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General Information
We have several doctors, dentists, and resource professionals in the community who are available to provide health services. We will be pleased to assist you in making appointments which fit your personal needs.
Some over-the-counter medications are available in the Student Health Office for students' use. These medications are helpful in relieving the discomfort of minor illnesses but are not intended to be a cure.
ALWAYS READ LABELS FOR INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS OF ALL MEDICINES. Care must be taken when using any medications not to combine with alcohol or other over-the-counter preparations. The combined effects can be devastating. |
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Available Services:
- Allergy Injections
- Blood Pressure Checks
- CPR Classes First Aid
- Health Counseling
- Nutrition
- Over-the-Counter Medications
- Personal Problems
- Skin Care
- Supplies/Services
- Temperature Checks
- Weight Control
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Equipment for Loan :
- Ace Bandages
- Arm Slings
- Crutches
- Finger Splints
- Heating Pads
- Ice Packs
- Vaporizers
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Student Health Insurance
Health insurance is strongly recommended (but not required) for all U.S. and Canadian students. All international students are required to have health insurance coverage from a U.S. provider. The University Business Office can assist in directing individuals to a plan specifically designed for students.
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First Aid
All accidents or injuries involving students, whether on or off campus, must be reported to the Student Health Office as soon as possible.
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Minor Injuries
Sprains: See the campus nurse for assessment. Ice: During the first 24-48 hours an ice pack needs to be applied for 30 minutes every 2 hours. Continue ice as long as the area is swollen. To be most effective, fill a plastic bag with ice and add water to fill the bag one-fourth full.
Compression:
The easiest way to apply compression is with an elastic bandage. Pressure should be the greatest at the end farthest from the heart. Begin wrapping at the farthest point, "pushing" the swelling toward the heart. If the area above or below the bandage becomes swollen, cold or bluish, remove the bandage and reapply with less pressure.
Elevation:
Elevate the injury. A foot should be above the hip and a hand should be higher than the shoulder for best results. |
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Minor Burns/Sunburn
Immediately use cold water. Do not apply any creams/lotions to the burn! For a mild sunburn there are several preparations available (Solarcaine, Aloe Vera Gel). The application of household vinegar will help relieve the sting. More serious sunburns need to be elevated. Prevention is the key! Use sunscreen! Serious burns need medical attention!!
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Head Injuries
Anyone who has been unconscious from a head injury should be seen by a physician. Anyone having seizures must be seen by a health professional for evaluation.
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Colds
A cold will last 7-10 days unless there are complications such as a fever or bronchitis. Unless your fever reaches 102 degrees it is best to let it run its course. Seek medical help if your temperature remains elevated.
Treatment:
1. Drink large quantities of fluids. Fluids help to loosen the mucus secretions and help to control a fever.
2. Gargle warm salt water to reduce swelling and cleanse the throat (one-half teaspoon in an 8 ounce glass of warm water).
3. Non-aspirin analgesics such as Tylenol or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) will help reduce fever and discomfort.
4. Cough medications can provide relief. If the cough is caused by an irritation a preparation to suppress the cough is sufficient. A cough producing phlegm needs a preparation with an expectorant.
5. Decongestants may provide relief of nasal and sinus congestion.
6. Throat lozenges produce a soothing relief but gargling is still recommended.
7. Antihistamines are helpful in treating allergies with sneezing and nasal drainage. They may cause drowsiness.
REST IS IMPORTANT IN ANY ILLNESS!!
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Nose Bleeds
Pinch the entire soft part of the nose to the point of hurting, pushing in towards your face and hold for Ten minutes. DO NOT release the pressure to check for bleeding. Sit with your head erect. If bleeding persists or is severe, medical attention is needed. Major causes of nose bleeds are dry air and colds.
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Minor Cuts, Scratches, and Abrasions
Wash area with soap and warm water. An antibiotic ointment should be applied. Cover area with a bandaid or dressing. Always check on the need for a tetanus booster. Protection from tetanus is critical for everyone. To be protected it is necessary to have three injections, at least four weeks apart. This is followed by a booster every 10 years (this series of 3 injections is usually given during infancy and is part of your immunization record). For a very serious cut, you must control the bleeding by applying direct pressure. Always seek professional assistance.
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Poison Ivy
There are lotions and ointments to control itching. However, if severe irritation exists, medical attention is needed. Keep the irritated area clean.
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Gastrointestinal Upset or Stomach Flu
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Vomiting is a symptom of an illness. Whatever the reason for vomiting, all foods and fluids should be omitted for at least one hour following the last vomiting episode. Following the one hour period, it is best to begin a diet (on a trial basis) of small sips of water, sucking on ice chips, or small sips of 7-Up or Sprite. Clear liquids can be added to the diet, very slowly. Do not consume creamy liquids that contain milk or milk products. After 24 hours, if vomiting has ceased, you may begin to add foods that are easily digested. If vomiting continues more than 24 hours, contact a health professional.
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Diarrhea adds to the seriousness of a gastrointestinal upset. A person dehydrates more rapidly if they have diarrhea in addition to vomiting. Follow the same diet but omit fruit juices and substitute bananas.
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Strep Throat
If you have a severe sore throat, an elevated temperature (101 degrees F. orally) and/or white spots in your throat, there is a chance that you may have strep throat. An antibiotic may be needed. It is important to seek professional help. You are encouraged to visit the Student Health Office where a throat culture can be done for a small fee, and a doctor's appointment, if necessary, can be arranged.
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Swollen Glands
Lymph nodes are located throughout the body. The greatest concentration is in the neck, under the arms, and in the groin. These glands may become swollen for a variety of reasons, such as infection (either viral or bacterial), an open sore in that area of the body, or a more serious disorder. Swollen glands should not be ignored and you are encouraged to seek professional advice.
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Constipation
This is a term that is often misused. The term refers to the firmness of the stool - not the frequency. Means of treating constipation include an increase of fluid intake, eating fresh fruits, bran cereals and/or drinking prune juice.
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Urinary Tract Infections
The three common symptoms of a urinary tract infection are frequency of urination, urgency (the feeling you need to empty your bladder at all times), and a burning sensation when you urinate. The urine may have a strong odor and darker color. With these symptoms, it is necessary to seek medical help. The sooner you can be referred to a doctor and treatment is begun, the sooner you will feel better. FORCE WATER!! The more you can drink, the better.
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Personal Counseling
On-campus counseling is available through the Student Deans. Professional services of Grace Counseling Center is available to single or married students via referrals by the Deans. |
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