Well Equipped for Care: Common Questions About Medical Equipment in Your Home

July 29, 2024

Welcoming medical equipment into your home can be overwhelming, but understanding how to manage and utilize it can make the transition smoother for your family. Here are some answers to common questions about medical equipment to help you feel more confident.

1. What Equipment Do I Need, and How Do I Use It?

Your child’s medical needs will determine the specific equipment required. The hospital will coordinate with a durable medical equipment (DME) company to deliver and set up the necessary items. Typically, the equipment will arrive a few days before discharge, allowing you and your family to become familiar with it and receive training from the DME provider.

2. Will My Home Be Safe with This Equipment in It?

DME representatives will conduct a safety assessment to ensure your home can accommodate the equipment and meet your child’s care needs. Your home health agency can also assist with assessing the safety of your home environment. Additionally, notify your electric company to ensure your home’s electrical system is compatible with the new equipment.

3. Where Will I Put Everything?

Plan where the equipment will be placed to ensure it is both accessible and does not cause unnecessary disruption. Consider dedicating space on the ground floor if mobility is a concern, and ensure the area allows for interaction with siblings and guests without causing your child to feel isolated.

4. What Should My Family Know About This Equipment?

Educate all family members about the equipment and its purpose. Understanding why each piece is necessary will help everyone adjust to the new setup and ensure effective care.

5. What Does This Equipment Do?

Here are descriptions of some common medical equipment your family may encounter:

  • Apnea Monitor: Detects and sounds an alarm if your child stops breathing for a few seconds.
  • Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): Provides noninvasive therapy for sleep apnea by delivering air through a mask.
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): Delivers air and oxygen to the lungs through a nasal or tracheal tube to assist with breathing.
  • Gastrostomy Tube (G-Tube): A tube inserted into the stomach for feeding when oral intake isn’t possible.
  • Mechanical Ventilator: Assists or takes over breathing by delivering air and oxygen through an endotracheal tube.
  • Nasogastric Tube (NG Tube): A tube inserted through the nose and into the stomach for feeding or administering medication.
  • Orogastric Tube (OG Tube): Similar to an NG tube, but inserted through the mouth and into the stomach.
  • Pulse Oximeter: Measures blood oxygen levels via a device placed on a hand or foot.
  • Tracheostomy Tube: A tube inserted into the windpipe through a hole in the neck to assist with breathing.
  • Urinary Catheter: A tube inserted into the bladder to collect urine for testing or drainage.

Always feel free to ask questions if you’re unsure about any aspect of the equipment or its operation. Understanding how to use and manage the equipment is crucial to providing the best care for your child and ensuring their safety at home.