Today's small infusion pumps impose few limitations on the child's activities. Many medications are now given to children at home, including antibiotics, chemotherapy, intravenous immunoglobulin, and growth hormone. Factor VIII for treatment of acute bleeding in hemophiliacs is commonly administered at home by a parent immediately after a bleeding episode, then followed by hospital or clinic treatment. The home care nurse trains the family to start an intravenous site, to store and handle Factor VII, and to adjust the dosage as the child's weight changes. 7 Home health care is safe, cost-effective, and appropriate for a wide range of patients.
Technology provides even more treatment options and improved services in the home.
It's especially desirable to use high-technology home care services for perinatal and pediatric patients because maintaining the family bond is so important. Connie Goldsmith, MPA, RN, a free-lance writer in Sacramento, has 10 years experience in managed care. Her clinical background includes neurological and cardiac critical care with CNRN and CCRN certifications. Janet S. Rogers, RN, has 12 years experience in home care, most recently as director of nursing for a large home care agency in Sacramento. She also conducts home seminars in the community.