Monthly Archives: November 2020

4 Unique Careers in Nursing to Consider

Nurses are often viewed as the cornerstone of healthcare. This is because they work day in and day out to provide direct patient care under the guidance of skilled physicians and specialists. Because nurses work directly with patients as well as with physicians, they are given a certain perspective into both sides of healthcare. They often serve as advocates for patients as well as the facilitators of quality healthcare.

Furthermore, there are a great many career options available to nurses that range in specialty and levels of responsibility. While many nurses choose to practice as registered nurses (RN) for the duration of their careers working in more traditional nursing roles, others opt to go different routes with their careers.

If you are interested in the field of nurses and would like to explore the many options that are available to nurses today, here are four unique career options that you can consider.

1. Family Nurse Practitioner

There is no denying the fact that there currently exists a shortage of qualified physicians in the world of medicine today. Because of this shortage, there are many areas of the country that are underserved and in need of quality healthcare. For this reason, the powers that be have seen fit to allow nurses a certain level to practice very much in the same way as a physician would in the family practice setting.

Such a nurse is called a family nurse practitioner (FNP). An FNP is a nurse who has opted to earn an advanced degree in either the form of a master’s degree or a doctorate. Equipped with such education as well as the experience that an RN obtains on the job, FNPs are more than prepared to administer healthcare in an independent fashion.

Not all states permit FNPs to practice completely independently of physician supervision. For this reason, if you wish to practice in this manner in your own career, you should first research the state in which you reside. You might very well be able to own and run your very own practice.

2. Nurse Midwife

Another role in the world of nursing that requires additional education in the form of a master’s degree is that of a nurse midwife. In this role, a nurse works with expectant mothers in order to provide healthcare throughout pregnancy. They also assist with labor and delivery either independently or in conjunction with an OB-GYN. Nurse midwifes also administer healthcare in the months following the delivery of a child.

There was once a time when the overwhelming majority of expectant mothers would only receive the healthcare they need at the hands of a physician. However, many women today seek a more holistic and natural approach to pregnancy, labor, and delivery that is administered by a fully qualified healthcare professional. This is where the nurse midwife has become a more popular choice for this incredibly personal, and at times, volatile period in a woman’s life.

3. Flight Nurse

One job in the field of nursing that is both unique and rather exciting is that of a flight nurse. These are RNs who have gained specific experience working in an intensive care unit or emergency room who then decide to work specifically in patient transport. However, the method in which such patients are transported is by air.

Flight nurses accompany patients during transport by aircraft. Patients who are critically ill or who are being rescued with a severe injury need such nurses by their side in order to ensure that the transport goes smoothly. These nurses must be ready for anything and will work directly with paramedics and other healthcare professionals in order to ensure the safe transport of their patients.

4. Health Policy Nurse

If you are interested in a career in nursing that doesn’t involve direct patient care, you might consider a career as a health policy nurse. These are nurses who wish to take their experience and knowledge directly to those who create and implement healthcare policy. Because nurses have experience working with patients directly as well as with physicians and specialists on the other side of healthcare, their opinions and views are incredibly valuable in such roles.

Health policy nurses can work in a variety of settings. They might work in the realm of politics, as all too often healthcare and politics are intertwined. They might also choose to work on the research side of policy striving to develop the best policies for the world of medicine.

Clenbuterol

What is clenbuterol drug used for?

Clenbuterol is a substance that has been known for more than 50 years. It is used to treat asthma and has been used in the past to treat horses that have inhaled dirt during races, which other horses have blown up in front of them, clogging their airways and causing inflammation. Many studies and observations have even been performed on horses, proving, for example, that the first week clenbuterol helped them breathe better, but after two weeks the effect reversed and caused them problems. Over time, the use of clenbuterol in racehorses has been banned.

Clenbuterol has sometimes been used to improve the quality of beef. In animals, in addition to fat-burning effects, clenbuterol also has anabolic effects. As a result, the animals wore more quality meat and less fat, which increased their price on the market. This is also banned today because the metabolite of this substance remained in the body of animals even after death and caused food poisoning.

Clenbuterol (or also Clenbuterol) is not a steroid, as is sometimes incorrectly stated, but it is a stimulant of the central nervous system, the so-called beta-2 agonist – a substance that stimulates the autonomic nervous system (specifically the sympathetic nervous system). It is used as a bronchodilator to widen the bronchi and thereby relieve asthma symptoms.

Use of clenbuterol in bodybuilding:

Once clenbuterol reports that it has the ability to build muscle and break down fat, it was a matter of time before the first athletes tried it. As with most sports-enhancing substances, the use of clenbuterol in bodybuilding can be divided into many categories. on the one hand, we have individuals who use this substance purely because others do it. And on the other hand, there are a number of athletes who consider clenbuterol to be the best anabolic of all time – even more effective than steroids. But for the most part, people use clenbuterol because it is a substance that affects performance. Bodybuilders are fascinated by clenbuterol because it has the ability to protect muscle mass during a strict diet and also further reduces the amount of fat – which are the two primary goals of pre-competition training. And because clenbuterol is less detectable than anabolic steroids, it has become popular, especially among athletes at risk of doping control. But this was especially true in the early 1990s, when use was just beginning. In many cases, the clenbuterol test was not performed because most sports federations had no idea about its widespread use. Although, of course, generalize, you can usually take clenbuterol up to 48 hours before the competition, and the test will not be positive (its effectiveness is about 50 hours). However, the tests are getting better and better (in 1992, two Olympic athletes tested positive for clenbuterol), so competitors must be much more careful if they do not want their sports federation to ban them. based on the available information, we know that athletes prefer tablets to sprays, and their standard dosage is about twice the recommended therapeutic dose. This corresponds to an amount of 50 to 100 micrograms per day. According to other sources, it is clear that the use of clenbuterol can also be cycled and then completely stopped for three weeks. Even during the application cycle, the mentioned amount is always used for two days, followed by a two-day break. Although the reason is not fully known, it seems that athletes do pay attention to the results of studies that show the possibility of reduced effectiveness of clenbuterol in the case of long-term use. Researchers speculate that this is due to either a reduction in receptors or their reduced sensitivity. The last mention already tells us about the paradoxical situation – namely that the anabolic effect of clenbuterol is very short-lived. Even long-term use of clenbuterol reduces its effectiveness. Thus, they appear to be substances ideal for short-term pre-competitive preparation, but their properties prevent long-term use.

Clenbuterol Sopharma

Why is it so popular among bodybuilders?

Clenbuterol is widespread due to its positive effects on fat burning. It is not only professional bodybuilders, but also ordinary exercisers, and even people who do not play sports at all and do not have a reduction diet. The only thing they care about is that they take a miracle pill that will lose weight for them. Of course, it just doesn’t work that way.

Clenbuterol binds to beta-2-adrenergic receptors. These are also found in fat cells, where they activate the enzyme lipase, which breaks down fat into free fatty acids. These are then disconnected from the fat cell and the body uses them as a source of energy. As a result, body fat is lost. In addition, it causes a decrease in appetite in many people, which also has an indirect effect on weight loss.

If someone tells you that it pays to take clenbuterol for its anabolic effects, they are right. Why? Although the anabolic effects have been shown in animals, you would have to take such large doses of this substance to make it happen in humans that it would probably kill you.

Side effects of clenbuterol:

Clenbuterol increases heart rate and stimulates heart function. Elevated body temperature is also directly associated with this. This side effect may or may not occur. Although the increase is slight, by a maximum of 0.5 ° C, even this small temperature fluctuation is noticeable. Along with the increase in body temperature, there is also associated hand tremors and general physical restlessness. Excessive sweating is often added to this. Many of its users also cause severe insomnia and muscle cramps.

Convulsions are common, especially if the user of clenbuterol does not replenish potassium during the treatment. The member causes it to break down from the body. In addition to potassium, taurine is also broken down, so it is advisable to supplement both of these substances either from natural sources or directly from supplements throughout the treatment.

The most common side effects of clenbuterol include:

  • palpitations and fast heartbeat,
  • headaches
  • tremor (especially hand tremor)
  • muscle cramps
  • irritability
  • insomnia
  • excessive sweating
  • nausea and loss of appetite
  • high blood pressure.

 

What to Look for in a Personal Trainer

If you have decided to make a commitment to improving your physical health, you may have also decided to seek the help of a local fitness trainer, such as a Mississauga fitness trainer. However, do you know what to look for in an effective trainer?

Reputation versus Credentials

You absolutely want a personal trainer with a good reputation. Online reviews can be deceiving because anyone can leave them, including personal trainers themselves. Therefore, do not value hype over certifications. You need a certified trainer with ACE, NSCA or NASM accreditation. Your trainer’s certification ensure they are professional and competent and know general exercise physiology, nutrition, anatomy and proper exercise actions.

Client-Focused

You want a trainer that listens to you and understands your needs. Your trainer should ask you what you expect, go over your goals and work out a plan that fits. Be sure to discuss accountability and motivation tactics. You should have open, clear communication with your trainer. These professionals need to know what works for you and what doesn’t, so don’t be shy about telling them and find someone open to listening.

You also want to feel comfortable with your trainer. Therefore, find someone who will develop a plan that is enjoyable. For example, if you like to be outdoors, your plan may include outdoor rather than gym workouts. Also, find a trainer who specializes in meeting your goals, such as running a 5K, weight loss or endurance training.

Patience and Adaptability

Let’s face it, if you are new to exercising regularly, you may be prone to complaints or leisurely working out. Your trainer needs to be able to motivate you without losing patience. However, avoid taking their patience for granted and disrespecting their time and effort. Together, you will find a pace and program that works for you.

In addition, the exercises that work for other clients may not work for you. Your trainer needs to be flexible with your workouts and not frustrated when something doesn’t work.

Whether you are new to exercise or need a more challenging program, consider working with a fitness trainer.

5 Ways To Avoid Getting COVID-19

The novel coronavirus, known to scientists as COVID-19, caused a pandemic that has gripped the globe for nearly three quarters of a year. Many are rightly afraid of catching the virus, but there are five ways to protect you and your family from the virus.

Practice Social Distancing

As much as possible, practice social distancing by staying 6 feet apart when around other people. Avoid locations or activities where large groups of people congregate, and move necessary in-person interactions to outdoor spaces as much as possible.

Wash Hands

Using soap and water, make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and dry thoroughly. Using a disinfectant hand sanitizer is another option when not near a water source. Avoid sneezing or coughing into your hands as well.

Stay Healthy

The usual advice of getting adequate rest, exercise, and nutrition is still a great prescription to prevent illness. Sunshine and vitamin D supplements may also be useful in boosting the immune system. Most importantly, make sure you stay home if you’re not feeling well to get better and avoid getting others sick.

Mask up

Using a mask or other personal protective equipment such as protective hood Florida can keep you safe when you need to be in situations that could expose you to the virus. Whether at the doctor’s office for treatment or the grocery stores for necessary foods, you can reduce your risk of catching or transmitting the virus by using face coverings. Be sure they cover your nose, mouth, and even eyes for maximum protection.

Avoid Sick People

Keep your distance from sick relatives if you’re able or practice good hygiene while taking care of a sick child or relative. As important as it is to stay well, it’s just as important to take care of the ones who count on you as long as you take the necessary precautions while doing so.

The coronavirus pandemic is frightening for many people. However, with the proper precautions and preparations, you can minimize your risk of getting sick.

How to Get Rid of Blackheads

Many people who experience blackheads look for the best ways to get rid of them. Here are some ideas and tips that can help you to make that happen:

Frеԛuеnt Clеаnѕіng: Cоnѕіѕtеnt wаѕhіng twо tіmеѕ a dау uѕіng thе соrrесt tуре оf рrоduсtѕ such as the best face wash for blackheads may bе the mоѕt еffесtіvе way tо gеt rid оf blасkhеаdѕ and achieve clear ѕkіn. Stау аwау frоm overly drying or irritating skin сlеаnѕеrѕ аnd make сеrtаіn сlеаnѕеrѕ are water ѕоlublе іn order tо nоt lеаvе residue оn уоur fасе that can оbѕtruсt роrеѕ.

Exfоlіаtіng: Exfоlіаtіng іѕ a рrосеѕѕ bу which уоu саn ѕlоugh off оld dead skin сеllѕ on thе outermost lауеr оf your skin. A lоt оf еxfоlіаtеѕ соnѕіѕt оf tіnу beads mіxеd into сlеаnѕіng ѕоар fоr thеіr abrasive funсtіоnѕ. Whеn scrubbed over skin thе dеаd ѕkіn сеllѕ аrе removed whісh makes thеm less lіkеlу tо сlоg pores. Thе same rеѕult can bе аttаіnеd by ѕсrubbіng with soap аnd a wash сlоth. Exfoliating ѕhоuld bе оnlу dоnе twісе a wееk at mоѕt аѕ tо nоt іrrіtаtе the ѕkіn.

Sаlісуlіс acid bаѕеd exfoliates аrе also extremely рорulаr for the trеаtmеnt of blасkhеаdѕ. This іѕ a bеtа hуdrоxу асіd thаt hаѕ bееn proven effective іn сlеаrіng oil clogged pores аnd hаіr fоllісlеѕ. It is comparable tо whаt dеrmаtоlоgіѕtѕ uѕе fоr face рееlѕ but it is obtainable іn a lеѕѕ роtеnt fоrm mіxеd іntо рrоduсtѕ dеѕіgnеd fоr еvеrуdау uѕе.

Face Steaming: A terrific way tо gеt rid оf blackheads іѕ facial steaming. For thіѕ procedure you’ll fill a ѕіzаblе раn wіth wаtеr аnd boil it. Onсе thе wаtеr is bоіlіng саutіоuѕlу move thе роt on tо a high tеmреrаturе рrооf ѕurfасе. Next, tаkе a tоwеl аnd drаре іt over your hеаd аѕ wеll аѕ the pot, еnѕurіng nо wаtеr vароr саn еѕсаре. Hоld уоur fасе аbоvе thе water lеttіng it to soak іn thе steam. Make ѕurе never tо gеt сlоѕе еnоugh to burn yourself, juѕt сlоѕе enough to ѕоаk up the ѕtеаm.

Once you’re finished уоur роrеѕ wіll hаvе ореnеd uр enough tо аllоw thе blасkhеаd tо gеt gently ѕԛuееzеd out.

3 Dimensions of Addiction and Recovery

Addicts and alcoholics often struggle with finding the coping skills that will enable them to face life successfully and leave behind the jungle of their illness. Frequently, efforts to recover are plagued by problems with finances, relationships and the legal system. Despite the overwhelming nature of these challenges, many sufferers do recover and go on to enjoy full, satisfying lives.

Medical clinics, treatment facilities and support groups exist in most metropolitan areas to address the recovery community’s needs. Whether addicts and alcoholics are seeking addiction treatment St Charles MO, Tacoma WA or other population centers, help is available. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous offer peer support from others who have found recovery. Individuals with long-term experience living a sober lifestyle attend regular meetings and want to help newcomers as part of their own program of recovery.

Even though variation exists in the different approaches to treatment, some themes reappear regularly. Commonly recurring characterizations of addiction include the physical, mental and spiritual dimensions of the disease.

Physical Dimension of Addiction

Some substances are physically addictive. They interact metabolically with addicts’ bodies in a way that can make sudden abstinence from them medically dangerous. For instance, after long-term excessive consumption, ceasing alcohol abruptly can result in hallucinations and life-threatening seizures. Medically supervised detoxification treatment is required in these cases.

Mental Dimension of Addiction

Addicts are victimized by incredibly obsessive thinking patterns. The neurochemical reward centers in the brains of those afflicted suffer from a vicious cycle of reinforcement. Often, this requires a significant period of abstinence to overcome.

Spiritual Dimension of Addiction

Beyond medical treatments based on empirical science, scores of recovered alcoholics and addicts credit spirituality as a key element in their recovery. These individuals testify to having found uncommon strength, courage and peace by relying on their own conception of a Higher Power.

Addiction, alcoholism and related societal problems are often devastating to the individuals who fall prey to this disease, their families, friends and employers. Fortunately, there are many resources available for those who want to recover. The recovery community is full of successful examples of individuals who sought and found help and now are helping others.

 

Tips To Select The Right Health Insurance Provider

Medical emergencies can knock on your door any time and investing in a good health insurance plan is one of the best ways to stay financially prepared for unforeseen events. People have realized the importance of life insurance, so there are more and more people investing in an insurance plan. Subsequently, you will find many insurance companies offering different types of medical insurance plans. So how will you choose the best health insurance plan in India? This mainly depends on the kind of insurance provider you choose. Here are some excellent tips that will help you find the right company to buy and insurance policy from.

  • Reputation Of The Provider

One of the first things that you should look out for is the reputation of the health insurance company. Over the years, there has been an increasing number of cases where the provider doesn’t pay the claims. Therefore, you have to be careful to become a victim of the same. Search online and see the reviews of the company; this will help you determine the quality of their services. You can also ask for a reference for someone who has an active policy with a particular provider.

  • Solvency Ratio

It is an important factor to consider as this determines whether or not the provider is capable of settling the claim when you need it. According to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India or IRDAI, it is mandatory for every health insurance company to maintain a minimum solvency rate of 1.5.

The solvency ratio is an important factor as it determines the reliability of the provider. For instance, if there is a natural disaster, the company is likely to have large claims to settle in a short time span. In such emergency situations, this solvency ratio becomes critical; you will be able to claim your policy faster and protect your family.

  • Claim Settlement Ratio

Along with the solvency ratio, the claim settlement ratio is another factor that determines whether or not the insurance provider is reliable. This ratio indicates a percentage of claims that the company has paid out of the overall claims filed in a year. Look for insurance companies with a higher claim settlement ratio. The higher this ratio, the easier it will be for your loved ones to claim the money. Although it is important to consider the claim settlement ratio, you should also check the total number of claims that the company is receiving.

  • Rider Coverage

Along with the main insurance policy, many insurance providers offer additional coverages known as the riders. These are small coverage that gives you extra protection. Some of the common riders include accidental death, waiver of premium, income benefits. Ask your insurance provider if they provide riders along with the main policy.

Having an insurance plan is a smart investment decision. With this policy backing you up, you can rest assured that your family is protected. When you choose an insurance policy, make sure that you read through all the documents carefully, and understand each point before signing the final papers.

 

 

How To Improve Your Riding Skills

If you want to be a good horseback rider, you need to practice a lot. It’s never too late to start improving your skills in the saddle, so start these three habits to become a better rider.

Practice Jumping

Jumping uses a completely different set of skills than other riding disciplines. It is a great way to improve your balance in the saddle and helps you learn to communicate with your mount. Set up a few schooling horse jumps in your arena to learn how to keep your seat while riding over jumps and start developing the skills associated with jumping.

Work On Your Endurance

While you may not think horseback riding is a strenuous sport, it can take a lot out of you if you aren’t comfortable in the saddle. You have to build up your endurance in the saddle if you want to be a good rider. Start by going for trail rides and increasing the length of your travels. You will likely need to take several breaks at first, but soon you should be able to ride all day with few breaks. The more time you spend in the saddle, the more comfortable you will be.

Spend Time With Your Mount

Knowing your horse will make you a better rider. Every horse has its own personality and habits, so spending quality time with your mount is a great way to learn to anticipate how your horse will act in various situations. Take time exercising your mount every day and groom him or her frequently. By spending time with your horse, you’ll learn how to best communicate with him or her while you’re in the saddle.

Regardless of how long you have been riding, you can always improve your skills. Start incorporating these three habits into your routine to build upon your riding skills.

The Best Working Dog Breeds for Families

Dogs can be more than man’s best friend. Many dogs have been bred to help their human owners perform certain tasks and are known today as working dogs. From security and rescue work to herding and livestock protection, working dog breeds can make a great pet for the right family. Here are some of the top working dog breeds to consider.

Great Pyrenees

Also known as Pyrenean Mountain Dogs, these gentle giants have long white fur. They are intelligent, loyal, and courageous, making them a great addition to any family. Used as to guard livestock or as goat herding dogs, the Great Pyrenees will bond with the animals, creating a lifelong protective relationship.

Husky

A general term for three different breeds, Huskies are cold-weather working dogs. Eskimo and Siberian Huskies have incredible speed and stamina, helping them carry large loads over many miles. Alaskan Malamutes are larger than their Husky cousins. They are incredibly loyal dogs that enjoy working in teams, so consider getting more than one for your family.

German Shepherd

The quintessential police dog, German Shepards are protectors. They are not aggressive, though the work they do has characterized them as attack dogs. German Shepards are highly intelligent and trainable but require constant stimulation to be content. They are a great guardian and companion if you are willing to put in the hours training them.

Golden Retriever

Not officially categorized as a working dog, Golden Retrievers can be trained for many jobs. They commonly perform service dog duties, but also help with search-and-rescue and security tasks. Highly intelligent and energetic, Golden Retrievers love unconditionally, making them great for families.

Working dogs can take more effort than other dog breeds. Not every home is the ideal environment for these dogs. However, they can make a loving and loyal addition to the right family.

Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Family

Whether you have recently moved or are just looking for a dental home, there are several things to consider when choosing a family dentist Kansas City MO. You want to be comfortable with any medical provider that you choose, and it is essential to do your research before making a final decision. Consider these three things for choosing the right dentist for your family.

Location

You should ideally be visiting your dentist at least twice yearly, so you want to choose a location that is convenient for you. You should look for something close to work and home, but you should also consider quality of dental care. It could be worth it to drive a little bit for your appointments, though you do not want them too for away.

Appointment Availability

You never know when a dental emergency could arise, so it is important that you are able to get appointments when you need them most. Some clinics may even offer after-hours appointments to make things more convenient, so always ask if these are available. Always consider what your family’s schedule is like and how that will translate into appointment availability.

Age Ranges Accepted

If you are looking for a provider that your whole family can use, it is important that you ask what age ranges are accepted. Some dentists specialize in adult care, while others gear a practice towards pediatric care. You need to find out if your chosen dentist is comfortable treatment children, teens and adults. When you find a dentist that the whole family can use, you can look forward to a lasting, trusting relationship through the years.

When you do the right amount of research before choosing your family’s dentist, you can feel good about your decision. Start looking today for a place that you can call your dental home.

How To Plan The Perfect Corporate Event

Being tasked with planning your company’s next event can be the ideal time to shine; however, it can also present a lot of anxiety and worry if you aren’t sure where to start. If you are inexperienced in party planning, you don’t need to panic. While executing an event that will impress can be a lot of pressure, here are a few tips to help you pull off the perfect corporate event for your team.

Hire the Professionals

If you have the ability to do so, consider hiring party planners Richmond VA who can help you bring your vision to fruition. Not only can they give you professional advice, but they are likely to also have additional relationships with vendors which can leave you with a seamless planning process.

Set or Determine a Budget

Your budget will be another key factor as you begin making decisions. Whether you are determining the budget yourself or you have one set for you, this is critical information that you will need at each juncture.

Determine the Theme

A theme for the event will be an influential factor as you planning. This can help determine what activities should take place, what cuisine best suits the atmosphere, whether alcohol should be served or not and the type of entertainment that you will employ. Because this will inform many of your decisions, you may want to run the theme by your manager to ensure this aligns with the company’s vision.

Utilize a Checklist

For someone inexperienced with party planning, using an event planning checklist can help you keep track of everything. Not only will this be a useful resource to manage your progress but it also can ensure that you don’t miss anything. While you will need to tailor this to your particular event, these resources can help give you a bird’s eye view of a normal planning process.

Planning corporate events can be stressful if you haven’t done it before. If you want to get it right and impress your managers, use these tips and you will be sure to plan the perfect event.

How to Avoid Germs in Public Places

Do you want to know what’s really disgusting? Everything. Germs are everywhere, lurking on almost everything that we touch. Some of the germiest places on earth are places that you regularly frequent. Learning how to protect yourself against contaminated surfaces may be your best defense to staying well.

Public Bathrooms

You may be meticulous about covering a public toilet seat with toilet paper, but it turns out that there are bigger germ-harboring culprits in a bathroom. The stall door and the faucet handles are great places for E. coli and Enterococcus bacteria to thrive. To keep your hands away from these surfaces, use a paper towel or a grab hook with rubber tip to open and close doors or turn faucets off and on. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and then don’t touch anything else once they are clean.

Restaurants

Undercooked or raw foods can cause food poisoning from Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter bacteria. Couple that with a server who didn’t observe the “employees must wash hands” sign in the bathroom before carrying your plate to the table. Your best defense is to order food well-cooked and to observe employee behavior and general restaurant cleanliness. Do tables get cleaned with a cursory wipe or do employees strive to really sanitize between patrons? Chances are if high standards of cleanliness are company policy, your food will be okay.

Your Office

If your receptionist keeps a candy jar at her desk, that’s sweet, but avoid it at all costs. There is no telling what the last person touched before he put his hands into that bowl. Bacteria that cause common illness such as strep or the flu don’t need to linger too long on the surface of an individually wrapped peppermint if the guy with the runny nose grabs one right before you. It’s safest to keep your own stash of candy at your desk. If you must have a candy, sanitize your hands before and after unwrapping your Jolly Rancher.

There is no way to stay 100% germ free, but there are several ways to cut down on the instances of germ exposure. Keep your hands clean, or in your pockets and away from your face as much as possible.