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Nurses and Ophthalmologists Are Vital Members of the Eye Physician Team
Many people depend on their eyesight to live productive lives. Yet, maintaining healthy vision often requires a team of specialists who work together to detect and treat eye diseases.
Some patients may get referrals from their primary care physicians or school nurses for screenings. Those screenings can detect signs of illness in tissues far from the eye. Contact Baltimore Eye Physicians now!
Nurses are vital members of the ophthalmology team and can make significant contributions to the treatment of patients with a wide range of eye diseases and disorders. Their duties include administering diagnostic tests, educating patients about preventive care, and providing pre- and post-operative eye care. They also play an important role in delivering outreach programs to remote areas in need of eye health care.
For ophthalmic nurses, effective communication and empathy are key skills. They must be able to explain complex medical concepts and work well with other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive comprehensive care. They also need to be able to create a calm and comfortable environment for patients while performing eye exams and assisting with surgical procedures.
Ophthalmic nurses also require excellent organizational skills. They need to be able to coordinate patient care across multiple departments and providers, including primary care, specialist physicians, and community-based providers. They must be able to communicate with these individuals effectively and efficiently, both orally and in writing. Finally, ophthalmic nurses must be able to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
The ophthalmic nursing profession is growing, as a result of the increased need for healthcare professionals with specialized training in this subspecialty. The need is even greater in developing countries, where access to quality eye care can be limited. For example, the nonprofit Cybersight provides online training and mentorship for ophthalmic nurses in underserved regions of the world.
Nurses who choose to specialize in ophthalmology have the opportunity to work closely with highly skilled physicians and make a lasting impact on the lives of their patients. This specialized field offers the perfect blend of complex clinical skills with empathetic patient care. It’s not for everyone, however. If you want to help save someone’s sight, but you are squeamish about sticking needles in people’s eyes, this isn’t the right career path for you. Similarly, it is not a suitable choice for those who crave high drama or life-or-death crises. However, if you are a healthcare professional who is passionate about making a difference in people’s lives, ophthalmic nursing may be the ideal career path for you.
Ophthalmic Technicians
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ophthalmic technicians perform diagnostic tests and help physicians examine patients. They also handle instruments during surgical procedures and provide pre-operative and post-operative care for patients. Some ophthalmic medical technicians work in private eye practices, general medical hospitals and medical stores. On-the-job training is provided by many employers. Accredited ophthalmic technician programs last up to two years and prepare graduates to take the certification exam offered by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology.
Those who choose to pursue this career should attend an accredited program that offers both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Coursework should include instruction on medical terminology, ocular anatomy and physiology, ophthalmic optics, ocular motility and ophthalmic toxicology. Students should plan to graduate with an associate degree in ophthalmic medical technology, which will prepare them for a variety of positions in the field.
A certified ophthalmic medical technologist performs more advanced diagnostic testing than an ophthalmic medical assistant or an ophthalmic assistant. In addition to standard test procedures, they perform specialized imaging tests such as fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography. They may also assist ophthalmologists during surgical procedures and participate in research projects.
While there are similarities between the three types of eye care professionals, they differ significantly in their education. Optometrists require the most education, earning a doctor of optometry degree after four years of undergraduate school and completing a one-year internship. Ophthalmologists, the highest level of eye care professionals, complete medical school and a hospital-based residency.
As a result, ophthalmologists can perform the most complex and dangerous types of surgery on the eye, including cataract, corneal transplantation, glaucoma, retina and iLASIK surgeries. They can also prescribe medications and recommend corrective lenses, as well as counseling patients regarding the most suitable options for their occupational needs, avocations and lifestyle. Troy L. Bedinghaus, OD, owns Lakewood Family Eye Care in Florida and is an active member of the American Optometric Association. He has performed more than 7,000 cataract and corneal surgeries in his practice. He has a special interest in the treatment of eye diseases, such as dry eye and glaucoma.
Ophthalmic Assistants
Many ophthalmologists rely on certified ophthalmic assistants, or COAs, to help with patient care and office management. COAs are usually a part of the eye care team and work directly alongside the physician. They may perform preliminary eye exams, record medical histories and operate diagnostic equipment like refraction and visual field testing machines. They also help prepare patients for surgical procedures and assist during procedures.
In addition to administrative tasks, such as filling out paperwork and scheduling appointments, ophthalmic assistants need strong communication skills. They must be able to clearly explain medical conditions, treatments and procedures to patients of all ages. They also need to be able to read and understand written information, as they often perform tests on patients that require them to interpret results.
People interested in becoming ophthalmic assistants can pursue formal education through an accredited program or receive on-the-job training from a doctor’s office or eye clinic. College programs offer certificate and diploma options, as well as associate degrees in ophthalmic medical assisting. Those with an associate degree can progress to the certified ophthalmic medical technician (COMT) level, which requires more advanced clinical skills.
The job of an ophthalmic assistant is physically demanding and may involve standing for extended periods of time. Additionally, some ophthalmic assistants need to be able to lift and move heavy equipment when necessary. A career in ophthalmic assisting can be emotionally challenging, as the duties of the position can include witnessing eye injuries and surgeries.
While the average salary for ophthalmic assistants is less than that of an ophthalmologist, this occupation can still provide excellent financial rewards. People with a COA certification make more than people who are not certified. In fact, according to the data gathered by Zippia, people with a COA are 8.7% more likely than those without one to earn a Master’s Degree and 0.2% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.
Ophthalmic Physicians
Ophthalmologists (MD/DO in the US; MBBS in the UK and elsewhere) are physicians who specialize in optical, medical and surgical eye care. They perform cataract, glaucoma and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgeries to correct vision problems. They also diagnose and treat eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and strabismus. Ophthalmologists must have extensive training, including an undergraduate degree and four years of medical school. After graduating, they complete a one-year internship and three years of hospital residency. Ophthalmologists must also pass exams to become licensed to practice medicine, which varies by state.
Physicians work in hospitals, private practices and research centers. They spend about seven hours per day with patients and another 30 to 45 hours performing ophthalmic procedures in the office or operating room. Most ophthalmologists work full time, although some choose to practice part time for personal reasons or because of family or caring responsibilities.
Ophthalmic professionals work as part of a team with other health care providers, such as internists and nephrologists. Gone are the days when a patient had just one doctor who provided health care from cradle to grave, so collaboration between ophthalmic and non-ophthalmic health care providers is crucial today. For example, an ophthalmologist may need to share information with a nephrologist to treat a patient’s diabetic retinopathy, or with a retina specialist to evaluate a patient’s vision after surgery.
Ophthalmic physicians must stay up-to-date on the latest medical advancements, including new diagnostic techniques and treatment options for diseases and conditions that affect the eye. They must also keep abreast of advances in technology that enable them to improve the patient experience and deliver better outcomes, such as telemedicine and videoconferencing. Increasingly, ophthalmologists are using high-tech imaging tools to enhance the quality of their patients’ experiences and their own diagnoses and treatments. These include optical coherence tomography angiography and fluorescein angiography, which provide detailed images of the retina and choroid. These tools help ophthalmologists monitor and manage chronic conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy more effectively. They also help ophthalmologists track the progression of their patients’ conditions and measure the effectiveness of treatment.
How to Become a Plumber
Plumber Aurora CO install, repair, and maintain the piping and fixtures that carry water and waste in residential and commercial buildings. They must be able to listen to their customers’ problems, inspect the plumbing system and its components, and come up with solutions that will work.
This is a skilled trade that requires training and an apprenticeship. Plumbers must also meet licensing requirements in their areas of practice.
A plumber installs, repairs, and maintains plumbing systems in a variety of settings. This can include anything from toilets and faucets to complex water, sewer, and gas lines for industrial equipment. Plumbers also work with various materials and must be knowledgeable about building regulations. In addition, they often work directly with customers, so customer service skills are important.
The primary job duties of a plumber are to inspect, diagnose, and repair issues with plumbing. In this role, they may use tools like video cameras to examine pipes, pressure gauges to test water pressure, and other diagnostic devices. They also must be able to recognize when a system is overflowing or leaking, and they need to be able to make the proper adjustments.
Some plumbers specialize in certain areas. For example, a residential plumber works on plumbing systems in homes and apartments. This can involve installing and repairing showers, toilets, sinks, dishwashers, and other appliances. Commercial plumbers, on the other hand, are responsible for larger-scale plumbing systems in office buildings, restaurants, and other businesses. They also work with a wide range of materials, including copper, steel, and plastic.
Other common duties include removing and replacing old fixtures, repairing and maintaining existing pipework, and installing new fixtures. They may also be required to perform routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning drains, flushing toilets, and adjusting water pressure. Some plumbers are also required to read blueprints and architectural plans in order to correctly install plumbing infrastructure.
Another duty is to educate customers about plumbing issues and encourage them to take proactive measures to avoid future problems. This could include educating customers on water conservation or providing tips on how to maintain their plumbing systems.
Because plumbers often work with dangerous chemicals and materials, they must follow strict safety procedures. This includes wearing protective clothing and using the appropriate tools for each job. They are also required to regularly check and clean their tools in order to ensure they remain in good working condition. Additionally, they must be aware of the potential risks associated with their work, such as sewage leaks and the spread of infectious diseases like cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, polio, cryptosporidiosis, and ascariasis.
Education and Training Requirements
The most common route to becoming a plumber is through a union or trade organization apprenticeship. This can take between four and five years to complete, during which time you’ll earn a paycheck while learning the craft. There are also a number of technical school programs that offer specialized training in plumbing, though you may need to have some prior experience or education to qualify for one of these programs. If you want to become a master plumber, you’ll need at least seven years of total experience working as an apprentice or journeyman plumber, along with the appropriate educational credentials.
Plumbing is a physically demanding profession, requiring significant amounts of strength and stamina in order to lift heavy equipment and tools. It is also important for plumbers to have excellent interpersonal communication skills, in order to interact with clients and explain complex plumbing issues in an understandable way. In addition, plumbers must be able to think analytically and approach problems in a logical fashion in order to devise effective solutions.
Because plumbing involves a great deal of risk, it is important for plumbers to follow strict safety protocols at all times. This includes wearing gloves, protective eyewear, and using proper hand tools when working with chemicals or other hazardous materials. In some cases, plumbers must also wear a respirator when working in confined spaces or at heights.
As a plumber, you’ll need to have a valid driver’s license in order to get to job sites. You’ll also need a high school diploma or equivalency certificate, as well as a high level of math competency. Some programs offered by community colleges or trade schools offer a foundation in math that can help you excel as a plumber.
If you’re interested in running your own plumbing business, you’ll need a state-issued license, workers’ compensation insurance, liability insurance and unemployment insurance. You may also need to post a bond to ensure that you’ll comply with local and state licensing regulations. There are also a number of professional organizations that can help you gain industry knowledge and keep up with the latest developments in the field.
Licensing Requirements
The specific requirements to become a plumber vary by location, but most areas require at least a journeyman plumber license. This typically involves passing an exam that tests your knowledge of the trade and local plumbing codes. Some plumbers choose to pursue additional certifications in order to improve their skills and marketability. For example, you can earn a certification in green plumbing practices or in working with specific types of equipment.
Many states and cities require plumbers to pass a background check before they can obtain a license. Often, this requires providing a list of employers and dates of employment along with affidavits from past and current employers attesting to your good character.
In some cases, you may also need to provide proof of insurance coverage to satisfy licensing requirements. The amount of insurance you need to carry will depend on the state where you work and your license type. It requires plumbers to have general liability insurance in the amount of $100,000 with $25,000 property damage coverage.
After completing an apprenticeship program, you can apply to take the journeyman plumber exam. You will need to submit a completed application and pay the exam fee. The exam consists of two parts: the written part and the practical part. You must score at least a 70% on each part to pass the exam.
If you want to become a master plumber, you must have at least two years of experience working as a licensed journeyman plumber. You must also complete a four-year apprenticeship program, and have eight years of experience in one or more of the following occupations: plumbing, steam fitting, plumbing design, heating and air conditioning estimating, and plumbing or water heater sales and service.
In addition to the educational and training qualifications, you must have excellent customer service skills to succeed as a plumber. You must be able to listen carefully to customers’ complaints and determine the best course of action to resolve them. You must also be able to explain complex plumbing issues clearly and concisely to clients.
Work Environment
Plumbing requires a physical strength and stamina as well as a technical mindset. Plumbers must be able to read and interpret blueprints and drawings as well as have an in-depth understanding of building codes and regulations. They also need to have the ability to work with a variety of tools and materials. Additionally, plumbers often need to be on-call in case of emergencies, which can mean working late nights or weekends.
Plumbers typically work in residential settings, installing or repairing pipes and fixtures for homeowners or apartment tenants. However, they can also find employment in construction settings, as well as in schools, hospitals, and other commercial buildings. The type of work that a plumber does depends on the type of setting in which they are employed, as well as their level of experience and specialization.
The demand for qualified plumbers remains steady and is unlikely to diminish anytime soon. Furthermore, training to become a plumber is generally cheaper and less time-consuming than earning a college degree, making this career path an excellent option for those looking for a financially sound and satisfying job.
Some of the challenges that plumbers face include exposure to dangerous biohazards like raw sewage, extreme temperatures, and noise, as well as musculoskeletal injuries from carrying or lifting heavy equipment. Plumbers must also ensure that their work area is safe by keeping all cutting equipment sharp and properly secured, and following proper cleaning procedures to avoid exposing themselves or others to harmful bacteria or contaminants.
If you’re interested in becoming a plumber, consider taking the time to network with people in the industry and attend trade shows or professional events. Building relationships with other plumbers and contractors can lead to job referrals or insider information about job openings. You can also contact plumbing companies directly and express interest in working for them; they may keep your information on file and reach out to you when an opportunity arises.
As a skilled and in-demand trade, plumbers are often able to command high wages and enjoy more job stability than many other careers. Those with the right combination of education, training, and experience can quickly move up in the ranks and even earn master plumber status.
Stucco Repair – Why You Should Hire a Professional
Stucco Repair Philadelphia is a versatile and attractive exterior finish for homes. However, it can crack and damage over time for many reasons. It is important to inspect your stucco regularly, especially the corners around windows and any areas that have foam trim.
If you notice cracks or discoloration, it may be time for a repair. Remediation is more expensive than simple repairs, but it will solve the underlying problem and prevent future damage.
Stucco damage is a deceptive issue because it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late and you’re forced to hire a professional for a thorough inspection. It might seem minor, a hairline crack here or a discolored patch there, but the truth is, these symptoms can lead to serious moisture problems that can have a negative impact on the structure’s durability and lifespan.
Moisture damage starts with hairline cracks that gradually widen over time. These can cause further structural problems, such as rot or mold, if left unchecked. Thankfully, there are a few ways to mitigate this type of problem. Homeowners can invest in a quality sealant that can act as a protective barrier against moisture intrusion and temperature fluctuations. They can also ensure that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the wall, as well as check that all flashing is intact.
Another easy way to keep moisture at bay is by coating the stucco with a special masonry paint that is both weather-resistant and waterproof. This will protect the surface from moisture and abrasion, preventing damage and preserving the beauty of the stucco for years to come.
It’s also a good idea to regularly inspect the stucco, especially after stormy weather. The freeze-thaw cycle can exacerbate small cracks and create further damage over time, so it’s important to be vigilant. Lastly, homeowners should be sure to check for any signs of mold or mildew. If you notice any, it’s best to scrub the affected area with a mixture of one part bleach to four parts water, wearing gloves and eye protection. Then, make sure to rinse and dry thoroughly before proceeding with a repair.
Other common weather-related issues include blistering, crazing, flaking and chalking. These problems are caused by the expansion and contraction of the paint, causing it to lose its adherence to the stucco. Water can seep into these cracks, creating further damage and resulting in further paint failure.
Fortunately, most of these issues can be prevented with regular maintenance and careful attention to the details. Stucco damage may not be covered by your home insurance, but there are public adjusters and attorneys who can help you get compensation from the contractors or builders who were responsible for the initial work on your property.
DIY Repairs
A stucco exterior requires a little more care than vinyl siding, but it’s still popular among homeowners. Whether you decide to handle stucco repairs yourself or hire a professional will depend on the extent of the damage and your comfort level with DIY projects. Using the right tools and understanding how to assess and repair damage is essential to keeping your home looking great.
Using a mason’s chisel and hammer, remove any loose pieces of stucco around the crack or hole in your stucco wall. You should also sand the area with a wire brush to ensure it’s smooth and clean before applying new stucco. It’s also important to check the condition of any metal mesh that may be present behind the damaged area. If this mesh is severely damaged or missing, you’ll need to replace it.
Small or medium-size holes in your stucco are typically easy to fix without a professional. You’ll need to purchase a kit that includes a stucco patching compound and explicit instructions on how to use it. Ensure the compound you select is suitable for the size of hole or crack you are repairing. It’s also best to apply the first coat of patching in the morning when it is cool so it doesn’t bake or shrink as it dries.
Once you’ve applied the primer coat, you’ll need to prepare your stucco mix. You can choose a pre-mixed repair product, or you can make your own with Portland cement, lime and sand. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much mix you need per repair area. Remember that the mix dries fast, so you’ll need to work quickly once you start.
After applying the first coat of stucco, you should etch the surface with a putty knife or trowel. This helps the second coat of stucco adhere to the first, and it will help the final texture match the rest of your house. After applying a second coat, allow the patched area to dry for several hours before etching it again with your tool of choice. Once the patched area is completely dry, you’re ready to paint.
Hire a Professional
Stucco looks easy enough to put on your walls, but it requires the skills of a professional. If you hire a contractor to repair your stucco, they can save you time, money and trouble by doing the job correctly the first time. You can find a qualified contractor with a good reputation by asking smart questions. It is also a good idea to learn as much about stucco as you can so you can ask informed questions when interviewing potential contractors.
The location of the contractor is important, as the closer they are to your home, the more cost-effective it will be for them to transport their workers and materials. In addition, a local stucco contractor will be familiar with the specific threats that your stucco faces from moisture and pests in your area. They will know whether there are particular problems you may need to watch out for, such as excessive staining or soft spots that indicate water damage behind the surface.
A reputable stucco contractor will be licensed, insured and provide you with a warranty. This will give you peace of mind that they will perform a quality job for a fair price and will stand behind their work. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have, and will be able to explain how their products and services can benefit you.
Remember that when moisture seeps through cracked or damaged stucco, it starts a chain reaction that can damage the entire wall structure of your home. The continual flow of moisture will eventually cause mold, mildew and rotting wood which can affect the health and safety of your family. Mold exposure can cause a range of health problems, from respiratory issues to itchy or burning eyes and skin.
Regular inspections of your stucco will help you spot any problem areas before they get out of hand. Look for hairline cracks or larger ones, as well as stains and rotted wood. If you notice any of these signs, call a stucco contractor right away. They will be able to fix them before they worsen and damage the rest of your home.
Prevent Mold
Mold spores can be spread by wind or rain, but they can also become trapped behind the stucco surface. When this happens, the moisture can’t drain or dry, and it begins to rot the wooden wall studs and sheathing. This causes extensive structural damage that can cost tens of thousands of dollars to fix and is often not covered by homeowners’ insurance.
The best way to prevent mold is to perform a visual and physical inspection of your stucco once a month. Look for cracks, holes, chips and discoloration. Make sure to examine any areas where water could have gotten in, such as behind your gutters, around windows and doors or near the base of the walls. Mold tends to grow in moist regions, so check carefully around any shrubs, flowers and trees that may be growing near your building.
If you notice any areas of mold, wash the affected area with a gentle cleaning solution such as oxygen bleach. This will kill the spores and help prevent them from returning. If the mold is widespread or persists, a professional may need to come in and treat the entire area with mold removal chemicals.
Water damage is another major problem that can lead to mold. If the stucco was installed incorrectly or is prone to leaking, water can seep into the interior and cause serious problems, including mold.
A professional should inspect the underlying lath and sheathing to ensure that there are no signs of rot or water damage before repairing the stucco. If the sheathing and studs are in good shape, reinstalling new stucco with water-resistant barriers should keep mold from growing.
A common cause of water damage in stucco is misdirected rainwater. Gutters and downspouts can become clogged, causing water to pool and leak into cracks in the stucco. Regularly cleaning your gutters and downspouts can help prevent this issue, as can improving drainage around your home to reduce the risk of backyard flooding and excess moisture. Mold that makes its way between the exterior stucco and the framing of your house can damage walls and exacerbate allergies or asthma. If you notice any signs of mold on your stucco, take prompt action to avoid costly repair bills in the future.
The Basics of Pest Control
When pests get a foothold, they can cause serious damage to your home and health issues for you and your family. Ignoring a problem can only worsen the situation.
Clutter provides hiding places and food sources for pests. Be sure to clear away piles of wood, leaf debris, garbage, and other potential shelters. Contact Bakersfield Pest Control now!
Pest identification is the first step in any pest control process. Knowing what organism you are dealing with will help you determine its food, environmental and harborage needs and the time of year when it is most vulnerable to pest management tactics.
Incorrect pest identification can be costly for a business or home owner. Identifying pests correctly allows you to plan more effective preventative or pesticide treatment strategies, reduce application costs and minimize risks to people and the environment.
Pests have a variety of different appearances. Some are grotesque or frightening, like spiders and silverfish; others bite or sting, such as wasps and mud daubers; some have an unpleasant smell, like bed bugs and cluster flies; some stain or damage personal possessions, such as clothing moths and carpet beetles; and many spread diseases, including worms, slugs, mites and fungi.
A pest’s physical form can also change as it reaches various stages in its life cycle. It may start as a weed seedling, then develop into an immature insect or mature adult. This is important to know because the best pest management tactics are those that target a specific stage in the pest’s life cycle and are not intended for general use, which could result in off-target damage.
Identification of a pest will also give you clues about its habitat and habits. If a problem is confined to one area, it might be possible to use a cultural practice to limit its occurrence, such as removing wood debris around a building or keeping firewood piles away from the house. Alternatively, a physical barrier such as a tightly fitting screen might be used.
If the pest is persistent or requires an immediate response, it might be necessary to use a pesticide. If pesticides are used, they must be applied accurately and at the correct time of year to be effective. Some pesticide applications fail because the wrong type of chemical was applied or it was applied at a time when the pest was not susceptible to the chemicals. Incorrect pest identification will also lead to an ineffective pesticide application.
Prevention
Pests are more than a nuisance – they can damage your property and create health risks for you and your family. The best way to deal with a pest infestation is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Pest prevention is an ongoing process that requires vigilance, regular cleaning and monitoring for pests and their signs. It also involves removing food, water and shelter sources that attract pests. This includes storing all food items in containers that are tightly sealed, removing pet water dishes regularly and keeping garbage bins and dumpsters tightly closed. It’s also important to reduce or eliminate moisture sources by fixing leaky pipes, avoiding overwatering house plants and clearing away damp areas around your home or business.
Preventing a pest problem can be time consuming, but it’s worth the effort. You will save on repairs, avoid health and safety risks and enjoy a less stressful life without pests pestering you.
Many pest control professionals use a preventive approach that encompasses inspection, identification and monitoring, sanitation and cleaning, exclusion and maintenance and cultural practices. This type of pest management system identifies what a client is responsible for and what the pest control professional is responsible for and ensures that both parties are working together to avoid problems.
For example, it may include establishing an employee on staff who is responsible for inspecting incoming deliveries to prevent pests from entering a facility. It might also involve developing a protocol for staff to follow when cleaning facilities to help remove pests from surfaces before they have a chance to settle on them. It could also include determining the best time to treat for pests in a field so that they do not interfere with crops at an inappropriate time.
Prevention can be a complex task, and it is difficult for the average person to keep on top of when they are busy with work, family and other activities. This is why many people choose to have a professional pest control service take care of the issue for them. These experts are knowledgeable about the different pests and how to prevent their infestations, which means you can have peace of mind knowing that your home or business is safe from unwanted guests.
Suppression
When pest populations reach unacceptable levels that threaten esthetic or economic values, action must be taken. This is known as suppression. Suppression tactics make life difficult for pest organisms so they cannot survive or reproduce, and are most effective when combined with prevention techniques.
Climate influences pest populations directly and indirectly, through temperature, moisture, day length, and soil conditions. These factors affect pest growth and development, as well as the growth of their host plants. Unusual weather can cause a rapid increase in pest numbers and damage, or may suppress them.
The presence of natural enemies (parasites, predators, or pathogens) can control pests. Predatory insects and birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and other animals feed on pests and help keep their populations low. Parasitic mites, nematodes, and viruses can also reduce pest populations. Many of these natural enemies are available commercially as biological control agents. Their effectiveness depends on the species of pest and its environment, and they may have a lag period before they begin to suppress a new pest population.
Physical barriers such as netting, screens, traps, and fences can prevent pests from entering an area or reaching harmful levels. In addition, mulching can inhibit weed growth beneath crops or in fields, and grid wires or spikes may discourage bird pests. Chemicals, radiation, electricity, or steam sometimes are used to control pests by altering their environment or killing them.
Resistant varieties of plants, wood, and structures can help keep pest populations below damaging levels by making them less attractive or inhospitable to them. Using resistant trees, crops, and materials can save money and reduce the need for pesticides.
Some crops or areas are naturally more suited to particular pests. Using these areas can lower pest pressure and improve production. Resistance is usually a genetic trait, but other traits, such as physical characteristics or chemical properties of the host, can also provide pest protection. For example, certain types of apples and pears are resistant to fungus, and some vegetables and herbs have natural chemicals that repel or kill pests. A variety of other substances, such as odors, can also deter pests.
Eradication
In some cases, pests must be eradicated completely, such as when an invasive species threatens the health and biodiversity of an ecosystem. This is a very difficult goal to achieve, and it is usually a last resort. In outdoor settings, eradication is rarely attempted. Instead, prevention and suppression are the primary goals. Eradication is more common in indoor environments, where the pests can be more easily contained and controlled. Examples include fumigation of homes or buildings, which involves sealing them and releasing toxic gas to kill the pests; and the use of rodenticides to control rodent infestations in homes and businesses.
Many invasive foreign plants are considered pests because they disrupt local ecology by displacing native species and taking over crop, pasture and rangeland. These plants can also taint hay and other agricultural crops, costing farmers millions of dollars each year. Sutter County Pest Control works to identify and eradicate these noxious plants, so they can no longer damage our farms and wildlands.
Biological control is the mass production and release of a pest’s natural enemies, such as predatory insects or parasitoids. These are organisms that attack the pest directly, either by eating its eggs or larvae or attacking its adult stages. To be effective, these organisms must have a close life cycle with the target pest, and they must survive in disturbed systems where their own population may not have sufficient density to offset the impact of disturbance on the host and prey populations.
Chemical pesticides are highly specialized chemicals that kill or repel specific kinds of pests. They are typically sprayed as aerosol sprays, dusts or baits, and they may work by disrupting the nervous system of the pest, killing it or by causing genetic mutations that prevent reproduction. These chemicals are regulated by the EPA and are generally not harmful to humans, but they can be hazardous to beneficial insects, other animals and microorganisms in water runoff or soil.
Another type of biological control is the use of parasitic nematodes, microscopic worms that live in the soil and kill or sterilize the insects they attack. These nematodes, such as the roach-eating nematode Steinernema carpocapsae, can be sprayed in large numbers to attack unwanted insects in the soil.