Using Medical Devices or Equipment Safely at Home

A lot of patients use different medical devices or equipment at home. Since many of these devices and equipment are now portable, they enable patients to live actively outside the confines of the hospital room or treatment center.

However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been concerned that consumers may sometimes be left on their own in using these devices. They may not know how to operate these things and not understand the safety risks involved. Those who are assisted at home can use their medical devices and equipment safely with the help of professional caregivers and home health aides. But for others who are not assisted at home, serious and even fatal problems may result.

Using a medical device at home must start with reading and understanding the instructions that come along with it. But most of the time, instructions on leaflets might be hard to understand. This is when outside help becomes handy. Never hesitate to ask a family member, caregiver, or someone you know who might be familiar with medical devices and equipment. Our skilled nursing services in Maryland can also assist you on how to go about the proper assembly and usage of medical equipment.

Here are some tips for safe usage of medical devices or equipment at home:

• Keep instructions close by.
• Understand and properly respond to device alarms.
• Have a backup plan and supplies in case of emergency.
• Keep emergency numbers available and updated.
• Ask your doctor to review your condition and recommend changes related to your equipment.

When it comes to medical devices and equipment, it’s always important to go the safer route. Call Breakthrough Healthcare Services today and learn about our home healthcare services in Fort Washington, Maryland.