Home health care is an ideal choice for individuals who require extra assistance. It’s an affordable solution, allowing loved ones to age in the comfort of their home environment. Once you decide this is the right move for your relative, you must find a home health care nurse in Philadelphia.
The home health care nurse will provide direct care to your loved one. They must be compassionate, trustworthy, and well-trained. This article will list characteristics to look for in a nurse so you can feel confident your relative is receiving the best care possible.
What to Look for in a Home Health Care Nurse in Philadelphia
Choose the Right Agency
Nurses are typically sourced from a home care agency. If you work with a reliable agency, you are more likely to find the proper nurse.
Choose an agency that vets their nurses carefully. Nurses should have clean background checks and the necessary skills to care for their loved ones. The agency should have positive reviews, ensuring a reliable staff.
Look for Care and Compassion
A reliable agency may claim to hire caring and compassionate nurses, but the only way to know if this is true is to talk to the caregiver and determine how they interact with your loved one. Here are some signs of compassion:
- Acknowledging the patient’s feelings and emotional state and how it impacts their wellbeing
- Actively listening to patients by paraphrasing and asking questions
- Offering comfort and reassurance when patients feel stressed
- Showing cultural sensitivity toward the patient’s background
- Exhibiting calmness and patience, even in challenging situations
- Communicating clearly and empathetically
- Advocating for patients’ rights
Ensure the Nurse Has the Required Skills
Families should first understand the difference between home care and home health care. Home care comprises personal care like meal assistance, self-care assistance, and transportation and can be provided by an unskilled worker. Home health care is more suited to specific needs and is administered by a trained medical professional.
If your loved one requires the specialized care of a home health care nurse, ensure they are adequately trained. They should have the necessary certification and experience to handle your relative’s health condition. Inquire about their education and work history to confirm they can meet your loved one’s needs.
Availability
Most nurses offer flexible scheduling, but you must ensure they meet your scheduling needs. Your family may require round-the-clock, full-time, part-time, or respite care. The caregiver you work for should be available during the hours you need them and have the flexibility to adjust.
Aurora Can Match You with the Best Home Health Care Nurse in Philadelphia
Finding the proper nurse starts with finding the right agency. Aurora Home Care is an agency you can trust.
We offer various home health care services, including pediatric care, vet assistance, personal care, companion care, and developmental services. Our team is well-trained, compassionate, and dedicated to helping your loved one enjoy an independent lifestyle.
Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive services.