Medical Supplies You Should Have In Storage

Medical emergencies are something that could strike anyone at any time, no matter how old or young the person may be. Luckily, the Internet age has made it much easier to acquire medical supplies that go above and beyond the standard First-Aid kit.

 

It is unfortunate that many homeowners do not even own a First-Aid kit, let alone any specialized medical gear. The following items are common medical items that have been proven to save lives.

 

First-Aid Kit

The two main functions of a First-Aid kit are to stop bleeding and to keep wounds from getting infected. The items included are gauze, antibiotic cream, band-aids, medical tape, and a cold pack to treat muscle strains. This is the basic kit that any safety-conscious homeowner should have.

 

Defibrillator

This apparatus is designed to start a heart that has stopped beating as a result of cardiac arrest. This is especially useful for those who are not trained in CPR. The reason is that defibrillators often come with clear-cut instructions for operation. With that being said, at least one member of a household should be trained in CPR. These classes are fairly cheap and are usually offered at a community’s activity center.

 

Suture Kit

Many people think that stitching a wound is a complex procedure; however, the reality is that it is the same fundamental procedure as stitching a seam. Do some research online on how to sew and confer with your doctor regarding the slight differences between the two procedures. It is a skill that most people never need, but it is always good to know how to be able to stitch a wound in case of an emergency. This is what field medics who are stationed in war zones specialize in.

 

Stethoscope

A stethoscope is what doctors use to listen to a patient’s heartbeat and pulse. This checks for any irregularities in heartbeat or blood flow, which are both early warning signs of cardiac arrest. If there is a clot forming somewhere in the body, then you will be able to hear the flow of the person’s blood moving at a slower pace. This also may indicate that the artery is blocked. The best course of action is to give the person an aspirin to thin their blood and call the paramedics immediately.

 

Catheters

When most people hear the word catheter they think of a urinary catheter. While this is certainly a common use of catheters, the reality is that they have several uses. When shopping for medical catheters it is important to understand that different sizes have different functions. Some other uses for catheters include cardiovascular, neurovascular, and gastrointestinal issues.

 

By owning this simple list of items you will be sufficiently prepared for any medical emergency that comes your way.

Categories: aid kit, Blood, cardiac arrest, catheters, health concerns, items, Medical, medical supplies, nbsp

At Home Hospice: 5 Ways to Care for an Elderly Loved One

When an elderly loved one is approaching the end of their life, setting up an at-home hospice can offer an option to families who want to ensure their loved one enjoys the best quality of life possible. Fortunately, this can be arranged by making a few simple preparations that will help the caregiver tend to the patient’s needs. Here are five important ways to provide optimum care for a loved one when setting up an at-home hospice.

 

Set Up a Comfortable Room

The first thing a person will need to do when setting up a home hospice is choose a room that has easy access for the caregiver and is comfortable for the patient. Ideally, this room should be on the ground floor and located near a sink or bathroom facility. Then, a safe bed should be comfortably arranged, and a few personal touches can be added to make the patient feel at home.

 

Plan for Personal Hygiene

In an at-home hospice, personal hygiene is of the utmost importance to prevent bedsores and skin rashes that can afflict those unable to leave their bed. Therefore, it is important to create a plan for bathing and washing a loved one’s hair. Those who are bedridden can be bathed using a basin of water and a soft washcloth. It is also important to change the bed linens frequently.

 

Arrange for Medicine Management

Elderly patients frequently take several different medications that will need to be managed by either an in-home care provider or a designated member of the person’s family. Keeping a log of which medicines were given and at what time they were provided can help everyone keep track of when it is time for another dose.

 

Stock Up on Medical Supplies

Depending upon a patient’s medical needs, they may require specific medical supplies. Catheters are a common need for those who are unable to leave the bed that can increase comfort. Breathing apparatuses and other equipment should also be on hand, and all caregivers should be trained regarding how to provide the right types of medical support.

Provide Companionship and Comfort

Once the physical needs for the patient have been handled, the next step is to provide the companionship and comfort that makes at-home hospice care the preferred choice for many families. Arrange a schedule for caregivers that ensures the patient always has someone nearby to tend to their needs.

 

Assisting a loved one through the final stages of life can be made easier through a well-planned at-home hospice set up. By providing your loved one with everything they need to be physically and mentally comfortable, you will be able to ease their transition while providing them with compassionate care.

Categories: care, elderly, Home, home hospice, Hospice, medical supplies, nbsp, patient, personal hygiene