Medical Supplies
Questions to Ask Before Buying Home Medical Equipment
Twenty questions to ask yourself, your doctor and the seller before buying home medical equipment, covering need, accuracy, ease of use, costs and support.
Medical Supplies
Thermometers, pulse oximeters, first aid supplies and everyday medical accessories for a well-prepared home.
Choosing home medical supplies
Every household benefits from a first aid kit and a thermometer. Add monitoring devices, such as a pulse oximeter, when you have a clear reason to measure and, ideally, your doctor's advice on what the readings mean for you.
- Read the instructions before first use and keep them with the device.
- Store supplies in a cool, dry place, out of the reach of children.
- Check your first aid kit every few months and replace used or out-of-date items.
- Replace batteries at the first low-battery warning.
Helpful guides
- A Beginner's Guide to Home Medical Supplies
- Essential Items for a Home First Aid Kit
- How to Choose a Digital Thermometer
- How to Use a Pulse Oximeter
Good to know: A normal reading does not rule out illness. Call 911 for chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding or signs of stroke.
Medical Supplies guides
Plain-language articles to help you choose and use products with confidence.
Medical Supplies
How to Read Medical Device Product Specifications
Measurement range, accuracy, resolution, cuff size, memory, power and regulatory terms explained, so you can compare medical device specifications.
Medical Supplies
Understanding Medical Equipment Safety
Use home medical equipment safely: follow instructions, manage batteries, protect children, avoid sharing blood-testing devices and check recalls.
Medical Supplies
Essential Healthcare Supplies for Travel
What to pack in a travel health kit: prescriptions, first aid, common medicines, sun and insect protection, documents and tips for flying with medical…