Geavanceerde medische technologie in de thuissituatie - Inventarisatie, gebruikersaantallen en risico's

Advanced medical technologies, like respiratory and intravenous therapy devices, are finding increasing use in the home and this trend will continue in the near future. Home use of these complex medical devices implies several risks. Acknowledgement of the risks by all the parties involved - industry, government agencies, health practitioners and insurance companies - and adequate communication between all parties in the chain of care, as well as the implementation of proper preventive measures, will enhance patient safety. In general, risks are higher when a technology is invasive, used for life support or for the application of substances, and when it is applied to a large number of patients. Risks are often related to use errors and arise because at home poorly qualified persons, such as patients or informal carers, are using the device as well. Even home care professionals do not always have the opportunity to develop sufficient skills. Failures in design and technical problems also occur. Defects or medical problems may not be identified immediately and cannot always be solved as promptly as in the intramural setting. Important precautions that can be taken are the further development of devices designed for home use and adaptation of user manuals. Organizational precautions are the placing of limitations on the assortment of devices that professionals use, employment of specialized nursing teams, instruction and supervision of patient and informal carers, and finally, a clear demarcation of the tasks and responsibilities of all parties