Medical Alert Bracelets
Two Types and Two Functions
Medical alert bracelets can serve as two different systems; configured as part of a medical alert system if the panic button is pushed and also to relay information on medical conditions, allergies and prescription medications.
These bracelets can serve as two different systems; configured as part of a medical alert system if the panic button is pushed and also to relay information on medical conditions, allergies and prescription medications.
Medical Information Bracelets
One of the types of med alert bracelets is the kind that list medical diagnosis, allergies, special instructions and prescription medications.
These are very valuable to emergency personnel in the event that the person injured or sick cannot answer medical history questions, and Emergency Room staff and first responders are trained to look for these bracelets prior to initiating treatment.
Some of the newer varieties actually include a USB flash drive so more information can be stored and available to those who are treating your loved one.
Diagnosis that are commonly listed include:
- Diabetes
- Seizure Disorders
- Atrial Fib
- Pacemaker
- Implanted Defibrillator
- Implanted rods or pins
- Any known drug allergies
- Name and date of birth
- Emergency contact information
- Any medications that may affect emergency care, such as Coumadin, Insulin and certain heart medications.
- Any pertinent food allergies
- Primary MD information
Of course, that list is not all inclusive. You will need to adapt it to meet the specific conditions your elderly loved one has.
Talk to your primary MD and see what they recommend as well.The medical alert bracelets can usually be engraved on both sides to allow for more information. If the list is long, consider going with one of the USB flash drive systems.
The bracelet should be worn snug on the wrist but not so tight as to cause skin tears or pressure sites.
Medical Alert Bracelets for Monitoring Systems
The other primary type of medic alert bracelets is the kind that is associated with a monitoring system.
This bracelet will have a panic button, and in more sophisticated systems, will also have a speaker and microphone so the call center can communicate with your elderly family member.
The panic button on the bracelet will need to be activated by your loved one in the event of a fall or a medical emergency.
There are advantages to having both types of bracelets, if the conditions and symptoms warrant it.
One will be used to inform medical staff of your loved one’s unique diagnosis and treatments; the other will assure that if an unexpected event or a fall takes place, your elderly family member will be able to call for help.
The price of these types of bracelets used in conjunction with a monitored medical alert system is usually included in the price of the system itself.
Medical alert ID bracelets are relatively inexpensive, ranging anywhere from $10.00 for pre-engraved styles to over $35.00 for the USB flash drive styles.
Whichever you chose, be it one or the other, or both, is totally dependent on your situation.
Always remember that in the event of an emergency, your loved one may not be able to communicate their medical history, so having a medical alert bracelet can actually help save their lives by preventing inadvertent harm.
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