Matching a Nebulizer to Your Needs

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When you are choosing a nebulizer, you need to match it to your needs. Your nebulizer will help you breathe more freely, but not all nebulizers are the same. Depending on your health condition, your doctor may recommend one type over another. Once you find the right one, you can experience many health benefits.

What is a nebulizer?

Nebulizers are typically used to treat asthma and other breathing problems. Children who have colds that settle in their chests can benefit from the machine, which delivers medication straight into the lungs. The machine sends medication through your breathing passages and offers quick relief. The face mask is easy to use, especially for children who can’t yet use inhalers.

The nebulizer transforms liquid medicine into a breathable mist. It is a pain-free treatment for common problems. You can choose a nebulizer that stands in one area, or one that is portable. The base houses an air compressor. A flexible plastic tube connects the air compressor to a special container that holds the medicine. Then a mouthpiece or mask attached to the medicine dispenser allows for easy delivery.

How to Use a Nebulizer

A nebulizer is simple to use. You need to wash your hands before using it, and make sure that all the pieces are clean and dry. Place the medication into the container and connect it to the tube and mask or mouthpiece.

Next, turn the base on. You may see the mist coming out of the container. Breathe it in deeply and slowly. Within five to 15 minutes, you will breathe in all the medicine. After use, clean the mouthpiece and medicine container with hot, soapy water and rinse well before air drying.

How to choose a Nebulizer

There are two different types of nebulizers: air compressed or ultrasonic. These are both in stationary or portable forms. Each has pros and cons to consider.

With an air compressed device, you have a slightly longer delivery time. It is able to hold a wider range of medicines because no heat affects the transfer. The medicine container is larger. The machine is noisier to operate than an ultrasonic model, but it is also more durable.

An ultrasonic device requires less than six minutes to deliver the medicinal mist. It offers a very quiet operation and consistent medicine particle size. However, it is less durable than an air compressed device and can cost more. It’s wise to check with your doctor to know which type of nebulizer is right for you.

For the best choice in nebulizers and related products, you can trust AAA Wholesale Company. We stock several different types of machines with different price points. We also carry all the necessary tubing, mouthpieces, masks and medicine containers when you need replacements. Visit the AAA Wholesale Company online catalog today to learn more about the nebulizers that we carry.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Antiseptic Wipes

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When you are choosing antiseptic wipes, you need to consider a few different factors. Of course you want them to remove bacteria and disease. But there are several other elements to consider before you make a purchase. These are some essential items to think about regarding the best wipes.

Cleaning Ability

Hands down, this is the main reason to choose the best antiseptic wipe. The wipe you decide upon should kill up to 99.99 percent of bacteria, viruses and infectious diseases. If the wipe doesn’t promise to eradicate with this level of power, skip to the next one.

Most wipes get their cleaning power from ethyl alcohol. It kills germs on contact. Look for an ethyl alcohol concentration of at least 60 percent for maximum effectiveness.

Moisturizing properties

Though antiseptic wipes must contain alcohol to kill germs, the alcohol can be drying if the wipes come into contact with skin. If you are using the wipes to clean hard surfaces, this does not present a problem. But if they will be used on skin, they need added moisturizers to protect it.

Look for ingredients like vitamins A and E, aloe, and other moisturizers added to the wipes. These additives will help skin stay soft and hydrated while providing cleaning power. This is especially important if you will use the wipes on people with sensitive skin.
Indwelling catheter

Texture

Wipes that come into contact with skin also need a soft texture. Cotton will make wipes softer. If you are using the wipes for hard surfaces only, you need a thicker wipe to do the best job. Read the label to understand what kind of texture the wipe has, so you will know the right application for a particular type of wipe.

Cost and quality

If you use a lot of wipes, you can buy in bulk without sacrificing quality. Check on the bulk pricing available at AAA Wholesale Company to compare prices and quality. You’ll find a good selection for your medical needs.

The Best Antiseptic Wipes for You

As a health care provider, school, or other business, you need antiseptic wipes to maintain a safe, clean environment. The main distinction between antiseptic wipes is whether they will be used on skin or hard surfaces. Depending on your needs, make a choice that fits the description on the label.

For the best antiseptic wipes that fit your needs, you can trust AAA Wholesale Company. We stock several different types with bulk pricing options. Visit the AAA Wholesale Company online catalog today to learn more about the antiseptic wipes we have in stock.

Exploring the Different Types of Urinary Catheters

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Many people depend on urinary catheters for daily health needs. People who have trouble eliminating urine on their own need catheters. The catheter is a pliable tube that drains urine from your bladder. It’s important to understand the differences between catheters to know which one is best for you. These are the types of catheters that may fit your needs.

Intermittent catheter

This is a standard type of catheter. It is temporarily inserted into the urethra to reach the bladder. Urine can drain into an external bag or receptacle. You will need to use a new intermittent catheter every time you go to the bathroom.

It is important to remove the intermittent catheter as soon as you finish using it. By removing the catheter in a timely way, you can avoid urinary tract infections and other problems. Your healthcare provider can show you how to insert and remove an intermittent catheter.

Indwelling catheters

There are two types of indwelling catheters. One is the urethral catheter, or Foley catheter. Your healthcare provider will insert this type of catheter through your urethra. Another type is called the suprapubic catheter. Your healthcare provider will insert this catheter beneath your navel. This step requires minor outpatient surgery under anesthesia.

This type of catheter stays in place for several days or weeks. Because it doesn’t need to be changed every time you go to the bathroom, this is a convenient option for many users. Indwelling catheters drain into disposable bags. You can attach the bag to your inner thigh while standing.
Indwelling catheter

Before the bag fills, you must empty its contents. This is a necessary task to complete every two to four hours. After the bag fills, you must switch out the bag for a clean one at least twice per day. You will need to use a larger collection bag overnight.

For convenience, you can use an indwelling catheter with a valve in place of a bag. First, the bladder fills up while the valve is closed. You can then open the valve into a receptacle to drain the urine.

External catheters

Males can use external catheters, which fit over the penis similar to a condom. The external catheter collects urine through a tube that empties into a bag. Males who can use a catheter without assistance and have no retention or blockage problems may be eligible for this type of catheter. The advantages to this type of catheter include increased comfort and a lower risk of urinary tract infections.

The Best Type of Catheter for you

Talk with your doctor about the best type of catheter for your needs. Depending on your health, lifestyle and preferences, one or more of these urinary catheters may be right for you. No matter which type of catheter you use, good hygiene is important to prevent other health problems from developing. Since your healthcare provider understands your unique needs, he or she can help you choose the right catheter.

For affordable, discreet delivery of the right type of catheter for you, trust AAA Wholesale Company. We stock various types of catheters to meet your needs. Visit the AAA Wholesale Company online catalog today to learn more about the catheters we carry.

Five Essentials for Your Wound Care Kit

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In healthcare settings, having the correct tools at hand makes all the difference. One clear example is a wound care kit. While many illnesses are progressive and require diagnosis, wounds often happen suddenly and need immediate tending to prevent further damage. Keeping a fully-stocked wound care kit on hand allows healthcare providers to focus on treatment rather than collecting supplies. With this in mind, consider these five essentials for your wound kit.

Disposable Gloves

Before treating any wound, care providers must protect everyone involved. By keeping disposable gloves as part of your wound care kit, you can prevent the spread of pathogens from one person to another. Due to allergies, be sure to include both latex and latex-free options.

Individually-Wrapped Alcohol Pads

Individually wrapped alcohol pads are efficient and convenient for disinfecting and cleaning wounds. Avoid containers of disinfecting wipes that include multiple uses since keeping wound care supplies sanitary is a priority. Whenever possible, choose disposable and individually packaged items.

Assorted Cotton, Gauze, and Sponges

Depending on the wound, providers use a variety of materials to prepare and clean the area. Keeping an assortment of cotton balls, swabs, gauze, and sponges on hand ensures fast and appropriate care. These soft, absorbent materials are also useful to apply necessary ointments, stabilize an area, and pack a wound before dressing.  

Ointments and Medications

When tending a wound, practitioners may require basic ointments and medications for the patient’s comfort and safety. These include rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, basic painkillers, and antibiotic ointment. Keeping these substances in your wound care kit makes attending to a wound more effective.

Adhesive and Non-Adhesive Dressings

Caregivers dress wounds to keep them clean and protected, as well as to prevent further damage. Dressing a wound is the final step before planning for further care. However, not all wound dressings are equal. For this reason, stock your care kit with a variety of bandages and dressings to ensure that all wounds can be dressed appropriately. These should include rolls of loose gauze, gauze pads, adhesive bandages, and even medicated bandages in several sizes. This assortment provides options for most major wounds.

The goal of healthcare environments is to offer high-quality help and healing in the most efficient and peaceful way possible. Maintaining a well-stocked wound care kit is one way your organization can meet this goal. If you are looking for a reliable and cost-efficient source for your wound care needs, visit the AAA Wholesale Company online catalog today.

Four Post-Surgery Supplies for Home

To equip your home for a return from the hospital, be sure to have these four post-surgery supplies on hand.
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If you or a loved one undergo a medical procedure, much of your focus will be on the date of the surgery itself. However, it is important to remember that post-surgery preparations are also essential for healing and recovery. To equip your home for a return from the hospital, be sure to have these four post-surgery supplies on hand.

Mobility Assistance

Most surgeries limit a patient’s mobility, at least for a time. This is especially true if the procedure included work on the patient’s feet, legs, or hips. When returning home post-operation, follow your doctor’s instructions for safely walking. Before you leave the hospital, ask about any prohibited activities and limits on mobility. While the nature of your surgery will determine the exact assistance you need, canes, walkers, and rollators are all popular choices as your body recovers from surgery.

Bathroom Aides

Bathrooms can be dangerous places for patients post-surgery. Slippery floors are a fall risk and normal activities in the bathroom include the need for balance, strength, and coordination. With this in mind, outfit your bathroom to prevent a mishap. Grab bars by the bathtub and shower will assist you in moving carefully and safely in and out. Elevated toilet seats or bedside commode chairs may be necessary for a time during recovery. Also, consider supplies to assist with convenience, such as a long-handled sponge to ease the bathing process.

Help for Reaching and Grabbing

While no post-surgery patient should be lifting much weight or overextending themselves, there are times when you must pick something up. To help a recovering patient with reaching and grabbing, first try to keep all necessary supplies at waist height. For items not easily reachable, consider purchasing reaching aides such as a dressing stick, long shoehorn, and a reaching stick with a grabbing claw on the end. These tools will prevent the patient from bending and reaching in ways that could hinder their healing.

Supplies for Dressings, Catheters, Etc.

If you return home post-surgery with dressings or a catheter, you will need supplies to care for them. Foley catheters require replacement drainage bags which a nurse will teach you how to change before you are discharged. The same is true of any dressings you need to clean or change. Be sure to keep plenty of replacement supplies on hand since it is far better to be over prepared than to be caught off guard.

Surgery is an intense undertaking and usually requires quite a bit of time for recovery. When you equip your home with these post-surgery supplies, you pave the way to a faster and smoother return to health. As always, for the best prices for these and other medical supplies, visit the AAA Wholesale online catalog.

Show Patients You Care With the Right Hospital Gowns

hoosing quality hospital gowns is one way you can show your patients kindness and instill dignity in their medical care experience.
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As a care provider, you aim for the overall wellness of your patients, including their mental and emotional well-being. At the same time, medical care is a vulnerable and sometimes difficult experience for many patients. Choosing quality hospital gowns is one way you can show your patients kindness and instill dignity in their medical care experience. Here are three aspects of hospital gown design to consider.

Closures

Hospital gowns come in a variety of styles with closures in different areas. Often, different gowns are chosen according to the procedures a patient is receiving. Exams are simpler when a patient wears a front or side-closure. In contrast, patients who will be under medical care long-term typically use back-closure gowns. Regardless of the part of the gown that closes, it is important for the modesty of your patients that the gown overlaps well and includes a way to securely keep it closed (such as ties). Because hospital gowns have so many varieties, be sure that all the care providers in your facility explain to patients how to put on and wear the gown they are given.

Length

While hospital gowns are available in a variety of lengths, your patients’ comfort relies on your careful choice. Shorter gowns are appropriate for brief exams, but for any extended stays, opt for knee-length or longer. Not only do longer gowns allow for more modest coverage, but they can give your patients a further sense of dignity which research suggests increases their overall well-being. Of course, the length of a hospital gown should never interfere with medical care or a patient’s mobility. If patients struggle with walking already, it is best to keep gowns above the knee. However, when there are no further extenuating circumstances, research shows that patients feel more secure and respected with more coverage.

Sizing

Patients don’t only differ in medical needs, they also represent a variety of ages, sizes, and statures. To ensure that your patient feels well cared for, provide a wide range of hospital gown sizes. While one-size gowns fit many patients, keeping smaller and larger options on-hand ensures that no patients feel conspicuous at an already vulnerable time. Additionally, if your facility treats any children, be sure to stock plenty of child-sized gowns that provide adequate coverage without being oversized or impeding movement. Children especially need to feel cared for and protected during medical care, and well-fitting hospital gowns will assist in these measures.

Hospital gowns should be easy to wash, remain durable, and offer access for medical care. At the same time, the patients who wear them should feel cared for and comfortable whenever possible. Choosing gowns with your patients’ comfort in mind goes a long way toward promoting mental and emotional health in your facility. For the best prices and options in hospital gowns, check out the AAA Wholesale Company online catalog.

The Best Charts and Models for Patient Education

Patient education, including charts and models, has been proven to increase activation and encourage patients’ involvement in their healthcare.
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As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. And the world of healthcare is no exception. No matter how clearly you explain a patient’s condition or issue, your words can’t compete with a thorough visual demonstration. Additionally, as care providers seek to drive patient engagement, healthcare educational materials are essential to improve patients’ understanding. In fact, patient education has been proven to increase activation and encourage patients’ involvement in their healthcare. Here are three forms of visual aids that are especially effective in patient education.

Examples of Medical Conditions

Charts and models with examples of the results of medical conditions help patients understand the reality of disease and the very real effects it has on the body. For example, telling a patient they have a high risk for heart disease may sound like an abstract problem. Conversely, showing a patient a chart that explains cardiovascular disease or a model of a diseased heart will assist professionals in communicating the gravity of the situation. These visual examples motivate patients to take responsibility for their own health and abide by their doctor’s recommendations.

Specialized Systems

While generalized healthcare office may display whole-body models or charts, specialist’s offices often choose education materials tailored to the body systems they treat. This provides the opportunity to clearly educate patients on the care and causes of their specific conditions. Models and charts are available for a full range of specific body parts and systems, from spines to eyes, hearts, and feet. In every case, the details and realism of the materials give professionals excellent tools to educate patients.

General Health Practices

For a more passive form of education, many healthcare offices choose to display materials that promote personal health practices and awareness. These include instructions for effective hand-washing, tooth brushing, and CPR. They also may educate patients on the signs of heart attack or stroke or maintaining a healthy diet. More often than not, these materials are not used for intensive patient education, but rather provide a backdrop of information and familiarity with general health principles.

Remember, every patient is different, meaning that the educational materials that are effective will vary in individual cases. Therefore, always assess a patient’s situation, including culture, education, and preferences, before choosing education tools. Additionally, finding the right tools is only part of the equation. Patient education happens most successfully in a quality healthcare relationship. Are you looking for high-quality charts, models, and other materials for patient education in your office? Look no further than AAA Wholesale Company, the best place to find affordable medical equipment. Check out our online catalog to learn more.

Differentiating Between Blood Pressure Monitors

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Monitoring blood pressure becomes more of an issue as people age because of stress, diet, and weight gain. Other health factors like smoking can also contribute to higher blood pressure. High blood pressure puts people at greater risk of heart disease and other adverse health conditions. Getting an accurate blood pressure read is vital to be aware of where your blood pressure stands. It can fluctuate on its own, so people need to have confidence that the reading is on point. There are several different kinds of blood pressure monitors that doctors use in clinics, hospitals, and other settings. People can also buy a blood pressure monitor for home use. Here are a few different types of monitors and how they work.

Digital Blood Pressure Monitors

Most people who buy a home-use monitor probably have a digital blood pressure monitor. They’re simple to use and have self-inflating cuffs. All people have to do is slip it on their arm and press a button. The monitor has a screen that will beep and read out blood pressure numbers after several seconds. They vary in cost. Some are battery-powered, and others require plugging in for power.

Differences in digital blood pressure monitors exist in where they are placed. Most are upper-arm monitors with a cuff that slips above the elbow onto the bicep for a reading. There are also wrist bands and other devices that measure blood pressure from a wrist reading. Finger monitors are less common but use sensors where a finger is inserted into a slot to read blood pressure. Finger monitors are often viewed as less reliable than arm or wrist monitors.

Aneroid Blood Pressure Monitors

Aneroid blood pressure monitors are what many people may think of when they see EMTs or doctors working in movies. They’re the standard ball and gauge device. After slipping a cuff on the upper arm, the rubber ball is squeezed to inflate the cuff. Whoever is taking the blood pressure uses a stethoscope to measure pulse on the forearm as air is slowly let out because both top and bottom readings are needed. Using an aneroid on yourself can be difficult, and the device can be hard to use. For these reasons, they’re not typically recommended for home use. Aneroid monitors are usually used in medical settings to confirm digital readings on a machine.

AAA Wholesale Company has a wide array of digital and aneroid blood pressure monitors in stock. For people with concerns about blood pressure, having an easy-to-use monitor at home can provide peace of mind, as well as let you know if there’s something to be concerned about. Consult your physician if you have any concerns about owning a blood pressure monitor. They’re a great way to keep track of your health and make sure you’re on the right track to a happy and healthy life. Visit our site to check out all of our monitors in stock.

What to Look for in an Emergency Kit

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Some people will roll their eyes or smirk when you tell them you’re thinking about buying an emergency kit. They lump you in with some of the extreme preppers on tv. What they don’t realize is that television shows purposely spotlight the craziest preppers because that’s what makes ratings. Millions of Americans practice common sense emergency preparedness. Take a look at recent floods in Houston, wildfires in Los Angeles, and Snowmaggedon in the Northeast. Natural disasters happen regularly in the country, so being prepared is the smart choice.

Determine Your Emergency Plans

Hopefully, you have emergency plans in place so everyone under your charge knows what to do if something goes wrong. They know who to call and where to go. Your emergency plan will largely dictate what kind of emergency kit you’ll need. If you need to plan for multiple days without food or water, you’ll need more extensive supplies. If you only need to survive a short time, then a go-bag with a bit of food, medical supplies, and water will do. Once you have a plan in place it’s easy to find the appropriate emergency kit.

Different Types of Emergency Kits

There are a lot of options when it comes to kits. There are kits designed for radioactive spills, trauma kits for things like a shooting or bomb explosion, and basic first-aid kits. Each is designed for different circumstances and will come at varying prices. They’ll come stocked with gloves, trauma bandages, airway tools, and other gear. There are emergency bags designed for surgeons to use, as well as kits for emergency responders. It’s important to stock your kit with things you know how to use. If emergency strikes and you’re unfamiliar with your gear, it will slow down response time and potentially cause further injury.

After you purchase a kit, familiarize yourself with what’s inside. Know what item is located in each pocket so you can search through it from memory. Training is more important than any item in an emergency. However, having reliable supplies will make your response effective. AAA Wholesale Company specializes in emergency medical supplies and pre-arranged kits. First responders and other medical specialists rely on our products to use every day. They are a great option for families who want to prepare for disaster as well. Visit our site to take a look at our wide selection of professional emergency kits today.

Should You Always Use Sterile Gloves?

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There are a few key considerations when deciding to use sterile vs. non-sterile gloves. You might think it’s best to play it safe and always use sterile gloves, but that may not always be the case. Sterile gloves are clean from all bacteria. However, sterile gloves are generally more expensive than non-sterile. This means that the intended use of the gloves will be the deciding factor in which gloves you select. Choosing between sterile or non-sterile gloves requires understanding what they’ll be used for and whether it is cost-appropriate.

Why Choose Sterile Gloves?

Surgeons use latex sterile gloves to prevent contaminating anything during an operation. Sterile gloves are packaged separately with an expiration date, as opposed to non-sterile gloves that come together in a box. A special cleaning process removes any loose latex from the gloves after they are molded. Sterile gloves cease to be sterile once they touch anything. They are the safest way to prevent contamination. Sterile gloves are the best option for conducting medical or scientific research because they are most effective at preserving true results.

When Non-Sterile Gloves are Sufficient

Sterile gloves may not always be necessary. Studies have shown that non-sterile gloves are also very effective at preventing infection and can achieve results close to sterilized gloves. Many first responders, nurses and other people in the medical field use clean, non-sterile gloves to save on cost because they go through so many pairs of gloves every day. Each patient contact requires new gloves, so less-expensive non-sterile gloves are preferable. Some studies even indicate that there is no higher risk of infection between sterile vs. non-sterile gloves.

Sterile gloves are the best protection against contamination during surgery, medical tests, scientific research, and other sensitive procedures. They help ensure results are as pure as possible, and no foreign objects enter the equation. However, they aren’t necessary for all situations. Non-sterile gloves have serious benefits as well. They prevent infections and avoid coming into unwanted contact with bodily fluids. Whatever your needs are regarding sterile vs. non-sterile gloves, AAA Wholesale has a wide variety of products in stock that can help. Visit our site today to check out our wide selection of protective medical products.