Sustaining a spinal cord injury creates the need for a wide range of equipment that will be required for the patient to function once the patient returns home. Some types of equipment will be very expensive and SCI patients or family members may want to ask for help in navigating the system. A physiotherapist, social worker, or doctor will be able to offer advice on suitable types of equipment that may be needed and programs that may assist with funding.
Ventilators-The higher number of patients being discharged home on ventilators means that there are now several types available on the market. Some provide positive pressure; some provide negative pressure. The type of ventilator chosen depends on whether or not the patient is intubated (has a breathing tube inserted in the trachea). Ventilators require a trained professional to run the equipment.
Wheelchair-Choosing the right wheelchair is crucial, as patients will spend much of their time in their chair. Chairs should be fitted to the individual. They may be manual or electric and come with a variety of functions. The type of chair chosen may depend on the type of injury the patient has. Obviously, someone who has suffered paralysis from the neck down will be unable to maneuver a manual chair. The seat of the chair should be well cushioned to prevent pressure sores.
Hospital Bed-Some patients with severe SCI may require the use of a hospital bed at home. Hospital beds allow easier positioning of the patient, and also have many safety features built in, such as safety rails. Beds may be manual or electric.
Feeding Pump-Some patients who are unable to swallow may have need for a feeding pump. Feeding pumps accurately dispense the patient’s liquid nutrition to them through a feeding tube, usually inserted in the abdomen and into the stomach.
Oxygen-Some patients may require continuous oxygen to maintain their oxygen levels at an acceptable level. Oxygen is usually supplied in tanks. Many vendors deliver the oxygen to the house and pick up empty canisters.
Suction-Patients who are unable to swallow well may be unable to clear their own oral secretions i.e. saliva and may need frequent suctioning. Other patients may have difficulty with choking and should have suction available.
Continence Supplies-Some patients with SCI will have lost the ability to control their bladder, and may be catheterized. Catheters are a tube inserted into the bladder through the urethra. They are attached to a drainage bag. Some patients may have need for adult continence supplies such as protective garments (adult diapers).
Ceiling Lifts-Ceiling lifts run on tracks in the ceiling and are used to transfer patients from bed to chair to commode, saving wear and tear on caregiver’s backs.
Home Modifications
A wheelchair ramp may need to be added to the house to allow the patient to come and go. Doorways may need to be widened to accommodate a wheelchair. Showers may also need to be enlarged to allow the patient to enter and use it. Kitchens are sometimes modified to allow patients to maneuver more easily in the kitchen.
There are a lot of aids available to make life easier and allow greater functioning for patients with SCI. There are numerous resources available for information on different aids and how they may help. Other patients may be the best source of information, as they may have used the product or equipment.
