HINT: What is included in a central line emergency kit?

At a recent Connected Care Central Venous Access Device (CVAD) workshop, home care nurses identified that they were unsure about what is included in an emergency CVAD kit and identified that some families do not have an emergency CVAD kit at home.

Central Venous Access Devices, AllTomasz CzarnyJuly 19, 2019CVAD

HINT: Can normal saline be used to help with suctioning?

This QuickHiT! came from a consult initiated by a home care nurse who texted Connected Care Live! for clarification about the use of normal saline drops via tracheostomy. In this situation, the child's family had previously learned to routinely instill saline prior to suctioning but this practice differed from the nurse's employer's policy.

Tracheostomy Care, Airway Clearance, AllTomasz CzarnyJuly 5, 2019tracheostomy

ALERT: When do I check the pressure on a suction machine?

This Quick hit alert was identified by a family caregiver in the home setting. It was identified that the pressure gauge of the suction machine (portable or standing) should be checked every time a child is suctioned. Dials and settings on suction machines (older and newer types) can change or “slip” between uses resulting in inadequate suction power.

Airway Clearance, AllTomasz CzarnyJune 21, 2019

HINT: What is included in an emergency tracheostomy kit?

At recent Connected Care education sessions, home care nurses described being unsure about what is included in an Emergency Tracheostomy Kit

Tracheostomy Care, AllTomasz CzarnyJune 5, 2019tracheostomy

Connected Care Quick Hits

QUICK HITS ARE UP TO DATE AND EVIDENCE BASED RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE CARE OF CHILDREN WITH MEDICAL COMPLEXITY & TECHNOLOGY DEPENDENCE, FROM HOSPITAL TO HOME.