WonderCare Family Health

Embracing Imperfect Parenting: A Conversation with Dr. Mary O'KaneIn this episode of the Wonder Care Podcast, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mum of three, discusses positive parenting with Dr. Mary O'Kane, a lecturer in psychology and author of 'Perfectly Imperfect Parenting' and 'Anxious Children in an Anxious World.' They explore societal pressures on parents, the importance of allowing children to experience minor risks, and the impact of parental anxiety on children. The conversation highlights the benefits of 'good enough' parenting, understanding and validating children's emotions, and fostering resilience by stepping back and letting children navigate challenges. Dr. O'Kane shares insights into balancing parenting imperfections and encouraging kids' independence and bravery.00:00 Welcome to the Wonder Care Podcast00:19 Introducing Dr. Mary O'Kane01:07 The Pressure of Perfect Parenting02:27 Judgment and Control in Parenting04:56 The Impact of Overprotective Parenting07:06 Encouraging Independence in Children11:46 The Role of Media in Parenting Anxiety15:20 Safe Risk-Taking and Building Confidence17:27 Practical Tips for Encouraging Independence23:54 Overprotectiveness and Parenting Challenges24:21 Impact of Parental Mood on Children25:50 COVID-19 and Children's Anxiety26:48 The Importance of Parental Calmness27:48 Supporting Anxious Children28:03 The Second Chicken Experiment30:15 Validating Children's Feelings35:42 Rupture and Repair in Parenting38:23 The Myth of Perfect Parenting42:39 Embracing Imperfection and Learning from Mistakes44:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts#parenting #perfectparenting #imperfectparenting #irishpodcast #healthpodcast #childhoodanxiety #anxiouschildren

Understanding RSV and the Impact of NursivMab ImmunizationIn this week's episode, Sheena discusses Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and provides an update on the current RSV season. She explains the effects of Nirsevimab, the new RSV immunisation introduced through a Pathfinder program for babies born between September 1st and February 28th. She also reads a letter she wrote to Dr. Colm Henry and Minister Stephen Donnelly, urging them to extend the immunization to more babies. She provides insights into how RSV affects different age groups, the success of the Pathfinder program, and encourages listeners to advocate for better immunisation policies. She ends by offering advice for parents of August-born babies on how to reduce their child’s risk of contracting RSV.00:00 Introduction to This Week's Episode01:23 Understanding RSV: Symptoms and Risks02:49 NursivMab: The New RSV Immunization05:18 Pathfinder Programme: Impact and Analysis12:24 Addressing Concerns and Future Steps17:38 Conclusion and Call to ActionSeason 10 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#handfootandmouthdisease #handfootandmouth #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #pharmacyireland #pharmacist #healthpodcast

Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and TreatmentIn this episode of the WonderCare podcast, Sheena, a pharmacist and mother of three, explores hand, foot, and mouth disease. She covers its causes, symptoms, and how it spreads, and offers tips on reducing transmission, treating symptoms, and when to see a doctor. Sheena also discusses a lesser-known aftermath of the disease—nail damage in children. In this episode!00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:57 Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease01:41 Symptoms and Complications03:40 How Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Spreads04:30 Tips to Reduce the Spread05:35 Treatment Options07:39 When to See a Doctor09:55 Aftermath and Nail CareSeason 10 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#handfootandmouthdisease #handfootandmouth #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #pharmacyireland #pharmacist #healthpodcast

In this episode, Sheena delves into the world of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in Ireland. She explores the nature and necessity of HRT, its various options, benefits, and potential drawbacks. She also addresses the controversy surrounding Minister Stephen Donnelly's 'free HRT scheme', explaining why it may not actually be free for patients and highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by community pharmacists. Finally, Sheena emphasizes the importance of individualized and comprehensive care for women experiencing menopause, advocating for clear communication and collaboration among healthcare stakeholders.00:00 Introduction to HRT in Ireland00:21 Understanding Menopause02:44 Symptoms of Menopause03:40 Alleviating Menopause Symptoms04:49 HRT Options and Considerations11:09 The Free HRT Scheme Controversy14:52 Conclusion and Call to ActionSeason 10 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#notfreehrt #stephendonnelly #menopause #hrt #hrtformenopause #benefitsofhrt #freehrtscheme #freehrt #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patient advocate

Antimicrobial Resistance - What happens when antibiotics won't work? (re-release)REALITY CHECK - This is really important!Imagine a world before antibiotics when a simple cough or cut on your leg could result in death. That's kind of where we are headed if we don't act as a collective in the name of antimicrobial stewardship.In This Episode:What are antibiotics?What do you mean by antimicrobial resistance?How are Ireland doing?How can I help?Is there hope?What role do vaccines play?And more!Prescribing Guidelines:HSE Antibiotic guidelinesGlobal Action Plan for Antimicrobial resistance - WHOSeason 10 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#antibioticresistance #antimicrobialresistance #antibiotics #healthpodcast #irishhealth #antibioticuse #medicinesadvice #healthadvocate

Sheena was asked "Is Salin Plus a gimmick?" on her instagram this week - this is the answer!This episode focuses on the Salin Plus salt therapy device. Sheena addresses potential concerns about bias due to the sponsorship of the season by Salin Plus. As a pharmacist, Sheena revisits scientific evidence supporting halotherapy, which uses dry salt particles to improve respiratory health. Key points include the benefits of halotherapy in managing asthma, improving sleep quality, aiding in skin conditions, and clearing nasal congestion. She highlights the importance of using Salin Plus in a dry room and provides practical tips for its optimal use. She also answers listener questions, emphasizing evidence-based and complementary treatments.In this episode:00:00 Introduction to Salin Plus00:06 Addressing Bias and Sponsorship01:05 Viewer Question on Effectiveness01:52 Scientific Evidence on Halotherapy03:35 Benefits of Salt Therapy13:01 Practical Advice and Usage Tips22:26 Sound Demonstration25:57 Important Usage Warnings29:52 Conclusion and Contact InformationSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#salinplus #respiratoryhealth #asthma #preventativehealth #halotherapy #salttherapy

Understanding and Managing Croup in ChildrenIn this episode of the Wonder Care Podcast, Sheena Mitchell, a Pharmacist and mother of three, discusses winter viruses with a focus on croup, a condition affecting the upper airways primarily in children under six. She explains the symptoms, causes, and ways to manage croup, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and offering reassurance to the child. Sheena also provides tips on hydration, rest, and when to seek medical attention. Additionally, she plays audio samples of stridor to help parents identify this characteristic sound.00:00 Introduction to the WonderCare Podcast00:23 Understanding Croup: Symptoms and Causes01:49 Croup in Children: Age and Gender Factors02:04 Recognizing the Croup Cough03:22 Managing Croup at Home06:03 When to Seek Medical Help06:43 Identifying Stridor and Wheezing09:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#croup #respiratoryhealth #healthpodcast #familyhealth #childrenshealth #health

Understanding Human Meta Pneumovirus (HMPV): Symptoms, Treatment, and PreventionIn this episode, Sheena discusses Human Meta Pneumovirus (HMPV), a virus similar to RSV that was discovered in 2001 and is prevalent worldwide. Often spread through respiratory droplets, HMPV commonly affects children and can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia and asthma flare-ups.Sheena explains the virus's symptoms, which range from mild flu-like issues in adults to severe complications in children and vulnerable populations. She provides thorough advice on managing symptoms at home and emphasizes the importance of supportive treatment and hydration. Preventative measures, such as handwashing and keeping sick children home, are crucial, especially since there is no vaccine for HMPV.The episode includes practical tips for symptom relief and underscores the higher risks in children with asthma who may suffer more severe effects from the virus.00:00 Introduction to Human Meta Pneumovirus (HMPV)00:38 Discovery and Spread of hMPV01:08 Symptoms and Impact on Different Age Groups02:36 Treatment and Home Care Tips05:02 Comparing hMPV with Other Viruses06:27 Prevention and Final Thoughts07:19 Conclusion and Contact InformationSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#HumanMetaPneumovirus #HMPV #childrenshealth #familyhealth #healthireland #pharmacy #pharmacist

Advocating for Vaccine Access: Navigating RSV Immunization ChallengesIn this special episode, Sheena is joined by Emma, a mother of two, who recounts her harrowing experience with her child's severe RSV infection and her tireless advocacy for broader vaccine availability. The discussion delves into the bureaucratic obstacles and frustrations with the healthcare system, touching on the lack of accountability and the ethical dilemmas surrounding private access to essential vaccines. The episode highlights the emotional and financial toll on families, the inefficiencies in government response, and calls for proactive health leadership to address these inequities. Emma's personal anecdotes underscore the systemic challenges and stresses the urgent need for change to protect vulnerable infants and alleviate healthcare pressures, especially in the wake of COVID-19.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:34 Emma's Personal Story: A Mother's Ordeal04:49 The Fight for RSV Immunization06:53 Government Response and Frustrations09:30 Advocacy and Public Campaigns12:33 Systemic Issues and Accountability18:11 Personal Experience with Vaccine Rollout19:23 Impact on Healthcare System20:43 Emotional and Societal Costs21:30 Lack of Empathy in Decision Making24:21 Challenges in Accessing Private Healthcare25:13 Ethical Concerns and Inequity28:29 Call for Stronger Leadership and Proactive Measures29:16 Hopes and Concerns for the Future32:53 Practical Advice for ParentsSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!