Flu season can feel like a marathon for nurses, with every shift presenting new challenges to stay healthy. As the frontline defense against the virus, you know how crucial it is to protect yourself while supporting your patients. From bolstering your immune system to managing stress during long hours, these flu season survival tips will help you stay strong, focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Because when you’re at your best, so is your care.
Stock Up on Essentials
Preparation is key. Ensure you have an ample supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks, gloves, and gowns, and always ensure they are properly fitted and changed between patients. Keep sanitizers, disinfectants, hand creams, and lozenges on hand. Stock your home with over-the-counter medications, thermometers, and electrolyte solutions in case you or a loved one falls ill. Having these supplies ready allows you to focus on care without unnecessary stress.
Practice Exceptional Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infection. Follow strict sanitation practices, washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after each patient interaction and after touching shared surfaces. Remember, some viruses like norovirus are resistant to hand sanitizers, so soap and water are crucial. Avoid touching your face—especially your eyes, nose, and mouth—with unwashed hands. This simple habit can dramatically reduce your exposure to harmful pathogens.
Clean and Disinfect Workspaces
Shared spaces can harbor countless germs, making regular cleaning a must. Wipe down frequently touched surfaces such as desks, telephones, computer keyboards, and breakroom appliances daily. In common areas, pay attention to high-touch points like water fountain handles and microwave door handles. Keeping these areas clean helps minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations
Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools in preventing the flu. Make sure your immunizations are current, including your annual flu shot, and encourage coworkers and patients to do the same. Vaccines not only protect you but also help reduce the spread of illness within your workplace and the broader community.
Boost Your Immune System
Your immune system is your strongest ally during flu season. Fuel your body with a nutritionally balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated by drinking about 2 liters of water daily and carrying a water bottle to sip throughout your shift. Prioritize healthy sleep habits, aiming for 7-9 hours per night to allow your body to recharge. Incorporate stress-reducing activities like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga into your routine. Regular physical activity can also boost your immunity. Find a workout you enjoy to help you stay motivated.
Manage Your Workload Effectively
A well-organized workload can reduce stress and improve efficiency. Start by prioritizing patient care based on urgency and complexity, focusing on high-risk patients first. Bundle similar tasks together to save time and energy. For example, group medication rounds or paperwork sessions to streamline your day. Delegate non-critical tasks to coworkers when appropriate, allowing you to concentrate on providing the best possible care.
Address Stress and Fatigue
Prolonged stress and fatigue can weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illness. Incorporate short self-care breaks into your day to recharge. Use these moments to practice deep breathing, stretch, or enjoy a brief moment of mindfulness. Make restful sleep a priority, even if it means adjusting your schedule. Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to rest.
Collaborate with Your Healthcare Team
Effective communication with your team is vital during flu season. Maintain open lines of communication with fellow nurses, physicians, and caregivers to ensure efficient workflows and minimize gaps in care. Share updates on patient conditions, supply needs, and any changes in protocol. A united team effort can make a significant difference in managing the demands of flu season.
If You’re Sick, Stay Home
As a nurse, it’s natural to want to push through illness, but it’s essential to prioritize your health and the safety of those around you. If you feel unwell, take the time to recover. Stay hydrated, treat aches and fever with over-the-counter medications, and rest as much as possible. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and run a humidifier to ease congestion. Remember to replace your toothbrush after recovering from an illness to avoid reinfection.
Flu Season Preparedness at Home
Don’t forget to prepare your household for flu season as well. Encourage family members to practice good hygiene and stay up to date on their vaccinations. Designate a sick room for anyone who becomes ill and establish a cleaning routine to keep the rest of your home germ-free. By creating a safe and clean environment at home, you’ll minimize the risk of spreading illness within your family.
Stay Positive
Flu season can be challenging, but maintaining a positive mindset can make a big difference. Focus on the small wins, like successfully preventing an illness or seeing a patient recover. Celebrate your hard work and dedication, knowing that your efforts are making a meaningful impact in the lives of your patients and community.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Age may bring wisdom, but it also comes with new challenges behind the wheel. From adapting to changing reflexes to navigating the latest technology in cars, senior drivers face unique hurdles. If you are a senior driver, or know one, here are simple tips to help stay safe and confident on the road.
How does age affect your driving?
As we get older, changes in our bodies can affect how safely we drive. Stiff joints, muscle weakness, or arthritis can make it harder to turn your head, press the brakes, or react quickly in traffic. If you’ve lost some feeling in your fingers or feet, it might slow down your reaction time or make it harder to stay in control of the car. Vision changes can make it tough to see at night or read road signs quickly, and hearing loss might mean you don’t notice important sounds like sirens or horns. On top of that, some medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slower reactions, which can all affect your driving.
Tip #1: Stay on top of your health.
Regularly check your vision, hearing, and mobility to ensure they’re not affecting your ability to drive safely. Minimize distractions, such as loud music or other sounds, to help you hear important traffic cues like horns or sirens.
If you have limited mobility, consider vehicle modifications. For example, hand controls can replace traditional gas and brake pedals if leg movement is a challenge. Consult with your doctor and an occupational therapist to explore your options.
Be mindful of how medications impact driving. Avoid driving if you’re taking anything that causes drowsiness or lightheadedness.
Tip #2: Make sure your car is the right fit for you.
If it’s an option, select larger dials and easy to read symbols on your car’s dashboard. Turn brightness up on your instrument panel so it is easy to see.
Adjust your seat so you’re not sitting closer than 10 inches to the steering wheel. Make sure your feet can easily press the pedals, without your having to reach with your toes. Pedal extensions are available for those who need it.
Check out the CarFit program sponsored by AAA, AARP Driver Safety, and AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association). This program can help educate you on ways you can make your car more comfortable and safer as you age.
Tip #3: Understand your car’s safety technology.
Check your owner’s manual to determine the advanced safety technologies in your vehicle. This may include blind spot monitoring, automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, rearview camera, automatic crash notification, navigation, and more.
Seek help from tech-savvy family or friends who can explain features and help you practice. Watch online tutorials—many car manufacturers offer easy-to-follow videos on their websites or YouTube channels. You can also ask your dealer for a demonstration when servicing your car.
If new tech seems overwhelming, take it slow. Practice one new feature at a time to get comfortable with it. Start with the safety features like blind spot monitors. Don’t get discouraged as it can take time to learn new technology.
Tip #4: Drive safely and defensively.
Maintain a safe following distance. Avoid tailgating and give yourself plenty of space to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic. This is especially important in bad weather or heavy traffic.
Drive at a comfortable speed. Stick to the speed limit and, if you prefer driving slower, stay in the right lane to let faster traffic pass safely.
Stay focused and alert. Avoid distractions like using your phone, eating, or multitasking while driving. Never drink and drive and be mindful of any medications that might impair your ability to focus.
Tip #5: Avoid driving certain times of the day or night.
If driving at night feels difficult or uncomfortable, try to avoid it. Similarly, be cautious around sunrise and sunset when glare from the sun can impact your visibility.
Refrain from driving when you’re stressed, tired, or not feeling alert. Skip rush hour or heavy traffic areas to reduce stress and risk.
Avoid driving in rain, snow, ice, or other challenging weather conditions. Consider using rideshare services, public transportation, or asking for a ride from friends or family during these times.
Tip #6: Know how to deal with night driving.
Make sure your headlights, taillights, windshield and side windows are clean.
Allow for more space between you and the car in front to allow for additional stopping room – it’s harder to judge speed and distance in the dark.
If headlights of oncoming vehicles are too bright, look down and to the right. It will help deflect the light and you can use the right side of the road as your guide.
Do not wear sunglasses or tinted lenses at night. It reduces the amount of light that reaches your eyes and can make driving hazardous.
Tip #7: Take advantage of available support.
Refresh your knowledge of driving rules with a program like AAA’s RoadWise Driver Course. Completing the course may even qualify you for a discount with certain insurance providers.
Consider hiring a driving rehabilitation specialist. These professionals assess key factors such as muscle strength, flexibility, reaction time, and decision-making skills to help ensure safe driving.
Talk to trusted friends and family about your driving. Their honest feedback and support can help you identify areas for improvement and give you confidence behind the wheel.
Tip #8: Is it time to stop driving? Know the warning signs.
Be alert for warning signs such as multiple accidents, near-misses, or new scrapes and dents on the vehicle. Pay attention if you have received two or more tickets or warnings within the past two years.
Watch for signs of erratic, unsafe, or aggressive driving from your loved one, or if you’re the driver, for times you felt out of control.
Take seriously any recommendation from a doctor to change driving habits or stop driving altogether.
Approach the conversation with your loved one with empathy, focusing on positivity and support. Together, you can explore alternative ways to maintain their freedom and connection to the world around them.
Finally, make sure your car is fully protected for added peace of mind. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Is your house trying to tell you something? From mysterious knocks to unsettling creaks, the noises in your home could be more than just background sounds—they might be early warnings of bigger issues. Listen closely, because ignoring these whispers from your walls could cost you more than a good night’s sleep.
Heating and Cooling Systems
Unusual sounds from your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system might mean that it’s struggling. Get these issues checked before you lose heat during the frigid winter months or cooling relief during the hottest time of year.
Squeaking or Squealing: Bearings in the motor may need oiling or a piece could be broken. You also could have a worn-out or misaligned fan belt. Ignoring this sound can lead to motor failure, so address this soon.
Whistling: This could be the sign of air leaks in the ductwork or a dirty air filter. Try replacing the filter first and see if the sound disappears. Filters should be replaced every three months.
Grinding: Moving parts aren’t operating smoothly or it could be worn-out bearings in the motor. Get that checked out.
Popping: This can indicate moisture or a clog in the gas line. It also could be expansion or contraction of the ductwork, especially when turning on the heat.
Clanking or Banging: This happens in air handlers or furnaces due to rusted or chipped metal, or soot buildup.
Clicking: A malfunctioning electrical relay could create a clicking sound.
Boiler Knocking: The circulation pump may be failing.
Hissing: This could signal a leak in the refrigerant line, or there could be an internal valve leak. The compressor pressure also could be too high.
Gurgling: You could be low on refrigerant or have a coolant leak.
Booming: There could be airflow issues where the ducts connect.
Buzzing: This sound could be caused by loose wiring, a failing motor, or capacitors that are malfunctioning.
Rattling: There may be loose parts within your unit, such as screws or fan blades.
Appliances
Unusual noises from appliances with motors might mean a mechanical problem. Homeowner warranties usually cover this type of issue.
Humming Dryer: Your clothes dryer could have an object caught in its blower.
Buzzing Refrigerator: The refrigerator could have an ailing compressor.
Grinding Dishwasher: If your dishwasher sputters or grinds, something could be stuck in its chopper blade.
Popping or Rumbling Water Heater: Water heaters operate almost silently, so if you hear sounds, don’t ignore them. Popping or rumbling could be due to sediment buildup on the bottom. It means it’s struggling to operate and might fail. You may need to flush the inside of the tank.
Noises from Gas Appliances: Don’t wait on gas appliances that are making noises. This may indicate a leak that could be serious.
Plumbing and Pipes
You want your plumbing and pipes to work properly. Water can cause significant damage if problems aren’t addressed in a timely manner.
Clanking: This sound could be a steam radiator that is not draining properly. It also could indicate a loose pipe. Get that fixed, as loose pipes moving around could lead to burst pipes.
Banging or Thumping: This is caused by water changing direction or being brought to a sudden halt. Usually, it doesn’t cause problems, but the sound can be annoying. You can buy a water hammer arrestor for appliances that reduce the noise.
Gurgling Toilet: This could indicate a plumbing backup somewhere. It could be a partially clogged drain, a problem with the flush value, a buildup of sediment in the tank, or inadequate venting in the plumbing system. You will want to call a plumber sooner than later.
Dripping: Water leaks inside a wall can lead to mold or mildew and can destroy insulation. Try to isolate where the dripping sound is coming from. Get professional help as needed.
Water Loss Test (water meter): If you cannot find the leak, try a water loss test. Look at the water meter and write down the reading. Stop all use of water in your home for 30 minutes. Do not flush the toilet or use the sink, tub, shower, dishwasher or washing machine. Turn off the ice maker and sprinkler. Then check the water meter at the end of the half hour. If the reading is unchanged, you do not have a leaky pipe. You could have a leaky toilet or appliance.
Water Loss Test (well water): If you have well water, you won’t have a water meter to check. Stop all water use and stand near your water pump for 30 minutes. Listen for clicking sounds from the pump which could indicate a water leak.
Lights and Outlets
The lights and outlets in your home are connected to the electrical system. When components of this system fail, it not only is frustrating but could be dangerous.
Humming, Buzzing, Hissing, Crackling or Popping (light switches and outlets): Buzzing is the sound of electricity arcing across a bad connection. If you hear buzzing from your light switch or outlet, or a hissing/crackling/popping sound, stop using it immediately and call an electrician.
Humming, Buzzing, Whining (bulbs or dimmers): If a fluorescent bulb is making the noise, it means a ballast likely needs to be replaced. That is the part that controls the voltage to the bulb. If the dimmer is making the noise, replace it. You can also try changing the bulb as some bulbs work better with dimmers.
Unexpected sounds from above or behind the walls might mean unwanted guests. Noises from your windows could signal hidden openings. Both could translate to expensive repairs if not addressed.
Skittering: This is the sound of critters in your home: raccoons, squirrels, birds, and even insects. The longer they are there, the more damage they can do, from chewing through wiring and insulation to giving birth to babies. When these animals die in your walls, they also cause an awful lingering odor. Take note of when you hear the sounds. Rodents are nocturnal. Call an exterminator. Be sure to search and seal the openings that allowed critters into your house or more could follow.
Buzzing: If you hear a buzzing sound in your walls, it could indicate a colony of bees making their nest there. Carpenter bees are especially known to do lots of damage by burrowing in your wood. Contact a professional pest removal service to safely get rid of this hazard.
Creaking and Squeaking (floors): These sounds could be the house settling, or they could be caused by temperature changes that result in the wood boards rubbing against each other. However, when the squeaking is accompanied by sagging or gaps in the floor, you will want to consult a professional.
Whistling (windows): Whistling sounds could point to improper installation, worn weather stripping, or poor seals. Check the seal around your windows for signs of wear, and caulk or reseal as needed.
Rattling (windows): Something is not fitting quite right if you hear rattling. Get it checked out as this could lead to cracks in the glass.
Your home is your greatest investment. Keep up with winter home maintenance and protect your home with the right insurance for added peace of mind.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
You are miles from nowhere when suddenly, your headlights dim, your dashboard flickers, and your car starts losing power. No, it’s not a scene from an action thriller—it’s a sign that your alternator might be failing. But how do you know when it’s time to replace it? Let’s break down the signs before your car breaks down on you.
What is an alternator?
The alternator is a small but mighty component responsible for keeping your battery charged and your vehicle’s electrical systems running smoothly. It converts kinetic energy into electrical energy. That energy charges your car’s battery so that it can start and also powers your car when running. Over time, wear and tear can reduce the alternator’s efficiency, preventing it from fully charging the battery. While there’s no exact timeframe for replacement, alternators typically last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. It’s risky to drive a car with a bad alternator. It can leave you stranded.
Bad battery or bad alternator?
Since the alternator and battery work closely together, sometimes the signs you are seeing could mean you need to replace the battery and not the alternator. Consider the age of both parts and their condition. The average battery life is 3-5 years, so if your battery hasn’t been replaced in that long, check that first.
Signs of a bad battery:
Your vehicle is hard to start or won’t start at all.
You hear a clicking noise when trying to start the car, or it takes longer for the engine to catch.
You notice dim or flickering headlights, taillights or dashboard lights.
Your car consistently has a dead battery. This could also be due to a bad alternator.
Signs of a bad alternator:
You notice dim or very bright headlights. (This is due to the inconsistent flow of electricity generated by the alternator.)
Your vehicle doesn’t start.
Your lights and gauges dim, and then your car stalls when driving.
You notice a burnt rubber smell and/or loud grinding noise.
Do you have a multimeter? That’s a surefire way to know if the alternator is failing. When the car is not running, check the voltage at the battery. It should be between 12 and 12.5 volts. Then check the voltage again when the car is running. The voltage level should increase between 13.5 and 14.5. If the voltage does not increase, the alternator is bad. If it does increase, yet you are still experiencing some of the issues listed above, then it is likely that the battery is bad.
How to Replace the Alternator
You can certainly take your car to your mechanic for an alternator replacement. However, if you’re handy and have some experience working on cars, here is a guide to replacing your alternator.
Pro tip: take photos of each piece before disconnecting them so you know how to hook everything back up.
Check Your Vehicle’s Manual: Identify the type of alternator you need and purchase it.
Gather Your Supplies: Get a socket and wrench set, gloves, safety glasses, and a memory saver. A memory saver provides a small current to preserve your car’s electronics and prevent the need for reprogramming; it typically plugs into the power port.
Backup Electronic Data (if needed): Refer to your manual to determine if backing up preset electronic data from your car’s computer is necessary.
Turn Off the Engine: Shut off your car’s engine and put on your safety gear.
Disconnect the Battery: Remove the negative cable from the car battery. Disconnecting the positive cable is optional.
Loosen the Belt Tensioner: Release the tension on the serpentine belt and remove it. Inspect the belt for wear and tear, replacing it if needed.
Remove Alternator Attachments: Disconnect all cables and bolts securing the alternator, including the voltage regulator connector, the alternator’s positive cable, the brace nut and bolt, and the lower mounting bolt.
Replace the Alternator: Remove the old alternator and install the new one in the same position.
Reassemble: Reattach all previously disconnected components.
Test Voltage: If available, use a multimeter to ensure the voltage reads between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when running.
Maintaining Your Alternator
You also can take steps to reduce the wear and tear on your alternator and keeping it working at its best.
Schedule regular maintenance and ask your mechanic to check the alternator every time. Regular maintenance also will help your car last longer.
Regularly clean your alternator to remove dirt, grease, and debris. These can cause it to overheat.
Tighten loose connections that can affect the alternator’s performance.
Look out for fluid leaks around the alternator. Fluid and oil buildup can shorten an alternator’s lifespan. Identify the source of the leak as soon as possible. (Usually, it’s not the alternator that is leaking.)
Keep your belts in good condition. Worn belts can loosen the alternator mountings.
Be careful with aftermarket electronics. Improperly installing them can overload the alternator.
Maintain and replace your battery as needed so that you will know that it’s not the battery if your vehicle’s electrical system fails.
Finally, the right coverage for your vehicle is important for added peace of mind. Schedule an annual review with your insurer to make sure your vehicle is fully protected. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
You’re ready to hit the road, but your car has other plans—stuck in a snowbank with tires spinning. Before your frustration gets out of hand, take a deep breath. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can free your vehicle and get back on track. Here’s your step-by-step guide to escape the snow’s icy grip without breaking a sweat—or your car!
1. Stay Safe and Assess the Situation
Before doing anything, ensure you’re safe. Turn on your hazard lights and assess the situation. Are other vehicles nearby? Make sure you’re visible to others and have enough space to work around your car safely.
2. Clear the Exhaust Pipe
Check your car’s tailpipe for snow and ice. A clogged exhaust can cause dangerous carbon monoxide to back up into the vehicle’s cabin. Clearing it is a critical safety step before you start working to free your car.
Use a shovel or any sturdy tool to remove snow around the tires, under the car, and along the path you want to travel. Clearing as much snow as possible will make it easier to gain traction and move forward.
4. Try Melting the Snow
If the snow around your wheels is packed and icy, try sprinkling salt or a de-icing agent. Be cautious, as salt can cause rust on your vehicle, and some chemicals may be harmful to pets and the environment.
5. Add Traction
Improve your grip by spreading dry materials like sand, kitty litter, or even your car’s floor mats under the tires. These items can provide the friction needed to get your car moving.
Pro Tip: Lower your window slightly to listen for spinning wheels as you press on the gas. If you hear them spinning, it’s not working.
6. Choose the Right Driving Technique
Depending on your type of vehicle, you will want to take advantage of its strengths.
4-Wheel Drive: If your vehicle has a 4-wheel drive option, turn it on to deliver power to all wheels. Use a low gear in an automatic to reduce wheel spinning.
Front-Wheel Drive: Turn your steering wheel left and right repeatedly to find a patch of traction.
Manual Transmission: Start in second gear to reduce wheel spin and increase grip.
7. Turn Off Traction Control
Your traction control system can prevent your wheels from spinning, which helps in skids but can hinder your efforts when stuck. Temporarily disable it to give your wheels the power they need to move.
8. Rock Your Vehicle
Gently rock your car by shifting between forward and reverse gears. Apply light gas pressure—avoid flooring it—and stop if it’s not working after a few tries to prevent transmission damage.
9. Let Air Out of Your Tires
In extreme cases, slightly deflate your tires to increase surface contact and improve traction. Only do this if you’re near a place to reinflate them, as driving on underinflated tires can be dangerous.
10. Call for Roadside Assistance
If all else fails, it’s time to call for help. Roadside assistance professionals have the tools and expertise to safely free your vehicle.
After You’re Unstuck
Once your car is free, pull over in a safe spot and inspect your tires. Spinning wheels can pack snow and ice into the treads, making steering difficult. Use a snow scraper to clear them and restore proper grip. Don’t forget to turn your traction control back on before resuming your drive. Follow winter driving safety tips to prevent any future issues.
Be Prepared for the Future
Getting stuck in deep snow can damage your car’s transmission, battery, or drivetrain. Get your car checked out if you have been stuck in deep snow.
In addition, prepare for any future incidents. Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including:
Finally, make sure your vehicle is protected for winter with the right insurance. This will help add peace of mind. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
