Safety Considerations
Whilst facilitating care at home for children requiring invasive
ventilation has several benefits, significant safety issues can occur.
In an analysis of patient safety incident reports undertaken in the UK,
for children on home invasive ventilation, the most common problems in
the processes of care were issues with faulty equipment and availability
of equipment, factors relating to procedures and treatment and concerns
around staff availability and competency.(20) Of concern, this study
demonstrated clearly stated harm to the child (CPR required, emergency
tracheostomy change in community setting, significant child, and parent
distress) in 41% of incidents.(20) This demonstrates how crucial it is
that risks and safety measures are thoroughly and systematically
considered prior to discharge home of children on invasive ventilation.