Home-use medical devices: a need for consumer education.

The trend toward home care, the increase in personal health consciousness, and the availability of over-the-counter medical devices--all have prompted a need for consumer education about the safe and appropriate use of medical devices. Citing three specific studies supporting the need for such education, the author offers a challenging opportunity to health organizations that might undertake to publish educational booklets imparting essential knowledge about home-use medical devices to consumers.