Pediatric Medical Equipment & Supplies

Enteral Feeding Equipment & Supplies 

Proper nutrition is essential for children with complex medical needs, and enteral feeding equipment plays a vital role in ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients. This category includes: 

• Feeding Pumps: Feeding pumps are devices that deliver nutrients, medications, antibiotics and fluids. Nutrition from pumps can be administered in continuous feedings or intermittent feedings. Common feeding pumps include the Moog Infinity pump, The Moog Infinity Orange pump, the Kangaroo OMNI pump, and the Kangaroo Connect pump. 

• Feeding Tubes: Deliver liquid nutrition, medications and fluids into the stomach by being placed either into the nose or surgically through the stomach. The type of feeding tube will depend on your child’s medical condition and prognosis. Nasal feeding tubes including NG tubes, ND tubes, and NJ tubes are  

• Extension Sets: Are used for the MIC-KEY low-profile feeding tubes. They are used to deliver nutrition, fluids, medications and for venting. They can come in multiple lengths and configurations such as having a ENFit or Non-ENFit connector. One end of the set will be attached to the feeding pump, and the other will be attached to your feeding source(s) such as a pump, syringe or feeding set. 

• Nutritional Formulas: Designed to meet your child’s nutritional needs, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. These formulas are specially created to ensure proper nutrition for individuals who rely on tube feeding.  

• Feeding Pump Bags: Connect to a feeding tube to deliver nutrients, fluids and medications at a controlled rate. 

• Syringes: Come in a variety of shapes and sizes, for various purposes. Smaller syringes, like10 mL are used to flush tubes and administer medications. Larger syringes, like 60 mL are used to give bolus feedings. 

Factors to Consider for Enteral Feeding Equipment: 

• Feeding Method: Bolus or continuous feeding may depend on your child’s medical condition and digestive function. 

• Nutritional Needs: Consult with your healthcare team to determine calorie and nutrient requirements based on age, weight, and activity level. 

• Caregiver Ability: Consider your ability to handle equipment and supplies effectively when choosing a feeding setup. 

• Medical Condition: Some conditions require specialized formulas or feeding methods. 

• Intolerances and Allergies: Check for potential allergens in formulas and materials. 

  Learn more about Enteral Feeding Equipment with the resources below

Respiratory Equipment & Supplies 

Children with respiratory challenges require reliable equipment to support their breathing and maintain healthy airways. Common respiratory devices include: 

• Nebulizers: Deliver medications in a fine mist directly to the lungs.  

• Suction Equipment: To clear mucus and maintain airway patency. 

• Ventilators: Deliver oxygen or air by a tube in the windpipe for children with severe respiratory issues 

• CPAP Machines: Provide a continuous flow of air pressure and are used for managing sleep apnea and other respiratory conditions. 

• Oxygen Masks: Deliver concentrated oxygen to ensure effective breathing.  

• Nasal Cannulas: Tubes that deliver oxygen through the nostrils, ideal for low-flow oxygen delivery.  

• Oxygen Concentrators: Converts air into concentrated oxygen for continuous supply at home.  

• Portable Tanks: Tanks filled with pressurized oxygen for travel or temporary use.

   

Factors to Consider for Respiratory Equipment: 

• Airway Size and Anatomy: Ensure tubing and masks fit a child’s smaller, delicate airways. 

• Materials and Design: Choose equipment that is durable, comfortable, and hypoallergenic. 

• Developmental Stage: Equipment should align with the child’s ability to cooperate or follow instructions. 

• Safety Features: Look for features like low battery alerts and pressure monitoring. 

• Portability: Lightweight, portable devices are ideal for families on the go. 

Other Equipment & Supplies 

• Incontinence Supplies: Products designed to help manage all levels of fecal and urine output such as diapers, training pants, and youth pants.  

• Bandages and Gauze: Dressings designed for sensitive skin such as Duoderm and Tegaderm. 

• Medical Tape: Adhesives made for securing dressings without causing irritation such as HY tape and Micropore. 

• Mobility Aids: Specialized mobility aids for children who require support when walking and other mobility challenges include wheelchairs, walking aids, adaptive scooters, patient lifts, grabbing assists, and vehicle lifts. These walkers are often lightweight, sturdy and adjustable in height.  

Guide to Selecting the Right Pediatric Equipment

Choosing the appropriate pediatric medical equipment for your child is an important process that requires careful consideration, collaboration with healthcare professionals, and attention to detail. Below is a step-by-step guide to help families navigate this important journey effectively. 

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider 

The first step is to work closely with your child’s healthcare team to assess their medical needs. Your provider will evaluate your child’s condition, functional abilities, and overall health to determine the type of equipment that will best support their care. This personalized guidance ensures that the chosen equipment aligns with your child’s unique requirements. 

Gather Necessary Documentation 

Before ordering equipment, ensure you have all the required medical documentation. This typically includes a prescription from your healthcare provider, along with any supporting medical records or assessments. Proper documentation streamlines the approval process with suppliers and insurance providers, avoiding delays in securing essential equipment. 

Research Suppliers 

Not all Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers are the same. Take the time to research and compare suppliers. Look for a company with a strong reputation for excellent customer service, reliable delivery, and a wide range of pediatric-specific equipment. Providers like Sentido Health excel in tailoring solutions to meet children’s needs while supporting families throughout the process. 

Check Insurance Coverage 

Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage for pediatric medical equipment. Ask specific questions about what is covered, any potential out-of-pocket expenses, and requirements for reimbursement. Being well-informed about your insurance plan will help you budget appropriately and avoid unexpected costs. 

Evaluate Equipment Options 

When selecting equipment, consider factors such as size, weight, ease of use, and safety features. Pediatric medical equipment should be tailored to fit your child’s physical and developmental needs while being manageable for caregivers. Discuss options with your healthcare team and DME provider to ensure the equipment is the best fit for your child and household setup. 

Place Your Order 

Once you’ve identified the necessary equipment, place your order with the DME provider. Be sure to provide all required documentation, including prescriptions, insurance details, and your preferred delivery address and schedule. Clear communication with the provider ensures a smooth ordering process and timely delivery. 

Set Up and Use the Equipment 

After receiving the equipment, it’s time to set it up in your home. Many DME providers, including Sentido Health, offer support teams to assist with installation, usage instructions, and troubleshooting. Take advantage of these resources to ensure the equipment is set up safely and functions as intended. This step is crucial for maximizing the benefits of the equipment and minimizing caregiver stress. 

By following these steps, families can confidently navigate the process of selecting and acquiring pediatric medical equipment, ensuring their child receives the highest level of care and support at home. At Sentido Health we are committed to helping families navigate the complexities of pediatric DME by providing a wide range of high-quality equipment and personalized support. Whether it’s feeding supplies, respiratory devices, or wound care materials, we ensure families have the tools and guidance they need for comprehensive at-home care.