Today's small, ambulatory feeding pumps allow children to continue age-appropriate activity within the limits of their medical condition. Children who feel well enough may go out with their parents, play in the yard, or even go to school without interrupting feedings. The home care nurse should communicate with the school nurse to develop a care plan for school hours. The school nurse should know what the feeding and rate are, how to operate the pump, where to call if it malfunctions, and what medical complications might be expected. Parenteral medications and feedings can safely be given at home.
Special training is required for the nurse placing peripherally inserted central catheters.
PICC lines are most often used for intravenous feedings and medications. Parents can be taught how to use infusion pumps and care for catheter sites. 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.