Posted: Wednesday, September 7, 2005 12:00 am
Health by the numbers
Patients unclear of discharge instructions
42 - Percentage of hospital patients who knew their diagnosis upon discharge
28 - Percentage able to state correctly the names of all drugs received on discharge
14 - Percentage able to list common side effects of the drugs
From a study of 47 patients discharged from a New York teaching hospital. The study appeared recently in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
The eyes have it
Put vision screenings on back-to-school checklist
In observance of Children's Eye Health and Safety Month in September, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends vision screenings for all children starting at approximately 3 years of age.
About one-quarter of school-aged children have vision problems. Of children ages 3 to 5, nearly one in 20 has a problem that could result in permanent vision loss if left untreated.
"Vision problems can be corrected and the effects reversed if identified and treated early," said Dr. Stuart Dankner, a pediatric ophthalmologist in Baltimore. "If visual symptoms or other risk factors are found during vision screening, the child should then be referred to an eye M.D. for a comprehensive examination. For example, amblyopia, or lazy eye, is the leading cause of treatable blindness in children. The earlier it is detected and treated, the better chance of preventing a child's permanent vision loss."
Honoring grandparents
Share your stories of love and kindness
They're gentle and kind, always have candy on hand and spoil us rotten. Grandparents hold a special place in everyone's heart, and on Sept. 13 the country will honor them with Grandparents' Day.
The Courier wants to know about outstanding grandparents in this area. We're looking for stories about the great things - big and small - your grandparents have done for you. Contact Kelsey Holm at (319) 291-1464 or kelsey.holm@wcfcourier.com to tell your story. Anecdotes must be received no later than Thursday morning. Be sure to include your name and phone number.