Posted Tuesday, November 17, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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By: Lisa Jorgenson, Medical Administration and Externship Coordinator, Moorhead Campus
What should we talk about this time around? So many things. Let’s see, politics? No. Health care? No. Hmmmm. The holidays? Maybe.
Graduation! Now there is a subject. When I reflect back on my own college graduation the first thing I think of is that it was so long ago. I think of everything that has happened in my life since then and I ask myself, where did the time go? A husband, a few different jobs, and two almost grown children. Then I think of my family at Rasmussen. Even though I have only been with Rasmussen about 18 months I feel that my co-workers have become my second family, not to mention my student family.
Yes, even some of the students have come and gone, but I must admit that I have a few students that hold a special place in my heart. I have seen these students grow and mature and am very proud to say that they are graduating this December. I actually consider these girls as my second set of kids. Getting them through A&P, Pharmacology, Clinical skills I & II, Lab skills and now finally an externship. Maybe it’s just because they are my first cohort, I don’t know. Hopefully, as more students go through the MOA program, the closeness will always be there.
Where has the time gone?
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Posted Monday, November 02, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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BY: Tina Reynoso, HIT Program Coordinator, Online
November 1–7, 2009, is Health Information and Technology (HI&T) Week! From the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) website (www.ahima.org):
“HI&T Week is a showcase for the thousands of health information management (HIM) professionals who perform their duties masterfully throughout the year. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is honored to provide support, representation, and training to HIM professionals for these valuable contributions to the healthcare industry.”
We would also like to take this week to celebrate our nearly 1300 HIT students across all Rasmussen campuses! Here are some of the many job titles and specialty areas our graduates can look forward to pursuing upon graduation:
Medical records coder
Health data analyst
Release of information
EMR implementation specialist
Departmental management
Systems analyst
Cancer registrar
Documentation specialist
Chargemaster auditor
Quality improvement
Transcription/editor
Information privacy/security officer
Learn more about the field of Health Information Technology, as well as the American Health Information Management Association at www.AHIMA.org.
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Posted Monday, October 26, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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By Mary Tilley, Massage Therapy Program Coordinator, Mankato Campus
October 19-25 is the Annual National Massage Awareness Week sponsored by American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). The purpose of Massage Therapy Awareness Week is to draw attention to the benefits of massage therapy and offer opportunities for the public to learn more about what massage therapy can do for them. In the early 1800’s, rubbing, friction and percussion were the mainstays of manual soft tissue manulipation treatment. By the end of the 19th century, massage had developed into a more sophisticated form of manual therapy, including sliding techniques call effleurage. Numerous studies show therapeutic massage is beneficial to people at all phases of their lives (i.e. infant, child, teen, young adult, adult, seniors) and is an important component to a healthy lifestyle. The following are some ways people in different age groups may benefit from massage therapy:
- Infants – for colic, sleep difficulties, faster weight gain for preemies, fostering connection between parent(s) and child
- Children – stress relief, sleep difficulties, learning disabilities
- Teens/Young adults – student stress relief, pre and post sporting events, injury recovery
- Adults – stress relief, injury recovery, pregnancy relief, workplace stress, TMJ, Carpal tunnel syndrome, boosting immune function, speeding recovery from illness/surgery
- Seniors – stress relief, injury recovery, boosting immune function, speeding recovery from illness/surgery, arthritis, compassionate touch for hospices care
AMTA’s annual survey looked at the growth of massage therapy over 10 years and determined that massage therapy has been a growing trend in American culture, with 39 million American adults – more than one out of every 6 – getting a massage annually. While relaxation (26%) is still a motive for Americans integrating massage into their routines, using massage therapy for medical purposes (30%) such as injury recovery, pain reduction, headache control, and for their overall health and wellness, is even more prevalent. More people are discussing massage options with their doctors and healthcare providers, and more healthcare professionals are recommending massage therapy as part of patient’s overall health. The survey also stated that almost twice as many doctors recommended massage to their patients this year than five years ago. While physicians led the way for recommending massage therapy when asked (59%), nearly half of all chiropractors (48%) and physical therapist (47%) also recommended massage when patients inquired. Whether Americans are getting massage therapy at a spa, as part of their chiropractic visits, at their health club, or even at work, the use of massage therapy has increased form 10 years ago. The number of both men and women who received a massage in the last year has doubled since 1979 but, at 23 percent, women still get the most massages. Gentlemen you don’t know what you’re missing!!! One of the reasons massage therapy’s popularity is on the rise is its use by Americans ages 18 to 34 (Generations X and Y). The surveys points out the acceptance and use of massage as someone ages, and considering the younger generations’ views and use of massage it will likely surpass previous generations as they rely on massage for therapeutic reasons and stress relief. Only 28 percent of Gen Y (18 to 24 year olds) agree that massage is just a luxury, compared to 94 percent that agree it can be beneficial to their health. Gen X agree: 92 percent believe massage can be beneficial to their health. Massage therapy was three times more popular as a form of pain relief among 18 to 24 year olds than medication (34 percent for massage versus 10 percent for medication). Ninety-eight percent of Gen X respondents believe massage can be an effective way to relieve pain and 37 percent have already had a massage to relieve pain, while 48 percent of Gen Y have used massage to relieve pain.
I read there are an estimated 250 different massage/bodywork techniques available. I encourage you to seek out a therapist and get a massage. Join those who believe that massage is the most natural way to heal. While you’re at it refer a loved one and/or friends to one of Rasmussen’s massage clinics. It would be a nice way to help them discover the benefits of massage at a great price…
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Posted Wednesday, October 07, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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By Susan Rolling, RHIA, HIT Program Coordinator, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Lake Elmo
It used to be so easy. Either you took an exam to become credentialed as a Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) or a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). That’s it! Now it’s not so easy. It seems like there are oodles of credentials that a HIT graduate can obtain. What is a graduate to do? Here is a list, from the American Health Information Management Association (www.ahima.org) of what they are, what they mean, who can get them, and what you can do with them:
RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator
· An RHIA is an expert in managing patient health information and medical records, administering computer information systems, collecting and analyzing patient data, and using classification systems and medical terminologies. They often manage people and operational units, participate in administrative committees, and prepare budgets. You must receive a bachelors degree from a CAHIIM accredited program to sit for the RHIA exam.
RHIT - Registered Health Information Technician
· An RHIT is someone who ensures the quality of medical records by verifying their completeness, accuracy, and proper entry into computer systems. They may also use computer applications to assemble and analyze patient data to improve patient care or control costs. RHITs often specialize in coding diagnoses and procedures in patient records for reimbursement and research. With experience, the RHIT credential holds solid potential for advancement to management positions, especially when combined with a bachelor's degree. You must receive an associate degree from a CAHIIM accredited program to sit for the RHIT exam.
CCA – Certified Coding Associate
· The CCA validates competence of coding fundamentals in new graduates and those new to the coding profession. The credential balances limited job experience with tested knowledge, opening doors to new employment opportunities and positioning CCAs for advancement over non-credentialed individuals.
· CCA examination candidates must have a high school diploma from a United States high school or an equivalent educational background. Although not required, it is strongly recommended that candidates have at least six months experience.
CCS – Certified Coding Specialist
· Certified Coding Specialists are mastery-level professionals skilled in classifying medical data from patient records, generally in the hospital setting. These coding practitioners review patients' records and assign numeric codes for each diagnosis and procedure. To perform this task, they must possess expertise in the ICD-9-CM and CPT coding systems. In addition, the CCS is knowledgeable in medical terminology, disease processes, and pharmacology.
· CCS exam candidates must have earned a high school diploma from a United States high school or have an equivalent educational background. Although not required, it is strongly recommended that candidates have at least three years of on-the-job experience.
CCS-P – Certified Coding Specialist – Physician Based
· The CCS-P is a mastery-level coding practitioner with expertise in physician-based settings such as physician offices, group practices, multi-specialty clinics, or specialty centers. This coding practitioner reviews patients' records and assigns numeric codes for each diagnosis and procedure. To perform this task, the individual must possess in-depth knowledge of the CPT coding system and familiarity with the ICD-9-CM and HCPCS Level II coding systems. The CCS-P is also an expert in health information documentation, data integrity, and quality.
· CCS-P exam candidates must have earned a high school diploma from a United States high school or have an equivalent educational background. Although not required, it is strongly recommended that candidates have at least three years of on-the-job experience.
CHDA – Certified Health Data Analyst
· CHDAs demonstrate expertise in health data analysis and the knowledge to acquire, manage, analyze, interpret, and transform data into accurate, consistent, and timely information, while balancing the "big picture" strategic vision with day-to-day details. CHDA-certified professionals also exhibit broad organizational knowledge and the ability to communicate with individuals and groups at multiple levels, both internal and external. Candidates must have a bachelors degree or higher to be eligible for this credential.
CHPS – Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security
· The CHPS credential is the only combined privacy and security certification available in the healthcare industry. CHPS denotes competence in designing, implementing, and administering comprehensive privacy and security protection programs in all types of healthcare organizations. Becoming certified in healthcare privacy and security demonstrates a choice to focus and advance by specializing in privacy and security dimensions of HIM. Being distinguished with this special expertise signifies a commitment to advancing privacy and security management practices and lifelong learning and professional development. Candidates must have an HIM credential (RHIT or RHIA) with a bachelors degree or higher to be eligible for this credential.
In Summary, a Rasmussen HIT graduate is eligible to sit for the RHIT exam and should do so as soon as possible after graduation. The sooner you take the exam the better, as you will be more likely to remember what you learned! This will give you a better chance of passing the exam. Then you can go on to obtain the other credentials if you are inclined to do so.
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Posted Monday, September 21, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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Submitted by Lori Groinus, CST, BS, Surgical Technology Program Coordinator, St. Cloud Campus
National Surgical Technologist Week
2009
September 20-26, 2009
Each year, National Surgical Technologist Week is an opportunity to promote the profession and educate the community about the vital role that surgical technologists play in the O.R.
Roles of the Surgical Technologist
The following description of the surgical technologist has been approved by the American College of Surgeons and the Association of Surgical Technologists:
Scrub Surgical Technologist - The scrub surgical technologist handles the instruments, supplies, and equipment necessary during the surgical procedure. He/she has an understanding of the procedure being performed and anticipates the needs of the surgeon. He/she has the necessary knowledge and ability to ensure quality patient care during the operative procedure and is constantly on vigil for maintenance of the sterile field. Duties are as follows:
1. Checks supplies and equipment needed for surgical procedure
2. Scrubs, gowns, and gloves
3. Sets up sterile table with instruments, supplies, equipment, and medications/solutions needed for procedure
4. Performs appropriate counts with circulator prior to the operation and before incision is closed
5. Gowns and gloves surgeon and assistants
6. Helps in draping sterile field
7. Passes instruments, etc., to surgeon during procedure
8. Maintains highest standard of sterile technique during procedures
9. Prepares sterile dressings
10. Cleans and prepares instruments for terminal sterilization
11. Assists other members of team with terminal cleaning of room
12. Assists in prepping room for the next patient
Circulating Surgical Technologist - The surgical technologist assisting in circulating obtains additional instruments, supplies, and equipment necessary while the surgical procedure is in progress. He/she monitors conditions in the operating room and constantly assesses the needs of the patient and surgical team. Duties are as follows:
1. Obtains appropriate sterile and unsterile items needed for procedure
2. Opens sterile supplies
3. Checks patient’s chart, identifies patient, verifies surgery to be performed with consent forms, and brings patient to assigned operating room
4. Transfers patient to operating room table
5. Assesses comfort and safety measures and provides verbal and tactile reassurance to the patient
6. Assists anesthesia personnel
7. Positions patient, using appropriate equipment
8. Applies electrosurgical grounding pads, tourniquets, monitors, etc., before procedure begins
9. Prepares the patient’s skin prior to draping by surgical team 10.10. Performs appropriate counts with 10. Perform appropriate counts with scrub person prior to the operation and before incision is closed
11. Anticipates additional supplies needed during the procedure
12. Keeps accurate records throughout the procedure
13. Properly cares for specimens
14. Secures dressings after incision closure
15. Helps transport patient to recovery room
16. Assists in cleaning of room and preparing for next patient
Second Assisting Technologist - The second assisting surgical technologist assists the surgeon and/or first assistant during the operative procedure by carrying out technical tasks other than cutting, clamping, and suturing of tissue. This role is distinct from that of the first assistant and may, in some circumstances, be performed at the same time as the scrub role. Duties include but are not exclusive to the following:
1. Holds retractors or instruments as directed by the surgeon
2. Sponges or suctions operative site
3. Applies electrocautery to clamps on bleeders
4. Cuts suture material as directed by the surgeon
5. Connects drains to suction apparatus
6. Applies dressings to closed wound
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surgical_technologist#Role_of_the_Surgical_Technologist
Surgical technologists are able to advance their careers outside the operating room in several ways. They can continue their education and become certified as surgical assistants, or they can contribute to the field of medicine in other roles. Here’s what some AST members are currently employed as:
- O.R. managers
- Central supply
- Sterile processing
- Sales representatives for medical manufacturers
- Educators
Happy National Surgical Technologist Week!
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Posted Monday, August 24, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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BY Cristen Olinger, CMA, MA Program Coordinator, Mankato campus
The short and sweet of the importance of AAMA (American Association of Medical Assistants) Membership for Medical Assistants:
1) Being a Medical Assisting Student a student membership is included in your tuition!
2) Being a member of the AAMA this is a Professional Membership you can include on your resume
3) The AAMA has a number of Self Study Courses you can purchase to accumulate required CEU’s (Continuing Education Units) for recertification
4) The AAMA maintains a CEU transcript for you to view to see where you are in regards to your required CEU’s for recertification
5) The AAMA has state and local chapters you can become a member of, which will update on the latest medical practice along with give you the opportunity of continuing education units (CEU’s)
6) The AAMA has a monthly magazine that has articles that will provide you with CEU’s along with AAMA updates, public affairs within the United States, and career information
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Posted Monday, August 17, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
Avg. Rating: 5
BY: Amanda Jackson, AAMA-CMA, Medical Assisting Program Director, Rasmussen College- Brooklyn Park, MN
Attention all Medical Assisting students! Here are a few tips to get the job you want.
The hunt for a new job can be exhausting. Here are a few things I have found helpful:
● Get your Medical Assisting Certification.
You will have more opportunities for career advancement and job security. You will get better pay
and have more opportunity for advancements.
●Apply, Apply, Apply
When I graduated from my MA program I must have sent out at least forty applications. Even if
people say they are not hiring still send them an application for when they are. Use the internet,
newspaper, and references to find jobs. Many job openings are not being advertised. Make sure you
tell everyone you know you are looking for a job.
● Interview
Arrive early, dress appropriately, be prepared, go alone, turn your cell phone off, greet everyone with
a friendly and polite tone, check your body language and keep positive.
●Thank You Note
It is important to send a thank you note. This will remind the employer about what you will bring to
the company.
●Follow-Up
Follow-up 5 to 10 days after your thank you to find out the status of your interview.
●Join the AAMA and you will have networking opportunities, member discounts, you can attend annual conventions, and much more.
Good luck job searching!
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Posted Wednesday, August 12, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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Posted Monday, July 20, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
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BY Terry Clements, Massage Therapy Instructor, Eden Prairie Campus
I am sure you have seen the lists of benefits for receiving massage. But have you ever thought about becoming a massage therapist? And that there are very distinct benefits to this career?
I used to, somewhat jokingly, and yet very seriously, talk with the massage therapy students that I would do what I do for free. I am passionate about massage and after many years of thinking about it, there are personal benefits as to why I still am passionate about massage and about being a massage therapist.
1). Breathing. Every minute of massage demands that I breathe. I know this may sound ridiculous to some, but in order to provide my own body with what it needs to do massage (and it is a physically demanding job!), I must breathe. Deeply, slowly, refreshingly. I become stiff and contracted when I don’t breath and this is not the way to deliver a wonderful and relaxing massage. Breathing ranks at the top of the list of benefits!
2). Remaining relaxed. If I am relaxed, you will be relaxed. If my touch is relaxing (even through the deep tissue work), you will relax in response to this. It is that simple – and it is true – when I am relaxed, you, too, will relax. What other career has as a job responsibility that you must be relaxed? (and sometimes easier said than done!).
3). Meditation-like. Spending five to six hours a day in a quiet, beautiful room with another human being, just being quiet, breathing, and relaxing. It’s like being able to meditate for most of the day! The pace is slow, the music is soothing, the aromas are wonderful, and the work, rewarding. It’s not a cubicle, a car, an office, in front of a computer screen, or on the phone. It’s quiet, still, and peaceful.
4). Physical work. Massage also requires attention to my body. If done well, I am balanced, somewhat like a dancer as I do my massage. Paying attention to how my feet are planted, where my body’s center is, and how my arms, hands, neck, and head are gives me grace – and exercises my body. I also stretch before and after a day of massage, trying to prevent repetitive motion type injuries. It requires I care for my self.
5). Being in the present moment. All of the above provide me with the present moment, with my own presence in the moment and to be fully here. I breathe, relax, quiet my mind, and bring my body – my whole self - into the session. For me, doing massage has taught me about my whole self, the mind, spirit and body, of who I am and how I can be of service in this world.
Seem a bit outlandish or overblown – even a bit selfish? Well, yes, if selfish means I get to express myself as fully myself. Perhaps a better word is self-like. Being a massage therapist has opened myself up to me, given me a way to express my whole self, and allowed others to open to their own breath, relaxation, quietude, and being - bringing about their own healing in their own way
Oh, the other great benefit is that I get paid to do this. So if this job (or service) calls to you, go get a massage. Breathe, relax, and consider the benefits of becoming a massage therapist. As a way to becomming your self.
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Posted Monday, July 06, 2009 by Cindy Glewwe
Avg. Rating: 5
BY Janice Smith, CMT, NCTMB, St. Cloud Campus, Massage Therapy Instructor/ Program Director
Since Massage Therapy is something that some are just now giving greater credit to as a profession, I thought that this would be a great way to introduce others to the profession and give a brief overview of a few different modalities that are available in the industry.
"BUZZWORDS"
Massage Therapy - The practice of therapeutic massage in the United States dates back to the 1890s, when massages were routinely available at the YMCA and YWCA.
Swedish Massage - Is the most commonly taught and well-known massage technique, and mainly relaxes the muscles, easing aches and pains. A Swedish doctor invented this style of massage in 1813. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Pressure upon the body may be light or firm, depending on the preference of the client.
Medical Massage - Sometimes Swedish is referred to as Medical Massage, since the massage strokes are performed in the direction of blood flow through the circulatory system. Usually this term is used when the practice of medical documentation and record keeping is involved.
Masseuse/Masseur - This is an outdated term for the profession. Practitioners prefer to be called Massage Therapist, Muscular Therapist, or Bodyworker.
Deep Tissue - Any massage technique that involves working into the body and insertion points of the muscle, rather than just gliding on the surface of the skin. Sometimes called Neuromuscular Massage.
Therapeutic Massage - At many spas and professional offices this term is used to distinguish between a deep tissue massage and one that is performed superficially.
Sports Massage - Can be any muscular treatment specific to common sports injuries. The therapist strives to alleviate inflammation, provide muscular warm-up, stretches and other techniques for the amateur and professional athlete.
Shiatsu - Is a Japanese acupressure massage that is done by applying pressure along the meridians. The therapist focuses on the ancient meridian pathways on the body, rather than the muscular system. The client may be fully clothed. This treatment can be performed either on a massage table or on a floor mat.
Reflexology - This is Shiatsu of the hands and feet. Often, this is given whenever a fully clothed, short treatment is called for.
Chair Massage - Sometimes called corporate massage, or seated massage. This is most commonly practiced on-site at businesses which will allow a client to receive a short treatment at their desk. The therapist will bring a padded chair, or the client will lean over their desk on a table top face rest. This is done fully-clothed, without oil.
Hydrotherapy - Refers to the therapeutic use of water at any temperature or form, including ice packs, vaporizers, and hot baths.
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