Proper Engraving on a Medical Alert Bracelet

Medical alert bracelets are worn to tell medical personnel of your specific conditions or allergies in the event you are unable to communicate. Medical alert bracelets are particularly important if you are suffering from severe allergies and conditions that could render you unconscious. Because the information on a medical alert bracelet is crucial to receiving proper care, it must be clear, concise and accurate.

Choosing the Right Bracelet

• Medical alert bracelets are available in a variety of designs. The engravable plates range from small circles to larger rectangles. Be sure to select a bracelet with an engravable plate big enough to include all your information. To allow medical personnel to quickly find your information, choose a style that is easily identifiable as a medical alert. Many styles resemble charm bracelets or costume jewelry and could be overlooked at first glance.

Information

• The first item on your bracelet should be your first and last name. Be sure to use your full legal name rather than a shortened version or nickname.

  Next, the bracelet should list your medical conditions, if any. Consult your doctor for advice on medical terminology and abbreviations.

  Your bracelet should next list any known allergies to foods or medications. To save space and avoid confusion, extra words should be left out. For example, instead of engraving "Allergic to peanuts," use "Peanut allergy." Your doctor can advise you on which information to include.

  Next, list any medications that you take regularly, including vitamins and supplements. This information is especially important in emergency situations so medical personnel can be aware of any potential interactions with newly administered drugs. If you're taking several medications, record them on a card kept in your wallet and engrave "See wallet card" on your bracelet.

  Finally, list an emergency contact phone number. Typically a spouse or close family member, an emergency contact should be easy to reach and competent to make medical decisions on your behalf. To save space, abbreviate "In case of emergency" as "ICE," and eliminate parentheses in the phone number. For example, your emergency contact line may read "ICE 555 555 1234."

Special Considerations

• Depending on your specific medical needs, you may need to modify the format of your medical alert bracelet. It is important to include all critical information, ensuring that you receive proper medical care. Consult your doctor with any questions or concerns about the engraving on your medical alert bracelet.