Health Tip: Use Medical Devices Safely

A medical device is used to diagnose, cure or treat a condition, or to prevent disease.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says a medical device can range in size from a hand-held glucometer to a large breathing ventilator.

Here’s the FDA’s advice for safe use of a medical device:

Understand how your device works, and keep instructions accessible.
Understand and properly respond to device alarms.
Keep a back-up plan and supplies in the event of an emergency.
Keep emergency numbers available and updated.
Educate your family and caregivers about your device.
Have your doctor and health-care team review your condition and recommend any equipment changes.
Report serious malfunctions to the device maker and to the FDA.

Source: HealthDay