Vital emergency information can be accessed easily by healthcare providers and emergency responders when you wear a diabetic medic alert bracelet. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that wearing a medic alert bracelet can save your life. By knowing your condition, treatment can be delivered promptly and appropriately. Buy diabetic medic alert bracelets by following a few simple steps.
Step 1
Look for a bracelet that is easily identifiable. The universal sign for a medical alert that will be noticed is a large red six-sided cross symbol with a snake wrapped around a pole visible on the vertical line. The word "diabetic" should clearly be noted on the back or front of the bracelet faceplate.
Step 2
Get a bracelet that has room to inscribe all the pertinent information, such as your name and phone number, the name and number of your doctor and what medications you are taking. Leave room to write if you are taking insulin and whether you are wearing an insulin pump.
Step 3
Make sure the bracelet fits properly so that it won't fall off. Online retailers such as the Diabetic Drug Store sell children's bracelets in smaller sizes as well as personalized custom bracelets (see Resources).
Step 4
Consider buying a variety of bracelets that will compliment your wardrobe changes so that you won't be tempted to go out without it on. Bracelets at stores such as the Medical Identification Jewelry Store sell diabetes medic alert bracelets that are adorned with beads and crystals, or made of gold or leather, as well as bracelets with braided straps (see Resources).
Step 5
Buy medic alert bracelets in a number of different price ranges. Every person with diabetes can find a price range to suit his budget. Many companies, such as Medical Identification Jewelry, offer free engraving and free shipping. Bracelets can be bought in drugstores for under $10 or in jewelry stores for hundreds of dollars.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have trouble wearing a bracelet or feel uncomfortable with anything around your wrist, consider getting a medical identification necklace that can hold the same information. The chain can be worn underneath clothing, if you prefer, as long as it is obvious to anyone who might be treating you in an emergency.
- Be careful about relying on a tattoo as a medical alert system, as most emergency medical personnel are not trained to look for tattoos before treating a patient.
