Top Ten list for a better holiday

Its time for the Holidays... I figured why not continue my previous year tradition of sharing my lessons observed in the ED for a better holiday experience.

Top Ten list for a better holiday

#1 Wash your hands often and especially before that special family meal or food prep- you don't know where those friends and family hands have been -- wiping kids noses or scratching skin coated with MRSA (okay I had to throw in that word :) to spread more paranoia - You all must realize by now that we almost all have probably been exposed by this point)-- But seriously -- wash with water and soap but the key is the friction of the rubbing the hands together for 20 seconds or so.

#2 Avoid unnecessary cuts ----Stop opening cans with knifes or fingers -- what is it with trying to use hand held can openers that don't work completely so I will try to pry it open.... (famous last words let me tell you)

#3 Drink more water -- it helps you stay hydrated while traveling -helps give you energy to deal with additional stress and helps your immune system fight new germs and may help avoid hangovers for those who dip into alcohol

#4 Don't leave the turkey thaw on the counter or in the sink and please please please refrigerate left overs-- let me introduce the concept of food poisoning and not leaving the bathroom for the next 24-48 hours... enough said.

#5 Watch out for the pranksters... there's always one funny one in the group -- make sure the chair is there before you sit etc...

#6 Watch for uneven pavement and unexpected steps in homes while visiting family or friends especially when our parents and grandparents may be around and need more help with stability-- they have a way of jumping up and knocking people down

#7 Be careful if children are visiting homes with dogs that they are monitored as old dogs may not tolerate tails being pulled or untrained dogs may not tolerate children near their toys or food. A dog bite is traumatizing to everyone involved.

#8 Remember to plan for time to kick back and have some quality time with friends and family. These are opportunities to build relationships and memories -let go of little things and use your time wisely. Love your friends and family and chose to use this time to "Encourage one another daily"

#9 If you get talked into the traditional family games such as basketball or football -- remember to have fun -- but warm up and stretch to avoid injuries.

#10 Take time to thank God for the good things in life (you can always find bad things but I think everyone can find at least one good thing and its amazing how focusing on the positive can change your attitude and stress level -- Like -- Thank God I have a job (despite the fact I have to work Thanksgiving). Thank God I have friends who take pity on me and bring me food and co workers who creatively plan ahead to share our own holdiay meal.

-- And my prayer is that you all have a great Holiday season and it does not involve visits to the ED.