work in the pediatric field, or cardiology. This choice is completely up to the nurse and what his or her preferences are.


    Ambulatory care is another choice in a nursing career. This type of nursing care is treating patients on an outpatient basis such as same day surgery when a patient goes home the same day of their surgery. This is done mostly in clinic, but often it can be done in a doctor’s office.


    Some nurses provide telehealth, this form of nursing is fairly recent, and is expected to grow. A nurse, through the telephone, conferencing, video, and the Internet, provide health advice to patients, and will also help a sick or injured person find the right doctor.


    Critical care nurses is perhaps the most challenging nursing career choice there is. A critical care nurse is stationed in a hospital’s intensive care unit. They monitor every patient. They administer medication; chart all of the progress that is made, and keep the doctors well informed of all aspect of the patients care. They treat patients who have had heart attacks, respiratory failure, and any other life threatening illness or injury. This type of nursing career takes a very strong compassionate person, and often proves to be too much for some, and they end up choosing a different type of nursing career.


    A holistic nursing career is different from any other. A holistic nurse treats patient’s physical, mental, and spiritual health. They provide treatment such as aromatherapy, massage and acupuncture.

    A home health care field can also be chosen for a nursing career, these nurses provide care to patients in their own home.


    For those who are recovering from out patient surgery, childbirth and accident victims. Home health care nurses also provide hospice care for the terminally ill.


    There is virtually a nursing career for every aspect of the medical field. A nurse that administers intravenous medication and fluids is called an infusion nurse. They also administer blood transfusions.


    A nurse that works in the operating room has a specific title. It is called a perianesthesia, and the duties include all pre and postoperative care. In the operation room, these are the nurses that hand the instrument to the surgeon.


    A nurse in the perianesthesia field is also is licensed to work in a Plastic surgeons office.


    A nursing career in the radiology field trains the nurse to provide tests that include ultrasounds, x-rays, diagnostic radiation procedures, and MRI’s.


    There are so many choices when attending nursing school, and each field has its own specialty training, it can be a difficult to know what type of nursing career to choose, and sometimes it is necessary to use a rotation method to make the decision.


    A hospital will allow a student nurse to work in different wards in order to decide which nursing career to choose. There are some nurse careers that do not require any patient contact. Although they do not work with patients directly, they are still required to have a license. For those patients that have been injured, a case manager can assist with all of the patient needs.


    A forensic nursing career is possibly the most fascinating aspect to a nursing career. Forensic nursing is a combination of nursing and investigating crime. A forensic nurse works with law enforcement agencies to solve crimes involving child abuse, accidental death, or sexual assault cases in which the victim has died.


    A nursing staff is supervised by nurse administrators, these nurse also establish and maintain schedules, supply inventory and work within the budget that established for that department.


    Most health care facilities and hospitals have to maintain a certain level of cleanliness. A place that is not maintained or is not clean will be shut down.


    The standard working conditions for nurses are sometimes very tough. There are long hours, working holidays, weekends and nights. Sometimes a nurse can work for more than a week without a day off. Their pay rate is not very high, and sometimes it is not very rewarding. But their training has taught them that no matter how bad of a day they are having, the patient is having a worse one. After all, they are the ones that are sick or injured. This usually puts things into perspective and they can get on with their day.


    A nursing career is a calling, and is not for everybody. Men can seek a nursing career, although ninety five percent of the nursing community is women.

    Freelance writer for over eleven years.

    Nursing Uniform White Aprons Dickies Nursing Uniform Scrubs

    Holistic Programs – Popular Studies

    By wholenurse, July 15, 2009

    Find Holistic Programs in the United States and Canada. If you’re pursuing a career in the healing arts, it’s time to explore some of the many holistic programs. In addition to holistic healthcare courses, students can apply to programs in natural health, energy healing, spiritual counseling, herbology, iridology, massage therapy, and more.

    Some of the more popular holistic programs include training in herbalism. Typical subject matter involves anatomy, physiology, wild crafting, medical botany, herbal medicine formulation, preparation/dosing; ointments, lineaments, basic nutrition, Bach flower remedies, herb cultivation, diet and organic foods, supplements and minerals, aromatherapy, Chinese herbal medicine, and first aid. These particular holistic programs are designed for treating the “whole person,” often resulting in a certificate or diploma of completion. However, holistic programs in herbalism are frequently part of acupuncture and Oriental medicine school curricula, as well as naturopathic studies.

    Other popular holistic programs include hands-on training in various massage therapies. These courses are usually between 300 and 500 hours in length; but in some healing arts schools, advanced massage programs run well beyond these training hours. General education entails anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and the history and philosophy of massage. The difference between massage courses is each one of these holistic programs covers its own set of bodywork modalities. In standard massage programs, students will learn massage techniques like deep tissue massage and Swedish massage; in more comprehensive curricula, students gain practical training in these disciplines, as well as geriatric massage, Trigger point therapy, craniosacral therapy, infant massage, and Thai massage, among 80+ additional methods.

    Some compelling holistic programs focus on nutrition and wellness. In a holistic healthcare practitioner program, students learn about herbal remedies/therapies, bodywork techniques, ear candling, iridology, spiritual counseling, meditation and visualization methods; energy healing therapies (i.e., Reiki, chakra balancing, harmonic balancing), and other mind-body-spirit medicines.

    Generally, holistic programs involve natural healing therapies designed to help support and enhance the body’s self-healing mechanisms. Students who fulfill all educational requirements of the respective course are awarded a certificate of completion, and in some instances – as with massage therapy – graduates can become Nationally certified upon meeting all eligibility requirements. In addition, there are a number of holistic programs geared toward the professional medical provider, like holistic nursing. These courses involve aforementioned studies, in addition to other relative subject matter; and specifically created for nurses and nurse practitioners seeking to broaden professional healthcare treatment options.

    If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding holistic programs, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore holistic programs near you.

    Holistic Programs – Popular Studies

    © Copyright 2007

    The CollegeBound Network

    All Rights Reserved

    NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.

    Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Holistic Programs, Holistic Schools, and other Healing Arts.

    Privacy Vs Observation

    By wholenurse, July 15, 2009

    Human being has right to have privacy in all aspect of life. This right becomes more important when human being become a patient. Being working in pediatric unit we need to take care of not only the child but also the mother. On June10th, 2006, during daily round with my preceptor I use to maintain ward cleaning and uniformity. It is very difficult to maintain but we have to do it. In general ward we have five beds facing to each other. For our manager round we need to keep the curtain open. Other wise our manger does not like it. According to her “nurses can not observe the patients if they have covered with curtains”. One of the mother said that she will not keep the curtain open. I requested her that please keep it open for some time and then just close it. After some time when I go back she again closed the curtain. When I asked her why she opens the curtains? She said that ok I understand that I need to keep the curtain open but I will not do it because there is male sitting just in front of my bed and I don’t feel comfortable. When I observed she was right. Out of five children two children were having their father as attendant.
    After some time nurse on duty she open those curtains again while saying who is closing curtain I can’t observe all patients at one glance. Patient who was not feeling comfortable, she wanted to feed the baby. The other patients were having same concerns. But every one was in hurry to complete their job but no one maintained privacy even they did not drew the curtains. This was very embracing for patient. The other patients also were looking at each of them and they become unsatisfied. But the staff was use to of it and they didn’t feel bad. The whole day I saw same practice going on.
    Later on when I reflect on what happened to the patient, I think over here the bill of right are violated. The health care team was not providing comfort to the patient as needed at that time. Besides this the health care team was also neglecting the privacy of the patient. As I came out from labor room I felt guilty and sad towards patient. It reminds me the situation which I had suffered. When my own daughter was admitted I was in private room but some of doctors they never bothered to knock the door and they use to enter immediately. They never wait for my answer that I will allow them to come in or not. First of all when I entered the ward they gave me a room where the father was attendant. I asked the staff on duty I can not stay in this room. I will not feel comfortable. The nurse on duty was in hurry she did not bother what I asked to her. Again I requested for another room they refused because they can not change bed in the night. Any how in morning they changed the bed. The whole night I spent sitting on chair. How I felt at that moment I could feel the emotions of those women in pediatric ward.
    As I thought about above mentioned situation a question was triggering me within that, why the patient suffered that all. In the hospital patients are totally dependant on health care professionals and we nurses have to play major role in patients care by giving holistic care and doing advocacy for the right. In health care professionals the nurse is primary person who can listen to their patients and families and support them at the time of crises. The whole day I was feeling annoyed and could not concentrated on my other tasks.
    When I came back, I had many question in my mind. Why the health care professionals neglected patient’s privacy? Why the doctor and nurses deal with patient as they are nothing? Why the health care professionals did not understood the facial expressions of patients? Why as student I did not advocate for my patient’s rights? Why the nurse removed curtains? Is this ethically right to remove curtains during routine hours? Nurse is a primary care giver of patient why the nurse was neglecting patient’s privacy. If one of her close relative will be there would she behave the same? Are we providing care according to our oath which we had taken while graduating. Further more, they were not allowed to bring food from out side, they have to pay extra amount to get food for mothers.
    Ethics is a branch of philosophy that focuses on thinking about morality, moral problems, and moral judgments. In our daily practice, ethical issues may arise when our views differ from activities that might jeopardize patients or that are outside standard practice. In general perception of nurse is that they favor patient’s right and they do advocacy for the patients, but if we see this issue in our socio culture it is generally observed that the nurse are the one taking care of patient during stay in hospital. So it is her responsibility to maintain privacy during any procedure. While analyzing the situation, I came up with many possibilities that it could be happened due to negligence of health care professionals. Doctor might be very busy at that time and she might think as a doctor it is not her responsibility to draw the curtains or else no one thought about opposite gender in the general ward. All health professionals might want to give care to all patients while doing routine work also. As I observed the nurse on duty was alone and she could not rely on students. That’s why every then and now she was opening the curtains. She prioritized observation rather than privacy. As a student I did not perform my role as well at that time. Might be I was hesitating because the environment was new for me. What ever the cause of violation of patient’s right; it is our responsibility to give respect to our patients and their families as holistic approach. Family support is very important at the time of child admission. But it might be policy of hospital that they don’t allow any body inside the ward other then mother.
    After experiencing I realize that being a nurse what ever resources are available we should try to cope up with limited resources and should work to raise the voice of patients’ rights. Further more psychological support is plays very important role while patient is in need. To over come the stress of pain and environment it is very important that at least we provide the privacy to the mothers. Being a nurse it is our responsibility to provide physical, psychological and emotional care to patient. According to American Nurse Association (2001)” The nurse safe guard the patient’s privacy…..the nurse advocates for an environment that provides the sufficient privacy including auditory privacy that protects the confidentiality of information.” It shows that providing privacy is very important for a nurse.
    When I remember my own situation, still I could not forget that moment when I spent the whole night just sitting on chair. I think it is responsibility of all health providing team to maintain privacy of any kind of patient. According to Elli and Hartley (2000) “The patient has right to every consideration of privacy ….. Privacy should be maintained during examination, treatment and procedure” (p.360). It seems that all health caregiver should take care of patient’s privacy. According to Tabak and Ozon(2004)” the patient’s privacy is key concept in relation ship between nurses and patients. Privacy is basic human rights respect for privacy by the nursing staff is essential for patient’s psychological, physical, spiritual and mental welfare” (pp-367). Moreover I felt that we don’t allow patients to follow their religious practices while they are in hospital. As American Nurse Association (2001)” To wear appropriate personal clothing and religious or other symbolic items, as they do not interfere with the medical procedure and treatment.” However according to Tabak and ozon(2004) research shows that there was positive correlation was found between nurses attitude and perceived behavioral control in promoting the maintenance of patient’s privacy. Owing to overwork and lack of time, nurses may feel that their control over their behavior is lessened and therefore patient’s privacy may be harmed. Moreover if better educated nurses have broader knowledge and its expected that they demonstrate more positive attitudes and know the code of ethics and relevant laws addition to that better educated nurses usually hold managerial positions where they have to make many decision and work under the pressure of high work load and time.
    As a nurse if the similar situation occurs in future, I will initiate role of advocator for my patient. I will conduct education session on patient’s bill of right and privacy for staff. I will also make different strategies like scenario based learning and role playing where nurse can learn how to rationalize based on reason and act in better way. Beside this I will also emphasis in grand rounds to doctor and nurses to respect patient’s right and reinforce to know ethical principles during their stay at hospital. I will also conduct seminars on privacy of patients for students so that they will learn before starting their job life. I will forward my observation to the hospital management as well so that they can also look for possible potential solutions.
    In conclusion, I would say that the health care professionals especially nurses need to take leading role to satisfy patients need respect their rights and autonomy which in turn will raise the standard of nursing profession and definitely will improve patient care. Moreover providing privacy to patient when giving any kind of care and treatment it is very important component of holistic nursing care. Medical professionals should try their best to maintain maximum privacy while providing any kind of care to the patient. I would recommended all nurses to be care full about provision of privacy to the patient in providing care and treatment, which is one of the important right of all patients. Moreover, ongoing sessions should be held in individual unit bases for staff to emphasize the importance of patient’s privacy. With out providing privacy in care and treatment nurse are not able to provide culturally sensitive care to patients. This will help to bring insight in the nurses and other health care givers.

    References
    Tabak, N. &Ozon, M. (2004). The influence of nurse attitude, subjective norms and
    Perceived behavioral control on maintaining patient’s privacy in hospital setting.
    Ellis,J.R. & Hartley, C.L. (2000). Nursing in Today’s World: Challenges, Issues and
    Trends (7th ed.), Lippincott.
    Chinn. (1984). Professional Nursing Concepts and challenges. B.Standers Company.
    London.
    Lippincott. W, (2006) 8th ed. Manual Nursing Practice. Lippincott Company,
    Philadelphia.

    Holistic Health Certificate Programs

    By wholenurse, July 15, 2009

    Find Holistic Health Certificate Programs in the United States and Canada. Individuals drawn to natural healing and noninvasive healthcare find that enrolling in any number of holistic health certificate programs provides them with the education and training necessary to become a professional holistic health consultant or practitioner.

    Typical holistic health certificate programs range in training hours; however, studies generally cover human anatomy and physiology, Eastern and Western holistic health perspectives, holistic health, biofeedback, autogenic training (muscle relaxation during self-hypnosis), spiritual philosophies, Chinese medicine philosophies in relation to holistic healthcare, mind-body-spirit medicines, energy healing, imagery and meditation, and herbal medicine, among other subject matter.

    Additional training in holistic health certificate programs may include but is not limited to art therapy, introduction to homeopathy and naturopathy, metaphysics, nutrition for wellness, hypnotherapy, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), and other related studies.

    If you are a professional nurse or other medical healthcare provider, enrolling in holistic health certificate programs can earn your way into the holistic health sector as a holistic nurse or doctor. For example, holistic health certificate programs designed for nurses teach practitioners the fundamentals of holistic nursing, in addition to wellness counseling, herbology, Feldenkrais, energy healing (i.e., Reiki), reflexology, aromatherapy, massage therapy, touch therapy, and other mind-body-spirit medicines.

    Other holistic health certificate programs focus on spiritual studies, and involve in-depth training and education in spirituality, a Course in Miracles, spiritual counseling, metaphysics, psychic phenomenon, death and reincarnation, dream interpretation, and other mind-spirit therapies.

    It is always a good idea to review potential healing arts or alternative medicine schools for the particular field of study in which you are interested. While some holistic schools provide specific training in holistic healthcare, others may offer multiple courses in herbal medicine, massage therapy, and the like.

    If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding holistic health certificate programs, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore holistic health certificate programs near you.

    Holistic Health Certificate Programs

    © Copyright 2007

    The CollegeBound Network

    All Rights Reserved

    NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.

    Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Holistic Health Certificate Programs, Holistic Schools, and other Healing Arts.

    Alternative Specializations in the Field of Nursing

    By wholenurse, July 13, 2009

    Not only are nurses in great demand, but the opportunities in the field of nursing are practically limitless. Nurses today have a wide array of specializations and career paths to choose from, some traditional and others are new and/or emerging. As the meaning and concept of healthcare and treatment evolves so will the definition of nursing. We will take a look at a few of the alternative specializations within the field of nursing.

    Holistic Nursing is one of the youngest specializations in the field of nursing. And what it means to be a holistic nurse is constantly changing. Yet, the most functional of all definitions is to incorporate traditional nursing skills and knowledge with methodologies, techniques, and ideologies to heal, the mind, body, and spirit. Although the majority of holistic nurses work with terminally ill, severe burn and long term rehabilitation patients, the demand for holistic nurses is growing. Holistic nursing requires the same initial qualifications as a traditional nurse, but also requires additional certifications, which usually revolve around the psychological aspects of severe injuries, illnesses, and depression.

    While holistic nursing is among the youngest alternative specialization in the field of nursing, forensic nursing is probably among the most popular. Though there are a number of concentrations within the specialization of forensic nursing, the basic definition would be to use nursing knowledge and skills to provide care to victims of crimes while collecting evidence. Thanks to a number of popular televisions shows such as CSI, forensic nursing has become more visible. It is not uncommon for a forensic nurse to take a few seminars or training on the practices and procedures of handling evidence. However, most have no other certification than the RN license. Forensic nurses can be found in a variety of places, from hospitals to law firms.

    Infection control nursing is also considered a deviation from more traditional nursing specialties. Infection nurses work to identify, investigate, and control infections that occur within a specific community, hospital, or particular area. Most commonly, infection nurses work with STDs, HIV, TB, and childhood infections. Infection control nurses are usually found in hospital settings, or as consultants to governmental agencies, municipalities, or large pharmaceutical companies. Aside from the RN license, infection control nurses are required to have an additional infection control certification.

    There are several types of case management nursing specialties. Case management nurses coordinate all aspects of treatment for specific types of patients. Case management nurses often work with rehab patients, long term care patients, and patients with serious work injuries. Also, nurse case managers act as a liaison between the patient and a third party, such as an insurance company or employer. Case management nurses can be found at a variety of places, some of which include schools, insurance companies, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Nurse case management is also a specialty that can easily become its own private business. There are additional certifications for case management nurses, but these added credentials will depend heavily on the type of case management that you choose.

    Although international and trans-cultural nursing are two different nursing specialties, their training will be similar. International nurses are those who decide to practice nursing in a different country than their own. Most of these nurses choose to work in underdeveloped nations with dire medical needs. Trans-cultural nurses are those who choose to work with individuals from various cultures and with alternative beliefs to medicine and treatments. Though there are no specific certifications other than a RN license, many of these nurses choose to seek additional training in cultural sensitivity and beliefs, and also learn to speak a number of different languages.

    Another new and expanding specialization in the field of nursing is dermatology nursing. Dermatology nurses care for and provide information to those that are suffering from infections, serious wounds, and diseases of the skin. There is an advanced certification for dermatology nurses, many of which can be found at hospitals and dermatology clinics.

    Genetics nursing is another young specialty. Genetic nurses provide care for patients with genetic diseases. These nurses are involved in various levels of genetic treatment, from explaining treatment and conditions to patients, to risk identification, and screening. Genetic nurses are also involved in genetic counseling and clinical trials. There are different levels of credentialing for genetic nurses. All genetic nurses start with the RN license, they are then required to obtain either a Bachelors or Masters Degree in nursing, at least 3 years of experience as a genetic nurse, a number of documented case histories, and letters of recommendation.

    It is important to note that these are just a few of the alternative specializations in nursing. Also, similar to more traditional nursing specialties, many of these have their own associations. The nursing industry is growing and it is a career path that is expected to continue growing and changing in the years to come.

    Ryan Anderson is a freelance writer who writes about the nursing profession, often writing about specific items used in nursing such as nursing scrubs.

    Tips For Entering The Field Of Holistic Nursing

    By wholenurse, July 12, 2009

     

    Holistic nursing is one of the newer nursing specialties around today. Its growing popularity has caused more and more new nurses to choose it as a specialty. Holistic nursing incorporates the skill and knowledge of traditional nursing with the training, methodologies, and ideologies to treat and heal the mind, body, and spirit. Like any career path, holistic nursing has its benefits and its challenges. If you are thinking about choosing holistic nursing as a specialty, there are a few things you may want to consider.

     

    The first thing you may want to do is to explore different religious and spiritual beliefs. As a holistic nurse you will be responsible for mending your patients’ spirits as well as their minds and bodies. Not all of your patients will have the same spiritual and religious beliefs as you. You might want to do a tiny bit of research on different religions, especially those that are most common in your particular field of medicine. Try to stay abreast of any issues that might affect the way a patient chooses their medical treatment with respect to beliefs.

     

    Prior to entering the field, you should talk to a current holistic nurse, or try to find a real life mentor. Holistic nursing is a specialty that can be easily romanticized. It is important that you have a realistic idea of the day to day challenges that a holistic nurse may face. A holistic nurse will be the best source of what the position may entail. This is not the most popular step, although it will prevent you from undertaking in a profession that you are not ideally suited for.

     

    Feel it in your heart

     

    This may not be the type of tip that you would expect, but it is vital to your happiness as a holistic nurse. You will be working with patients with severe injuries, burns, terminal illnesses, and other more serious conditions. There are days in the profession of holistic nursing that will be emotionally draining. You will have patients that pass away, some will have broken spirits; and there will be families that don’t get the miracle that they were praying for. Staying strong for those that you care for will demand much more than many people are willing or able to give on a daily basis. However, this can be argued of all nursing specialties. Holistic nurses usually have cultivated a one on one relationship with patients and their families over the course of a few months or even years that is not afforded to other nursing specialties.

     

    Know when to recharge your battery

     

    This is important for all nurses. Again, this job can be emotionally draining, as well as a physically demanding position. It is very easy for passion to prevent you from taking much needed vacation time. In order to be your best for you patients, you need to know when to take care of yourself. Take some time each day and each week that is just for you.

     

    Try popular techniques yourself

     

    The alternative medicines that are combined with traditional treatments are often perceived as weird or pointless to many, both inside and out of the medical community. In order to stand by these techniques it is important that you are able to easily speak on the benefits and positive effects of holistic medicine. You might want to try the aromatherapy, journaling, massage therapy, yoga, music therapy, or other treatments that you may use in your professional life. See for yourself if it lifts your spirit, mood, or disposition. This type of first hand experience will help you explain the positive uses to patients and their families.

     

    Get the appropriate certifications

     

    Although this is a tip, for many holistic nurses it is a requirement. Having your Holistic Nursing Certification or HNC provides you the scientific and/or psychological reasoning behind the alternative techniques that you will need to incorporate. You will also gain the knowledge of how to spot and treat depression and talk to and work with patients with severe injuries and terminal illnesses. You will also learn how to use alternative techniques effectively.

     

    Join the American Holistic Nurses Association or AHNA

     

    Becoming a member of the holistic nurses trade association will give you a much needed support group. Trade associations like this one help you stay on top of industry changes and trends, provide additional trainings through conferences, and can allow you to come together with others who will understand the challenges that you face.

     

    Being a holistic nurse will give you a feeling of job satisfaction that many others only dream of obtaining. However, the challenges that come with it make holistic nursing a career path for those who are strong in spirit. Though nothing will make this choice easy, considering these tips will give you a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

    Ryan Anderson is a freelance writer who writes about the nursing profession, often writing about specific items used in nursing such as nursing uniforms.

    Traditional Nursing Vs. Holistic Nursing

    By wholenurse, July 11, 2009

    As more people are searching for ways to be and stay healthy, there has been a growing interest in holistic treatment methods within the healthcare industry. Especially with conditions such as various cancers or where patients need long-term care. Though the actual results and the benefits are often debated by medical professionals, most admit that when a patient is in a good place emotionally, it only enhances their treatment. Thus, the popularity of holistic treatments is growing and there is an increasing demand for holistic medical professionals. This is especially true in the nursing profession as nurses usually have more interaction with patients.

    Holistic nursing is broadly defined as using nursing knowledge and practices in conjunction with other psychological, spiritual, social, interpersonal, and biological skills to treat the whole patient as in mind, body, and spirit (in contrast to traditional nursing which only focuses on treating the medical condition). To some degree, all nurses can be seen as holistic practitioners due to the nature of the profession. All nurses give comfort and help their patients understand what is happening to them. However, there are distinct differences between holistic and traditional nursing.

    Though both traditional and holistic nurses are required to be licensed by their state nursing board, holistic nurses usually have (and in some cases are required to have) additional training. This training is geared toward the techniques that promote psychological, spiritual, and mental health. The training of Holistic nursing promotes wellness through means other than exercise, medicine, and nutrition. They also promote stress free and a calming atmosphere, working through emotional issues and setbacks, and finding inner peace. In addition, like other nursing specialties there are certifications for holistic nursing.

    Traditional nursing is often limited in the methods that can be used in order to treat a patient. Typically, there are policies and procedures that guide the actions, responses and behavior of a traditional nurse. To be more specific, aside from medical treatment, comfort, advice, and kindness there is little else that a traditional nurse can do to treat their patients. On the other hand, a Holistic nurse is encouraged to use creativity in their methods of treating patients. A holistic nurse is free to use treatment methods that include but are not limited music therapy, calming techniques, guided imagery, art and animal assisted therapy, an anxiety reduction, as well as a host of other techniques to treat their patients. These techniques fall within one of a few categories or modalities of holistic nursing. Holistic nurses can become specialized in one of the modalities or use a mixture to treat patients. The most common modalities are manipulative and body-based practices such as massage therapy, mind-body medicine like yoga, biologically based practices that include herbal therapy, and energy medicine such as magnetic therapy.

    Aside from the methods and ideology, the other major distinction in traditional nursing and holistic nursing is the types of patients that they treat. Traditional nurses treat all types of patients with various backgrounds, beliefs, ethnicities, social status, and medical conditions. They treat infants to the elderly with everything from a common cold to cancer. Although holistic nurses are trained to treat every type of patient, they usually treat patients with severe medical conditions. These types of conditions include, but are not limited to severe burns, terminal patients, cancer patients, or those who need long term care. It is typically these patients who will be under the care of a nurse long enough for the nurse to be able to focus on the whole person and not the just the medical condition. Yet, with the increase in popularity of holistic nursing, the type of patient that they treat is increasing.

    Since there is a difference in the type of patient that is treated by traditional nurses and holistic nurses, there is a difference in where they are most commonly found. Traditional nurses are found at every type of healthcare facility and they are typically able to get a job at any type of healthcare firm or organization. However, while holistic nurses can work at hospitals, the majority of holistic nurses are usually found at the more specialized healthcare facilities and firms that cater to their particular type of patient.

    The holistic approach has been noted as effective for some patients and many more are attempting to incorporate a holistic approach to their medical treatment. Like traditional nursing, holistic nursing is a booming career path today. In addition, more and more nursing programs are offering holistic components in classes and providing the training regimen and exam preparation for holistic nursing certifications. Right now, it is still much easier to obtain a job as a traditional nurse, but there are resources for holistic nurses. The American Holistic Nurse Association is a great resource for anyone considering holistic nursing as a specialty.

    Sandy Darson is a freelance writer who writes about the nursing profession. Mr. Thomas often writes about specific items used in nursing such as nursing uniforms.

    Courses in Holistic Nursing

    By wholenurse, July 11, 2009

    Professional nurses have the unique option to enroll in courses in holistic nursing to enhance skills and services for clients. Many of these professional programs result in certification in holistic nursing, and involve in-depth studies in alternative healthcare, natural medicine, and other natural healing therapeutics.

    Courses in holistic nursing entail training and education in the practice of holistic nursing, holistic health and wellness, and other alternative therapies. Some of the typical natural health studies involve techniques in relaxation, music therapy, healing touch, reiki, acupressure, massage, aromatherapy, Tai Chi, holistic counseling, guided imagery, yoga, biofeedback, meditation, herbal medicine, and many other holistic health modalities.

    Courses in holistic nursing prepare practitioners to enter the holistic nursing field, and enable nurses to offer wellness counseling services, as well as the abilities to practice mind-body-spirit medicines.

    Registered nurses, who have gained specialized training, have the potential to earn a substantial income. Completing courses in holistic nursing or other natural health programs are excellent ways to achieving higher-level positions; or for the entrepreneur, a great start to opening a private wellness clinic.

    If you (or someone you know) are interested in learning more about these or other healing arts programs, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, naturopathy, acupuncture, Chinese medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore courses in holistic nursing near you.

    Courses in Holistic Nursing

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    Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd – Freelance Writer and Web Consultant for HolisticJunction.com, in association with CollegeSurfing.com – Educational Resources for Courses in Holistic Nursing, Holistic Medicine, and other unique training programs.

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