Pediatric Home Care Hialeah FL
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a week long family vacation, traveling with a child that requires medical equipment and accessories takes planning and preparations to run smoothly. Not only should you plan on what medical items will need to go on the trip with you, but it is also important you are prepared for any emergencies that may arise when you are away from home.
Keep these tips in mind as you prepare for the trip, whether by vehicle or plane.
Traveling by Vehicle
Driving in a vehicle for long stretches of time with a child who has special needs takes extra precautions in order to be done successfully. Follow these tips for a traveling experience that you and your child will enjoy.
* Bring extra supplies. If a medical necessity were to break or become lost, it is important to have extras on hand in case of emergency. Storing them in the trunk will make it more difficult to quickly grab while on the road, so keep these extra supplies in a convenient location.
* Make sure the child is comfortable. Traveling for long distances can be grueling for anyone, especially for children with medical needs. Before hitting the road, make sure your little one has plenty of space and is comfortable.
* Fully charge all equipment. All equipment should be fully charged prior to the trip. Plan ahead as to when you may need to stop and recharge the medical accessories or equipment, as well as when you may need to make adjustments to the equipment.
Traveling by Plane
* Call the airline. Before purchasing the plane tickets, call the airline to discuss the medical needs of your child. Some airlines will allow more medical support and equipment than others, so it is important you know that the airline will be able to accommodate your child. Also, because of the strict liquid guidelines at the security checkpoint, they may not allow you to bring any water or other liquids your child will need. Call the airport ahead of time to inform them that you will need to bring liquids. Make sure to get the name of the person you spoke to in case there are any problems once you arrive at the security checkpoint.
* Talk to the doctor. Depending on the condition of your child, they may need a doctor to approve their flying plans. The airline may also require the doctor’s approval before they will allow medical support on their plane.
* Make sure the terminal will meet your child’s needs. While waiting to board or after the plane has landed, it is important the terminal meets the needs of your child. When calling the airport, make sure to ask about the terminal and whether or not it will accommodate your little one’s equipment and accessories.
Traveling with children at all can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when traveling with a child that requires medical equipment. By following these tips, you will be able to ease your mind and worries knowing that you are fully prepared for the trip.
Source: The Center for Children With Special Needs. “Air Travel Preparation.” http://cshcn.org/planning-record-keeping/air-travel-preparation/
If you or a loved one are considering Pediatric Home Care Services in Hialeah FL, contact the caring staff at Providence Healthcare Services. We provide services in all of Miami Dade county and the Upper Keys. Call today (305) 680-5349.
