Medical alert bracelets communicate your most important medical information during times of emergency, even if you cannot communicate this information yourself. This assists physicians, paramedics, and other first responders in providing the highest-quality care during times of need. EMTs and other medical professionals are trained to look for these bracelets and other forms of ID.
Medical Alert Bracelets – Universally Accepted Terminology
Medical alert bracelets are often designed with universally accepted terminology so that any first responder can immediately determine the proper course of action to take. Abbreviations for allergies, medications, and chronic conditions are extremely useful, especially on a medical alert bracelet for multiple conditions, as they allow you to fit more information onto the band in a clear & concise way. The abbreviations for medical alert bracelets are vast, but some common examples are below for reference (note: only your physician can/should determine if abbreviations are appropriate for your particular medical condition/s):
- DNR - Do Not Resuscitate
- HBP - High Blood Pressure
- HF - Heart Failure
- NKA - No Known Allergies
- NO MRI - No MRI medical bracelet
- NO BP/IV - No Into Vein
- NPO - Nothing By Mouth
Medical Alert Bracelets – Universally Accepted Terminology
Medical alert bracelets are often designed with universally accepted terminology so that any first responder can immediately determine the proper course of action to take. Abbreviations for allergies, medications, and chronic conditions are extremely useful, especially on a medical alert bracelet for multiple conditions, as they allow you to fit more information onto the band in a clear & concise way. The abbreviations for medical alert bracelets are vast, but some common examples are below for reference (note: only your physician can/should determine if abbreviations are appropriate for your particular medical condition/s):
- DNR - Do Not Resuscitate
- HBP - High Blood Pressure
- HF - Heart Failure
- NKA - No Known Allergies
- NO MRI - No MRI medical bracelet
- NO BP/IV - No Into Vein
- NPO - Nothing By Mouth
In conjunction with abbreviations, a newer type of medical ID is a QR code-based bracelet. QR medical alert bracelets feature a QR code that any paramedic or EMT can scan using a smartphone; the code reverts to a web service that contains the individual's complete medical history. Since a website is used, there’s essentially no limit on the amount of data that can be stored.
Why choose silicone medical alert bracelets?
While old-school medical alert bracelets are traditionally made from precious metals (i.e. stainless steel, sterling silver, gold), these materials do have their limitations. For example, people with highly-acidic skin, those on anti-rejection or chemotherapy meds, or those with metal allergies, may need to avoid using precious metals altogether. In addition, these types of bracelets are often more costly, and because certain health conditions can change or eradicate completely over time, constantly updating a medical bracelet may not be feasible. As a result, silicone medical alert bracelets have become a popular choice in recent years. Some of the features & benefits of using silicone include:
- Durable, resilient, and reusable
- Waterproof and resistant to heat, chemicals, and UV light
- Made from 100% silicone (lead & latex free) - ideal for those with allergies
- Completely customizable
- Cost-effective (especially in comparison with traditional metal ID jewelry)
Other Types of Medical Alert Bracelets
Wristband Resources™ also offers temporary medical alert bracelets that are used in healthcare facilities. Like our silicone bands, these are used to identify a patient’s most important medical information. These bands come in two materials—plastic and Tyvek.
Plastic Medical Alert Bracelets
Our plastic medical alert bracelets are ideal for long-term care. These plastic bands offer up to seven days of durability and feature a secure locking snap that prevents the band from falling off the wrist.
Tyvek Medical Alert Bracelets
Our Tyvek medical alert bracelets are the ideal solution for outpatient care. These bands provide an inexpensive way to identify important medical information. We recommend these for up to 48 hours of use.
Have questions?
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Frequently Asked Medical Alert Bracelet Questions
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Medic alert bracelets for Alzheimer patients, those with allergies, autism, blood disorders, dementia, diabetes, epilepsy, and heart disease, are an extremely convenient resource. But there are plenty of other conditions and reasons why wearing a medical alert bracelet is useful. For example, medical alert bracelets for mental illness have proven valuable, as oftentimes those with a behavioral or emotional disorder experience difficulty communicating, especially in an emergency situation. They may act in an atypical or disruptive manner, wander off or get lost, or even resist or oppose treatment; thus wearing a medical ID helps to ensure quick and accurate intervention from first responders. It also reduces mistakes that may arise from misdiagnosis. However, the importance of consulting with your doctor first on whether a medical bracelet is necessary is highly emphasized.
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We recommend visiting our custom silicone ordering page to design your own silicone, medical alert bracelet. We offer various inscription styles, band widths & sizes, colors, and customization details, so that your medical ID band is specific and personal to you! Of course if you need additional assistance, our expert Customer Service Team is always available via telephone, email, or LiveChat, and can help answer any questions you may have!
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While there may be supplementary content you should feature on your medical alert bracelet (depending on your particular reason / use), the following details generally suggested to include are: Name & Date of Birth; Medical Condition/s; Food & Drug Allergies; Medications; Certain Instructions; and Emergency Contact Information.
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If you have a condition that may result in a medical emergency, or one that medical professionals need to be aware of if treating you, wearing a wristband may prove advantageous. Caregivers have also been known to wear one with their patient and/or loved one’s information contained just in case. But again- consulting with your doctor first is always recommended.