Published May 2, 2025
Caring for a loved one or family member at home is sometimes preferred. It may be more comfortable for the patient and more convenient for the family/caregivers. But using complex medical devices at home can be challenging. Patients and caregivers may not know how to use these devices properly, which can lead to serious harm.
Medical devices like infusion pumps, dialysis machines, and ventilators are usually used in hospitals under supervision. Now, more people are using them at home. If these devices are set up or managed incorrectly, it can increase the risk of harm. Patients and caregivers should make sure that they know how to use these devices safely.
Several factors can lead to harm when medical devices are used at home. For example, if an infusion pump is programmed wrong, the patient may receive too much medicine which can cause harm. Or they may not receive enough medicine to treat their condition. In either case, the patient may end up having to go to the hospital for treatment.
Other problems can occur if the patient or caregiver does not understand the device readings or knows what to do if the device alarms or stops working. This can lead to delays in care or cause serious injury or even death. In fact, there was a case in which a patient died when a ventilator alarm did not sound.
Other devices like glucometers (used to check a person’s blood sugar), pen devices, injectors, nebulizers (used for breathing treatments), and insulin pumps also need to be managed at home. Patients need to be assessed on their ability to use the device. They may have poor vision or dexterity making it more difficult to handle the device. They need to be educated on how to use the device safely. They should be able to show healthcare practitioners how they will use the device.
To prevent errors, patients and caregivers should make sure that their healthcare professionals:
For more information, review the Executive Brief on the Top 10 Health Technology Hazards for 2025.
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