HOME CARE FOR CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC RESPIRATORY-FAILURE

Even with sophisticated management at home, ventilator-assisted children may succumb to a catastrophe stemming from a simple problem, such as a disconnected ventilator or plugged tracheostomy, emphasizing the need for compulsive care. Other causes of mortality include cor pulmonale and respiratory infections.(1,25,26,37) However, many ventilator-assisted children do quite well at home, and home care of these patients can be a safe and relatively inexpensive management technique. The high motivation of parents for the care of their children in the home often results in a high quality of care. After the transition from hospital to home, parent-child relationships and child development are enhanced. Potential for rehabilitation in all aspects of daily living is increased, and many children will experience a near-normal life style.(1,2,23,34)