We have an amazing Nursing Team here at Support, Inc.! Below you will find important news and updates they would like to share with everyone:
Colorado Warm Weather Has Begun
Staying hydrated and ensuring proper skin care is essential. Below are some tips to stay safe and have all the fun in the sun!
Hydration:
- Double Your Intake: Aim for at least 3-4 liters of water per day, particularly if active, as the dry air causes faster dehydration. Increase fluid intake if you’re out hiking, boating, fishing or just sitting outside in the sun.
- Use Electrolytes: Drink sports drinks or use electrolyte packets, especially after sweating, to replenish salt and minerals. Anyone like Gatorade?
- Monitor Urine Color: A pale yellow color indicates proper hydration; dark yellow/amber means you need more water.
- Limit Diuretics: Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake, which can accelerate dehydration.
- Eat Water-Rich Foods: Consume foods like cucumbers, melons, strawberries, and celery to support hydration. Fruit can be fun!
- Carry a Bottle Everywhere: Do you have a favorite water bottle or cup? Keep it handy to drink fluids throughout the day.
Sunscreen:
- High Altitude = High Risk: UV radiation increases by 2% for every 1,000 feet of elevation.
- Year-Round Protection: Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, making sun protection critical, even when skiing.
- Protection Beyond Lotion: Use SPF lip balm, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.
- Dry Climate Factor: Colorado’s dry air can make skin more sensitive, requiring consistent, thick coverage.
- Certain medications: can cause photosensitivity a reaction where skin becomes highly sensitive to UV rays, causing rapid sunburns, rashes, or blistering.
How should I apply it:
- When to Apply: Apply 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the protective barrier to form.
- Amount Needed: Use enough to cover all exposed skin. A general rule is 1 ounce (a shot glass full) for the entire body, and about a half-teaspoon for the face and neck.
- Coverage: Apply to all exposed areas, including commonly missed spots like the tops of the ears, back of the neck, feet, and hands.
- Technique: Rub the sunscreen thoroughly into the skin. For lotions, apply evenly, and for sprays, ensure thorough coverage (do not just spray and leave it).
- Reapplication: Reapply at least every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.
- Protection Type: Choose a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.