Written by Marjory David, RNC, FNP, MSN, CNN

THE KIDNEYS

A normal person has two kidneys which is the size of a fist and weighs about 4 to 6 ounces each.  They lie on each side of the spine.  They are attached to the bladder by two tubes called the ureters.  The bladder stores the urine.  The kidneys have different functions.  They remove waste products, toxins, drugs and extra fluid from the body.  The kidneys also play an important role in regulating electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, phosphorus and calcium in the body. In addition, they produce and release hormones in the blood, which help regulate blood pressure, make red blood cells and promote strong bones.  A healthy person needs working kidneys to maintain good health. Continue Reading

By Taiwo Adeniji, RN-BC, MSN, ANP

What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack usually occurs when a blood clot (from cholesterol called plaque) blocks the coronary artery and prevents the flow of blood to a section of heart muscle.  This section of heart muscle becomes damaged or destroyed from lack of oxygen and begins to die. Continue Reading

(Grace Ogiehor-Enoma, RN, MSN, MPH, CNA, BC)

For an individual to live a healthy and productive live, health insurance and access to health care are important. In America, health insurance is your passport to health care. Unfortunately, figures from the U.S. Census Bureau show that nearly 44 million Americans, including about 8.5 million children are uninsured. Being uninsured means going without care when it is needed. It means minor illnesses become major ones because care is delayed. But the truth is that there are opportunities and assistance for individuals who lack health insurance coverage. Continue Reading