Durable Medical Equipment and Supplies

What is a key feature of DME regarding use?

It can withstand repeated use and could normally be rented and used by successive patients

What is the expected lifespan for DME?

3 years

What is the primary purpose of DME?

To serve a medical purpose and assist with a patient's illness or injury

Can DME be generally useful to a healthy person without illness or injury?

No, it is generally not useful in the absence of illness or injury

Where is DME typically appropriate for use?

In a patient's home or in skilled nursing facilities

What does CPAP stand for?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

What is a CPAP machine use for?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

What are the hallmarks of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Witnessed apneas, gasping or both

What are the risk factors for a CPAP machine?

BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2

Neck circumference > 18 inches

What are the advantages of a CPAP machine?

Improve sleep quality, reduced snoring, less daytime sleepiness, improved mood, improve blood pressure, reduced risk of CVD, improve cognitive function

What are the disadvantages of a CPAP machine?

Difficult to use or fall asleep, stigma, effects from cold air

What is an Infusion Pump used for?

IV fluids, emergency care, surgery, cancer, insulin-dependent diabetes, chronic pain, infections, GI conditions

What are the advantages of a infusion pump?

Delivers complex medications, maintains therapeutic blood levels, available in home care setting

What are the disadvantages of a infusion pump?

Cannot be moved (stationary), shorter battery lives, expensive

What is a nebulizer use for?

Asthma

What are the hallmarks of asthma?

Wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, cough

Who are at risk for a nebulizer use?

COPD, Cystic Fibrosis, Pulmonary Fibrosis

What are the advantages of a nebulizer?

Small children, geriatric patients, acute attack situation, psychological support to the patient, quick relief

What are the disadvantages of a nebulizer?

Cost, infections, drug waste

Who are at risk for an ostomy bag use?

Ulcerative colitis, crohn's disease, cancer, neurogenic bladder, interstitial cystitis, colon cancer, trauma injury

What are the advantages of a ostomy bag?

Lifesaving and treats wide range of digestive/urinary diseases

What are the disadvantages of a ostomy bag?

Skin irritation/infection, diarrhea, blockage, electrolyte imbalance, hernia, prolapse

What is an Oxygen Equipment use for?

Pulmonary and cardiovascular issues

What are the advantages of an oxygen equipment?

Purity level, no power source, ready for immediate use, cost-effective

What are the disadvantages of an oxygen equipment?

Limited oxygen supply, heavy, safety hazards