1.3 Explain the purposes and use of medical equipment and devices required for the procedure

This guide will help you answer 1.3 Explain the purposes and use of medical equipment and devices required for the procedure.

Medical equipment and devices help keep people safe, comfortable, and well during healthcare procedures. Each piece of equipment has its own purpose and must be used correctly to avoid harm. Understanding why and how to use these items is a big part of safe, high-quality care work.

Medical equipment ranges from simple devices, like a thermometer, to more complex machines, like a hoist or blood pressure monitor. The right equipment supports accurate assessment, treatment, and comfort during different procedures.

Assessment Equipment

Assessment equipment is used to check a person’s health before, during, or after a procedure. Routine checks keep everyone safe and help spot problems early.

Thermometer

A thermometer checks body temperature. You can spot fever or hypothermia. A high reading may show infection, while a low reading could mean other problems.

Types of thermometers include:

• Digital: Fast and accurate for ear, mouth, or underarm
• Ear (tympanic): Used in the ear, quick and non-invasive
• Infrared forehead: Quick and requires no contact

To use:

• Clean before and after use.
• Check batteries and screen.
• Place as instructed (ear, mouth, or underarm).
• Read and record the temperature.
• Clean again and store safely.

Regular cleaning prevents the spread of infection.

Blood Pressure Monitor

Blood pressure monitors check the pressure of blood in the arteries. This helps find problems such as high blood pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension).

Common types:

• Manual: Uses a cuff, pump, and stethoscope.
• Digital: Cuff inflates automatically, displays result on a screen.

To use:

• Select the correct cuff size.
• Wrap cuff around upper arm.
• Keep person still and relaxed.
• Start the device or pump manually.
• Record the reading.
• Remove cuff and clean if needed.

Correct use gives accurate results, leading to better treatment decisions.

Pulse Oximeter

A pulse oximeter measures blood oxygen levels and pulse rate. It clips onto the finger and shines light through the skin to check oxygen.

To use:

• Check device is clean and working.
• Place on finger with nail facing up.
• Wait for the reading to appear.
• Record oxygen level and pulse.
• Remove and clean device.

Useful for people with breathing issues, heart disease, or during recovery.

Mobility and Handling Equipment

These devices help move or support people safely, preventing injury to both worker and the person receiving care.

Hoist

A hoist lifts people who cannot move themselves. It prevents lifting injuries and allows safe transfers between bed, chair, or toilet.

Before use:

• Check service label and condition.
• Choose the right sling for the person.
• Communicate clearly about what you will do.
• Position legs of the hoist securely.
• Attach sling correctly and check straps.

During use:

• Lift and move person slowly, reassuring them.
• Guide to new position.
• Remove hoist and store safely.

Training is needed to use a hoist safely.

Slide Sheets

Slide sheets help move a person up or across beds with less effort. This reduces friction and prevents skin damage.

To use:

• Place slide sheet under person by rolling them gently.
• Two or more staff pull the sheets to move the person.
• Remove or leave sheet as instructed in care plan.

Prevents back injury and protects person’s skin.

Wheelchair

Wheelchairs help people who cannot walk or need to rest during movement.

To use:

• Check brakes and footrests.
• Adjust for comfort.
• Support person as they transfer to and from wheelchair.
• Secure they are comfortable and safe.
• Move slowly, watching for hazards.

Wheelchairs support dignity and mobility.

Supporting Treatment Devices

During procedures, certain equipment supports care or treatment.

Blood Glucose Meter

A blood glucose meter measures sugar in the blood. This is key for people with diabetes.

To use:

• Wash hands and wear gloves.
• Insert test strip into meter.
• Use lancet to prick finger.
• Place drop of blood on strip.
• Wait for reading and record.
• Dispose of sharps safely.
• Clean and store meter.

Helps monitor diabetes and inform treatment.

Oxygen Equipment

Oxygen equipment is used to support people with breathing problems.

Types include:

• Oxygen cylinder: portable, used in emergencies.
• Oxygen concentrator: creates oxygen from air.
• Nasal cannula or face mask: delivers oxygen to the nose or mouth.

To use:

• Check prescription and flow rate.
• Fit nasal cannula or mask comfortably.
• Turn on device and set flow.
• Observe for discomfort.
• Check for sores or dryness.
• Turn off after use, clean, and check supplies.

Improper use risks harm, so training and clear instruction are key.

Suction Machine

A suction machine helps clear saliva, mucus, or fluids from the mouth or airway, supporting breathing.

To use:

• Check and set up device.
• Attach correct size catheter.
• Use only as long as needed (a few seconds).
• Monitor for distress.
• Dispose of all used parts safely.
• Clean and store as advised.

Prevents choking and supports easier breathing.

Infection Control Equipment

Keeping people safe from infection is a core part of healthcare. Protective equipment forms a barrier against germs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Examples include:

• Gloves
• Aprons
• Masks
• Eye protection

To use:

• Wear PPE before contact with blood, body fluids, or broken skin.
• Change gloves between tasks or people.
• Remove and dispose of PPE correctly.
• Wash hands before and after using PPE.

This keeps you, colleagues, and the person receiving care safe from infections.

Sharps Bin

A sharps bin is a special container for items like needles and blades to prevent injury and infection.

To use:

• Place all sharps directly into bin after use.
• Do not overfill.
• Seal and replace bin when full or as instructed.

Follows law and best practice for safe disposal.

Nutrition and Hydration Support

Some people need help with eating or drinking, using specialist devices.

Enteral Feeding Pump

This pump delivers liquid food directly into the stomach or intestine for people who cannot eat by mouth.

To use:

• Set up pump and check correct food and rate.
• Clean area, use gloves.
• Attach feeding tube securely.
• Start pump and monitor for leaks or distress.
• Stop and report issues if needed.
• Clean and store equipment.

Regular checks prevent blockages and infection.

Thickening Agents and Special Cups

People with swallowing problems may use thickening powder or special cups.

To use:

• Follow instructions for thickness must be mixed.
• Use cups that slow down flow, reducing choking risk.

Supports safe and comfortable eating and drinking.

Monitoring and Emergency Devices

During some procedures, special monitors or emergency equipment may be needed.

ECG Machine

An ECG (electrocardiogram) records electrical activity of the heart. It helps find heart problems.

To use:

• Attach sticky pads (electrodes) to clean skin.
• Connect leads to machine.
• Explain to the person and monitor movements.
• Record and report results.

Early signs of heart problems can be spotted.

Defibrillator

A defibrillator provides an electric shock to restart the heart in cardiac arrest.

To use:

• Check unresponsiveness and call for help.
• Attach pads if trained.
• Turn on device and follow voice prompts.
• Stand clear during shock.
• Continue CPR if needed.

Defibrillators are lifesaving in emergencies. Training is required.

Communicating During Use

It is polite and respectful to tell people what you are doing, especially when using unfamiliar equipment.

Good practice includes:

• Explaining each step in plain language
• Checking comfort throughout
• Gaining consent before proceeding

This helps reduce anxiety and builds trust.

Safe Storage and Maintenance

Medical devices must be kept clean, checked often, and stored correctly to stay safe and ready for use.

Key steps:

• Clean after every use as instructed
• Check batteries or power supply
• Store in a clean, dry, secure place
• Record maintenance or repairs

Brochures, leaflets, and clear instructions are useful for new or updated devices.

Legal and Organisational Requirements

Using medical equipment links to legal and organisational duties:

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
• Manufacturer’s instructions

These set clear standards for training, use, and reporting problems.

Staff Training and Responsibility

Only staff who have been trained should use specialist equipment. Learning how to:

• Check, prepare, and use safely
• Clean and store after use
• Know when not to use or when to report faults

Asking for help or extra guidance is always best if you feel unsure.

Benefits and Risks

Using equipment safely and correctly:

• Improves care quality and comfort
• Reduces risk of harm or infection
• Helps workers avoid injury

Misuse or poor maintenance risks harm, so following policy and training is key at all times.

Supporting Dignity and Independence

Correct use of equipment, with respect and communication, promotes independence and dignity. Adapting use to fit the person’s needs ensures person-centred care.

Equipment such as call bells, pressure-relieving mattresses, or grab rails lets people do more for themselves, feel secure, and avoid harm.

Final Thoughts

Medical equipment and devices help deliver safe, comfortable healthcare. Each tool has a specific role in assessment, treatment, or support. Using them correctly means you give better, safer care and protect everyone from harm.

Practical knowledge, following instructions, getting regular training, and putting the person first are central to good healthcare practice. Always check before each use, and never be afraid to ask for support. Your skills and careful use of equipment help people stay safe, supported, and well.