#top 10 blood pressure monitors

[imhonestlyjustamess]

It's been forever since I've posted so here's a fun (very simple and surface level) infographic about POTS I made last year for an assignment that also helped explain my extremely poor attendance.

Please note that I am not a doctor or an expert, I only have google and my personal experience as someone diagnosed with the condition.

[Image Description:

An infographic poster. There are text boxes surrounding a cartoony illustration of a person looking sick. From top to bottom: Spotting POTS Symptoms of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, Brain fog (forgetfulness and difficulty with concentration), Headache, Dizziness, Fainting, Fatigue (exhaustion), Insomnia, Chest pain, Shortness of breath, Shakiness, Excess sweating, Heart palpitations, Blood pooling, Low blood pressure, Nausea, Bloating. On the left side is a simple illustration of the brain and spine. The text reads: Impact on the autonomic nervous system: POTS disrupts the bodies ability to balance heart rate and contraction of blood vessels to maintain normal blood flow despite changes in position. Along the bottom of the poster is a depiction of an increasing heart rate. The text reads: Standing for an extended period of time causes a rapid increase in heart rate and a worsening in symptoms for POTS patients. A tilt table test monitoring this increase is the primary diagnostic tool for the condition. A second text box reads: 10 minutes: sustained increase in heart rate of 30bpm or more. ]

[macgyvermedical]

Let's Talk ESRD and Dialysis

Have you thanked your kidneys today? Do you feel grateful when you pee? How about when you eat a little too much potassium or drink a little too much water, do you really enjoy feeling confident that your kidneys will just dispose of the excess?

If so, you probably know the alternative.

About 10% of the world's population has a condition called Chronic Kidney Disease, or CKD. About 2 million of those people are in End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and require dialysis or a kidney transplant to live.

Your kidneys are amazing things. They are two organs that sit outside of the sac that hold the rest of the abdominal organs, called the peritoneum. They take in blood from the body, determine the levels of electrolytes, water, and waste products in that blood, and remove the waste products and excess electrolytes and water.

They also have secondary tasks. They monitor the amount of red blood cells in your blood and send out hormones that entice the bone marrow to make more when we're low. They also monitor blood pressure and release hormones that raise that blood pressure when it gets low.

Lots of things can hurt the kidneys. For example, poorly controlled high blood pressure and poorly controlled diabetes are among the top reasons why kidneys fail. Additionally, being dehydrated while engaging in strenuous exercise or taking medications like ibuprofen or naproxen (any NSAIDs) can cause kidney damage.

We measure how well the kidneys are working via the Glomerular Filtration Rate, or GFR. This is a measure of (essentially) how much blood in milliliters the kidneys filter per minute. 90 or higher is normal, while a GFR of 15 or lower is considered ESRD.

So let's say someone has a GFR of less than 15 and the decision is made to start them on dialysis and put them on the kidney transplant list. What options do they have?

Well, they need to figure out if they want to do hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

In hemodialysis, the patient is hooked up to a machine that runs their blood across a special membrane. On the other side of the membrane, a solution called dialysate draws excess water, electrolytes, and waste products from the blood. Hemodialysis is usually done at a dialysis center for 3-5 hours, 3 times per week.

Hemodialysis is better for patients who have either failed home peritoneal dialysis or can't or aren't comfortable with doing the technical part of the job by themself at home. There is also a social component, where dialysis is a chance to meet and interact with other people who are going through the same things they are.

People who undergo hemodialysis have to have some kind of "access", or a way for the blood to come out of their body, go through a machine, and go back into their body. For some people, this is a dialysis catheter that is inserted into the person's chest and looks like this:

It can also be a fistula. A fistula is the surgical connection between a vein and an artery in the arm or leg. Over time, this connection becomes large and rubbery, and each time dialysis is done, two needles (one to remove blood, and one to return it) are placed in the fistula. A fistula often looks like this:

In peritoneal dialysis, the patient instills the dialysate directly into the sac that holds their abdominal organs. The sac itself acts as the membrane, and dialysate draws the electrolytes, water, and waste directly through the sac wall. They then wait a certain number of hours, and drain the dialysate. This can be done manually by the patient during the day, or at night while the patient sleeps with a machine called an automatic cycler. Usually peritoneal dialysis is done every day, with 2-4 cycles of 4 hours per cycle.

People using peritoneal dialysis also need a form of access, but instead of it being to their blood stream, it is to their peritoneum. Here's what that looks like:

The catheter is placed surgically into the peritoneum, and stays there all the time, even in between dialysis sessions.

Someone using peritoneal dialysis has to be very careful when they are accessing their dialysis catheter. This is because the biggest problem with peritoneal dialysis is the risk of a life threatening infection called peritonitis. Someone who gets peritonitis too many times may need to switch to hemodialysis.

Here is what a manual exchange looks ilke:

Someone may choose to do peritoneal dialysis over hemodialysis because it affords more freedom to keep a job or do daily tasks like keeping house. People who do PD also don't have to find rides to the dialysis center. However, they do have to take on more of the responsibility for making sure they do treatments correctly and be able to keep accurate records of the treatments they give themselves. Peritoneal dialysis also tends to be less taxing on the body, and have fewer side effects than hemodialysis when done correctly.

[chip193-anesthesia]

Induction

You’re sitting in one of those Barco chairs, already changed into your gown, cap, and booties.  The pre-op nurse has been over and collected her data, started your IV, and covered you with the blanket from the warmer.  I’ve been over to see you and discuss the anesthesia plan and we’ve agreed to general anesthesia.  I left your chairside for a few minutes, telling you that the room isn’t quite ready and that I’ll be back when it’s time to go inside.

 About 10 minutes later, a nurse in a green scrub dress and purple cloth scrub cap comes over and talks with you for a few minutes.  She verifies your procedure, your ID band, and a few other questions.  As she reaches the end of her checklist, I reappear, but with a surgical mask over my nose and mouth.

 “Any questions before we go inside?”

 You shake your head no.

 “Walking or riding?”

 “I’ll walk”

 The circulating nurse and I help you stand up and wrap the blanket around you.  She puts her surgical mask on and we guide you into the surgical suite and into the second room on the right.

 As you walk in, you see the table in the middle of the room, a couple of people at a table in the back of the room, one of whom is already in a sterile gown and gloves, and the anesthesia machine.  We guide you to the table.

 “I just want you to sit on the side of the table.”

 You follow the direction perfectly.  I then untie the top of your gown and open it.  I place the 5 electrodes from the heart monitor onto your back, directly opposite where you would expect them on your chest.

 “Let’s get you to twist and lay back.”

 We help you bring your legs up and then help you bring them up onto the table.  As you start to lay back, you’re just shy of the doughnut.

 “Scoot on up the table for us, until you feel my hand on your shoulder.”

 You do exactly as I ask and after a short scoot, my right hand in on your shoulder.  The circulator covers you with a heavy green sheet as I start to unsnap the sleeves on your gown.  She then places the safety strap over your hips.

 I position your left arm onto the arm board and place a strap over it.  I then attach the LR to the saline well that the pre-op nurse started in your forearm.  You feel the cool fluid entering your vein.  I take a few syringes from the tray on the anesthesia machine and turn to you with them.

 “Just a little something to help with your nerves.”

 You sigh, knowing that your heart is racing a bit – about 100 times a minute.  You then nod at me.  I take the first syringe, which you read the label as “FENTANYL 50mcg/ml”.  I screw it onto your IV and slowly start to inject 2 ml. As I finish the injection, about a minute later, you start to feel the medication helping you to calm down a little. You look a bit more relaxed, too. And your heart rate comes down into the 80s.

 I then turn my attention to getting the rest of the monitors on you.  I take the blood pressure cuff and place it on your right upper arm, then strap your arm to the arm board.  The cuff starts to inflate and get tight.  I then place the oximeter onto your right ear lobe and as soon as I do, the monitor starts to beep with each beat of your heart.

 “Ready to breathe a little oxygen?”

 As you nod, you hear me don a pair of gloves then take the black mask and attach it to the breathing circuit. I turn to the machine and dial the oxygen to 10.  You feel my gloved left hand under your chin, bringing it back just a little.  Then the mask comes into view and gets closer to your face.  As it touches the bridge of your nose, I smile under my mask.

 “Nice big breaths. That’s it.”

 I encircle your nose and mouth with the mask and hold it in place firmly, but gently.  As you breathe, the bag on the machine deflates with each rise of your chest and inflates with each fall of your chest.  After a minute or so, I bring the tails of the mask harness up and strap the mask to your face.

 I then take the second syringe which you read as “REGLAN 5mg/ml” and I screw it onto your IV and start to inject it into your IV fluid.  It takes me a couple of minutes to inject it.  You start to feel a bit drowsier.  As I finish it, the blood pressure cuff inflates again.

 I look back at the monitor and you seem to be a bit more relaxed.  Your heart rate is in the mid-70s, blood pressure looks great, and you look more relaxed than you did when I gave you the fentanyl.

 “Time for a little gas to help you relax a little more.  Keep with the nice deep breaths.”

 I turn back to the anesthesia machine and lower the oxygen to 5 and turn the nitrous to 5.  It takes a breath or two, but you start to smell the sweetness of the nitrous on top of the rubber of the mask.  You start to feel a little tingling at the ends of your fingers and toes.  With each breath, the tingling becomes more intense and travels up into your hands and feet.  And, your nose and face start to tingle too.  I’ve turned to the anesthesia machine and turned the nitrous to 7 and the oxygen to 3.

 “You’re doing really great, and it’s time to go odd to sleep.”  I rub your right shoulder.

 I reach back to the vaporizer and turn the sevoflurane to 4.  After a breath, you start to smell the lemony-chemical smell on top of the sweet rubber of the mask.  I let you take a few breaths, then turn the vaporizer up to 8.

 “Off to sleep now. Nice big breaths.”

 With your next breath, you seem to feel like you’re sinking into the table.  Even the ambient noises, like the instruments clanking together, seems to be further away.  You take another breath and that big light fixture above you looks like it’s moving a little.  Your eyelids get really, really heavy.  And with the next breath, your eyelids close.

 “See you in the recovery room.”

[meganwiththeknees]

Distant

Chapter 10

Summary:

Final flashback!

-FLASHBACK CONTINUATION-

Suddenly you wake up with what feels to be like a heavy object being moved off of you. You open your eyes and look straight up into the sky, only to notice ash raining from the sky. The next thing you register is a blob of green looking right over you. It takes you a second to realize that the so-called 'blob' is Midoriya, and his lips are moving.

“-Can you hear me? Do you think you can walk?”

You sit up while holding your head.

“Hey, take it easy- don’t try to get up so fast. Do you think you’ll be able to walk, or do I need to carry you?”

“Ah, my head really hurts, but I think I can walk,” You grunt out as you grab hold of Midoriya’s hand, and you stumble a little as you stand.

As you stand, you begin to take in your surroundings, and the place looks a mess. There’s rubble everywhere- lots of smoke and ash to top it off. The two of you begin to walk, and you have to step over a tremendous amount of wire, broken poles, and glass.

“Your stomach's bleeding!” You reach down to Midoriya’s abdomen to put pressure on the spot where blood seems to be collecting.

“No, it’s okay. I already checked it- there’s a cut, but it’s not very deep,” Midoriya reassures you.

The two of you continue to walk over to the first-aid area, but you don’t feel right after a minute. It’s almost like you forgot something, and your head starts to hurt as you try to recall what it is.

“Hey, I think I need to take a seat real quick before we keep moving,” You hold your head as you start to feel light-headed.

“Okay, you can sit right here,” Midoriya turns and pushes some rocks out the way for you to take a seat. As he turns back around to you, he sees you fumble and almost hit the ground before he catches you.

The last thing you hear is the sound of your name being called out before everything goes dark.

-

You open your eyes, for the second time it seems, to a white ceiling with very bright light, along with the sound of beeping. As you regain your senses, you feel something attached to your left arm and something on your finger. You run your fingers over your right arm to what feels like mini tubes attached to your arm and what feels like a mini block on your finger.

It took you a minute until you finally recognized that you were hooked up to an IV and a heart monitor on your finger, hence the beeping you were hearing. You slowly shift to sit up and realize that you’re in the hospital. You look to the right side of your bed when you hear what sounds like light snoring. As you look over you're met with the sight of a sleeping Midoriya. He’s sleeping in a chair right beside the hospital bed while sitting in a rather uncomfortable looking hunched over position. You can see that his mouth is open, causing him to snore, and there is the tiniest bit of drool forming on the side of his mouth.

As you continue to look at Midoriya, you notice something over his eyebrow...but it's slightly covered by the curly bangs on his head. You reach to push the hair out the way to take a closer look. You examine the area on his head and notice that there are about four stitches right above his eyebrow. As you look at his face, you don’t know how you never realized how many freckles lined his face. You couldn't recall how long you sat there and looked at his face until you suddenly felt self-conscious for staring so long when his eye opened slowly.

“Oh- I didn’t mean to wake you,” You say as you retract your hand, “I’m sorry. I just saw the stitches on your eyebrow and wanted to have a look.”

“It’s okay. I’m just really happy to see you’re finally up,” Midoriya smiles, looking down at the hand you pulled away.

“What do you mean ‘finally up?’ How long have I been out for?” You place a hand to your head as you look at the clock on the tiny desk beside him, completely baffled.

“You’ve been out for three days now. You’ve had everyone worried. Your parents even flew down here to see what the problem was.”

“Wait- my parents are down here? Since when? Do you know where they’re at right now?”

“Uh, when I came to check up on you yesterday, they were here. I’m not exactly sure where they are right now, but they were here before I fell asleep last night,” Midoriya explains.

“You’ve been here all night? What about school?”

“Well, we’re still downtown close to Endeavor’s agency,” Midoriya adjusts himself in the chair, slightly cringing at the neck pain from the way he’s been sleeping.

“The day when everything happened, and I carried you to first-aid, they patched up most of the wounds you had, but you wouldn’t wake up, so you were rushed to the hospital. Even though work-studies are over now, Endeavor let me stay with you since I had to go to the hospital as well to get stitches. Endeavor’s assistant set up a room for me in a nearby hotel. Last night was the only time I stayed here overnight,” Midoriya explains the whole situation.

“So Kisa and her son-” You feel tears in your eyes before you hear someone walk into the room. You look up to see your parents walking in carrying takeout.

“Go get the nurse,” Your mom stammers as she nudges your father. Your father looks up, makes eye contact with you, and sets the food down on the table. He walks over to you, engulfs you in a gentle hug before turning around and leaving the room to get the nurse.

Your mother walks up to you and caresses your face with both of her hands. She pulls your face forward and presses a kiss on your cheek, then proceeds to pull you into a hug.

“We haven’t seen you in almost half a year, and then we hear that you’re in the hospital. Your gonna give your poor mother a heart attack, baby,” Her voice cracks a bit, still hugging you up.

You didn’t notice the nurse waking in the room until she started talking. “It’s so nice to see that your up. How are you feeling?”

“Ah, I feel fine. Nothing hurts or anything,” You reply.

“That’s good to hear. We’re gonna run a few tests and scans to make sure that everything’s good with you. If everything checks out, then you’ll be all set to go.”

The nurse helps you out of the room, and you run all the tests, passing each flawlessly. You are guided back to your hospital room when you see your parents, along with Midoriya eating the takeout they brought.

“She checks out on everything, so she should be good to go pretty soon. All I need to do is get her discharge papers and some clothes- since the ones she came in were ruined. So, I’ll be back with the papers and clothes shortly,” The nurse leaves the room with a smile.

"Are you sure you're okay, sweetie?" Your mom passes you your part of the takeout.

"Yes, I'm fine," Physically, at least. You still had a slight headache, but you wouldn't tell your worrisome mother that.

You find out that your parents were informed of the full situation, apart from why you were still in the building in the first place. As far as you know, they think you just didn’t make it out of the building in time. You didn’t tell them the real reason behind the unfortunate incident. You didn’t want to give them another reason to worry about you.

Alas, you had been discharged from the hospital. Midoriya went back to UA, and you stayed with your parents before they left in five days. Each day you had to try and conceal tears when they were around you. You managed to go the whole five days without them finding out everything, but you didn't realize how your suppressed feelings were piling up day by day. Your parents left on the fifth day, thinking that you were okay. In reality, you were far from it.

When you got back to UA you weren’t sure how you were supposed to carry on. You didn’t feel like you could actually continue on. You had been holding it together for the most part of the whole week, but it was painfully obvious to about everyone that you were anything but fine. You barely spoke a word to Denki and Mina anymore, and you seemed to only hang around Midoriya like a lost puppy- not seeming to want to be away from him. At some point, you stopped sitting at the lunch table with Mina, Denki, Bakugou, and Sero to eat lunch with Midoriya.

Whenever Denki or Mina came up and asked why you were acting so strange, you always told them that you would talk to them later or change the subject. You were keeping everything bottled up, and it felt like it could pour out any minute.

One day during training at ground beta, the class was doing an exercise where you were split into teams and had to retrieve items around the broken building before time was up. You thought you could go through with the training, but you were wrong. Once you stepped foot into the broken-down building, it brought back many horrifying memories, and you started to have a panic attack.

You were hyperventilating, and everything was starting to get spotty. The next thing you register is hands engulfing you and someone telling you to breathe. Once you calm down a little, you realize that you are being picked up and rushed somewhere.

When you come to it again, you realize that you’re being placed down on a bed. You look up and see Midoriya placing covers on you. He then walks over to the other side of the room, grabs a chair, and slides it over to the side of the bed. He sits in it then looks at you.

“Are you feeling any better now?” Midoriya looks at you as your eyes fill with tears.

“I’m not okay. I...I don’t think I can do this anymore. I’m not cut out to be a hero. I knew what I would be getting into when I signed up for this, and I knew people would get hurt cause I can’t save everyone but- I just can’t do this anymore,” The tears you've been trying to push down for weeks now finally made an appearance.

“I think I understand,” Midoriya sighs as he brings his hands to rub small circles over your back.

“Did you see her Midoriya? Did you see Kisa?” A part of you just wants Midoriya to say Kisa was fine, happy with her son.

“Only for a brief second, but I don’t think I fully comprehended that I saw her at the time. I was too focused on trying to get you out of that building,” Midoriya admits.

“She was already dead by the time you got up there. She had no pulse Midoriya. She was gone,” You whisper softly, looking down at the tear-stained covers.

“Hey, look at me,” Midoriya asks, and you do so. “I think you need to talk to someone about all of this. Like a therapist to talk about all of the things you're feeling.”

“Yeah...yeah, I think so too,” You agree as you nod your head and wipe the rest of your tears away.

—

In the following weeks, you had attended therapy at the expense of Endeavor’s finest agency. You had assumed that they paid for it because they pitied you. Nonetheless, you were honestly thankful, considering you didn’t want to ask your parents and explain why you needed it in the first place. Your sessions had been going reasonably well, and your therapist was very understanding. It took you nearly a month before you felt like you could be fully vulnerable with her. Your therapist was very patient with you and understanding; she never pushed for you to share anything if you didn’t want to.

During the month, you had stopped participating in training with the class. You would observe and analyze from the sidelines and give everyone pointers at the end. You still worked out with the class during workout sessions, but that was as active as you got. You still hadn’t opened up about the tragic situation to any of your classmates. Some days were harder than others; you could go a week with being somewhat okay, then the next you were not.

Another month had passed, and therapy was really starting to help you make it through your days- until one night, you had another nightmare. You knew it meant it was gonna be another one of 'those' days. You had practically dragged yourself through the day until night rolled around, and you felt like you needed some fresh air.

You heard on the news there was a high chance of snow sometime tonight. Snow would surely brighten your mood on this sluggish day, so you were hoping for your sake it snowed tonight rather than later tomorrow. You grabbed a random hoodie and some sweatpants putting them on over what you already had on. Alas, you headed for the door.

You had been outside for a little less than fifteen minutes when it started to snow. The snow started to collect on the ground and looked beautiful. The snow-covered branches and the icicles that hung along the UA rooftop reminded you of your love for the snow.

You had tilted your head up to the sky and closed your eyes, sticking your tongue out to taste a couple of snowflakes. You chuckled as you felt a cold sensation lie on your face. As you opened your eyes and looked into the sky, you were immediately reminded of the ash falling from the sky that day. You tried your best to push those thoughts out of your head because you didn’t want to ruin the experience of snow for yourself.

“What are you doing out here?! It’s fr-freezing- hold on I’ll be right back!” You turn around to see a bundled-up Midoriya rushing back into the dorms.

As fast as he left, he was right back. Along with him was a blanket and what appeared to be a hat. He draped the blanket over your shoulders and pulled the so-called hat over your head, covering your ears. You thought he was done until he reached over your shoulder and pulled the hood from your hoodie over your head, pulling the strings to tighten it.

“Are you trying to get hypothermia or something? Why are you out here? It’s freezing!” Midoriya grabs your hand and tries to warm them between his large ones.

“Well, I heard it was gonna snow...I just wanted to see if it would come down tonight," you find yourself staring at his attempt to warm up your hands, and you feel your cheeks slightly warm. "And I’m not really that cold, I have on clothes under this, so that helped a little,” He seems to notice you looking down at his hands and pulls them away quickly. His already red cheeks seem to go a shade darker.

“Oh, I’m sorry. When Momo told me she saw you walk out here a while ago, I overreacted, and I assumed the worst,” Midoriya stammers.

“It’s okay. At this point, I bet you can only assume the worst with me. I mean, I’ve put you through so much you're probably going to need therapy just from dealing with me all the time. Hell, I practically cling to you like a koala, it must get annoying. If anything I should be the one saying sorry to you,” You ramble letting out an awkward chuckle.

“No, don’t say that. I understand that you’ve been through a lot- it’s only natural to feel the way you do! I never judged you for any of your actions," Midoriya smiles. "If anything, I’m happy that you feel comfortable enough to lean on me for support,” he tries to reassure you.

“Well, it’s good to hear I’m not scaring you off. I think it’s time to head in...the snow is starting to really come down, and I want some hot tea.”

“Okay, that sounds good to me. But I feel like I can’t take you seriously in that All Might hoodie especially since you have the hood on,” Midoriya laughs as he points at the odd-shaped things that are supposed to represent All Might’s hair.

“Well, you’re the one that put it on my head. And how are you gonna make fun of the hoodie you got me?” You huff as you push Midoriya’s hand down so he can stop pointing at you.

“What? I think it looks good on you. I got it for you cause I knew you could pull it off.”

You don’t say anything to Midoriya as you proceed to drag him back inside so the two of you can make some hot tea. You end up forcing Midoriya to make the tea for the both of you since he made fun of you wearing the hoodie.

—

Three months had gone by, and spring was rolling around. Your therapy sessions continued, and you finally felt like you were in a good enough place to open up about the whole situation.

You finally came clean to your parents about everything. They were a bit unsettled by the news but were relieved knowing that you were doing much better. You still left out the fact that you didn’t want to be a hero anymore since you didn’t want your parents to be disappointed in you. You felt like you already put them through so much to move to Japan that it was just better for them not to know.

You had decided to tell Denki and Mina why you had been so distant lately. You had planned to have a talk with them at the same time, but Denki had claimed he was busy. You had finally sat down with Mina and explained your whole situation. She was so shocked to hear about what you had gone through. She even shed a couple of tears, and so did you, but she was there to comfort you. You were happy to finally have someone close to you other than Midoriya give you comfort about the whole situation.

You still hadn’t talked to Denki yet. Every time you wanted to talk to him, he seemed to be doing something. Part of you felt like he was trying to avoid you, but you figured you were just overthinking things. After about a week of trying to talk to him, you finally cornered him when you were pretty sure he was doing nothing.

“Denki, you're free right now, right?” You question Denki as he’s sitting in the dorm living room watching TV with a couple of others.

“Well, I was about to-”

“No more excuses. You’ve blown me off all this week saying you, 'have to do something.' I know you’re not doing anything cause I saw when you got back from training, and I know you finished your homework with Backugo and Kirishima earlier,” You eye Denki.

“So, stop trying to avoid me. I would just like about five minutes of your time, then you can go back to avoiding me like earlier,” You say as you grab Denki by the arm and drag him up to your room.

“Okay, okay, I’m sorry,” Denki sighs as the two of you finally arrive in your room, and he takes a seat. “So, what did you want to talk about?”

You explain your situation to Denki, and you can see a hint of guilt on his face. You assume he feels bad for avoiding you for so long since you were just trying to open up to him. You had finished telling Denki everything, and he offered you a hug and some comforting words. You were proud of yourself for not shedding tears while sharing your story this time. You thought of it as a sign of improvement.

“Anyway, enough about me. I can only stay on this subject for so long,” You say, grabbing Denki’s attention again. “Why have you been avoiding me?”

“I wasn’t exactly trying to. I was...um,” Denki scratches his head, almost as if he was trying to remember why he was avoiding you, “Well...I was just giving you your space. I thought you were trying to do your own thing, so I was just stepping back and giving you some room.” Denki says with a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

“I honestly have no words for you, Denki. I really wonder what truly goes on in that head of yours sometimes. Anyway, now that you know I’m not doing my, 'own thing' will you stop avoiding me?”

“I mean, whatever floats your boat, I guess.” Denki sighs as he gets up and heads for the door.

“Wait- where are you going? I thought you would stay, and maybe we could watch a movie or something,” You say as you hear a light knock on the door and get up from your bed. You crack the door open slightly to see a beaming Midoriya.

“Hey! I just came by to check on you. Um, is it okay if I come in for a bit?” Midoriya tilts his head, peeking into your room.

“Um, well, I actually-” You feel a hand on your shoulder.

“It’s okay. I was just about to leave,” Denki says while looking between you and Midoriya as he tries to get you to open the door slightly so he can slide out.

“But, what about the movie?” You frown as you step back from the door.

“It’s getting late, and I’m tired, but I bet Midoriya over here would love to watch that movie with you. Wouldn’t you, Midoriya?” Denki suggests as he makes his way out the door.

“Well, I mean I wouldn’t mind watching a movie. I mean- if that’s okay with you- of course,” Midoriya stammers, glancing at you. His face goes slightly red.

“Well, that’s great! Don’t let me stop you two from enjoying that movie now. Have a good night, you two,” Denki says as he finally walks away.

“Um, Night,” Midoriya calls out as Denki disappears down the hallway. You stand in your doorway, very confused about what just happened.

From the days following, you and Denki had barely exchanged words. You would occasionally catch him glancing at you, but it was nothing more than that. You thought you had resolved whatever was going on between the two of you, but it seems like things were worse.

The time had come for you to leave for the summer, and you and Denki still barely even greeted each other. You didn’t even bother to tell him that you were leaving as you headed off to the airport after telling Mina and Midoriya goodbye.

By the time your summer ended, you hadn’t gotten one call or text from Denki. You didn’t try to reach out to him either since you figured he wouldn’t respond. When your third year started, you were surprised to see that Denki was perfectly fine and acting normal for the most part. Other than the simple fact that he no longer talked to you.

You had never been so confused in your life. You tried your hardest to figure out what the problem was. Was it you? Were you the problem? The stress was starting to fester inside of you, and you could no longer take it. So, you stopped. Stopped with all the overthinking and questioning. You realized you couldn't turn your life upside down over one person. You had bigger things to worry about, like graduating and figuring out life after school.

The year progressed, and you focused on school and tried to look into college and scholarships, all while staying in therapy. Your therapist really helped you through the ups and downs of the year. If it weren’t for her, you don’t think you would have made it this far.

With school nearly over, everyone was busy looking for agencies to work at after graduation. You had already decided on a college to go to, so you watched as everyone went through the motions.

Mina had found a place to work rather early, so she had nothing better to do than bother you on how you could come to visit her when she started work. Midoriya had been stressed out of his mind because he couldn’t decide where to go considering he had many amazing offers. So he spent most of his last days in school figuring things out.

Graduation day had been bittersweet. Your parents had flown in to see you and everyone off. Everyone was crying and remembering the amazing times they had throughout the years.

"You better come visit me girl, every Friday!" Mina shakes your shoulders.

"Mina, I don't even know what my schedule is like," You sigh as you just let Mina fantasize about what you two were possibly going to do on that Friday.

You didn't realize she stopped talking until she poked your cheek.

"Gotta run! You should turn around by the way," Mina giggles as she skips out to her other friends.

"What? Turn around..."

You were surprised to see Midoriya had walked over to you offering you a big bouquet of flowers. They were a bundle of beautiful red and white blossoms.

"I, um, just wanted to thank you for leaning on me when you needed it." Midoriya stares at the ground, his face redder than the flowers, "I know it must have been really hard getting through the rest of the year, so I just wanted you to know that I'm proud of you." He looks back up at you with a radiant smile.

"But, uh, I actually put some thought in when choosing the flowers! At first, I was going to choose your favorite color, but I thought the choice of flower should have more meaning so I did a little research. The flowers I got you are called Amaryllis, which mean-"

Midoriya almost drops the whole bouquet when you embrace him in a hug that you needed for a while now.

“Thank you Izuku, they’re beautiful.” You sigh as you squeeze him extra tight before pulling away from him. As you finally move to look at him once again you see that he is beet red.

“You- you said my first name,” Izuku stammers, not meeting your gaze.

“Well it’s about time, and besides you always say mine, so we’re even now.” You smile as you take the flowers from Izuku’s iron grip. You think you might have broken him because he hasn’t moved since you hugged him.

You thank him once again for the flowers insisting you should be the one thanking him for all he had done for you. Before you could fully walk away you see him bowing at a perfect 90-degree angle muttering something under his breath. You cover your mouth with your hand to not make it seem like you are laughing at him. You lower your hand over his shoulder to get him to ease up. He finally looks at you before he hurries off somewhere else. Somehow Mina managed to witness the whole scene and insisted that the flowers were a secret confession of love.

As you finish wishing all your classmates well, you head for the bag you had left in class before leaving. When you arrived in the classroom, you were surprised to see Denki sitting down in his old seat. You figured he wouldn’t want to spark any conversation, so you decided to just grab your bag then go. As you were about to leave the room, you heard Denki mumble something.

“I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry, did you say something?” You turn around slowly.

“I said, I’m sorry,” Denki repeats.

“Yeah, I heard you the first time, just wanted to make you say it again,” You smile slowly.

“I guess I deserve that.”

“You think?” You say sarcastically.

You two silently look at each other until you finally decide to break it.

“But why? What was the reason?”

“Figured since I was headed off to an agency and you were headed off to college it would be good practice to, you know, give each other some space,” Denki shrugs his shoulders as if nothing mattered.

“You're lying,” You deadpan. “Cause that’s basically the same excuse you gave me last time, and I thought we sorted that out.”

“I don’t know what you mean. Considering we’re taking different paths now, I thought this could be good for us, but I was clearly wrong,” Denki retorts.

“Yeah, you were wrong as hell. You were just gonna assume I wanted the same thing too? Well, I didn’t, and I still don’t.”

“That’s why I said I was wrong cause this is hard.”

“What’s hard?” You find yourself getting frustrated. It's as if he's trying to keep something from you.

“It seems to be everything lately, but especially staying away from you,” Denki states, breaking eye contact.

“Then stop. No one asked you to in the first place. I certainly didn’t.”

“It’s not that easy,” Denki sighs.

“Sure it is. Look, we're literally doing it right now. It’s not that hard. So, stop all this sulking and just go back to being the Denki I know.”

“Okay, whatever you say, boss lady,” Denki sighs, putting his hands up in defense.

For the next ten minutes or so, you and Denki spend time catching up over almost 8 months worth of information. You find out what agency he’s going to, and you tell him what college you plan on attending. The moment was almost as if nothing changed between the two of you. It was surprising to see how fast the two of you could go back to normal.

“I’ve been eyeing those flowers you’ve been holding for a minute, they’re really pretty. Let me guess your parents got them for you?” Denki asks as he gets up out of his seat.

“Right, they're gorgeous. I thought the same thing when I got them, but actually, no, my parents didn’t get them for me, Izuku did,” You say, smiling down at the flowers.

“Oh- did he now? That’s very thoughtful of him.” You didn’t notice the way Denki narrowed his eyes at the flowers.

“Yeah,” You sigh happily.

You look up to see Denki staring directly into your eyes. You could see him searching your face until he finally lands on your lips.

“Stop staring- it’s weird,” You chuckle as you look back at him.

Those words seem to snap him out of whatever trance he was in because he suddenly backs up a little. Without saying a word, he lifts his hands to take your bag out of your hand, and you let him. He places it on the desk right beside you two. Next, he proceeds to slowly take the flowers out of your hand and place them on the same desk, and you willingly let him.

He places a hand on your cheek and caresses it while looking directly at you. You stare up at him confused, but somehow almost stuck in place, unable to move. He begins to inch closer and closer until the two of your lips meet. The kiss was gentle and sweet but somehow filled with numerous different emotions. The emotion you could make out the most was sadness until the kiss was broken when Denki moved back and removed his hand from your face.

You were at a loss for words. That was your first ever kiss, and it was given to you by your best friend of all people. You stood still unmoving until Denki placed both your bag and the flowers back into your hands and walked towards the door.

“Make sure to keep in touch, okay?” Denki gives you a sad smile as he exits the room and closes the door behind him.

You didn’t say a word as he walked out, only stood there. It wasn’t until you realized that you had dropped your bag and the flowers on the ground. You drop to your knees, uttering five words.

“What the hell just happened?”

—-------

You wished you could have stayed true to Denki’s word and stayed in touch. You tried time and time again, but you could only do so much. You truly wondered what could have been going through his head the day he decided to change the two of your lives forever.

extra notes:

probably should be doing homework rn but i hope you enjoy this one :)

[yourgamemasterthewhiterabbit]

I can't even check my blood pressure at home right now because cheap batteries from rexall ate through my blood pressure monitor that I have had for over 10 years...

So I have to estimate how fast my kidney's are actually processing things by how much I am peeing VS how high my blood pressure -feels-...

But actually the decrease in POTS symptoms over the past couple years, the getting gout every time I try taking a vitamin and even all the bone pain could all be from some level of kidney failure.

Which would make sense considering at some point during early post covid my complain to my doctor was that I hadn't peed in a week, hadn't pooped in two, and it felt like pressure was just building up in my abdomen.

My doctor and the hospital ignored that complaint until I slowly got better on my own... And didn't bother doing tests until the symptoms had already mostly lifted. Again.

But it may very well be my kidneys, and all the things I have been doing to help my liver and energy levels like having extra phosphorus, animals fats and proteins... Might all be very very bad for your kidneys.

So I am putting myself on a kidney failure diet, at least until the gout and bone pain go away, and monitoring for other symptoms [I mean I may still have occasional steak I kind of need the iron], but like... Without someone running tests I can't actually know how bad the problem is, but going to a walk in clinic about it and trying to convince them to run the tests I -actually- need run sounds a lot like adding errands to run when I don't even have the energy to go finish my groceries, for zero actual pay-off.

Regardless, know that I am on top of it and paying close attention anyway, since I am sure I will cause someone great concern by coming on here and being like "my bones won't stop hurting now"... Because my bones won't stop hurting now. I think high serum phosphorus levels might be fucking with the calcium in my bones again. I think everything is feeling like it's trying to break my forearms because the bones are actually fucked up right now.

Now I just have to balance doing what I need to do to support my liver with what I need to do not to tax my kidneys and honestly the answer might be to let myself get a bit jaundiced and prioritize my kidneys for a bit, the added anti-oxidant effect of bilirubin won't hurt my kidneys, it'll probably actually help protect them from damage.

So now the only animal fats I am going to eat for a while are from cream. The fats might not be great for my kidneys but I need the calcium and iodine and I don't want my liver going fully to shit... But I -do- need to buy more honey so I am not tempted to switch to refined sugar T~T which I don't normally eat much of at all. Going to try to get iodine from foods and not by having more salt. Going to -in fact- keep forgetting to salt my food like I have been lately.

Gee it would be so cool if I could just submit some blood tests for approval and my reasons for it and have a practitioner of some kind who's job it is to be like "sounds legit" and have a lab do them and send me the results. Free health care shouldn't mean needing someone's permission to know what's going on inside my body. Tell me what my serum phosphorus levels are, and also I want to be checked for chronic hepatitis still, and also while we're at it can we check my thyroid levels and my ana right now too? There has to be a way to get set up to test some of these things at home, right?

[lunalillyhbhb]

Lea's home

Chapter 6 pt.1

The top floor of Lea's house is occupied by a private gym. It's equipped with everything from treadmills, rowing machines and cycles to weights, bars and dumbbells. It also has a 10 m long pool. It is a pretty nice gym. While I'm not exactly allowed to use it freely as I see fit, I'm not too bothered about it as the owners rarely use the gym facilities. And being on the top floor (a lot of stairs), it's as good as deserted. Almost like it's MY personal gym. Now and then when college ends early, I rush to Lea's house to use the gym quickly before my shift starts.

The only issue is Khushi, the appointed trainer of this residence. Khushi is a muscular woman, with defined facial features and beautiful brown eyes, a straight pierced nose and plump lips. Her long black hair is usually braided and drapes her back like silk on a sculpture. Her flawless brown skin define her lean muscles so prettily, she would make a perfect anatomy model. A long time outdoor and mountain marathon running enthusiast, she has a lean build with long arms and long legs, as well as perfectly sculpted D cup breasts.

Being a trainer, she specializes in all things sports and exercise, and frequently monitors the vitals of the family to keep track of things like body weight, fat percentage, muscle weight, loss/gains.... and most importantly: heart beat and blood pressure.

I just know she must be an excellent candidate to be hooked up.... heart being listened to.... the way she places her hand on her chest when she stands watch... the way it subtly bounces... but I haven't dwelt on it. I rarely use the gym and when I do, I have to make sure Khushi isn't there to rat me out to the owners. As such, I avoid her and rarely interact with her.

What a pity.

Today happens to be one such day, classes ended early and I have 2 hours till my shift starts. I decide to make the best of it and rush over to Lea's place. As the maid I have access to the house schedule. I notice that the gym is due for a cleanup, and there's no classes scheduled. Perfect. I could bring my maid uniform and in-case someone comes in, I could quickly change into my maid uniform and get to work. Simple.

I race up the stairs, open the glass doors to the gym and slip inside. Once in, I spot my favourite cardio activity: the treadmill. I quickly wear my shoes, tie my hair into a messy bun, turn on the machine, and start.

5 mins go bye and my heart has settled on a steady 140 bpm, going strong. I decide to jog for 15 mins as warm up, and hit my biceps today. Suddenly I hear a tussle from the staircase. My body immediately goes into panic mode as I swiftly turn off the machine and run to the changing room. Once inside, I hear footsteps, and quickly attempt to remove my crop top. In my panic I fail to notice the footsteps nearing the changing room. As I slip out of my tights the door barges open. I freeze, heart thudding in my throat. Khushi is staring at me, in my deep cut sports bra and tights halfway removed. She smirks.

"My little kitten, what were you doing in here? Changing clothes?"

She speaks in a sensual yet pleasing tone, capable of pulling everyone's attention to herself. Her loose tank top over black cycle shorts accentuates her curves and muscles even more, she looks incredibly sexy.

"H-hey Khushi, how come you're in today? I am scheduled to clean the gym so I was just changing into my uniform here...."

I pray she buys it.

She doesn't.

"The treadmill was slowing down when i entered, you have anything to do with that? Seeing how we're the only people here... and I definitely didn't use it...."

She knows. Why is she doing this to me? Why's she so strict? Just let me go!

"I'm really sorry Khushi, please don't tell the owners!"

My heart stammers as I scramble to look for an excuse.

"But you know I must my little kitten! The other workers are not allowed to use the equipment without permission and you know this!" she says this in a calm berating voice, as she traces her manicured fingernails across my cheek and down my neck. Her finger subtly rests on my carotid pulse, and I can feel it pushing against her finger with such force, and I know she's feeling it.

Her finger lingers there for a moment longer. I can see her beautiful eyes calculating her next words, and suddenly it lights up. Oh no.

"Ok. I'll help you, I'll keep it a secret......under one condition."

There it is. I'm going to agree to it no matter what, else I loose this haven of a job.

"Yes, anything, tell me what I can do!"

Her whole demeaner changes in a split second, and she's back to her upbeat bubbly self. "You can help me out with my sports medicine thesis! Just follow my instructions to the tee and I'll keep your secret between us.... hell, I'll let you use the gym facilities without getting caught! How's that of a deal, sweet right?"

I want to say yes immediately, so badly, but I know there's a catch. There's something she's not explaining fully. Otherwise, this would be too good to be true.

I sigh resignedly. "Umm..... Ok. Let's do this. What do you need help with?"

She perks up, eyes shining with mischief. "I need to record the cardiovascular changes of the heart before, during and after exercise. This exercise includes and cardio and weight training. Of course, I'll be doing the grunt work and hooked up on monitors, I just need you to tell me how it's beating, the blood pressure, and help me record it properly. I might need to record yours here and there, for baseline if you don't mind."

Yes. YES. This is what I wanted. I've wanted to do this. I've waited for an opportunity like this, and I can't let it slip by.

"YES!" I blurt out, sounding a little too eager for my liking. She smirks in response.

"You can remove your tights, don't change into anything new, It makes movement easier for you."

I got a little shy, but i am in no position to make demands. I see her removing her own shirt and cycle shorts, her sculpted breasts snugly sit in a sports bra with a matching set underwear. I can't believe I get to see all this. My eyes drink in her entirety, memorizing everything about her curves, her hips, the way she walks, everything.

She opens her bag and grabs two sets of steths, attaches one firmly to her mitral valve. She makes her way to me and without asking for permission, she palpates my left breast, moving them around as she sees fit. Finally she settles for my mitral valve as well, and securely attaches the steth. My heart is beating fast, fluttering lightly. I know she felt it. I try not looking at her breasts, try not to locate for any visible palpitation. The steths are connected to a recording device, monitoring both our heart rates. The right arm is connected to a blood pressure cuff, continuously relaying the rise and fall.

Both these devices are also connected to her laptop. Finally after finishing her setup, she looks at me, a sense of hunger in her eyes.

"Watch me closely, please. Keep an eye for my heart." She says, steadily getting on the treadmill and starting her run.

The machine whizzes to life, and she starts stretching her limbs and her eyes sharpen, like a wild cat ready to pounce on its poor prey. I begin recording, keeping an eye out for the changes along the way. Initially her pump starts with a steady 90 bmp with the usual 120/80, breathing steady and deep. Slowly she increases the speed and 10 mins in, she is going fast, almost sprinting. Her heart is pumping amazingly at 190 bpm, with an astonishing 195/110. I envision her arteries working hard, trying to accomodate the mucle forcing blood at such high pressures through them. Khushi is so focused that she remains quiet staring straight ahead. I so badly want to listen to the sound of her organ, but I don't want to do anything that could potentially upset her, lest she revokes her offer.

She stops after 15 mins total, breathing heavily and fast. With her hands clutching her chest and eyes closed, she looks slightly worried. She suddenly looks at me, steps off the treadmill and closes the distance. With a shine in her eyes she grabs my hand and forcefully places it over her sternum. Her sports bra, soaking in sweat, does little to muffle the powerful pump, and I instantly close my eyes as I feel her thump away at 190 bpm, shaking my hand. Her body covered in sweat and her ragged breathing makes it hard for my hand to stay in position but that hardly affects the way her heart pumps forcefully, so beautifully, pushing her chest away from me. Khushi's heart is amazing. My other hand reaches for the headphones which are connected to the steth but she bats my hand away, her lips puckered like she's annoyed. I feel her recovery beats and watch her slowly gain back her breath.

I am completely entranced. My mind starts stripping her and I envision pushing my fingers inside her where I know I can torture her little heart a bit further, pushing it to its boundaries. I wonder what kind of face she'd make.

"Next is the pool!" she quips in her cheerful voice, pulling me out of my trance. She motions for me to bring the setup to the indoor pool and I set it up in the corner, free from potential splashes. I wonder how her heart will react this time. I am desperate to be a part of her, and my mind is filled with unspeakable thoughts. I can't wait for this pool session.

[jeraldnepoleon]

Top 10 Electronic Health Records Apps Efficient Data Management | Grapes IDMR

In today’s fast-paced healthcare landscape, efficient data management is vital for enhancing patient care, reducing errors, and ensuring seamless workflows. Electronic Health Records (EHR) software is key to achieving these goals by centralizing and digitizing medical records. Grapes IDMR is committed to helping healthcare providers identify the best EHR solutions, and we've curated a list of the top 10 EHR apps that can transform medical data management in any healthcare facility.

Let’s dive into one of the top picks:

1. Doctor-G App Specifications

Teleconsultation: Doctor-G revolutionizes patient care by offering seamless teleconsultation features, allowing healthcare providers to conduct virtual appointments with patients from anywhere. This not only enhances accessibility for patients but also ensures that doctors can provide timely medical advice without the need for in-person visits.

Online Prescription: Doctor-G’s online prescription functionality allows doctors to easily generate and send prescriptions directly to patients or their preferred pharmacies. This feature minimizes the risk of prescription errors, streamlines the medication dispensing process, and enhances the overall patient experience by making it more convenient to receive necessary medications.

History View: Doctor-G provides a comprehensive history view that allows healthcare professionals to access and review patients' medical histories effortlessly. This feature ensures that doctors have all the necessary information at their fingertips, facilitating informed decision-making and personalized patient care.

Integrated Features for Enhanced Healthcare Management

Doctor-G stands out with its robust specifications designed to meet the dynamic needs of modern healthcare. The Teleconsultation feature enables doctors to conduct virtual visits, expanding access to care and reducing the need for physical appointments. The Online Prescription system simplifies the process of prescribing medications, ensuring accuracy and convenience for both doctors and patients. Additionally, the History View provides a detailed and easily accessible record of patients’ medical histories, empowering healthcare providers to make informed decisions and deliver personalized care. These integrated features make Doctor-G a comprehensive solution for efficient and effective healthcare management.

2. Grapes BSA-PRO Specifications

Patient Vitals: Grapes BSA-PRO enables healthcare professionals to easily monitor and track patients' vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature. This real-time data helps doctors stay updated on their patient's health status, ensuring timely interventions and better patient care.

Surgery Information: The app provides a dedicated section for storing and managing surgery details, including surgical procedures, dates, and post-operative care instructions. This feature helps doctors and medical staff maintain a clear and organized record of all surgeries for each patient, making follow-up care smoother and more efficient.

Diagnostic Results: Grapes BSA-PRO ensures that diagnostic test results, such as blood tests, X-rays, and MRIs, are easily accessible within the app. This feature allows doctors to view and analyze test outcomes quickly, supporting faster and more accurate diagnoses, and enabling better-informed treatment decisions.

A Comprehensive Solution for Healthcare Providers

Grapes BSA-PRO combines essential features like Patient Vitals, Surgery Information, and Diagnostic Results to offer a well-rounded tool for healthcare professionals. Centralizing critical medical data in one app empowers doctors to provide timely and efficient care, improving the overall patient experience and enhancing healthcare management.

3. Grapes IDMR Specifications

Patient Records: Grapes IDMR provides a comprehensive platform for managing patient records, allowing healthcare professionals to store, access, and update vital patient information easily. From medical history to treatment plans, all data is securely organized in one place, enabling seamless healthcare delivery and personalized care.

Billing: The integrated billing feature in Grapes IDMR simplifies the financial aspect of healthcare management. It automates the billing process, ensuring accuracy in generating invoices and tracking payments. This functionality reduces administrative workload and provides a smoother payment experience for patients and healthcare facilities.

Appointments: Grapes IDMR streamlines appointment scheduling by offering a user-friendly interface for managing patient appointments. Healthcare providers can easily schedule, modify, and track patient visits, ensuring efficient time management and reducing scheduling conflicts.

An All-in-One Solution for Healthcare Management Grapes IDMR combines essential features like Patient Records, Billing, and Appointments to offer a holistic solution for healthcare facilities. By consolidating critical data and processes in one platform, Grapes IDMR enhances operational efficiency, ensuring smoother workflows and improved patient care.

4. My-Grapes Specifications

Easily Book Appointments: My-Grapes simplifies the appointment booking process for both patients and healthcare providers. With a user-friendly interface, patients can easily schedule appointments, while healthcare staff can manage and organize bookings efficiently, ensuring a smooth and streamlined experience.

Generate Bills: The app offers a convenient billing feature that allows healthcare providers to generate accurate and detailed bills with just a few clicks. This reduces the time spent on administrative tasks, ensures billing accuracy, and provides patients with a hassle-free payment process.

Vital Patient Information: My-Grapes securely stores and organizes vital patient information, including medical history, test results, and treatment plans. This ensures that healthcare providers have quick access to critical data, improving patient care and enabling informed medical decisions.

A Simplified Approach to Healthcare Management My-Grapes offers a complete solution with features such as Easily Book Appointments, Generate Bills, and Vital Patient Information. By streamlining these key processes, My-Grapes enhances operational efficiency for healthcare providers while improving the overall patient experience.

5. Grapes MIS Specifications

OP/IP Status Updates: Grapes MIS provides real-time updates on both outpatient (OP) and inpatient (IP) statuses. This feature allows healthcare providers to track patient progress, manage care efficiently, and ensure timely interventions by having up-to-date information on patient activities and conditions.

Live Financial Activity Tracking: The app includes a robust financial tracking system that monitors live financial activity. Healthcare facilities can keep a close watch on revenue streams, expenditures, and overall financial health, facilitating better budget management and financial planning.

Bed Occupancy Status: Grapes MIS offers a comprehensive view of bed occupancy status across the facility. This feature helps in managing hospital resources effectively by providing real-time data on available and occupied beds, aiding in efficient patient placement and resource allocation.

Optimizing Hospital Operations Grapes MIS enhances hospital management with key features like OP/IP Status Updates, Live Financial Activity Tracking, and Bed Occupancy Status. These tools provide healthcare facilities with critical insights and real-time data, supporting better operational decisions and improving overall efficiency.

6. Third Eye Specifications

Hospital Asset Management: Third Eye offers a robust system for managing hospital assets, including medical equipment, supplies, and infrastructure. This feature helps hospitals track and maintain their assets efficiently, ensuring that all equipment is in optimal condition and available when needed.

Essential Equipment and Resources: The app provides comprehensive oversight of essential hospital equipment and resources. By monitoring usage, maintenance schedules, and inventory levels, Third Eye ensures that critical resources are well-managed and readily available for patient care.

Efficient Asset and Resource Management with Third Eye

Third Eye enhances hospital management with features such as Hospital Asset Management and oversight of Essential Equipment and Resources. By offering detailed tracking and management capabilities, Third Eye helps healthcare facilities maintain operational efficiency and ensure that all necessary resources are in place to support quality patient care.

7. Vedha Specifications

Real-Time Inventory Tracking: Vedha offers real-time inventory tracking, providing up-to-date information on stock levels and usage. This feature ensures that healthcare providers can monitor inventory accurately and make informed decisions regarding supply management.

Automated Reordering: With Vedha’s automated reordering system, healthcare facilities can streamline their supply chain management. The app automatically generates purchase orders when stock levels fall below predefined thresholds, ensuring that essential items are always available without manual intervention.

Batch and Expiry Management: Vedha helps manage the lifecycle of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals through batch and expiry management. The app tracks expiration dates and batch numbers, reducing the risk of using expired or incorrect products and enhancing patient safety.

Streamlined Inventory and Supply Management with Vedha: 

Vedha simplifies inventory management with features like Real-Time Inventory Tracking, Automated Reordering, and Batch and Expiry Management. These functionalities work together to optimize supply chain operations, ensuring that healthcare facilities maintain accurate inventory levels, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency.

8. G Call Specifications

Alert Call for Attender and Housekeeping: G Call provides a streamlined alert system for requesting assistance from attendants and housekeeping staff. This feature ensures that help is promptly dispatched when needed, improving the efficiency of hospital operations and enhancing patient care.

Emergency Alert Notifications: The app includes an emergency alert system that sends instant notifications to relevant hospital staff in case of critical situations. This feature facilitates quick response times during emergencies, ensuring that necessary actions are taken swiftly to address urgent medical needs.

Enhancing Hospital Efficiency with G Call

G Call enhances hospital management through features like Alert Call for Attender and Housekeeping and Emergency Alert Notifications. By facilitating prompt communication and quick response to emergencies, G Call ensures that hospital staff can efficiently address patient needs and maintain smooth hospital operations.

9. 360Degree Specifications

Remote Computer Control: 360Degree allows users to control computer systems remotely using their smartphones. This feature provides flexibility and convenience, enabling users to manage computer operations from anywhere, whether they’re on the go or away from their workstation.

Shutdown, Restart, Logoff, Lock: The app offers a range of remote functions including Shutdown, Restart, Logoff, and Lock. These capabilities help users manage their computer systems efficiently, ensuring that operations can be adjusted or secured as needed without physical access to the devices.

Flexible Remote Management with 360Degree

360Degree revolutionizes computer management with features like Remote Computer Control and the ability to shut down, Restart, log off, and Lock systems directly from your smartphone. This functionality provides users with enhanced control and flexibility, making it easier to manage computer operations efficiently and securely from any location.

10. G-office Specifications

Office File Management App: G-office is a comprehensive solution for managing office files, allowing users to organize, access, and edit documents efficiently. The app supports various file formats and provides tools for smooth document handling, ensuring that users can easily manage their office paperwork.

Data Security and Encryption: G-office prioritizes data security with advanced encryption protocols that protect sensitive information. This feature ensures that all files and documents are secure from unauthorized access and potential data breaches, maintaining confidentiality and integrity.

Cloud Storage Integration: The app integrates seamlessly with cloud storage services, enabling users to store and access their files from any device with internet connectivity. This feature ensures that documents are always available and backed up, facilitating collaboration and remote work.

Efficient and Secure File Management with G-office

G-office offers a robust platform for Office File Management, enhanced by features like Data Security and Encryption and Cloud Storage Integration. By providing secure document handling and flexible cloud access, G-office ensures that users can efficiently manage their office files while maintaining high levels of security and convenience.

Conclusion

In the evolving landscape of healthcare technology, selecting the right Electronic Health Records (EHR) software is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and patient care. Our list of the Top 10 EHR Apps showcases a range of solutions designed to streamline medical data management, from teleconsultation and online prescriptions to real-time inventory tracking and remote computer control.

Each app on our list, including standout options like DOCTOR-G, Grapes BSA-PRO, and Vedha, offers unique features tailored to meet diverse healthcare needs. Whether it's facilitating virtual appointments, managing patient records, or ensuring the efficient handling of medical resources, these EHR apps provide comprehensive tools to improve healthcare delivery.

[kk095]

Olivia’s OR Arrest

Olivia Eastham was a 33 year old who was of average height with a skinny, flat chested build, sandy light brown hair with bangs, greenish eyes that were usually behind a pair of glasses, and was fair skinned. Olivia was the cute, nerdy type that was often overlooked by many, and enjoyed things such as D&D, star wars, and Legos. She was a previously healthy person, with nothing overly worrying in her medical history- had her appendix removed at age 12 and was discovered to have issues metabolizing gluten products in her mid 20s.

However, her health concerns became more serious recently. After dealing with heart palpitations, sporadic shortness of breath, and eventually coughing up blood, she was brought to our emergency department to be examined one evening. It was discovered that she had pulmonary edema brought on by aortic valve insufficiency. Olivia was taken up to the operating room for open heart surgery to replace the faulty valve in her heart. A large, vertical incision was made in the center of Olivia’s chest, starting at the top of the sternal manubrium, and all the way down to the epigastric area. The underlying tissues were dissected and the sternum was drilled in half vertically. A rib spreader was placed, and her chest was cracked wide open. Olivia was placed on cardiopulmonary bypass, and the diseased aortic valve was successfully replaced over the following 4 hours. The breastbone was closed with sternal wire, and the skin incision was closed with multiple staples. After surgery, Olivia was sent up to surgical recovery for observation.

Olivia awoke in the coming hours after sedation was weaned. Her vital signs weren’t the greatest- she was hypotensive and bradycardic. She complained her chest was sore and felt pressure, but the surgical team assured her that her vital signs would improve as the anesthesia weans its way out of her system, and the pain and pressure she complained of would dissipate as her sternum and ribs heal from the chest cracking. Olivia took what the doctors said at face value. Who was she to question them? “yeah, they’re probably right. I just need to give myself some time to heal, then I’ll be ok.”, she thought to herself, oblivious to the fact of what was to come later that same day.

Over the coming hours, Olivia still complained of soreness and pressure on her chest. Her vitals signs still weren’t the greatest, so it was decided that she would be started on IV fluids and electrolytes. A repeat chest x ray and some blood tests were ordered to rule out common post operative complications such as infection or blood clots. The fluids helped a little, but only did so much. On the chest x ray, it was shown that her left ventricle was a bit swollen and enlarged. But the doctors attributed this to her aortic valve issues as well as the pulmonary edema. Essentially claiming that these two issues are to blame for the hypertrophy, and it will dissipate during the healing process. An echocardiogram confirmed this, and didn’t have any further findings at that moment.

A little while later, the blood test came back. There was no evidence of infection, there was no evidence of a blood clot, but there was a drop in red blood cells, iron, and hemoglobin. Common causes of this could be from the fact that she hasn’t eaten in awhile, or that she’s bleeding internally. But the chest x ray and echocardiogram showed no evidence of this. The team decided to just keep giving Olivia fluids, electrolytes, and occasional pain meds.

Around 10:45 that morning, Olivia started to take a turn for the worse. She was experiencing severe chest pain. She was clenching her chest and wincing in pain, knowing that something was seriously wrong. The team noted EKG changes- specifically an alternating QRS complex, inconsistently changing from high to low on the monitors. Her blood pressure was dropping at a concerning rate, and jugular venous distention was noticed. Auscultation of her heart noted muffled, more quiet heart sounds. The team ordered a repeat echocardiogram and were shocked at what they saw. It was a massive, rapid onset cardiac tamponade. The team sprung into action and notified the OR that they were on their way back up. “another surgery? What’s wrong? Am I going to die?!” a terrified Olivia asked, session the urgency of the situation. A tamponade of that size couldn’t be drained by a needle. Plus, the cause of this needed to be discovered. It didn’t just magically appear, even though it felt that way.

An OR was prepped, and Olivia was moved onto the table. The surgical prep was expedited due to the emergent nature of the situation. In the coming minutes, Olivia was sedated, intubated, and a blue bouffant cap was placed on her head.

In patients that had a previous median sternotomy, there’s a different technique when it comes to cracking their chest. The surgical team used wire cutters to snip and remove the staples in the center of Olivia’s chest. After the staples were out of the way, the incision was able to be reopened. Since it wasn’t fully healed, this process was rather easy. The underlying tissues hadn’t healed yet, and scar tissue wasn’t present either. This incision could be reopened with 1 cut, and this exposed the sternum. The sternum was being held in place with metal wire, which was snipped with wire cutters. Next, a rib spreader was placed in the divided portion of the sternum. “patient’s in v-fib. You gotta get that chest open!” one of the other doctors in the OR called out, looking over at the loudly chirping monitors.

Once Olivia’s chest was pried open nice and wide, there was surprisingly no blood. Where was it?! Well, the team found out moments later when the pericardium was incised. Blood shot out of the incision area, and started to accumulate on the blue surgical drape on Olivia’s torso, and even dripped onto the sheet on the table. A vascular clamp was placed on the descending aorta near the diaphragm, and suction was applied to the area to create a line of sight. Since Olivia was in v-fib, epi and atropine were pushed intravenously, and the internal paddles were called for.

The large, spoon shaped paddles were charged to 20 joules, lowered into Olivia’s chest around her frantically twitching heart, and a shock was delivered. A dull, wet, clumpy sound filled the room in response to the shock. No change was present, so a cycle of internal massage was initiated. After said cycle, the paddles were charged to 30 joules and lowered back in, delivering a shock once everyone stood clear. This stronger shock caused Olivia’s toes to curl on the other side of the table. You could see the fresh, black nail polish on her toes and the deep, thick wrinkles throughout the soles of her size 8 feet. The second shock had no discernible change, so internal massage was restarted.

While performing internal compressions, other member of the surgical team poked and prodded around inside Olivia’s chest cavity trying to explain what was causing the lethal tamponade, but kept coming up empty. After this investigation, several cycles of internal massage, and a 2nd dose of meds, the internal paddles were charged to 30 joules once again, and the next shock was delivered. Olivia’s torso flopped somewhat in response to the paddle’s electric jolt. This time, Olivia converted to pulseless electrical activity, and internal massage was resumed.

It took several minutes worth of efforts and another dose of meds to produce a shockable rhythm. After that shockable rhythm was obtained, Olivia was defibrillated again. That same dull, wet thump from before was heard, but failed to ameliorate the situation. Olivia was shocked another time… then another time….then another time, then ANOTHER time, but she just wouldn’t come back. Her heart just kept weakly fluttering, not even responding to the efforts. At that point, Olivia was down for 28 minutes, was maxed out on drugs, and had fixed and dilated pupils. The surgical team made the tough decision, calling time of death at 11:32am while she was still in v-fib.

The surgical nurses removed the equipment, shut the monitors off, and cleaned up the blood from Olivia’s body. A toe tag was placed, she was covered up, and was sent up to the morgue.

Olivia’s autopsy showed that her fatal tamponade was caused from a slight mistake during her valve replacement surgery. The replacement heart valve was ever so slightly too big to fit inside the space between the aorta and left ventricle. Since the artificial heart valve wasn’t the correct size, it stretched the walls of the aorta, causing a few small tears. The tears grew larger, as did the bleeding, resulting in her tragic passing. Olivia’s family was able to sue for medical negligence, and received a hefty settlement payout, but all the money in the world couldn’t take away the pain they felt.

[unstablerk800]

𝕊𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕤

Rating: Explicit Pairing: RK900/Fem!Reader (third person) Tags (tagging as I go): post-android revolution, kidnapping, angst/fluff, hurt/comfort, Stockholm syndrome, protective RK900, manipulation, solitary confinement, blood, injury, violence, gore, illnesses, RK800, RK800-60 and RK900 are considered siblings, Implied/Referenced Rape/Non-con, Rape/Non-con Elements Read on Ao3. (Total chapters: 12.)

Chapter 01. 🔽 Chapter 02. Chapter 03. Chapter 04. Chapter 05. Chapter 06. Chapter 07. Chapter 08. Chapter 09. Chapter 10. Chapter 11. Chapter 12.

Word count: 6,944

The natural order of the world was established anew after RK900 was activated. 200,000 of them was enough to hack themselves into everything and destroy half of America. So humans became what they should be in the new world order. They became the slaves, and androids were their new masters.

She'd been picked up at a camp where humans were gathered to slowly die at their own paces, so she should consider herself very lucky. It was almost Christmas, so the leading cause of death was the freezing cold at the camp. She was emotionlessly hauled across the camp and tossed in a car by an RK900 in the clothes she had been dragged from her home, the rifle still in his hands, preventing her from fighting back, but she was exhausted, thirsty and hungry. Spirit? Long gone. Death almost... brushed her cheek by the time she had been saved.

She didn't feel saved, though.

She was roughly manhandled through a building by the same RK900. At least he settled the rifle down at the entrance; it was not like he'd need it with her, if need be, he could easily overpower her. She'd seen another RK900 kill a man with one blow. She was sure she wouldn't last long in a fight, so she simply didn't even think of fighting him.

She couldn't even cry when he ripped the clothes off her body. She didn't even look up at him as he observed her form, walking around her slowly, sizing her up like a predator. She was wondering what he was thinking about; did he pick her from the crowd randomly? Was he checking her out as she used to look at goods at a store? Was he pleased with her? Would he kill her if he wasn't?

She felt small and powerless in his presence, and she was terrified, but she couldn't quite determine if she was shaking from fear or from the cold that seeped right to her bones. It felt like winter tucked itself right inside her skeleton. Frankly, dying in a blink by his hand if he didn't like her would be an act of mercy.

He pushed her under a lukewarm shower first and she started to sob then. She was so cold and the shower almost hurt, but it also felt so, so good. He didn't care about the sobbing mess she had become, even if it was her first real reaction to what was happening to her; he just started to scrub her clean with a washcloth. His motions were swift and harsh, her skin quickly turned pink, it felt like he was attempting to remove a layer of her very skin. And he didn't show mercy even to her softest parts.

But she didn't resist.

She was not aware, but she was constantly monitored. Once he determined her flesh was warm enough, he turned the hot faucet a bit more up. She was shaking less, but she carefully avoided his eyes as he rubbed the warmth back into her body. His fingers felt hot, and she knew that couldn't be; androids ran at room temperature at best.

He didn't say anything as he tilted her head to face him. An evil sneeze started to tickle her nose and she tried to restrain it by scrunching it up, to no avail. She turned away from him in the last second; God knew what he'd do if she covered him with her bacteria. She reluctantly turned her head back, and he gripped her chin again, tilting her head from left to right, observing her. She was very careful not to look him in the eyes. She was too scared to.

Then he applied pressure, forcing her to let the warm water fall on the top of her head.

She closed her eyes and her lips trembled. It was too hot but she was afraid to say so. He didn't seem like he would care about her complaints, either. His fingers came up against her scalp and her knees trembled at the touch. After being handled so roughly by other RK900s, after being at the camp completely alone, this felt positively... nice.

He must've decided he'd let her rest in the tub. Because that was what he was doing. Filling the tub. He had a firm grip on her shoulder as he pushed her down, and he was met with no resistance as she sunk down to sit. She stared at how the water fell down, and he left her there alone.

She didn't even notice until that moment how tense her muscles were. She pulled her legs up to her chest and leaned her forehead against her knees, hiding most of herself with her arms crossed around her.

She started sobbing again.

She'd thought of all the horrors that happened in the near past. The raids were brutal, anyone resisting got killed on sight, the very few who remained were transported to the camps which humans used to destroy androids. The theory that travelled from lip to lip was that they've successfully caught the deviant named Markus, but something must've happened at CyberLife, because he'd managed to wake up – and with that, he woke up hundreds of thousands of androids at the facility. There were so many that the guards at CyberLife were vastly outnumbered, and so were the rest of Detroit. It had been murmured that Markus connected to CyberLife's servers, and awakened all sleeping androids at once all over the globe. And he also awakened the brand new, ridiculously overpowered RK900 series.

Any other android who approached a human didn't instill as much fear as an RK900 did. They were unbelievably fast in combat, and they were basically unstoppable. Science fiction movies often played with the idea that machines would turn against humans. Well, it happened, and it did not go down well.

She lived alone when one of them broke down her door. Since she was aware of the news, she didn't fight back at all, hoping she could persuade the one who grabbed her roughly wouldn't kill her immediately. At the camp she thought so many times that she should've died in her home, fighting. Dying miserably out in the cold was so much worse.

She felt fingers grab her hair. Her head had been pulled upwards and roused her from her sleep. She didn't even realise she drifted off. Confused, she hummed to herself as the hand applied force, pulling her hair. She didn't want it to hurt, so she complied, raising her head and avoiding his gaze. He put his left hand's middle finger on her chin, pushed it down so she'd open her mouth, and popped a pill on her tongue.

She had no idea what that was. Swallowing it would be a terrible idea, but not complying sounded more horrifying, so she swallowed it instead. He nudged her chin with his index finger now, realising he wanted to check if she'd mimicked swallowing but kept the pill under her tongue. She opened her mouth and lifted her tongue. He let her hair go and stood up again.

A glass of water appeared in her vision. She took it - careful not to touch his hand -, and she gulped it down eagerly. It wasn't as cold as she expected, but it was water and she was thirsty. He reached for the empty glass and left again before she could thank it.

This was odd. Why did the world's most sophisticated android need a human for? Why did he bring her here? Sniffling, she stared at the pouring water again as it made ripples over the surface. She started to feel warmer, but with it, she also started to feel lightheaded and very tired.

She had a temperature. She wasn't aware, but he knew. He analyzed her ever since he picked her up from the ground by her arm at the camp.

Her eyes burned as she tried to stay awake, but she soon closed them even as she heard footsteps come in the bathroom again. Everything was sleek and mechanical, the tub porcelain while the walls and the floor were made of cold steel. There was nothing human-like in this space. She felt so awkward sitting there.

The water stopped but she didn't glance up. A part of her vividly imagined he'd walk over and drown her in the tub. Every nerve was on fire until she felt fingers in her wet hair again. She shivered. He was massaging her scalp, and the scent of shampoo hit her senses. It smelled good, so good. She cracked an eye open but didn't move as his fingers massaged her head.

She fell asleep again.

There was a tug on her arm and she flinched, making a soft noise of complaint before a hand gripped her neck.

She froze and her pulse immediately doubled.

His grip wasn't hard. It didn't need to be. He simply rested his palm and all five fingers against her throat. He didn't make breathing harder at all, just pulled her backwards, making her tilt her head, before he washed the shampoo out of her hair with the help of the shower head.

The warmth relaxed her tense muscles again. She let him hold her there as she watched the ceiling with exhausted, sunken, sick eyes.

She was sure he was aware she wouldn't be able to stay awake for long.

He let her throat go once he was finished washing out the shampoo from her hair. Her surroundings were hazy, the edges of her vision blurred. Exhaustion started to take over. She barely felt him move her around and yet, the next time she opened her eyes she was sitting upright on something much softer than the tub. Her fingers wiggled, touching the bedding under her palms. There was a constant noise that kept on going, and she felt warm air over her head. When did he bring her out from the bathroom? Her body felt dry, and even her hair was only half dump by now. He was drying it as she was trying to keep awake there. She glanced down at herself and saw that she had been wrapped up in a thick, fluffy, white towel.

Fingers ran over her scalp, through her hair. She shivered over and over again as the strands were softly pulled. She shouldn't feel good because of this, right? But she did. Nobody took care of her like this before. Compared to the coldness of the camp, this was Heaven.

Perhaps she died out there. Perhaps she wasn't alive anymore, but she didn't even know.

When her hair was dry, he moved away from behind her. She barely could keep herself up, sitting – and that was when she belatedly realised that she wasn't leaning against the wall, but his chest –, but he did not take long to return. He crouched in front of her, gently getting a hold of one of her ankles to slide panties up on her legs and then thighs. She knew she should stand up, but she couldn't, but it was fine, because he stood and helped her while he pulled the garment up on her form. The thought that if he was a human, he probably wouldn't dress her up like this, and the thought made her feel strange. RK900 ever so gently removed the towel from her form, then dressed her in a nightgown, still holding her up by one arm.

Just when the nightgown fell down after her arms were put in the correct holes, her knees gave way. The android's grip tightened just a little to prevent her from falling down, before he sat her down, steadying her with his other hand. She still couldn't look him in the eye, even if she felt he was scanning her face again. He manuvered her around and lied her down in the bed, pulling the blanket up until it covered her until her neck.

She sighed, and drifted off immediately.

Before she opened her eyes the next morning, she thought that the entire android uprising was just a fever dream. Quite possibly could've been that, because she felt she had a fever. The dull headache was what roused her from her sleep, and she whined pathetically as she covered her eyes with her hands. It was broad daylight, the room was too bright for her eyes. A quiet noise could be heard and when she peeked out from behind her fingers, she noticed that the android who grabbed her at the camp was pulling the drapes closed to let her eyes adjust to the light.

She pushed herself up to sit, watching him. He didn't have the black and white jacket on now, just the black turtleneck with the black pants and shoes. He looked intimidating, and big. Too big.

But as soon as he turned to look at her, she lowered her eyes.

He moved towards her and she pulled herself together, as if she could disappear if she tried hard enough. He sat on the edge of the bed and picked up a mug from the nightstand beside her. She followed his movement with her eyes. He had impossibly long fingers. It seemed that his hand, just like the rest of him, was big. She involuntarily swallowed, remembering last night, when those fingers ever so gently wrapped around her throat. How easily he could crush her windpipe, she wondered in silence, shivering at the thought.

He offered her the mug and she looked at it in disbelief. It was tea. Strawberry, if she could smell it right. This definitely was a fever dream. She raised a shaking hand and got a hold of the mug at it's bottom while he still had his fingers around it at the top. She was too scared to look at his face, but she couldn't resist expressing her gratitude.

"Thank you", she mumbled, her voice hoarse.

Strange that this was the first sentence she'd told to a machine that probably had killed many.

He said nothing as he observed her drink the tea. She couldn't resist, it was just the right warmth, and as she swallowed it, it felt like it was warming her up again from the inside. She drank it all. He held his hand out for the mug and she gave it back to him, careful not to look at him this time, too. He stood up and walked out of the room, and she snuggled back down under the covers, closing her eyes, ready to fall asleep again.

But the footsteps, shortly after, approached the bed again. She didn't want to open her eyes. The room would be spinning slowly, and she felt like she would pass out at any second. She felt the bed dip to her left again, but she did not move.

"You need to eat."

She couldn't help the way her surprise twisted her expression. She tiredly cracked her eyes open and took a look at his chest first – God have mercy, he was enormous –, before she noticed the tray resting in his lap.

Strange that this was the first sentence he'd told to a human he picked up for entertainment.

Or, at least, that was what she thought he brought her here for. Why else would any android spare her? She shivered under the heavy duvet, sighing. It would be useless to argue with an RK900, right? Not just useless, but also stupidity. She slowly pushed herself up to sit again, and he silently placed the tray in her lap.

Staring at the plate, she already saw that this meal would be too heavy for her stomach, but perhaps she'd be able to fall asleep more easily afterwards. If she could eat, that is. Picking up the fork, she dug in the mashed potatoes, taking a bite and frowning. It was perfect. He probably calculated when would she awaken, and prepared the food accordingly for it to be just the right temperature for her to eat. But it wasn't just the temperature which was perfect about it. The amount of butter and milk and salt mixed in it, the way it had been mashed to the best texture. It didn't take two minutes to prepare it, either. The planning this meal required confused her, and she only tasted the mashed potatoes.

"Is it bad?"

His quiet question startled her. For a few moments, she froze, unsure what to say. She couldn't just tell the truth right away, and her unguarded expression must've betrayed her. She couldn't ask back why did he take the pains to make this for her. He could've went with a sandwich or just plain bread and water, but no. He took an extra, unnecessary mile for a human. It left her baffled.

"No. It's... it's really good", she admitted quietly, lifting the fork again to eat.

Even though she didn't look in his face and eyes, she still saw he was tilting his head at her reply. It must've left him confused why did she look so surprised, then. She picked up the fork to cut from the roasted chicken breast, and flavours exploded on her tongue when she tasted it. She wasn't a fan of restaurants before the uprising, she only occasionally visited them, and she didn't really care about cooking, either; living on junk food mainly, she had no idea chicken could taste like this. She couldn't even tell what herbs were used, but it was the best she ever had.

It seemed even an android which had been created to win wars could integrate a cooking program that surpassed humans in every possible way.

"This is so good", she mumbled absentmindedly, forgetting for a moment he was there, cutting another piece of the chicken.

It didn't take long to clean the plate. And once that was done, he took the tray from her. How strange. He literally gave her a knife, and she didn't even think of using it for anything other than eating. It only occurred to her as she was lying back down again, now determined to sleep and never awaken again. But alas, he was back. She didn't open her eyes as he stopped beside the bed.

"For your fever."

His tone was quiet, as if he thought she fell asleep already. She cracked her eyes open again, and saw him placing a pill and a glass of water on the nightstand.

So he did scan her. And constantly.

He must've calculated everything. Not just when would she wake up, and how much food she needed to be full, but also when would her fever rise to the temperature which was making her feel bad. She propped herself up on her elbow and took the pill, drank a little water, then she put her head back down and promptly passed out.

The days slowly found a rhythm. As the sickness worked in her body, he was supplying her with everything her system needed to fight it back down quickly and efficiently. At some point, he had given her antibiotics and probiotics. There weren't many words between them; just his occasional warnings that she needed to drink or eat when she was too exhausted to even get up when she heard him approach the bed.

She dreaded the moment she'd feel normal again. What would happen then? She couldn't fake illness to a machine that knew exactly what state she was in.

And then one morning, when she woke up, he wasn't there.

Up until that day every morning he pulled the drapes in because he noticed she didn't like the light hitting directly her face. Now, the drapes were open. She got up from the bed and walked through the apartment.

He wasn't there.

She didn't know what this irrational nervousness was that washed over her, but this just was not right.

In the kitchen, everything was neat and clean. She opened the fridge. It was stacked with food, meats, vegetables and fruits and even some juices, milk... seeing the amount of food let her know he didn't plan on killing her anytime soon. She'd remain here for as long as it suited him.

But what for?

She did her usual bathroom routines, then had breakfast, then made the bed and then... she waited.

The apartment did not have a clock in it. It had no books, no television, no laptops, no tablets, nothing. It was empty, so it must've been brand new. Even the wardrobe wasn't full; it only had a few sets of clothes for him and for her. She frowned at the sight of the shirts and casual pants, then she turned her attention to the black and white android jacket he was usually wearing. She touched the fabric absentmindedly. It felt water resistant between her fingers. Curiously, she leaned a bit closer to smell it. It just smelled new, fresly out from the factory, probably just like him. She observed the glowing numbers, the big RK900 and the ones below it: #313 248 317 – 99999.

She closed the wardrobe and paced around in the apartment again.

And waited.

And waited.

And waited.

She was bored, so bored. If she had at least paper and a pen she could've written something down. Her thoughts, perhaps? Or a story to get away from the reality? She paced up and down in the living room again. She stepped to the window and looked out at the street. The window faced towards nothing but a road and whiteness. Did Christmas pass already? Or was it near? While she was ill, it felt like time passed differently; she had no idea how many days passed since she'd been taken from her home.

She couldn't determine the time. It got dark early, and she was sitting at the kitchen table, finishing her dinner when there was a noise from the ante-room. He showed up just a moment later, when she was just covering her mouth with the napkin.

The little hairs on the back of her neck stood up as he approached her.

She froze as she was, unsure what he would do, but after just a few seconds, he walked out of the kitchen, leaving her there alone.

She was shocked, and maybe... a little disappointed? He didn't even say a word to her, not like he was talkative until now anyway. Perhaps he scanned her vitals, determined she was okay, and decided he'd leave her alone. The actions left her baffled again.

She cleaned up after herself quickly, then peeked out from the kitchen. To the left, first. The panel next the door signalled that it was open, and he left his rifle beside the open door, as he usually did. The cogs turned in her brain frantically. He left the damned door open and left his rifle there. Was that a test? Would she be fast enough to pick up the rifle, shoot him if need be, and leave without even looking back?

The thought of fighting him made her rebel internally. This machine was nothing if not nice to her. Yes, he was an android, yes, he probably didn't feel anything for her, but he still grabbed her and basically saved her life by feeding her, giving her medication and keeping her alive. Thanking it by blowing his head off didn't sit right with her. Besides, she probably wouldn't be fast enough to pull this stunt off, and who knew what he'd do if she caught her doing it. Or the other RK900s, if they investigated why one of them suddenly disappeared.

She decided to walk in the living room to check if he was there. And she found him. Sitting on the couch. Eyes closed, LED whirring in yellow. She tilted her head as she observed him. Maybe he was recharging after a long day? Was he even aware she was there? Were there cameras hidden in the apartment, did he check them now? All possibilities left her there wondering about everything he was doing – and not doing –, and all of it left her with a dry mouth.

She was bored and lonely. If he would leave every day, would all of this be the social interaction she had? Would he scan her and that was it? Would he make sure she fed herself and her vitals were alright, and nothing else?

She walked in the bedroom and went to sleep.

The next day happened in the same fashion. And the next, the next, the next. She discovered more food in the fridge and she was honestly surprised because she never saw him bring groceries home. Whenever he arrived, he was empty handed, always left the door unlocked, always left the rifle at the door, and always rested on the couch in his weird android way.

And the time had come – too soon for her liking – when she couldn't take it anymore.

Not having anything with her during the day was one thing, but a human wasn't created to be alone for too long. This was solitary confinement, even if she had the best foods in the fridge and more room to move around, even if she could spend hours in the bathroom having a bubble bath without worrying about anything.

He spoiled and punished her at the same time.

And one evening, she had enough of it.

RK900 arrived home just when she finished her dinner. He stopped beside the table as always, she didn't look up in his face as always, but he did his necessary check up as always. When he seemed pleased with her, he walked out, and once she cleaned up quickly, she stalked after him. He was already sitting on the couch, not minding the blanket she had left on the right armrest, eyes closed, LED whirring as he was processing whatever he was processing.

Her heart was beating so hard and fast in her chest as she ever so slowly approached the couch. He didn't notice it; it was like he was out completely, unaware of his surroundings. She was unsure whether she should do this or not, but she craved interaction so much that she couldn't possibly take it anymore. So as quietly as she could, she walked over to the couch, sat beside him and pulled the blanket over herself.

And leaned against his shoulder.

He felt impossibly firm, but she sighed with relief nonetheless. He was real. She couldn't even process how good it felt. It didn't feel like she was in physical contact with a human being for sure, but she wasn't alone, and by God could she appreciate sitting in silence with him like this.

Until the room went dark and she fell asleep on his shoulder.

Movement roused her from her sleep. His shoulder was slipping away from her face, making her almost fall down on the couch. She voiced her complaint in a quiet whimper; she was still half asleep, which granted her the courage and audacity to hold onto his arm in order to keep him there.

RK900 froze.

"What are you doing?"

If anything woke her up properly, it was this question. Snapped at a normal volume, but emotionlessly, in the dark. She withdrew her hands as if she was touching hot coal. Tears welled up in her eyes and she was painfully aware that he probably could even see in the dark.

"I'm-"

She couldn't tell him how lonely she was, right? It would be illogical for a machine like him. It also would sound illogical that she wanted to cuddle to him when he came home because despite him treating her right she still was a prisoner, right? She gripped the blanket with both hands and did all she could in this situation.

She started to cry.

"I just... wanted..."

It was so annoying she couldn't outright tell it to him. She felt embarrassed and stupid about it; who in their right minds would want to be close to a machine like him? Especially to one who went out in the public with his rifle doing God knew what? She angrily wiped her tears away.

"You should go to bed."

His quiet observation – or order? – crushed her remaining wishes to dust. Oh, he was right. She really should. And spend the next day bored out of her mind again. And the next, and the next, until she felt like she'd go insane.

"Yes", she muttered, holding the blanket tightly to her form before she slid off the couch and walked in the bedroom without another word.

She pulled the blanket over her head and sobbed in the pillow. She was so pathetic – pathetic! For even thinking for a moment that he might understand her and her needs. She wasn't here for him to make her feel good, she was there because he kept her there for who knew what. Did he enjoy making her feel like this? Did he enjoy seeing her falling slowly apart? Did he feel some sort of perverted pleasure at the sight of her crumbling down?

She woke up feeling miserable the next morning. She kicked off the blanket – of course she was alone – and bergudgingly walked out to the bathroom. She had to walk across and behind the couch in the living room to do that, and as she did that, she ran her hand in her messy bed hair. Yawning, she opened the door to the bathroom, then she froze and frowned as she turned around to look at the ridiculously big black rectangle that hung on the wall, which she'd seen from the corner of her eyes.

"What the fuck", she murmured, shocked.

Was that... a television?? When did it get there? Not last night, at least, not before she had pulled her little stunt with RK900. But how could this happen? She cried herself to sleep and while she was in dream land, he put it up there? Was it in the car ever since he returned, he just needed to recharge a bit before he could mount it on the wall? Did he send her to bed because he suspected she'd be too excited about it, that she wouldn't sleep at all if she knew what did he bring?

She ran her hands in her hair again and pulled. All these questions had questions and she was rapidly losing her mind to them. Bathroom could wait. She walked around the couch and reached for the remote, turning the telly on.

The stations were all dead.

No matter where she clicked, nothing showed up. There were no news on the news channels, no music channels, no nature channels, nothing. Not even stupid cartoons for children. The telly had 999 channels and none of them worked. She was so confused; why did he bring it here, then? She let the static noise on as she had her usual bathroom break, then walked back to the telly and pushed the button Apps.

Now, there she'd found the usual streaming services she knew by heart. And they had all the shows and movies on them! She wondered why was this the case; perhaps when the RK900s overran the country, they didn't think a news channel would be useful, as androids shared information with each other much faster?

She chose a show and started to watch it.

It was almost overwhelming to hear a human voice after such a long time. She hadn't heard anything other than just a few words lately, and this had such a good impact on her mood. She ate her breakfast watching the telly, still in the nightgown. Then she ate the lunch, there, too. By the time he arrived, she finished the dinner sitting there, and for once, she didn't feel at all intimidated by his presence. This time, he stopped in front of the couch beside her, taking a few seconds to scan her as per the usual, then he sat down beside her and let out a soft, quiet sigh.

It was miraculous how her attention shifted from the show to him as soon as he arrived. She'd lost the story the moment she felt him stand beside her, and it got even worse when he sat down.

She recalled how it felt to snuggle up to his arm, and she was craving to do it again. There was a dull ache in the pit of her gut that got worse and worse with each passing minute until she completely forgot about the show and chanced a look at his form.

He didn't have the jacket on. Every artificial muscle had been enhanced by that high collared shirt, and she had to realise that it only made him all the more intimidating. But at the same time, strangely... she felt safer now that he was there beside her.

Biting her lower lip, she chanced a look at his face, risking the very first eye contact in forever.

She was sitting on his left side, so she couldn't see his LED, but the way he had his eyes closed, let her know that he did what he always had done, every evening. Recharging, updating, scanning himself for problems – who knew? What mattered was that he wasn't paying any attention to her, and she could do whatever she wanted because he wouldn't know.

The thought was unbearably tempting.

Her eyes wandered on his hands, rested neatly on his thighs. He looked completely relaxed – except for his unnaturally straight back. She observed his hand and fingers, the fake veins that could be seen, slightly emerging from his synthetic skin. She knew the skin was artificial, and so were the veins, but it looked so realistic. She wondered if it'd be warm to the touch, or would it be room temperature as it usually was for any other android. Or maybe a bit cooler, because he was outside in the cold?

She swallowed nervously at the thought that emerged from her mind. It'd be insane to do. Crazy. Potentially life threatening. Who knew how would he react if she touched his hand, really? But she wished she could do it. She wished she could stroke those fingers that grabbed her out in the camp to take her here, that washed her when she was on the brink of passing out, that nursed her back to health, that brought this silly television for the human who desperately needed entertainment.

Was he aware that she was just as desperate for physical contact?

Probably. RK900 wasn't the world's most sophisticated android for nothing.

Despite her cravings, she decided to only lean against his arm, like last night. She turned the volume down a bit, and didn't fight sleepiness when it took her.

For the second time in two days, movement woke her up. For the second time, she whined in complaint, but she didn't reach out to grab him this time.

"You should go to bed."

His monotone, almost completely emotionless voice made her feel miserable again. RK900 didn't need the remote to turn the telly off, he could connect to the telly to do it himself, and thus, they were quickly left in the dark without the soft light of the show. She was so sad they were here again, but she didn't dare to object.

"Yes", she sighed quietly, then got off the couch and made a beeline to the bedroom and the bed, hiding under the covers to cry herself to sleep again.

Days passed in a similar manner. She'd always snuggle up to his arm and fall asleep like that, he'd always wake her up and tell her to go to bed, and she'd comply. Even if she wanted to say no, even if she wanted to throw a tantrum, she tried to make her best with the little physical contact she was basically stealing from him.

Until one morning, he was in the kitchen, waiting for her to come out for her breakfast.

He startled her, even if it probably wasn't his intention. She was so used to spending the entire day alone that him being there came as a shock. The breakfast was already waiting for her at the table with a nice cup of tea, and he was sitting just beside that chair. She still avoided his eyes; she'd been there for who knew how long and never made eye contact with him. Somehow it felt disrespectful to her.

Sitting down, she sipped the tea, humming when she discovered that it was the same tea which he'd made for her on her first day here, and that it was the perfect temperature once again. She quickly devoured her breakfast, and tried to ignore that he was even there. She couldn't even imagine what was the reason of him being there. Maybe it was a weekend? She couldn't recall how many days she'd been there, but it must've been more than... she couldn't know. Did androids even have days off?

Again, even her questions had questions.

When she stood from the chair though, he did the same. That froze her where she was, and she stared forward as soon as he came in front of her. She was shivering a bit, but she wasn't cold. His mere closeness when he wasn't 'off' could make her react like that.

RK900 lifted her chin with his right hand. She didn't dare to look him in the eye; her pulse picked up and her lips trembled, as always, when he got too close to her – and the touch felt nice, so very nice, that she felt like her insides would turn to jelly. He ever so gently stroked her chin with his thumb before he withdrew his hand and lifted up his other hand to show her something. She glanced down at it, mortified what she'd see. Thousands of possibilities ran through her mind, one more horrifying than the other. A knife? Poison? A gun? Someone's head?

It was a collar.

Her eyes went wide at the sight. It was a very neat design, though; it was visibly padded with a soft material on the inside of it, the edges were golden, and it had the same triangles on it as it appeared on the arm band on android's clothing. Except, it was shining with a soft, golden light, not with blue as the arm ring on the jacket, around RK900's right arm. The collar could've been mistaken as jewellery, really; it looked expensive and comfortable to wear, even if it was one and a half inches thick.

But it really didn't make much of a difference.

He still wanted to collar her like a dog.

She didn't know what it meant, and she didn't like it. Even if she suspected that the humans' actions would lead to this if an android uprising turned out wrong, even if she knew that he did whatever he pleased and she wouldn't be able to do anything about it. She knew that whatever she did, he'd put that around her throat, even if she resisted, even if she behaved well. But a part of her felt so humiliated that her eyes welled up with tears.

She saw that RK900 tilted his head at her reaction. She wondered if he even could process the emotional state the mere sight of the collar put her in, then she decided not to think about that because she'd quickly jump from one theory to the other, and she'd go insane.

It was easier to believe he was an unfeeling machine that had no idea what it's actions did to others.

RK900 pulled his synthetic skin back and touched the glowing collar. It opened with a soft click. So it responded to his touch. She watched him doing it, watched him getting a hold on both ends of the collar to put it around her neck. The sight of the light glistening on the gold edges reminded her of those rich women who put collars with diamonds on their chihuahua's. Unsurprisingly, she felt the same. She was as small and as weak as a chihuahua. At least, compared to him.

Defeated, she moved her hands up and he froze for a moment as he was raising the collar up, but she was only moving her hair up to help him. RK900 remained silent as he ever so gently slid the collar around her throat and locked it at the back of her neck. It fitted snugly; it had to be a piece tailored just for her. She closed her eyes. A tear rolled down on her cheek and fell on the back of his hand as he withdrew it.

Her silent compliance earned a gentle touch. He cupped her cheek with his right and stroked the tears away from her face with his thumb. She'd never felt more defeated and humiliated in her entire life. Not even when he put her in the bath when he brought her here. Not even when he saw her stark naked.

"We're going out."

It wasn't a question or a suggestion, he made the plans for the day completely clear and nonnegotiable. She did not have a say in anything he planned for her, but her heart fluttered in her chest when she picked up that he said 'we'. He could've voiced it in so many ways. It could've been an order. 'You're coming with me', or 'I'm going out and you will follow'. But it wasn't.

It was 'we'.

Together.

[most-annoying-sponsorship]

Any submitted propaganda under the cut

Raycon - 10

God awful earbuds with 3 times the price of similar quality with the same script every god damn time at least allow creators to do something with it. Not an active scam product but they try so hard to market themselves like one and I don't understand.

1. It's been a while but at it's height, you couldn't get through a video without seeing someone shilling these subpar earbuds. 2. They're literally earbuds bought off of alieexpress with a fancy brand slapped over the top 3. They're garbage earbuds. DankPods did an excellent breakdown of why they're awful 4. Now everyone I know thinks Raycons are great despite them being as expensive or more so than actual established brands that work hard and take pride in their sound quality

I used them for a while actually but they just didn't work out for me so at this point I'm not going to start buying them again and I don't need to hear about it anymore

they’re everywhere. everyone i watch (which is a fairly diverse list) has a sponsorship. i also know zero people in my life who own them.

There are so much better earbuds that are also cheaper. Plus I don't wanna hear YouTubers awkwardly explain and show them being used, it's just dumb.

they wouldn't even stay in my ears plus the look like they go right up against your eardrums. red flags all around plus i hate wireless shit the battery lasts like two shakes at best

Cerebral - 1

Ok sorry this is gonna be an essay with some snark. So for some important background, at last report Cerebral is under investigation by both the DEA and DOJ for essentially being an online pill mill. This tech bro startup took advantage of a temporary measure meant to help patients keep their EXISTING prescriptions during the pandemic -- the usual rule is that controlled substances can only be prescribed after an in-person appointment, to avoid the exact kind of situation I'll describe, but of course when lockdowns made in-person appointments much harder then people who have been taking stimulants or w/e for years shouldn't be left hanging. But then, in comes the Cerebral tech bros who decide to build their new business off prescribing stimulants to NEW patients... to "95%" of new patients, to be exact, because one of them actually admitted "100% would be a pill mill". (Oh yes, 95% is much better, not just a malicious loophole at all /s) Basically, a patient would have a single 30-minute video appointment, take one quiz that's meant to be a SCREENING tool (not a diagnostic tool! if you get a high score that's an indication you need MORE testing to confirm a possible diagnosis!) and then immediately get prescribed stimulants with no physical exam (no EKG, heart rate, or blood pressure, just for starters that any RESPONSIBLE doctor would do) and no further questions asked.—

—That would have been bad enough, but the advertising and shilling. Oh god, the advertising and shilling. Cerebral put out ads deliberately overstretching "signs you may have ADHD" in such a way that would put Tiktok influencers to shame (and we'll fucking get to that.) Like one ad implying that overeating sweets, something that literally everyone does at one point or another, is a sign you should make an appointment with Cerebral to get that sweet sweet Addy! And as for the real treat, the actual sponsorships. They had a fucking AFFILIATE CODE PROGRAM. Tiktokers would be like "use my code to get $30 off your first month!" for PSYCHIATRY. Not only that, but for psychiatry prescribing stimulants which are addictive and can kill you if you're not being carefully monitored for heart problems. Tiktokers and ads would also describe this service as a "life hack" and emphasize how easy it is to get stimulants through this one neat trick! Medical ethics is dead and we killed it. It got to the point that major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens started refusing to fill prescriptions originating from Cerebral, because if/when a pill mill gets busted, pharmacies that filled the prescriptions can also be held liable. Think of the opioid epidemic for examples of the situation they were trying to avoid. They noticed how suspicious it was that ALL THE SUDDEN there was a huge flood of prescriptions for addictive drugs, ALL originating from the same few healthcare providers (mostly Nurse Practitioners rather than Medical Doctors, because MDs were more likely to call out the ethical/legal violations, but even many of the NPs who worked for Cerebral described feeling pressured by the corporate higher-ups to increase prescriptions and discourage waiting or further testing) Once this all came to a head Cerebral tried damage control by no longer prescribing stimulants to new patients. I haven't heard any updates on the regulatory investigations since then. But you know what I haven't seen that's even more telling? Not one, not a SINGLE one of the content creators who shilled for this company EVER apologized. For all they know they could have contributed to getting someone killed, not to mention life-ruining addictions, all for that sweet corporate sponsorship cash. Even if you argue they might not have known better at the time (to which I say bullshit, it's your responsibility to at least google the company to see if there's any red flags, Cerebral had more than a communist parade) even AFTER all this started making national news, it was just dead silence and moving on to the next corporate sponsor. But hey, if you're struggling with Adderall addiction, I know just the thing to help! Sign up for BetterHelp using code "SHILL" to get $10 off- *dies*

[revel-and-riot]

My eyes feel like they are bleeding as I stare at my screen. Thirteen hours into a deep dive on the dark web and all my efforts seem to be fruitless. I force my eyes to blink against the sandpaper texture and sit back a little, cracking my neck with the movement.  

Slowly, my eyes fall to the little wooden box full of ashes next to my computer, and a fresh wave of numbness falls over me. Gently, I lift my hand and lightly pat the top of the box, a hollow feeling deep in my chest. 

"Im trying, I promise. Please hold on"

At the twenty hour mark, I come across something useful. A spark of hope wells up in me, and I try to squash it before it becomes an actual flame. I lean close to my monitor, like it's going to help me consume the words faster. I hastily take notes on what I need. Everything I am reading sounds completely and utterly stupid, but I am willing to try anything.

Once I make my list, I scramble around my apartment. I find what the article called for. A black candle, a knife, an extra phone, and a small portion of ashes. Quickly I download an app called Vektor and use a very specific login code given by the web page. 

With the app open I light the candle dripping a small pool of black wax on the screen, while its still fresh I very very carefully pour a small bit of ashes careful not to waste a single spec. As the wax begins to solidify with the ashes inside, I use the knife to cut my palm carefully, dripping my blood over the mixture. As each drop splashes, I quietly speak the words very roughly in a language I can't quite identify. 

A heavy wind stirs up and knocks a bunch of shit down, and I don't even care as a massive shadowy figure appears, his antlers brushing the low ceiling of my apartment. In his hands, he holds a small bundle, and I stiffle a sob.

He looks down at the bundle fondly before very carefully laying it down next to the phone. He turns to me and touches my shoulder, a pain tears through me as a piece of my soul rips away. 

With a small flash of light, the bundle disappears, the pressure of the shadow being in the room disapates, and the waxy, bloody phone looks normal again. 

I tenatively tap the screen and it says "downloading 10%"

I hold my breath, rocking gently knees to my chest as I watch the bar crawl along the screen. Once it hits 100% the phone flares to life, the bright android symbol nearly blinding me as the phone starts up. I tap the Vektor app again and put in my credentials. This time, it asks me to create my own log ins. 

Once the app opens, it asks me to name my pet. My heart pounds as I type in "Catface" and save. It next asks for a profile photo, and I add my absolute favorite photo of her basking in the sun in her favorite spot. A small dial spins and spins, and then a profile opens, and I am presented with an option of "hologram" 

I hit the button so hard I worry I'll break the screen, and slowly, a hazy hologram of a small cat starts to appear, getting clearer and clearer by the second. A small pastel tortie cat sits in front of me,  her beautiful, judgy green eyes open looking at me like "what took you so long"

Tears stream down my face, and a small giggle erupts from me as my best friend sits as life like as possible in front of me, back to her youth, and not in pain any longer. I reach out to touch her and cry a little harder as my hand passes right through.  As hard as it will be not to touch her, having her back is more than I could have ever dreamed.

It takes me days to notice the mark the shadow being left on my shoulder. A nasty scar that basically says "i own you" but looking at my girl makes it all worth it and I can carry her with me forever.

Digital “familiars” are all the rage in the near future. They can take any form, chat with you, manifest as lifelike holograms, and are capable of travelling between devices instantly. How you GET a “familiar” is never explained by those who have them.

[marylcna]

Open Your Future: Top CNA Classes in Fort Myers, Florida for Aspiring Healthcare Heroes

Unlock Your Future:‌ Top CNA‌ Classes in Fort Myers, Florida for Aspiring Healthcare Heroes

Introduction

Are you looking ⁤to start a fulfilling career in ‌healthcare? Becoming a ⁣Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) may be the ideal path for you. In Fort Myers, Florida, there are numerous CNA classes that cater to ‌aspiring healthcare ⁣heroes. These programs not only ‍equip you ​with essential skills but also open the door to a shining future in the medical field. Let’s dive into‌ the top CNA classes available‌ in Fort‌ Myers and explore how you can unlock your career potential!

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant​ provides⁤ essential care for patients in various ‍healthcare ​settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and private homes.The role of a CNA is crucial, as⁤ they offer support ​to nurses and ensure that⁤ patients receive quality care. Responsibilities typically include:

Assisting patients with activities of​ daily living (ADLs), ‍such as‍ bathing and grooming.

Monitoring ⁣patient‍ vital signs like pulse, blood pressure, and temperature.

Serving‌ meals and‌ ensuring proper ‍nutrition.

Maintaining⁣ a clean​ and ​safe environment for patients.

Benefits of Taking CNA Classes in Fort ‍Myers

Investing your time in CNA training offers numerous ⁢benefits,​ including:

Job Security: ​The‌ demand for CNAs continues to rise due to ​the aging ‌population.

Short Training Duration: Most ⁣programs can be completed ⁤in a few weeks‌ to months.

Gateway to Other Nursing ​Careers: ‌ Experiance as a CNA can lead to advanced nursing roles.

Hands-On Experience: ‌Programs typically⁤ include clinical practise to build ​real-world skills.

Top CNA Classes in Fort Myers, Florida

Here’s ‌a curated list of‍ some of the best ​CNA classes in⁢ Fort‍ Myers, ⁣Florida. Each of these programs is designed to equip you with ‌the required knowledge and skills to ‍succeed in ⁤the⁤ healthcare industry.

Program Name

Duration

Cost

Certification

fort Myers Nursing ‌Academy

4 weeks

$699

State ⁢Certification

Florida Southwestern State College

6 weeks

$600

Certificate of Completion

Gulf Coast⁣ Nursing Academy

5 weeks

$750

state ‌Certification

CTI Nursing​ School

8 weeks

$800

NNAAP Certification

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right CNA‍ Program

When⁣ selecting a CNA class, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure the program meets your needs. ‌Here’s what to keep in mind:

Accreditation: ⁢Ensure the‍ program is accredited by the Florida Department of Health.

Reviews and Reputation: ⁣ Research student feedback and ​institution reputation.

Cost Clarity: Verify ⁣the ‌total costs, including hidden fees.

adaptability: ⁤look ‍for ⁣programs that offer⁤ evening or weekend classes if you have a job.

Job ⁣Placement Assistance: Check⁢ if the program assists ⁤with job​ placement⁣ after certification.

First-Hand Experiences from Graduates

hearing from those who previously took these classes can provide ​valuable insight. ‍Here are some quotes from recent graduates:

⁤ ⁤ ⁢ ⁤ ⁢ ​ ​ ⁢ ​ “The​ hands-on training I ⁢received at Fort​ Myers Nursing ‌Academy made me feel confident and‍ prepared for the⁣ job.” – Sarah, CNA Graduate

⁣ ⁣ ⁤ ‌ ​ ⁢ ‌ ‍ ⁣ ​ “Florida Southwestern State College offered great support and resources, which helped me land my first​ job quickly.” – James, CNA ⁢Graduate

Case Study: ⁣A Day in the Life of a CNA

To paint⁤ a‍ clearer picture‌ of⁢ the CNA role, ⁤let’s take a look at a typical ‌day for a Certified Nursing assistant:

Morning‍ Shift (7 AM – 3 PM): start the day⁣ by ⁤checking in on patients and assisting with morning routines.

Mid-Morning (10 AM): Serve breakfast and monitor patients’ dietary needs.

Afternoon (2 PM): Assist with transferring patients ⁢for physical therapy‌ sessions.

End of Shift ‍(3 PM): Document ‌patient observations and prepare for shift change.

Conclusion

Pursuing a career as a ​Certified Nursing Assistant in Fort Myers, ⁢Florida,⁤ is a rewarding opportunity filled with potential for growth and advancement.⁤ By enrolling in one of the outstanding ‌CNA classes‍ available,⁣ you can prepare yourself ⁣for a future as a crucial part⁣ of the healthcare team. Embrace your journey, develop your skills, ⁣and unlock your ‌future ‍as a healthcare hero today!

https://www.cnacertificationschools.net/open-your-future-top-cna-classes-in-fort-myers-florida-for-aspiring-healthcare-heroes/

[myconciergepharmacy]

My Concierge Pharmacy - Premier Pharmaceutical Care in Lake Clarke Shores, FL

Discover My Concierge Pharmacy, Palm Beach County’s premier destination for personalized pharmaceutical care. Experience the luxury of bespoke services, including expert consultations, medication management, and convenient prescription delivery to your doorstep or office. Our dedicated specialists are committed to enhancing your health and well-being. Visit us for a truly elevated pharmacy experience.

Comprehensive Pharmaceutical Services

At My Concierge Pharmacy, we believe that every individual deserves care that is as unique as they are. Our philosophy revolves around providing bespoke pharmaceutical services that prioritize your health and well-being. We go beyond merely filling prescriptions; we focus on building meaningful relationships with our clients and offering holistic support for a healthier, happier life.

1. Expert Consultations

Our experienced pharmacists are always available to provide expert consultations. Whether you have questions about your medications, need advice on over-the-counter products, or seek guidance on managing a chronic condition, our specialists are here to help. We take the time to understand your concerns and provide personalized recommendations that align with your health goals.

2. Medication Counseling

Understanding your medications is essential for effective treatment. Our medication counseling services ensure you clearly understand your prescriptions, including dosage instructions, potential side effects, and interactions with other medications or supplements. Empowering you with this knowledge allows you to take control of your health with confidence.

3. Medication Therapy Management (MTM)

Our Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services are designed to optimize the therapeutic outcomes of your medications. We work closely with you and your healthcare providers to create a comprehensive medication plan that addresses your specific needs, helping you achieve better health outcomes and reducing the risk of medication-related issues.

4. Medication Adherence Planning

Adhering to your prescribed treatment plan is crucial for managing chronic conditions and achieving optimal health. Our team develops customized medication adherence plans to help you stay on track. We ensure you never miss a dose from reminders to convenient packaging solutions.

5. Pharmacy Delivery

Enjoy the convenience of having your prescriptions delivered straight to your doorstep or office. Our reliable pharmacy delivery service ensures you receive your medications promptly, saving time and effort.

6. Immunization & Vaccine Administration

Stay protected with our comprehensive immunization and vaccine administration services. From flu shots to travel vaccines, we offer a wide range of vaccinations to keep you and your loved ones healthy. Our trained professionals provide these services in a safe and comfortable environment.

7. Prescription Fulfillment

Our prescription fulfillment service is fast, accurate, and hassle-free. We use advanced technology to ensure your prescriptions are filled correctly and efficiently, so you can focus on what matters most—your health.

8. Medication Compounding

For patients with unique needs, we offer medication compounding services. Whether you require a specific dosage, allergen-free formulas, or flavored medications for children, our compounding experts create customized solutions to meet your requirements.

9. Health & Wellness Screenings

Regular health screenings are vital for early detection and prevention of various conditions. We provide a range of screenings, including blood pressure monitoring, cholesterol checks, and diabetes screenings, to help you stay on top of your health.

10. Medication Reconciliation

Transitioning between healthcare providers or facilities can be challenging. Our medication reconciliation services ensure a smooth transition by reviewing your medications, identifying discrepancies, and creating a cohesive plan that minimizes risks and maximizes benefits.

11. Travel & Hospital Discharge Coordination

Whether you’re traveling or transitioning home after a hospital stay, our travel and hospital discharge coordination services provide seamless support. We ensure you have the necessary medications and resources for a safe and stress-free experience.

12. Priority Scheduling

We value your time and convenience. Our priority scheduling services allow you to book appointments that fit your schedule, ensuring you receive prompt and personalized care when needed.

13. 24/7 Support

Healthcare needs don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Our 24/7 support services ensure you can access expert guidance and assistance whenever needed. Whether it’s a late-night question or an urgent medication need, we’re just a call away at (561) 284-6165.

Why Choose My Concierge Pharmacy?

Choosing the right pharmacy is an important decision that directly impacts your health and well-being. Here’s why My Concierge Pharmacy stands out:

Personalized Care: We take the time to understand your unique needs and provide tailored solutions.

Expert Team: Our dedicated specialists bring years of experience and a passion for helping others.

Convenience: From delivery services to priority scheduling, we make accessing care effortless.

Comprehensive Services: We offer a wide range of services to address every aspect of your pharmaceutical and wellness needs.

Commitment to Excellence: Our unwavering commitment to quality ensures you receive the best care possible.

Serving Lake Clarke Shores, FL, and Beyond

As a proud member of the Lake Clarke Shores community, My Concierge Pharmacy is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of our neighbors. While our primary service area is Lake Clarke Shores, FL, we also cater to residents of the surrounding Palm Beach County region. Our mission is to make high-quality pharmaceutical care accessible to everyone in our community.

Visit My Concierge Pharmacy Today

Experience the difference of personalized, concierge-style pharmaceutical care at My Concierge Pharmacy. Located at 2112 S Congress Ave, Lake Clarke Shores, FL 33406, we invite you to discover a new standard of pharmacy services. Whether you’re seeking expert consultations, convenient delivery options, or comprehensive wellness support, we’re here to serve you.

Contact us today at (561) 284-6165 or visit our location at 2112 S Congress Ave, Lake Clarke Shores, FL 33406 to learn more about our services. Let My Concierge Pharmacy be your trusted partner on your journey to better health and well-being.

[globalinsightblog]

Disposable Blood Pressure Cuffs Market: $1.2B in 2023 to $2.1B by 2033, 5.7% CAGR

Disposable Blood Pressure Cuffs Market focuses on the production and distribution of single-use cuffs, essential for maintaining hygiene and infection control in healthcare settings. These cuffs are instrumental in reducing cross-contamination risks, particularly in hospitals and clinics. The market is driven by increasing healthcare awareness, stringent infection prevention protocols, and the rising incidence of chronic diseases that require frequent blood pressure monitoring. Innovations in this sector emphasize material sustainability and cost-effectiveness, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly medical disposables.

To Request Sample Report: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/request-sample/?id=GIS25895 &utm_source=SnehaPatil&utm_medium=Article

In 2023, the market was estimated to have a volume of 320 million units, with projections to reach 500 million units by 2033. The adult segment dominates with a 45% share, followed by pediatric cuffs at 35%, and neonatal cuffs at 20%. The increasing preference for disposable cuffs is driven by the critical need for infection control measures in healthcare environments.

Single-patient use cuffs lead the market, given their significant role in preventing cross-contamination. Reusable cuffs follow closely, favored for their cost-effectiveness in non-critical care settings. The hospital segment dominates the end-user landscape due to the high volume of patient interactions and stringent infection control protocols. Ambulatory surgical centers and homecare settings also contribute to the market, reflecting a shift towards outpatient care and self-monitoring.

North America leads the market, propelled by advanced healthcare infrastructure and stringent regulatory standards. The United States is the top performer, benefiting from substantial healthcare expenditure and technological advancements. Europe ranks second, with Germany and the UK at the forefront due to strong healthcare systems and increasing adoption of disposable medical devices. The Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit substantial growth, driven by rising healthcare investments and heightened awareness about infection control.

Market Segmentation

Type: Reusable, Disposable

Product: Arm, Wrist, Thigh, Pediatric, Infant, Neonatal Cuffs

Technology: Automatic, Manual

Application: Hospitals, Clinics, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Homecare

Material Type: Nylon, Polyester, Polyurethane

End User: Healthcare Providers, Home Users

Functionality: Single-Patient Use, Multi-Patient Use

Leading players like GE Healthcare, Hill-Rom Holdings, and SunTech Medical significantly shape the competitive landscape. The market’s growth is further supported by compliance with stringent regulatory standards such as ISO 13485 and FDA guidelines. Investments in R&D and product innovation are expected to enhance market growth, with a projected 10% increase in R&D expenditure by 2033. Emerging economies present significant opportunities due to rising healthcare infrastructure investments. However, challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs and the need for sustainable practices persist.

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[drgyana]

Understanding Postpartum Cardiomyopathy and Its Warning Signs

Pregnancy is a transformative time, bringing immense joy and change to a woman's life. However, it also places significant stress on the body, particularly the heart. One of the rare but serious conditions that can emerge during or after pregnancy is postpartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). This heart condition requires awareness and timely intervention to prevent long-term complications.

In this blog, we’ll discuss what PPCM is, its warning signs, and how to seek help from experts, such as the top 10 cardiologists in Bhubaneswar, to manage this condition effectively.

What is Postpartum Cardiomyopathy?

Postpartum cardiomyopathy is a form of heart failure that typically develops during the last month of pregnancy or within the first five months after delivery. It occurs when the heart muscle weakens and cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to reduced blood flow and potential complications in other organs.

The exact cause of PPCM remains unclear, but factors such as inflammation, immune system responses, hormonal changes, and genetic predispositions are thought to play a role. While rare, PPCM can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Awareness of the warning signs is key to early diagnosis and effective treatment. Here are the symptoms to watch for:

Shortness of Breath Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or while lying down, is one of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms.

Swelling Edema, or swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs, occurs due to fluid retention. In severe cases, swelling may extend to the abdomen.

Fatigue Feeling unusually tired or unable to complete daily tasks can indicate reduced blood flow caused by a weakened heart.

Rapid Heartbeat or Palpitations A racing or irregular heartbeat may signal that the heart is struggling to meet the body’s demands.

Chest Pain Discomfort or pain in the chest should never be ignored, as it could point to underlying heart issues.

Frequent Coughing A persistent cough, particularly with frothy or blood-tinged sputum, could indicate fluid buildup in the lungs.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, consulting a cardiologist is crucial. Seeking guidance from the top 10 cardiologists in Bhubaneswar including Dr. Gyana Ranjan Nayak ensures access to experienced professionals who can provide personalized care.

Risk Factors for Postpartum Cardiomyopathy

While PPCM can affect any pregnant woman, some factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

Advanced Maternal Age: Women over 30 are at higher risk.

Multiple Pregnancies: Carrying twins or triplets increases the strain on the heart.

High Blood Pressure: Chronic hypertension or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure is a major risk factor.

Pre-existing Heart Conditions: Women with a history of heart problems are more susceptible.

Poor Nutrition: A lack of essential nutrients during pregnancy can contribute to heart complications.

How is PPCM Diagnosed?

Timely diagnosis is essential for managing PPCM effectively. A cardiologist may recommend the following tests:

Echocardiogram: To assess the heart’s pumping efficiency and detect abnormalities.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): To monitor the heart's electrical activity.

Blood Tests: To check for markers indicating heart failure or inflammation.

Chest X-Ray: To identify fluid buildup in the lungs or heart enlargement.

Treatment and Recovery

Treatment for postpartum cardiomyopathy focuses on improving heart function and preventing further complications. Common approaches include:

Medications

Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup.

Beta-Blockers to manage blood pressure and heart rate.

ACE Inhibitors to improve heart function.

Lifestyle Changes

A low-sodium diet to minimize fluid retention.

Regular light exercise, as advised by your doctor.

Avoiding alcohol and tobacco.

Supportive Devices In severe cases, devices like implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) or heart pumps may be required.

Heart Transplant In rare, extreme cases where other treatments fail, a heart transplant may be the only option.

Prevention and Long-Term Management

While PPCM cannot always be prevented, certain steps can minimize risk:

Regular prenatal check-ups to monitor heart health.

Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.

Staying active with safe, pregnancy-friendly exercises.

After recovery, women with PPCM should continue to monitor their heart health and discuss future pregnancy risks with their doctor. Ongoing care from a cardiologist is essential for long-term well-being.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum cardiomyopathy is a serious condition, but with the right awareness and medical care, it can be managed effectively. If you or someone you know is at risk or showing symptoms, don’t delay seeking help. Consulting one of the top 10 cardiologists in Bhubaneswar can provide the expertise and support needed to navigate this challenging time.

[shamistate]

Shamis Tate Explains How Metabolic Syndrome Affects Your Body

Metabolic syndrome is a collection of health conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health problems. Shamis Tate, a health expert, breaks down how this condition impacts your body and what you can do to manage or prevent it.

What is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome isn’t a single disease but rather a group of interconnected risk factors. According to health professionals, these factors include:

High blood pressure

High blood sugar levels

Excess body fat around the waist

Abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels

Having just one of these issues doesn’t mean you have metabolic syndrome. However, the combination of these factors significantly increases the likelihood of developing long-term health complications.

How Metabolic Syndrome Affects Your Body

1. Increases Risk of Heart Disease

High blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels are key components of metabolic syndrome that directly impact your heart health. These conditions make it harder for your heart to pump blood effectively, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

2. Leads to Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes

One of the hallmark effects of metabolic syndrome is insulin resistance, where your body’s cells don’t respond well to insulin. This can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and eventually type 2 diabetes, which comes with its own set of complications like nerve damage and kidney problems.

3. Causes Inflammation

Metabolic syndrome often triggers chronic inflammation in the body. This inflammation can damage blood vessels and organs over time, contributing to a wide range of illnesses, including arthritis and some forms of cancer.

4. Impacts Liver Function

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is commonly associated with metabolic syndrome. In this condition, fat builds up in the liver, impairing its ability to function properly. Left untreated, it may progress to more severe liver diseases.

5. Affects Overall Energy Levels

People with metabolic syndrome often experience fatigue. This is partly due to insulin resistance and poor blood sugar control, which affect how efficiently your body converts food into energy.

How to Manage or Prevent Metabolic Syndrome

Shamis Tate emphasizes that while metabolic syndrome can be serious, it is both preventable and manageable. Here are some practical steps to consider:

1. Adopt a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet is crucial for managing metabolic syndrome. Focus on:

Whole grains

Fresh fruits and vegetables

Lean proteins like chicken or fish

Healthy fats from sources like olive oil and avocados Limit processed foods, sugary beverages, and excess sodium.

2. Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity helps in maintaining a healthy weight and improving insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like brisk walking, five days a week.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess fat, especially around the waist, is a key factor in metabolic syndrome. Losing even 5–10% of your body weight can make a significant difference.

4. Monitor Your Health

Regular check-ups can help you catch early warning signs of metabolic syndrome. Keep an eye on your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

5. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol

Smoking and excessive alcohol intake worsen the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. Seek support if you find it challenging to quit on your own.

The Takeaway

Metabolic syndrome is a serious condition, but understanding its effects and taking proactive steps can make a huge difference. As Shamis Tate explains, lifestyle changes are the cornerstone of managing and preventing this condition. By adopting healthy habits like eating well, exercising, and staying on top of your health metrics, you can reduce your risks and live a healthier life.

Remember, it’s never too late to start making positive changes for your health. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help you create a personalized plan to address metabolic syndrome effectively.