Home care is being considered for a young child who is ventilator-dependent. Which factor is most important in deciding whether home care is appropriate?

A) Level of parents' education
B) Presence of two parents in the home
C) Preparation and training of family
D) Family's ability to assume all health care costs

One of the essential elements is the family's training and preparation. The family must be able to demonstrate all aspects of care for the child. In many areas, it cannot be guaranteed that nursing care will be available on a continual basis, and the family will have to care for the child. The amount of formal education reached by the parents is not the important issue. The determinant is the family's ability to care adequately for the child in the home. At least two family members should learn and demonstrate all aspects of the child's care in the hospital, but it does not have to be two parents. Few families can assume all health care costs. Creative financial planning, including negotiating arrangements with the insurance company and/or public programs, may be required.