5 reasons for nurse care managers to refer PERS

As a nurse, your top priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of your members. This is especially true for members with disabilities, who may face unique challenges that require extra attention and care. One tool that can be incredibly helpful in keeping members safe is a personal emergency response system (PERS), also known as a medical alert system. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why nurses should consider referring PERS to members with disabilities.

Fall Risk

Members with disabilities are often at a higher risk of falls than those without disabilities. Falls can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, and even death. PERS can be especially beneficial for members who live alone and may not have immediate access to help if they fall. With PERS, members can quickly and easily call for assistance if they do fall, reducing the risk of serious injury.

Chronic Conditions

Many members with disabilities have chronic conditions that require ongoing care and management. PERS can be incredibly helpful in managing these conditions and ensuring that members receive the care they need. For example, members with chronic pain may benefit from PERS that can provide medication reminders and alert healthcare providers if medication is not taken as prescribed.

Members with disabilities often have underlying health conditions that require careful management. PERS can be incredibly helpful in monitoring these conditions and alerting healthcare providers if there are any concerning changes. For example, members with heart conditions may benefit from PERS that can monitor activity and alert healthcare providers if there are any irregularities. Members with diabetes may benefit from PERS that capture activity levels.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters can be especially challenging for members with disabilities. In-home or Mobile Cellular PERS can be incredibly helpful in ensuring that members receive the help they need during and after a disaster. For example, PERS can be programmed to contact emergency services if there is a power outage or if the patient is unable to leave their home due to flooding or other natural disasters.

Home Security Needs

Members with disabilities may be particularly vulnerable to home invasions or other security threats. PERS can provide an added layer of security by alerting authorities if there is a break-in or other security concern. Additionally, PERS can be used to monitor members who may be at risk of wandering or becoming lost.

Family Member Concerns

Family members of members with disabilities often have concerns about their loved one's safety and well-being. PERS can provide peace of mind to family members by ensuring that their loved one has access to help if they need it. Additionally, PERS can be used to track members' movements and provide location data to family members, helping them to feel more connected and involved in their loved one's care.

In conclusion, personal emergency response systems (PERS) can be incredibly helpful for members with disabilities. Nurses should consider referring PERS to their members who may benefit from these devices. PERS can help to reduce fall risk, monitor health conditions, manage chronic conditions, provide assistance during natural disasters, provide home security, and ease family member concerns. By utilizing PERS, members with disabilities can enjoy greater independence and peace of mind, while also receiving the care and support they need.

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