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August 02, 2018
Medshop Editor
Hogies Safety Glasses; So Aussie, You’ll Cry Vegemite
For medical professionals, eyes rank next to (if not above) hands on the list of most important body parts outside the brain. Protection of this trio is high up on the list for brain surgeons and technicians alike. Frankly, we should all keep them in high esteem, but for those in medicine, careers ride on their proper function and partnership. The hands are critical for work, yes, but the eyes are of special concern as they don’t tolerate trauma well. Compared to the brain, encased in bone, the eyes have little more than a thin film of flesh and whispy eyelashes for protection. Many times that’s not enough. At least the hands can form callouses. They can even take a dash of chemicals for a few seconds or a crunch in the door jam. The eyes? Not so much. A splash of dangerous chemicals, blood, or even objects will always move faster or harder than the speed and strength of one’s natural eye protection. For this reason, safety glasses are a standard for many professionals. It can never hurt to don a pair of quality safety lenses. The landscape for styles is broad enough too. For some roles, a flimsy pair of mass-produced plastic lenses will serve better than nothing, but if you need something reliable there are better options. You needn't break the bank for them either. Brands like Prestige, Safetyquip, Kimberly-Clark, and of course, Hogies rise up as potential contenders for eye protection. Hogies, however, get so much right about safety and style, you can’t go wrong with them. Not only that, but Hogies is a family-run company started right here in Australia. They're so down under, you'll cry tears of Vegemite once you try them on the first time. There are a number of good reasons to consider Hogies, more than simply being Australian, beginning with the company's origin story. Who is Hogies Australia Pty Ltd? Over four decades ago, the Hogies brand of protective eyewear came into the world via Martin Hogan, the late founder of the brand. Since then, much has changed about the design and offerings of Hogies, but one thing has remained the same. As mentioned, Hogies is still a family-owned business. Since its inception, they've been a leader in eyewear design, evidenced by the many imitations. Most importantly to Australians, Hogies is a homegrown brand of medical tech. Being raised locally hasn’t slowed Hogies down any. The owners continue to present at international trade shows around the world. Hogies' collective reach is so far, it has extended outside this world. They’ve been involved with project specific designs for US space mission to create anti-glare environment eyewear. Even the Royal Australian Air Force has been a customer of Hogies, using Martin Hogan’s designs for years as standard issue eyewear. No doubt, Hogies is that local kid makes good story we all love. Why choose Hogies? If that last section didn’t tickle you in the kangaroo pouch, then try on this pitch: Hogies are durable, versatile, and they look cool. There is no other brand of safety glasses that could double as your fashion lenses without looking a bit off. If you’re wearing a pair of Hogies tinted lenses, especially one of the versions that feature anti-glare, you might prefer them to your store-bought glasses for driving or riding your motorcycle. Reason being? You’ll have a tough time scratching your Hogies. They’re designed to take abuse and keep on shining. The Eyeguard Grey Revos are a great example. They employ UV protection on top of standard Hogies features like adjustability, water repellent, and fog and scratch resistance. Hogies aren’t exactly Hollywood fashion frames, but they aren’t a slouch for fashion either. Their sporty look has been emulated by most sports glasses out there. You will not suffer this confusion with any of the other brands mentioned so far (although those other safety glasses make great products in their own respective rights). Where can I buy Hogies safety glasses? While you may be able to search for Hogies on sites like eBay or Amazon, you can’t be sure of the condition or authenticity. As stated, many have tried to emulate the Hogies’ look. Sadly, some have tried to rip it off too. You can’t be sure you’re buying a genuine pair of Hogies unless you purchase from a reputable distributor like Medshop Australia. We stock the most requested brands of Hogies and make sure that we have enough on the shelves to keep the whole country safe from flying debris. Can I use Hogies with a loupe? In most cases, you can add a loupe to your setup. Most mountable medical loupes will fit on a part of Hogies like a glove. This allows you to illuminate your work, adjust it to meet your unique prescription, and see what you need at most inter-pupillary distances and angles. Because Hogies are designed to fit comfortably, like they’re not even there, adding a loupe is tolerable to heavy glasses. Protect the parts of you that mean the most. Do it with style and comfort in a pair of Hogies safety glasses. While you're at it, toast up some bread. We've got some Vegemite to spread.
April 03, 2018
Medshop Editor
Just in Time; We Found 9 Ideal Nursing School Graduation Gift Ideas For You
Here’s the good news: You still have time to find the perfect graduation gift for your favourite nursing school grad. Here’s the even better news: Medshop Australia’s team already did all the heavy lifting. We combed through our inventory to pull out the best graduation gift ideas, ranging from “that was thoughtful” to “wow, you really shouldn’t have.” For most nursing school graduates, at this moment they’re in a panic of questions about what they will do after graduation day… More schooling? Get a job? They’re wondering, how will I afford rent, my lifestyle, and the tools I need to practice my profession? That’s where you come in... As a loving friend, parent or family member, this is your chance to shine a ray of light into their lives. These are the gifts that, when received, will allow your graduate to cross one more item off their list. Quick note: Prices listed are not quotes, but references to the price at the time this blog was written. They are subject to change. Please see Medshop Australia’s current online pricing for the most up-to-date information. Lanyard Something simple many may not consider is the increasing security protocols at most institutions. Employers these days outfit their new recruits with a security card loaded for their access needs. Lose that card, and it’s a tough Monday at work. A lanyard solves most of those possibilities, but the standard issue lanyard is boring. The Prestige Deluxe Lanyard features butterfly or heart beading, with a breakaway safety clasp, and bulldog clip to accommodate almost every type of security card shape. For $21.33, this makes a fun, functional gift that will remind that graduate of you every day. Select your preferred Prestige Deluxe Lanyard style now. Pen “Have you got a pen?” has to rank in the top three questions asked in a hospital. Nurses can go through disposable pens like water, unable to keep track of them as they look like every other pen out there. Investing in a high-end desk pen isn't always the best idea either, considering those walk off too. The better pen is one that clips in place, like the Mini Clip Pen Set from Medshop Australia. This $1.50 package of pens comes with four different coloured pens, all outfitted with an easy clip that affixes to belt loops, keychains, waistbands and much more. It’s tough to lose, and easy to spot in a crowd. Plus, for that low price, you could outfit your graduate with a few sets just to be sure they have enough. Order your grad the Mini Clip Pen Set today. Anatomical Cube Book For the nurse going into paediatric care, this is the perfect desktop accessory. It’s also a fun gift for a graduate who appreciates interesting items. The Anatomical Human Body Cube Book isn’t like other anatomical charts. The compact design packs a ton of information about the human body in one place, in an interactive cube. Flip one side of the cube one way to reveal a new chart. Flip it another to reveal yet another system. Created by the crew at ZooBooKoo, the Human Body Cube is an entertaining as it is informative. The best part is, it’s only $12.07. Get the Body Cube Book for that low price now. Penlight Penlights are so popular, in February, we dedicated an entire blog to them. A nurse may grab for that penlight almost as many times as their pen, more than their stethoscope. For this reason, penlights can wear out or disappear even faster. Many nurses opt for low-cost options so they don’t have to shell out heaps of cash every month for new penlights. An alternative solution is to use a higher quality penlight, like the Welch Allyn Penlight. With its powder-coated, solid brass construction and bright halogen beam, this penlight will operate well beyond the normal life expectancy of most others. For graduates, it makes a possession they won’t anticipate, as the $63.50 price tag pushes down on their priorities list. They won’t frown at receiving it as a gift, though. It’s the little things like this which make starting that first day at a new job that much easier. Make the Welch Allyn Penlight the perfect graduation gift. Nursing Watch That pendulous timepiece worn by Australian nurses, the fob watch, comes with a history almost as venerable as the invention of the watch itself. Ironically, fob watches are one of the most common graduation gifts for new nurses. As such, many gift-givers go for economic, fun, silicon versions like Medshop’s silicone fob watch kit. That one comes with a reliable timepiece and five coloured silicone band options. At $25.45, these are in most folk’s budget for graduation gifts. But, if you really want to wow someone, consider the Classique Nursing Watch, a $94.88 timepiece as classic as the manufacturer’s name. Inside its stainless steel, waterproof housing, the cogs of Swiss movement power accurate time and date information. What’s more, it comes in three finishes, stainless steel, gold, and rose gold. Give the traditional graduation gift with a Classique Nursing Watch. Stethoscope Many grads start with a budget stethoscope, one that does the job but doesn’t offer much in the way of confidence. It’s likely that your grad already has a stethoscope of this calibre or one inherited from someone else to get through school. Going out into the professional world, however, mandates an upgrade. Like a Monte Blanc pen or Swiss-made watch, the stethoscope one carries sends a message to colleagues and clients or in this case, patients. For that reason, a Littmann Classic III makes a generous but lasting gift at $132.00. It also provides your graduate with a quality tool that can fill them with confidence for a lifetime as long as they maintain it. Stethoscope Case In order to keep that new stethoscope in top form for life, a case will go a long way towards protecting the components. The Medshop stethoscope protective case is a hot seller for that very reason. It comes in five different colour options and carries more than one type of stethoscope. The Littmann Cardiology III, Cardiology IV, and the Welch Allyn Harvey Elite all fit in this durable case, with room to spare for accessories. It zips closed, and features an easy grip rubber exterior and handle to ensure that stethoscope never hits the ground. This $16.50 case makes a nice standalone gift or an ideal insurance accessory for the generous gift-giver; as in one who already planned on gifting a stethoscope. Nurse’s Pouch Getting organized is the world’s great stress reliever. With everything in its place, one can push forward with confidence, ready to take what comes next. Nurses are no exception. A stylish pouch, like Australia’s Best Nursing Pouch, gives nurses easy access to their tools. It gets them organized. This one even drops straight into the washing tub when soiled, and comes out strong every time. Medshop Australia offers 15 different colour combinations. For $11.81, you could get them one for every day of the week. Clipboard They say one can go almost anywhere with a clipboard. Something about carrying one implies organization, power, and importance. The Prestige Nurse Assist Clipboard does all of that and a little more. The clip of the board provides an easy-access calculator and timer, endlessly handy throughout a nurse’s day. Also, hidden below the clip one finds a slew of diagnostic charts so the nurse who carries it doesn’t have to worry about being caught unprepared ever. It does all this for $36.80, less than the cost of many calculators. You now have nine reasons to show up to that graduation party, 10 if you count the likelihood that the host will serve cake and cold beer. That’s reason enough to go to any party. Considering the number of graduation parties coming up, you’ll want to stock up on the goodies above.
September 13, 2016
Medshop Editor
See More With the Welch Allyn Digital MacroView Otoscope
In light of our current promotion for the Welch Allyn Digital MacroView Otoscope We wanted to review this innovative product and explore the role that digital technology is playing in the evolution of clinical otoscopy training and practice. The Welch Allyn MacroView name is synonymous with premium quality and advanced diagnostic technology. Welch Allyn have a reputation for excellence and are globally renowned for offering the best in diagnostic medical technology across the board. The digital MacroView otoscope is built on the foundation of the standard MacroView otoscope with the added benefits of digital connectivity. Let's take a look at the core MacroView features that makes the MacroView range such a standout. [caption id="attachment_3644" align="alignnone" width="713"] (Source: welchallyn.com)[/caption] The MacroView otoscope offers an almost complete view of the tympanic membrane without needing to be moved around. This is approximately twice the field of vision than most traditional otoscopes provide. In addition to an expanded field of vision, the MacroView also boasts approximately 30% greater magnification than most standard otoscopes. This makes diagnosing issues a more precise and less straining experience for doctors. With regards to preventing eye strain, the ability to adjust the focus for variable ear canal lengths or farsighted vision is a very popular feature of the MacroView, enabling increased clarity and definition of landmarks. The MacroView also has an insufflation port for pneumatic otoscopy. The Welch Allyn Digital MacroView Otoscope catch phrase is: See it. Share it. Save it. The plug and play system requires no additional software to use and comes with all of the standard MacroView features mentioned above. In addition, the digital MacroView comes with a 3 metre long USB connector cable that can be connected to a Windows PC or laptop. The benefits of being able to connect the device to a computer are many, here is how it works. The image in view is directly live-streamed in real time onto the computer screen. One benefit of this is that the computer screen provides a much larger platform from which to view the tympanic membrane. This also makes it easier view small details of tubes and hearing aids. From this live stream, snapshot images can be taken, these can be saved to patient records and sent to other practitioners, departments or practices. Perhaps one of the most exciting benefits of the digital MacroView is the opportunities it presents for training and educational purposes. The professor or practitioner can easily demonstrate technique and provide instruction while the students have a clear view of what is happening. Snapshots can also be taken and used in clinical case study assignments to test students diagnostic ability. The integration of digital technology in the medical field is opening up a wide range of opportunities for enhancing practice and education. The Welch Allyn Digital MacroView Otoscope is a clear example of a diagnostic product at the forefront of this digital revolution. Valued at $1,100.25 our Welch Allyn Digital Macroview Otoscope promotion complete with lithium-ion handle, charging pod, 3-meter cable and power transformer, is currently available for $850.00 - a saving of $250.25. Now is the perfect opportunity to invest in the future. If you like images of cool medical supplies...
July 13, 2016
Medshop Editor
Product Feature: Littmann Cardiology IV
Introducing the latest and greatest in stethoscope technology from 3M, the Littmann Cardiology IV. A revolutionary device that despite being relatively new to the market, is already in huge demand and receiving rave reviews. The Cardiology IV sets a new standard, unmatched in its field, it is considered a pinnacle of achievement in auscultation technology. So what is all of the hype about? Let's dive in and find out. Supreme acoustics Identifying and picking up on the most subtle of sounds is a critical factor in the accurate assessment and diagnosis of patients. The engineers at 3M Littmann are dedicated to advancing the technology that enables greater levels of precision where patient assessment is concerned. This drive to innovate and exceed previous expectations has been at the forefront of the Cardiology IV design. Precisely engineered to enable barely perceptible sounds to be heard, the Cardiology IV presents a level of finesse previously unimagined. Designed for clinicians who require superior quality and exceptional versatility, the Cardiology IV provides the opportunity and ability to hear more than ever before. Exceptional versatility Despite the name, the Cardiology IV isn't just a stethoscope for cardiologists. Designed with precision and versatility in mind, the Cardiology IV is an ideal choice for any medical practitioner who wants to know they can provide their patients with the best of care, using the best technology available. It can be used to accurately study and listen to, lung, cardiac, arterial and other bodily sounds with both adult and paediatric patients. The Cardiology IV is used by medical specialists, general practitioners, paramedics, critical care nurses and students to name a few. The level of sound quality and precision also means that hearing affected users may benefit from the increased clarity and range of frequencies that the Cardiology IV offers. Elegant design The design for the Cardiology IV resembles a somewhat streamlined and refined version of the Cardiology III. The distinctive chalice shaped chest piece features the much desired tunable diaphragms on both the large and small sides to deliver exceptional acoustic performance and diagnostic ability. Many people prefer to use the paediatric / small side of the chest piece as a traditional open bell. This is easily achieved by removing the tunable diaphragm and replacing it with the nonchill bell sleeve that is provided with all Cardiology IV stethoscopes. Available with a range of classic tubing colours, the Cardiology IV exudes elegance and high performance simultaneously. Outstanding features One of the key features of the Cardiology IV stethoscope is the Littmann patented next generation tubing. It's designed to be more durable and last longer than any stethoscope tubing before it. The tubing is stain and damage resistant and not made from natural rubber latex or cheap and nasty phythalate plasticisers, to prevent allergic reactions and skin irritation. Construction is another highlight of Littmann's ingenuity, the dual-lumen tubing design creates two sound paths in one tube to eliminate the rubbing noise generated by traditional double tube designs. For maximum comfort and the perfect fit the headset is easily adjustable and the ear tips are designed to fit gently yet securely in the ears. Worthy investment Given all the benefits of the Littmann Cardiology IV stethoscope, it is understandable that it comes with a price tag that reflects this prestige. Consider this, however, there are many Littmann stethoscope users have kept their stethoscopes for 10+ years. When you break the cost down over this kind of timeline it is definitely a worthwhile investment. Plus the added security and peace of mind that you get from knowing that you are using the very best that stethoscope technology has to offer. To top that off, Littmann offers a 7-year warranty for Cardiology IV stethoscopes that covers all parts of the stethoscope for wear and tear plus incidental damage. The Cardiology IV presents and offer that is too good to ignore. All Littmann Cardiology IV stethoscopes purchased from Medshop Australia come with a free LED penlight and free laser engraving. Watch this video below for a product demonstration from 3M Littmann https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHy4ickc7pE.
June 01, 2016
Medshop Editor
Product Feature CoaguChek Pro II Meter
“Building on the best in class quality, CoaguChek Pro II is small, light and convenient with accuracy and precision that our customers have come to expect from CoaguChek® over the past 20 years,” - Jean-Claude Gottraux, Head of Roche Professional Diagnostics. World leaders in the technology behind International Normalised Ratio (INR) testing, Roche, have just launched the CoaguChek Pro II. This is the next level of INR testing. Unlike the CoaguChek XS monitor, the CoaguChek Pro II is designed for professional use. So, if you are a specialist, a practitioner, or a procurement manager who is looking for the latest INR monitoring technology, look no further than the CoaguChek Pro II. The CoaguChek Pro II combines two tests in a single lightweight device - the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) test and the prothrombin time (PT) test. It provides much greater insight into the patients’ coagulation status in acute care settings, such as operating rooms, emergency rooms, intensive care units, or anticoagulation clinics. What's more, the Pro II can be used to determine the presence of vitamin K antagonists in patients with acute bleeding. It can also be used to determine whether there is any coagulation factor deficiency. Moreover, it can be used in real time to monitor anticoagulant drug effects in patients treated with unfractionated heparin. With the CoaguCheck Pro II, there is no need to spend valuable time waiting for lab results and there is no double handling. The unique CoaguChek advantage is the handheld streamlined point of care testing design. The sample can be taken and tested immediately right there with the patient. Image Source: www.cobas.ch Built in WIFI connectivity allows for transferring critical information when and where it is needed. This revolutionary feature of the CoaguChek Pro II means that test results can be automatically transmitted to electronic health records. To ensure that vital information is immediately accessible and available at every point of care. This feature streamlines workflow improves efficiency and greatly reduces the possibility of human error. In addition to the WIFI technology feature, the CoaguChek Pro II also enables the use of QR codes in a market first for a device of this kind. Test results and data can be transformed into a QR code then sent via email, or mobile phone for example. Image Source: www.roche.com This kind of technology is increasingly valuable in remote settings as it enables the data to be transferred and shared outside of the hospital or clinic patients' electronic records. It is particularly useful in home visits where the reading can be taken by a nurse then sent instantly to the clinic, doctor or hospital. This allows the information to be reviewed in real time. An anticoagulant dosing schedule can be arranged without the patient needing to travel to the hospital or doctor. As you can see, the CoaguChek Pro II is a stand alone in its field and a highlight of the use of modern technology to enhance health care. We are pleased to offer the CoaguChek Pro II monitor as part of a promotion running until June 30th EOFY 2016. You will be a free 48 pack of PT test strips when you buy the monitor as part of our EOFY promotions. Please visit this link for more information. Also, if you like images of medical equipment and humor aimed at medical professionals, please join us on Pinterest.
January 13, 2016
Medshop Editor
Make $100K as a Nurse
Nursing is a fantastic career for many reasons. Not only do nurses get to save lives, brighten people's days, promote health and well-being, they also receive an above average income package. In saying this, there is a vast difference in the earning potential of a nursing assistant compared to that of a director of nursing. In Australia housing costs are some of the highest in the world. The cost of living certainly isn't going down, so it makes sense that people are striving for higher incomes to meet the demands of modern life. For all of these reasons, we've decided to take a look at the average yearly incomes of nursing roles across Australia, to let you know what it takes to earn at least $80k as a nurse in Australia. Entry-level nursing position average incomes: Nursing Assistant: $48,893 Enrolled Nurse: $59,309 To become a nursing assistant or an enrolled nurse requires a vocational certificate combined with practical experience. The average incomes for these roles are less than that of a registered nurse, a role that requires candidates to hold a bachelor's degree qualification in nursing. Registered Nurse: $77,062 While it is possible to earn $80,000+ as a registered nurse, it is the exception rather than the rule. It might involve some serious overtime with multiple night shifts, but don't dismay. The role of registered nurse is a right of passage that can lead to higher paying roles in the future. Next-level nursing position average incomes: Clinical Nurse/Midwife: $86,478 Clinical Nurses are RN's who have gained experience working in a particular area for a number of years. They have usually undertaken additional postgraduate study within their area of expertise. These additional experiences, combined with the insight that comes with them, affords clinical nurses a higher salary that registered nurses. Clinical nurses also act as a mentor to registered nurses. Additionally, they may take on roles in education, leadership, and activity programs. A midwife is a registered nurse who has undertaken additional study in midwifery to achieve a registration to the midwifery board of Australia. This licence indicates that they are a registered nurse with midwifery endorsement. Want to strive for more? Nurse Practitioner: $109,413 A nurse practitioner is an experienced registered nurse who has undertaken additional education to enable them to work in an advanced clinical role. If all you are seeing right now are the dollar signs and thinking that sounds great, be prepared. To qualify for the role of a nurse practitioner in Australia, not only do you need to be an experienced registered nurse, you also need to hold a masters degree in nursing. Depending on whether you opt for full or part-time study, this can take anywhere from 1.5 - 3 years to achieve depending on the institution. Nurse Unit Manager: $111,629 Nurse unit managers are experienced registered nurses who have worked their way up the ranks. They've displayed exceptional organisational, administrative and leadership skills. Their role is to oversee all aspects of operations within a healthcare facility. This can involve supervising and organising staff, overseeing patient care and handling some administrative tasks. To qualify for a role as a nurse unit manager you need to have extensive clinical experience and administrative experience, combined with additional education or training in both nursing and management fields. Oh, and exceptional communication skills are a must as well as the ability to take leadership of any situation. Director of Nursing: $156,855 It is no surprise that the competitive director of nursing roles demand such lucrative incomes. Directors of nursing possess a blend of highly developed administrative skills along with well seasoned nursing credentials. They usually hold a master's degree in healthcare administration and or a master's in nursing. This is the kind of role that a nurse unit manager might aspire to transition into. Building on all of the responsibilities of the nurse unit manager role, directors of nursing are responsible for additional administrative functions including record keeping and budgeting. You might notice there is a progression with these roles, each building on and leading into the next. Of course everyone has different priorities and many nurses are content to work as a registered nurse for their entire nursing careers. Others aspire to reach the top of their field. Whatever you choose Medshop Australia is here to provide you with the tools and equipment you need to reach your goals. In fact, we are so committed to getting you the equipment you may need we owe you this information: We have discounted the Welch Allyn Pro 4000 thermometer probe covers. So if you own a Welch Allyn Pro 4000 thermometer, now is the time to stock up. All information on nurse salaries was obtained from the following resource. http://healthtimes.com.au/hub/nursing-careers/6/guidance/nc1/what-do-nurses-earn/605/
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