Familiarizing Yourself with Common and Complex Medical Equipment
At times, medical machines can seem even more mysterious than the ailments they are meant to help cure. Unexplained lights flashing, peculiar noises emitted at seemingly random times add to the feeling that the medical equipment being used in hospitals might be something out of a science fiction novel. During the stressful time that a loved one has to be hospitalized, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with some of the more common medical machines that you are likely to come into contact with. A little knowledge can go a long way in easing unnecessary extra anxiety at a difficult time.
In the United States, heart attacks and other cardiac abnormalities are a common reason people end up in the hospital. There are all kinds of cardiology equipment you might see being used like EKG machines and a number of EKG accessories, including batteries, cords, and electrodes. You are likely to come across defibrillators, pacemakers, IV’s, and much more. The specific technology will depend on your loved one’s particular case, but it can be calming to know what is happening.
Don’t expect emergency medical personnel to take the time to explain what they are doing. Rest assured that they are doing the best they can to care for the person in need until they can reach the care of the doctors at the hospital. When the patient’s medical situation has been stabilized and a doctor working on the case can speak to you, it is a good time to ask any questions that may be causing you anxiety. If the doctor talks about the EKG results or uses other medical terminology, make sure you ask questions if you don’t really understand what he or she is saying.
If you are curious what kinds of life-saving equipment might be in the ambulance, you should be able to find the specific devices listed on local hospitals’ websites. Here is a list of just five of the many items that are required to be carried on both the Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance and Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance:
- A portable and fixed suction apparatus with a regulator
- Portable and fixed oxygen supply equipment capable of metered flow with adequate tubing
- Pulse oximeter with pediatric and adult probes
- Automated external defibrillator (AED) with pediatric and adult-sized pads
- Portable, battery-operated defibrillator
The list of required devices carried on ambulances is made to save as many lives as possible, from infants to the elderly. If it gives you any peace of mind, it’s worth researching these life-saving tools that might be used to save you or someone you love one day.
