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How to Prepare Your Home for Pediatric Home Health Care
Posted by PHC | Pediatric
Does your child have advanced medical needs? You are certainly not alone. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports that “one in five children has an identified special health care need or chronic illness.” Pediatric home health care can make a big difference. At the same time, many families find it intimidating to get started with the process.
At Personal Health Care, we want to make it as easy, smooth, and stress-free as possible. Here, our Phoenixville pediatric home care professionals provide a guide for how to prepare your home in Pennsylvania.
- Create a Clean, Organized Primary Care Space
It is generally best practice to designate a specific area of your home for medical care and supplies. You should keep it clean, well-lit, and free of clutter. Organization helps, but this space does not have to be anything extensive.
It does not even have to be a separate room. A place like the corner of a bedroom or living room can work great.
- Put a Focus on Safety and Accessibility
The health and safety of your medically vulnerable child is always the top priority. With that in mind, you should take a proactive approach to identifying and addressing safety hazards. For example, parents should remove trip hazards such as loose rugs or electrical cords.
If your child uses medical devices or mobility aids, you should confirm that hallways and doorways are clear. You should place emergency numbers and medication instructions in a visible location. In Pennsylvania, home health nurses often recommend keeping a small emergency bag packed with critical supplies.
- Prepare Equipment and Power Sources
Another great step to take is to work with your child’s medical provider to confirm that all medical equipment (monitors, suction devices, oxygen, feeding pumps, etc) is properly delivered and functioning before your first home visit. You should use grounded outlets and surge protectors. You should consider a backup power source for essential equipment.
- Learn About and Establish Infection Control Practices
The unfortunate reality is that children with chronic conditions are often more vulnerable to infection. For that reason, proactive infection control practices are a must. You should keep hand sanitizer and disposable gloves available in the care area.
You should also clean high-touch surfaces daily. Visitors should wash their hands upon entering and avoid visits when ill. Parents in Pennsylvania should never hesitate to ask a pediatric home health care nurse for specific infection-control guidance that is tailored to their child’s specific medical condition.
- Develop a Whole-Family Communication Plan
Communication is key. Its importance cannot be overstated. Everyone in the household should understand the care routine. You should post a simple schedule of medication times, therapy sessions, nurse visits, and other relevant information. Communication between parents, siblings, and caregivers helps create consistency and stability for your child.
We are Leaders in Pediatric Home Health Care in Southeast Pennsylvania
At Personal Health Care, our Phoenixville pediatric home health nurses are skilled, experienced, and committed to providing top-quality care. If you have any questions or concerns about pediatric home care, we can help. Call us at (610) 933-6130 or connect with us online free in-home health care assessment.
Our team serves communities throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.