[cthy1954]

I have just started a new job in HH. I am orientating for Pediatrics having just left LTC. My problem is that there are quite a few things that I am running into that LTC never had, such as insulin pumps (we gave injections), vents(never used) and gastronomy buttons(tubes always). I could use a few good internet sites that would help me learn using, changing, cleaning etc.

[traumaRUs]

Hmmm - there are many different brands of all of these devices. Are you getting oriented to each specific patient? Will you be doing visits or shifts? I would ask for enough orientation that I would feel comfortable in the home.

[DutchgirlRN]

You definately need enough orientation to feel totally comfortable. I always asked for the information/directions leaflets that come with the product. I also Googled with good results. I had and understood all that info before ever being alone with the child. I'm assuming you're talking private duty not home heath visits? I did pediatiric private duty for years and enjoyed it. If you're doing HH visits get all that info before visiting the child.

[cthy1954]

The leaflets are a good idea. I guess that I am not thinking clearly. I have already informed the company that I will need more time. They are very helpful. However, I will see if they also have the information.

[DutchgirlRN]

Originally Posted by cthy1954

The leaflets are a good idea. I guess that I am not thinking clearly. I have already informed the company that I will need more time. They are very helpful. However, I will see if they also have the information.

The leaflets should be in the home. Private duty patients always have an extra or two of everything. The Mic-key G-tube was one I was not familiar with but is actually very very easy to deal with. The patient used to go to the doctor to have it changed. I asked the doctor if I could do it. The directions were right on the box and so easy. If the leaflets are not available look the manufacturer up on the net. Here is a link to the Mic-key G tube.

http://www.kchealthcare.com/productp...n=FAQs&id=2085

For the most commonly used pediatric insulin pump:

http://www.minimed.com/professionals/pumpschool.html

[cthy1954]

Thank-you so much!!!!!!!!!! I will look for the pamphlets at my next rotation.