Home Health-Care Equipment and Supplies Key Terms

Knowing key terms can help you choose the right health-care equipment and supplies

If you have ever shopped for home health-care equipment or supplies, you may have been amazed at the almost overwhelming number of products, options and features available to you. Becoming familiar with some of the key terms that describe home health-care equipment and supplies can help you narrow your search. Knowing key terms can also help give you confidence that you are making the best choices. Here are some of the key terms that can help you make good decisions:

 

Mobility aids

Mobility aids, also called ambulation devices, are anything that help you stay "mobile" - able to move from place to place. Canes, crutches, scooters, walkers, wheelchairs, ramps and lift chairs are all types of mobility aids. Some mobility aids can be accessorized. For example, you can add rubberized grips to crutches or add a hanging pouch to a walker. Wheelchairs can be accessorized with backpacks, arm rests or more comfortable seat cushions.
Try: You can learn about mobility aids at MedlinePlus.

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines

People with sleep apnea stop breathing many times during the night. This wakes them up over and over and often leads to health problems such as high blood pressure. A CPAP machine, attached to a mask, holds the airways open with continuous air pressure. Accessories include masks, chin straps, filters, humidifiers and even software to record CPAP compliance and air-pressure readings.
Try: To learn more about CPAP visit cpap.com.

Glucose monitors

Everyone with Type 1 diabetes needs to take insulin. Some people with Type 2 diabetes also need insulin. To maintain proper insulin levels, diabetics must test their blood regularly. To do this, many people use a blood-glucose monitor. Those who use monitors need testing supplies such as syringes, lancets and test strips.
Try: You can find information on glucose monitors at TheMedSupplyGuide.com.

Bariatric equipment

People who weigh more than 250 pounds often require special home health-care equipment. They need bariatric products that can accommodate extra weight. Most bariatric equipment is designed to support up to 700 pounds. Bariatric home health-care equipment includes wheelchairs, shower chairs, walkers, commodes, crutches, mattresses and beds.
Try: You can browse bariatric equipment at Parkwood Oxygen.

Nebulizers

People with respiratory problems such as asthma and cystic fibrosis often receive medications through a device called a nebulizer. Liquid medication is loaded into the nebulizer, which delivers it to the lungs as an inhaled mist. Some nebulizers are powered by a compressed air machine that plugs into an electrical outlet. Others models are hand-held and battery-powered.
Try: To learn more about nebulizers, visit National Jewish Health.

Bath seats and shower benches

Each year, one out of every three elderly people suffers a fall. Bathroom falls are common and especially dangerous problems. Bath seats and shower benches help prevent falls while in the tub or shower by giving bathers a place to sit and keep their balance.
Try: Get descriptions and pictures of bath seats and shower benches from southwestmedical.com.

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