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.