Tips About Home Health Equipment

When you think about Patient Safety, a hospital or doctor’s office probably comes to mind. But, your own home is another place where you need to be aware of patient safety. By preventing accidents, like falls or burns, you can keep from becoming an ER patient. Another important part of patient safety at home is to take the right amount of the right medicine at the right time. Also, use care with any kind of medical equipment at home.

• Be sure to use a grounded or three-prong connector for all electrical medical equipment. If you live in an older home, you may need to use an adapter to make sure the use of the equipment is safe. Do not use extension cords with medical equipment.
  
• Notify your electric company and police (or sheriff) that you rely on electricity due to a health condition. In an emergency, they can put your needs first. Also, have a telephone available that does not require electricity.
  
• Always use care with home oxygen. Keep flames, sparks and flammable materials away from your oxygen equipment. Ask your supplier for “O2 in Use” stickers.
  
• Never smoke while using oxygen. Keep your oxygen equipment away from flames, sparks, flammable materials and heat sources. Keep the oxygen tubing clear and straight to be sure oxygen flows properly. Store liquid oxygen in a well-ventilated area, and avoid contact with this very cold substance; it may burn the skin.
  
• If you must stay in bed, keep a bell or other means to call for help near the bed. Attach it with a string so it cannot fall out of reach. Use side rails to prevent falls.
  
• Never smoke in bed or when you feel sleepy.

This information is provided by the member health plans of the Michigan Inter-Plan Patient Safety Council. Contact your health plan with questions or comments.