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PET OWNERS TAKE THEIR PET’S HEALTHCARE SERIOUS

The US pet industry topped out at over $123 billion in sales last year, according to a recent study conducted by APPA. Vet care and related products made up $34.3 billion of that amount.

Another survey conducted by financial website LendEDU, found that nearly half of all Americans spend the same or more on their pet’s healthcare than they do on themselves. Veterinarians serve an important role to pet owners much like a pediatrician to parents and their child. This means that pet owners don’t take selecting a pet healthcare professional lightly. In addition to knowledge, a veterinarian must have a variety of medical equipment readily available In order to treat the injuries and illnesses of pets and other animals while meeting pet owners’ high expectations and standards. Equipment and tools include surgical supplies, x-ray, and ultrasound machines. A veterinarian’s day-to-day tasks typically involve treating wounds, diagnosing illnesses, performing surgery, administering vaccines, and prescribing medicines. Having the right equipment on hand is crucial to being able to perform those day-to-day tasks and any emergencies.

To keep your veterinarian office well-equipped and ready to serve the needs of pets and their owner’s expectations, Fort Smith Medical and Janitorial Supply has all your pet supplies on hand and ready to deliver to your office. A few items ready for delivery are medical syringes, SkinStitch medical adhesive, blood collection needles, insulin needles and more. Contact Fort Smith Medical and Janitorial Supply today, 800.632.7876, to get your products and conveniently delivered to your office front door.

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MANAGING ASTHMA FOR A BETTER QUALTY LIFE

Being asthmatic is something that impacts every aspect of life. From doing housework to working out, moving air in an out of the lungs is difficult with asthma. When not controlled, it can become a potentially serious and even life-threatening disease. Unfortunately, there isn’t currently a cure for this life-altering disease, but there are ways to manage it allowing for a healthy, active life. The American Lung Association offers these six steps for managing asthma for a better quality life:

  1. Make the most of your medical visits by asking questions about asthma management and treatment.
  2. Create an asthma management plan. Work with your doctor to include key information about managing your asthma.
  3. Keep track of symptoms to help you stay in control. Keeping a journal of asthma symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, activity limitation, and fatigue will help you and your healthcare provider determine if your treatment plan is working or could use some adjustments.
  4. Understand your medication and how it works best to treat your asthma. It is important to take it as directed by your medical provider.
  5. Reduce asthma triggers by limiting or avoiding exposure.
  6. Learn asthma self-management skills. The American Lung Association offers an asthma basic online course to help asthma patients live a better quality life.

Although asthma is a chronic condition, it shouldn’t interfere with life. Contact Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply today for at home and medical office supplies, 800.632.7876.

Cover Photo by Emma Simpson on Unsplash

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Reducing Scarring With SkinStitch®

reduce scarring

Incidents that require stitches most often leave a lifelong reminder with a scar. Anytime reduced scarring can be provided for a patient will earn any medical professional bonus points. When used properly, SkinStitch® Medical Adhesive is the right tool to dramatically reduce scarring. The product is a part of the cyanoacrylate family, which hardens on contact with moisture. The controlled edge design optimizes the surgeon’s expertise, and it has a faster drying time.

surgeon

The SkinStitch® product can be used in place of sutures or staples to close wounds in conjunction with deep dermal stitches achieving the needed strength to keep the wound closed while healing. It can also be used to close wounds more than three inches in length. SkinStitch® acts as a microbial barrier to protect wounds from infection.

skinstitch
Photo Credit: SkinStitch®

The patented “hockey-stick” design allows for ultimate control during the application process optimizing the surgeon’s expertise and experience. The high-quality adhesive interacts immediately with the tissue to form a strong, painless bond and has a faster drying time than other products. be used to close wounds more than three inches in length. There is no residue or harmful toxic components.

surgery

Under the proper storage conditions, the shelf life is guaranteed for two years from the date of manufacture. No refrigeration is necessary but in extremely warm climates the interior temperatures may rise resulting in reduced shelf life.

SkinStitch® has been helping patients for more than 20 years. Contact Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply to order SkinStitch® today, 800.632.7876.

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Delivery – A Pandemic Silver Lining

deliver
delivery

We’re two years into the Covid-19 pandemic and for the majority of people, just mentioning it gives an immediate sense of negativity. However, with every cloud there is a silver lining. I like to think the pandemic offered several silver linings such as curbside pick-up and home deliveries. These services became a lifeline for all sorts of businesses during the pandemic. Consumers have become accustomed to these options and still utilize them although most retailers and restaurants have returned to pre-pandemic capacity and business hours. In fact, a J.D. Power survey dated March 2021 found that consumers across all generations embrace online and mobile apps for shopping and dining needs. “…there was a noticeable increase in both curbside and home delivery across all sectors.” The survey went on to point out the three key areas that differentiate online ordering and curbside pick-up/home delivery experiences.

free delivery
  • Ease of Use Drivers Frequency of Use – The survey found that more customers use a specific service – either delivery or pick-up. Satisfaction is driven by good user-oriented application design driving adoption.
time
  • Timeliness and Level of Engagement – Getting orders right and fulfilled in a timely manner along with consumers having a clear idea of how the process works and status updates are high satisfaction drivers.
delivery bag
  • Friendliness – No matter how much technology we have, courtesy and friendliness still go a long way.

Fort Smith Medical and Janitorial Supply offers a wide variety of products for just about any profession – aestheticians, chiropractic offices, eye clinics, home health, tattoo supplies, veterinarians and more. All products can easily be ordered online and delivered right to your business. Delivery options include weekly deliveries to Northwest Arkansas, Russellville, and Oklahoma. Local deliveries are made several times a week. If you have a question about a product or delivery time, give a friendly FSMJS representative a call, 800.632.7876.

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Betco Products

Betco Products

Long before Covid-19, keeping areas germ-free and disinfected were at the forefront of business’ priority lists. Now that we’re two years into the pandemic and there appears to be a light at the end of the tunnel, disinfecting remains to be a top priority and will continue to be whether it’s Covid or the flu or other contagion.

hotel hall cleaning

Betco BioActive Solutions™ are effective and safe offering continuous cleaning. They are made of a blend of microbial species that naturally stimulate enzymes for long lasting clean. These chemicals are formulated with non-pathogenic microbes to create enzymes that digest fats, oils and greases (also known as FOGs). In addition to keeping surfaces germ-free, the simple to use, no-rinse formulated cleaner, deodorizes and disinfects in one easy operation. Therefore, increasing your operational efficiency and reducing labor costs. Sectors that rely on Betco products are:

RESTAURANT

FOOD SERVICE – Of course, surfaces that customers directly contact are important to keep sanitized and cleaned, but floors in the kitchen are also important. Kitchen floors often become slick with cooking oils and grease. Properly cleaned floors improve traction resulting in a cleaner safer work environment. Other important food service areas that Betco products can be used are prep and staging, cooking, walk-in coolers and freezers, and bathrooms.

NURSING HOME

HEALTHCARE – In addition to sanitizing surfaces touched by employees and patients, reducing slips and falls is just as important. Facilities such as nursing homes must protect residents and staff from falls by keeping floors clean.

WAITING ROOM CHAIRS

OFFICE – Infections are one of the major causes of serious illness, even mortality in some cases, so proper disinfection is necessary. Chair arms and door handles can harbor these harmful germs making proper cleaning and products imperative.

betco lotion skin cleanser rs

Any sector requires continuous hand washing to keep germs at bay, which can lead to dry skin. Betco Antibacterial Lotion Skin Cleanser hand soap uses the germ-killing power of Chloroxylenol (PCMX) to kill germs while leaving hands feeling moisturized.

Other sectors that can benefit from Betco products are:

  • Hospitality/lodging
  • Manufacturing
  • Property management
  • Retail – Grocery stores, convenience stores, boutiques
  • Fitness
  • Education

Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply can provide all your Betco product needs. Contact FSMJS, 800.632.7876, today to reduce cleaning labor costs, increase efficiency, and to help protect your customers or patients from harmful bacteria.

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The Proper Way To Bandage A Wound

The Proper Way To Bandage A Wound

Covering a wound is critical in controlling bleeding and protecting against infection. With the proper supplies and following a few simple steps the task will be much easier and more effective.

HAND WASHING

  1. Wash your hands to avoid infection and, if possible, put on gloves to avoid contact with the victim’s blood.
  1. Stop the bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean bandage or cloth until bleeding stops.
  1. Clean the wound with mild soap and water or an all-in-one wound cleaner.

OINTMENT

  1. Apply a thin layer of an antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly, if available, to keep the surface moist. This will help reduce scarring.

gauze

  1. Apply a clean dressing over the entire wound. A gauze dressing lets in air for faster healing. If the bleeding is severe and bleeds through, place another dressing over the first one.
  1. Extend the bandage at least an inch beyond both sides of the dressing.
  2. If using roller gauze wrap around the wound several times being careful not to wrap too tightly that it interferes with blood flow.
  3. Tie or tape the bandage in place.
  4. Check circulation in the area below the bandage after several minutes and again after a few hours. Signs of poor circulation are pale or blue skin that feels cold to the touch. Numbness and tingling are also signs of poor circulation. If you find that circulation is interrupted, loosen the bandage immediately.
  1. Change the dressing at least once a day or whenever the bandage becomes wet or dirty.
  1. Watch for signs of infection such as redness, increasing pain, drainage, warmth, or swelling on the skin or near the wound.

tetanus shot

  1. If you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the past five years, it is recommended to get a tetanus shot if the wound is deep or dirty.

The best way to prepare is to have the proper supplies on hand. Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply can keep your first aid kit fully stocked with gauze, gloves, and many other needed items. Order online or call 1.800.632.7876.

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Creating A Relaxing Environment For Your Esthetician Clients

Creating A Relaxing Environment For Your Esthetician Clients

A spa experience doesn’t just consist of the services offered. The ambiance is also just as important. From the moment a client steps into your spa, they should instantly feel relaxed and whisked away from outside worries. Creating the perfect spa environment is easy and cost-effective. Here are a few ideas on how to let your clients know they will be pampered and keep them coming back:

When creating ambiance think about the five senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste.

  1. Upon entering your spa, the first sense to be impacted is sight. The client’s experience begins with what they see. Use neutral colors like white, tan, light blue, and lavender to create a calming environment. Avoid colors such as red that do not evoke a relaxing environment. Keep your space tidy with simple furniture, minimal patterns, and free of clutter. The type of lighting used in your spa can either create tranquility or rigidness. Dim lights will help set the tone for luxurious pampering. Never use bright fluorescent bulbs as this will create a harsh, institutional feel.

  1. After clients are inside, they should be greeted with soothing sounds to awaken their sense of hearing. This can be achieved by meditation sounds or nature sounds like babbling brooks and ocean waves. If you have the space, a fountain creating a natural waterfall sound is an excellent way to soothe clients.

  1. Filling your spa with relaxing scents such as lavender, eucalyptus and lemongrass will engage their sense of smell being careful to not overpower the scents by keeping them subtle.

  1. Before clients begin their massage or facial, the sense of touch begins with a warm massage table equipped with comfortable, clean and luxurious linens. Warm towels are a nice added touch.

  1. Treat your esthetician clients with a glass of fresh water infused with lemon and mint to satisfy their sense of taste.

Now that your ambiance is just right, order all your spa supplies from Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply. Everything from lobby dust pans to facial sheets are available to order online or call, 800.632.7876.

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Choosing the Right Stethoscope for You

Choosing the Right Stethoscope for You

A medical student’s first stethoscope is not something they will soon forget. It’s not only a practical tool of the trade it is a symbol of their hard work and dedication. As students progress through their medical careers, they soon realize that a good stethoscope is also an investment in their practice. Not all stethoscopes are created equal, and the type depends on features needed for the job. Especially, if you are a student and new to buying a stethoscope, the choices can get overwhelming.

ScrubPro Uniforms suggests assessing your needs.

stethoscope  

  • Students should not limit themselves to the cheapest stethoscope. As ScrubPro Uniforms stated, this is one of the most critical times in your career when you are learning what to listen for, and what certain conditions sound like. You will want to make sure you have a good quality stethoscope to make you the best medical professional possible.

student steth

  • Specialty fields such as cardiology will most likely need to invest in a specialty stethoscope. For example, cardiology stethoscopes have a diaphragm that adjusts based on how hard you press it against the patient’s skin.

WEARABILITY

  • Consider the wearability factor as you will most likely be wearing your stethoscope for several hours. Are you already accustomed to wearing it a certain way? Around your neck? In a holder? Cargo pant pocket? ScrubPro Uniforms suggests thinking about the preferred length of the tubing and the heaviness of the piece.

Whether you are a student purchasing your first stethoscope or a seasoned medical profession, Fort Smith Medical and Janitorial Supply has the right stethoscope you need. Order online or call 800.632.7876.

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Must-Have Products for Home Service Contractors

Must-Have Products for Home Service Contractors

If you are a contractor that requires entering customers’ homes, one of your priorities is avoiding any mishaps like scratching floors due to debris in your shoe and now the COVID-19 pandemic has caused more awareness for contractors to protect customers’ and their health. This reminds me of a time a phone tech came to my home. Unbeknownst to him he had a rock in his shoe and proceeded up my beautiful newly finished wood stairs. Needless to say, they were deeply scratched every step of the way. Of course, he didn’t do it intentionally, but oh how I wish he would have had shoe covers.

staircase

As a contractor another consideration is insurance coverage. Many liability insurance policies will not cover any incidences if protective footwear is not worn making shoe covers a necessity to not only protect floors but to stay within insurance coverage requirements.

INSURANCE

A few inexpensive products can keep your customers happy while taking precautions for everyone’s health. Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply has all the contractor products you need. In addition to your tools, stock your toolbox with these items.

SHOE COVER

Shoe covers to protect floors.

disposable face mask

Face masks to help protect your health as well as your customer.

Trash bags for clean-up.

survival first aid kit

Every contractor needs a survival first aid kit equipped with everything you need for fast medical care. This kit comes with 168 pieces with everything from bandages to cleansing products to over-the-counter pain relievers.

For any of these products order online or call Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply, 479.632.7876.  Shipping is available for anywhere in the continental United States.

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Sharps and Biohazard Disposal

Sharps and Biohazard Disposal

Millions of Americans require a weekly of injection of medication to control things such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. The needles used are considered to be biohazard waste, also known as biomedical waste, and need to be disposed of properly by both hospitals, medical facilities, blood banks, and individuals. According to the Hazard Awareness and Management Manual (HAMM) of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), other types of biohazard waste are:

  • Human blood and its components in liquid and semi-liquid form, dried or not
  • Human body floods in liquid or semi-liquid form, dried or not
  • Human pathological waste
  • Animal waste
  • Microbiological waste
  • Sharps waste encompassing all sharp medical utensils
  • Any other medical supply or equipment including gloves, towels, used bandages and dressings that have come into contact with any of the previous materials mentioned.

SYRINGE WITH MEDICINE

It is important that you use the appropriate containers to store and dispose of the biohazard waste. Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply has a wide variety of Sharps containers in sizes to fit every need.

14 q sharp container

1.4 quart sharp container

Medprodisposal.com has outlined some helpful information regarding the biohazard waste disposal management:

  • Sharps must be placed in a puncture-resistant, tamper-proof container. Once it is three-quarters full it should be disposed of.

RED BIOHAZARD BAG

  • Infectious waste should be placed in leak-proof plastic bags/containers suitable for the type of material.
  • Low-level items such as swabs can be included with other waste to be incinerated.

All biohazard waste containers should be stored in an area separate from non-hazardous materials for no more than 72 hours in the winter and 48 hours in the summer.

specimen bag

For all your biohazard waste container needs, contact Fort Smith Medical & Janitorial Supply.